Covid-19 is still circulating in New Zealand, with a spike in cases in recent weeks, including within the Bay of Plenty.

A number of New Zealand hospitals, including those in the Bay of Plenty, are reporting a high level of staff absences due to the virus.

“In Tauranga and Whakatāne more specifically, Covid-19 numbers are on the rise but within the normal ebb and flow of what we have experienced previously,” says Te Whatu Ora Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty acting group director operations, Sarah Mitchell.

“Our usual processes for managing Covid-19 cases in hospitals remain in place, with management and isolation rooms.

“Our staff are part of the community too, which means they are also vulnerable to Covid-19 and hospitals across the country, including Tauranga and Whakatāne, are experiencing an increase in staff absences as a result.

“However, we have systems and processes in place to ensure we have sufficient staffing levels throughout the year, and this includes times of illness peaks within our workforce,” says Sarah. 

“Some areas may see the occasional small cluster within the same team or service.

“In those instances, staffing is managed according to usual practice by bringing in additional resources and working with staff to alter their roster where possible.

“We may also redeploy staff to where they’re needed to help cover absences. 

“We have contingency plans in place to ensure services continue to run safely and effectively.

“Any impact on hospital operations and the delivery of care has been well managed by our teams.  

“We thank our people for their flexibility and understanding in order to maintain safe, high-quality care. 

“We want to assure the public that if you need hospital level care, we are here.”