Last updated – Wednesday 25th March 2020
What is Covid-19?
Covid-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a type of coronavirus, which is a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases.
For most people, Covid-19 symptoms will be mild – a bit like cold or flu. They include:
- a cough
- a high temperature (at least 38 degrees)
- difficulty with breathing (shortness of breath).
For others, symptoms can get worse and need medical attention. Doctors think that people aged over 65 and anyone living with an underlying long-term health condition, like dementia, is more likely to develop more serious symptoms.
How are coronaviruses spread?
Like the flu, Covid-19 can be spread from person to person. When a person who has the virus coughs, sneezes or talks, they may spread droplets containing the virus a short distance, which quickly settle on surrounding surfaces.
You may get infected by the virus if you touch those surfaces or objects and then touch your mouth, nose or eyes.
How can I protect myself and others?
The government has announced a four-level Covid-19 alert system. These alert levels specify the health and social measures that we should all be taking.
Everyone should stay at home. This is the best thing we can all do to stop the spread of Covid-19. This will save lives.
Where can I get help and advice?
Healthline have a dedicated Covid-19 number you can call on 0800 358 5453. For any other medical issues, call 0800 611 116.
You can also keep up to date on the government's Unite against Covid-19 website.
How does this affect people living with dementia?
Now, more than ever, people with dementia and their care partners need the help and support of family, whānau and friends. See below for more information.
Read more - Information for care partners
Read more - How you can help support people living with dementia
What is social distancing and self-isolation?
Self-isolation is an effective precautionary measure to protect those around you – your family, friends, colleagues – from contracting Covid-19. It means taking simple, common-sense steps to avoid close contact with other people as much as possible, like you would with the seasonal flu virus. Find out more here.
Social distancing means deliberately and purposefully keeping away from groups of people.
If you are at all worried about yourself or someone else, it is very important to call the doctor and talk to them about your concerns. Do not attend the surgery in person unless advised to.
Looking after your wellbeing during this time
If you find yourself feeling stressed or anxious, take the time to look after yourself and do all you can to support your own mental wellbeing. Reach out to your family and whānau, friends and workmates. For support with grief, anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Local services
Local Alzheimers organisations across the country are working with DHBs to adapt and change their services so they can continue to support people living with dementia. This includes offering video or telephone support and online activity and support groups. Local organisations are still available via phone and email. Reach out and talk to them about what's available.
Click here to find and contact your local organisation.
We will be regularly reviewing and updating this page as the situation around Covid-19 changes and develops.
Information and resources for health professionals can be found here.