Dave Cull, ChairWe were prepared for the possibility of COVID-19 reappearing in New Zealand, and indeed it has.Last week we received the unwelcome news that cases had been found in the North Island, and the Southern district, along with most of New Zealand, was moved into Alert Level 2.While this was not the news anyone wanted to hear, it has provided the opportunity to check our response to the possibility of a resurgence and once again I want to express my appreciation to everyone involved in this.It is clear the plans that were developed and lessons learned during our previous experience with COVID-19 have placed the health system in a good position to prepare for further cases.It has been heartening to see our contact tracing teams ready themselves for action, and hospital “surge” plans being poised for reactivation.Even better - this time, all hospital services are continuing to operate.I especially wish to thank WellSouth PHO and general practices for their work in enabling a sharp increase in testing, and Southern Community Laboratories for processing all the results.I also send our thoughts to our friends in Auckland who are living under greater restrictions as we work together to fight COVID-19.Thank you again to our communities for taking the additional precautions required at Alert Level 2. Your efforts ultimately alleviate the burden on our health system, so on behalf of the health workers across the Southern district, we are truly grateful.Kia kaha, Dave

Source: Otago Daily Times August 18, 2020 00:22 UTC