There are currently outbreaks overseas of a new disease called COVID-19. This section provides the latest updates, information and advice on COVID-19.
Current situation
The fifth case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in New Zealand. See the media release for more information.
With continued vigilance the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low.
People coming into New Zealand should check our information for travellers arriving to New Zealand as they may be subject to border controls or asked to self-isolate.
We’re also asking people who have visited countries or areas of concern and who have developed symptoms of fever, cough or shortness of breath to seek medical advice – phone Healthline’s dedicated COVID-19 number 0800 358 5453 or contact your GP, including phoning ahead of your visit.
For COVID-19 health advice and information, contact the Healthline team (for free) on 0800 358 5453 or +64 9 358 5453 for international SIMS.
Information in other languages
Latest updates
Our advice is under active review and is updated regularly. The latest updates include the following changes to the website:
8 March:
- Updated case definition
- Updated advice for health professionals
- New document on Transmission of COVID-19 and the role of face masks in health settings
7 March:
- Updated No Change of Health Status Report for Health Pratique form now available
- Paracetamol: Supply issue - update from PHARMAC
- Questions and answers updated with information for the immune-compromised
6 March:
- Advice for public events and mass gatherings factsheet available in te reo Māori, Samoan and Tongan
- Information for Aged Care Providers
- Welfare support factsheet available in Farsi, Italian, Korean, Japanese and Thai
- Updated questions and answers for primary health care workers
- Information in Japanese and Thai
5 March:
- Self-isolation guidance updated
- Information in Farsi, Italian and Korean
- Advice on clinical coding
- Updated factsheets for contacts of suspected or confirmed cases
4 March:
- COVID-19 - managing your mental wellbeing advice page
3 March:
2 March:
- A second 2 March Border advisory added
- People who have been in or transited through northern Italy or the Republic of Korea are now being asked to self-isolate
- Information for hotels and hotel staff added
- 2 March Border advisory added