A roundup of why Covid-19 is back in the headlines

thespinoff.co.nz/the-bulletin/2…

“One question I often hear is why younger people are still unable to access Covid boosters – even at a cost. Only those 30+ can receive a Covid booster (with some exceptions), which puts us at odds with countries like Australia that allow 12-monthly jabs for anyone over 18.”

I work in a hospital and I struggle to find tests!

Does Erica Stanford not realise that the majority of relievers are retired teachers often in their 60s and 70s. They don't want to work in viral cesspools and many have already caught covid several times.

NZ almost 500 GPs short and it could rise to 1000 in 10 years

stuff.co.nz/nz-news/350286…

With Covid rates on the up, we're looking out for $$ in the budget to continue free RATS, free vaccines + access to antivirals. And for all eligible, remember to get your next Covid booster! rnz.co.nz/news/national/…

It's not just about 'sick days'. It's about the organ damage and disability that allowing infection is causing. That damage that governments knew about at the beginning of the pandemic.

Listen to Helen: It is also life threatening for many disabled children (like mine). School is becoming an increasingly difficult choice for parents of disabled kids. This makes me extremely sad, because my son loves school.

Access to RATs is so limited and inaccessible….really not a good time to have less testing

'Teachers are getting sick at much higher rates than previous years, and earlier in the winter - particularly with Covid. Is the government responding?'

Responding? Well, no. Here in England the government is *encouraging*.

Please read and share Hayley’s piece on the ways in which NZ is NOT prepared for the next pandemic (or this one), even though officials want you to think we are.

Hayley is spot on, once again.