Are you ready to isolate at home if you or someone in your whānau gets sick with Covid-19?

Preparing for Covid-19 is essential to not only keep your family and friends safe, but to make isolation at home a more manageable time for everyone.

A Toi Te Ora spokesperson says being ready is about people, conversations, connections and knowing what to do.

'Being ready for getting Covid-19 will mean your whānau and community can help each other if needed.

'People are encouraged to support their community, including whānau, friends, neighbours and workmates, to make their plans to get ready.”

Note. This video refers to a COVID-19 Readiness Checklist which has now been revised to be the COVID-19: Isolation Plan.

The Covid-19 website illustrates some key things to have prepared for your isolation period. These items range from common flu medications to ways to pass the time.

Firstly, make a list of whānau information — include everyone's names, ages, NHI numbers, any medical conditions and medication they normally take or medical supplies each person will need.

'Include emergency contact information like your doctor, after-hours, and any support agencies.

'People should also find activities to pass the time. What might help stop boredom if you are isolating at home?

'Put together a hygiene kit that includes tissues, soap, sanitiser, masks, cleaning products, gloves and rubbish bags. Try to have separate bags for tissues before putting them in your main rubbish bags.

'If you have contracted Covid-19 it is also important to have items that can help with symptoms such as ibuprofen and/or paracetamol, drinks and other medications that help with cold and flu-like symptoms.

'These can range from lemon tea with honey to cough syrup, nasal spray, throat lozenges and vapour rubs.”

The ‘Be prepared for Covid-19' page on the Unite Against Covid-19 website also has a template to help with developing an isolation plan.

The template covers everything from being prepared to managing your mental health during isolation and financial support packages.

Click here for more information.