Blenheim case; initial locations of interest identified

The Ministry of Health has this evening published initial locations of interest, following the confirmed case of Covid-19 in Blenheim reported early Saturday.

The locations of interest so far span Thursday and Friday last week including KiwiCamp - Riverlands, Mitre 10 MEGA Alabama Rd, Couplands Bakery Grove Rd, Shosha Specialist Vape Shop Queen St, Countdown Arthur St, Wairau Pharmacy Scott St and New World Freswick St .

The Ministry of Health are asking people especially those who live in the Blenheim township – to closely monitor the Ministry’s locations of interest webpage, which is being updated regularly.

"We are also asking Blenheim with with COVID-19 symptoms – no matter how mild – to please get tested, even if they are vaccinated," a statement reads.

Investigations into the source of the infection are underway. However, initial case interviews suggest the case is linked to the Te Awamutu cluster.

So far, initial investigations have also identified a small number of close contacts, who have been, or are being, contacted and advised to isolate with tests arranged.

Testing is available at:

· Blenheim CBAC: Horton Park, off Redwood St - Open 9am to 5.30pm on Sunday and Monday
· Nelson CBAC: Saxton Field parking area, Suffolk Rd, Stoke - Open 10am to 6pm on Sunday and Monday

Additional testing capacity in the area will be stood up, if needed, and details will be available on the Healthpoint website.

Those in Marlborough, Nelson, and Tasman are also reminded to get vaccinated this weekend if they have not already. Vaccination clinic locations across the region are available on the Nelson Marlborough Health website.

The Ministry is monitoring the situation and will continue to provide further public health advice if, and when, required.