16 April 2020 

All seven confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Whanganui District Health Board region have recovered.

Recovery means those patients have gone at least 10 days from the start of symptoms, and they have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours. The New Zealand clearance protocol does not require a further COVID-19 test.

The seven cases had all been in isolation – five in the Ruapehu district and two in the Whanganui district – under the supervision of public health staff. All seven cases were related to overseas travel, and they are now subject to Alert Level 4 restrictions.

Three of those who were self-isolating in the Ruapehu district were fully recovered and were allowed to leave the region on compassionate grounds. This decision was made by public health staff who were closest to the case. They were given a letter of authorisation to allow them to travel.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Patrick O’Connor said: “All seven cases were recent arrivals from overseas when they were tested, and their compliance with isolation has been excellent.”

Key health information

• Whanganui hospital is open 24/7 for acute cases and those patients who need urgent care.
• Reminder - Hospital visiting is only for patients at end stage of life, in the Critical Care Unit, Maternity Unit and one parent for children in the Children’s Ward.
• Whanganui hospital Outpatients will arrange necessary appointments. Outpatients has temporarily moved to Te Whare Kakariki (Block E). If you have concerns about your appointment, call 06 348 1234
• For Medlab and blood tests, phone ahead to Medlab on 06 3481270 or 06 3488949 and arrangements will be made for the test.
• The radiology department has temporarily closed its walk-in service. If you need an urgent X-ray or other radiology treatment, you will be referred by your GP, and then contacted by the radiology department for an appointment.

Welfare support

Whanganui District - call 06 349 0001 - this line operates 8am to 5pm with an after-hours response outside these hours.

Horizons – call 0800 725 678 – this line is available from 7am until 7pm, seven days a week.

Ruapehu south (Waimarino) - call 06 385 8364 – this line is available 24/7.

Te Ranga Tupua Collective Iwi Response for help, advice and support for whānau in the Whanganui, Rangitīkei, Ruapehu, Otaihape and South Taranaki Region - call 0800 202 004 – this line is available 8.30 – 5pm, Monday to Friday.