Key points about protecting against COVID-19
- COVID-19 mostly spreads in particles that escape from an infected person's mouth
- being close to infected people for long periods of time can increase your risk of becoming infected with COVID-19
- COVID-19 is more likely to spread in crowded spaces and indoor spaces with poor airflow
- if your baby or child has any cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms call Healthline on 0800 611 116
- keep them away from daycare or school until they no longer have symptoms
- the COVID-19 vaccine can protect tamariki (children) aged 5 years or older
- the COVID-19 vaccine is also available to tamariki from 6 months who are at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19
How COVID-19 spreads
COVID-19 is an airborne illness that spreads from person to person. When an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs, sneezes or sings, they may spread particles containing the virus. These particles range in size. Some particles can remain on surfaces or in the air for minutes to hours.
The risk of catching COVID-19 is higher:
- in closed-in spaces that do not have good airflow
- in crowded places
- in close-contact settings, such as close-range conversations
The risk of catching COVID-19 is lower:
- in outside spaces
- when there are fewer people
- when people are widely spread
How long it takes for symptoms to appear
COVID-19 symptoms tend to start after 5 days but can take up to 14 days to show after a person has been infected. You or your child can pass the virus on to others before you know you have it - from up to 2 days before symptoms develop.
Measures that can help reduce the spread of COVID-19
COVID-19 immunisation
Everyone aged 5 years and over in Aotearoa can have their COVID-19 immunisation. The COVID-19 vaccine is also available to tamariki from 6 months who are at greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
See the Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand website for up-to-date recommendations on COVID-19 immunisation.
You can book a vaccine through the Vaccination Healthline on 0800 282 926 (available 8.30am to 5pm) or online.
Keep your child home from daycare or school if they're sick
If your baby or child has any cold or flu-like symptoms, keep them home from daycare or school. As soon as possible, phone for advice from either:
- Healthline on 0800 611 116 for general health advice
- your GP clinic - make sure to phone your GP clinic before visiting
Please keep your baby or child away from daycare or school until they no longer have symptoms.
Masks reduce the risk
Wearing masks helps limit the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses. Mask wearing remains important in healthcare settings.
Find out the latest recommendations about face masks at the Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Health Information and Services website.
COVID-19 - Masks & Ventilation
Wash your hands often for 20 seconds
Washing your hands, and encouraging tamariki to wash theirs, is one of the easiest ways to keep safe. Wash often with soap for 20 seconds. Then dry. This kills the virus.
Helping tamariki wash their hands
You can make handwashing easier for tamariki by setting up a stool so they can reach water and soap by themselves. You can make it fun for them by singing their favourite songs while you help them clean their hands.
Cover coughs and sneezes
Cough or sneeze into your elbow. Coughing or sneezing into your elbow catches the droplets and stops them from getting on your hands. That means you won't spread the virus to other people and make them sick too.
You can also cough or sneeze into tissues. Put any used tissues in the bin or a bag immediately. Then wash your hands thoroughly. Then dry.
Teaching Children To Blow Their Nose
Keep your distance
Being close to infected people, and for long periods of time can increase your risk of becoming infected with COVID-19.
The risk is highest in crowded and indoor spaces without good airflow. The risk is lower outside, where there are fewer people, and when you are further away from others.
Healthline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0800 611 116. Call Healthline if you need advice about a child of any age who is unwell, hurt, or has any symptoms of sickness. It's free to callers throughout New Zealand, including from a mobile phone.
More KidsHealth content on COVID-19
COVID-19 - Caring For A Child With COVID-19
