A novel coronavirus originating in Wuhan City, Hubei Province is now in a number of Chinese cities, with cases reported in other countries. There are no cases in New Zealand at present.
It appears that most cases have mild to moderate illness, and there is a low mortality rate. In severe cases, the virus can cause pneumonia and severe acute respiratory infection.
If you have concerns about a patient with acute respiratory infection who has travelled to Wuhan City or has been in contact with a confirmed case in the last two weeks, you can ring ARPHS on 09 623 4600.
Despite this situation, please be aware that it is currently flu season in the affected area, so there is a lot of respiratory illness circulating.
This advice is an interim measure to support primary care. There will be more information from the Ministry of Health shortly.