The Southern District Health Board (SDHB) has weighed in on the community case of COVID-19 detected in Northland on Saturday (January 23) after it was approached by southerners who had been in Northland recently.

"This new case is a reminder why we all need to remain vigilant about the precautions we can take to slow the spread of COVID-19, and put us in the best possible position to stop it in its tracks if it does make its way into our district,” SDHB medical officer of health Dr Michael Butchard said.

Michael said the SDHB had heard from “a number of people” who have been in Northland recently, asking for advice on testing.

“At this stage our advice is that you should be tested if you: have symptoms; were in one of the identified areas in Northland at at-risk times; or if your COVID-19 tracer app has advised you to get tested,” he said.

See the list of identified “at-risk” areas here.

The Ministry of Health is also contacting those who have been in the Pullman Hotel between January 9 and 24 to self-isolate and be tested.

"Please remember to scan the QR codes for the COVID tracer app, turn on its bluetooth functionality, and remember the basics of good hand hygiene, staying home if you're sick...” Michael said.

The New Zealander who was confirmed to have COVID-19 on Saturday night is in self isolation together with her only close household contact at their home south of Whangarei. 

Fifteen close contacts of the woman have been identified: All of them are self isolating and two have returned negative tests so far. Whole genome sequencing results for the woman were completed yesterday (January 24) which confirmed that she has contracted the South African variant, B.1.3.5.1. 

To arrange a test in the Southern district, call your GP or the WellSouth Call Centre on 0800 VIRUS19 (0800 847 8719).

PHOTO: Supplied