A further two COVID-19 positive tests have been returned for Hastings residents, taking the total number of active cases in the region to four.

The Ministry of Health will officially notify one of these cases today and the other will be included in tomorrow’s case figures as it missed the daily reporting cut-off.

Both cases are linked to locations of interest previously reported at Tu Step Fitness Class at the Ascende Global Church, Hastings.

Hawke’s Bay DHB’s Medical Officer of Health Dr Rachel Eyre said the cases had been isolating and had appropriate health and welfare supports in place.

“Public health officials are continuing investigations and are in the process of informing any other close contacts to isolate and be tested.

“As standard procedure, any locations of interest, where contacts cannot be contacted directly, will be added to the Ministry of Health’s webpage if and when they are confirmed.”

Dr Eyre said it was crucial anyone with cold or flu symptoms, no matter how mild, got tested for COVID-19, even if they were vaccinated.

“People with symptoms need to get tested so we can avoid any potential community spread.”

Drive-in testing centres and booked appointments are available and include:

Wednesday 19 January:

Thursday 20 January:

Friday 21 January:

To book a test:

Dr Eyre said vaccination was the best protection against COVID-19. Additionally, people eligible for their booster vaccination should get this done for an added layer of protection.

“People vaccinated against COVID-19 are far less likely to need hospital care if they get the virus.”

For a full list of vaccination clinics www.ourhealthhb.nz or www.bookmyvaccine.nz

© Scoop Media