COVID strikes in Blenheim

A person has tested positive for COVID-19 in Blenheim, marking the first case to hit the region since 2020.

Health bosses have today confirmed a positive test result and close contacts are currently being tested too to see if the virus has spread.

The confirmation comes as rumours swept across Blenheim earlier this morning but health bosses are classing the risk to the community as low.

Confirming the first positive case to be recorded in the South Island under the current outbreak of the highly contagious Delta varient, the DHB says the positive patient initially provided a weak positive result.

"The Ministry of Health is today confirming a case of COVID-19 isolating in Blenheim, in the north east of the South Island.

"It comes after the individual late last night returned a positive COVID-19 test result.

"The individual flew from Rotorua and arrived in Blenheim on 21 October. The individual sought a test upon arrival after developing a sore throat. The initial test, including a follow-up swab, returned a weak positive result.

"The current public health assessment is that the risk appears low given the individual’s likely late stage of infection."

So far, initial case interviews have identified a small number of close contacts, who have been contacted and are currently isolating with tests arranged.

Interviews are also being undertaken to determine any locations of interest.

People living in the Blenheim township are asked to monitor the Ministry of Health’s locations of interest page, which is regularly updated.

"We are also asking Blenheim residents with symptoms – no matter how mild – to please get tested, even if they are vaccinated," a spokesperson says.

Investigations into the source of the infection are underway.

However, initial case interviews suggest the case is linked to the Te Awamutu cluster.

Health officials are hoping the regions relatively high vaccination rates will help stop the virus spreading further.

As of yesterday, 78 per cent of Marlborough's population had received two does of the vaccination and 90 per cent have had one dose.

As at 22 October 2021 there are 1019 active cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand, including 992 community cases that are being managed.

Marlborough Mayor John Leggett said he understands the person recently travelled from the North Island and that they are now isolating.