A top disease expert has warned that New Zealand’s decision to treat Covid-19 as a “normal” disease could be risky due to the ongoing spread of the virus. Starting Monday, people over 14 will have to pay for Covid-related doctor visits. This change is part of a plan to fund Covid-19 services in the same way as other diseases starting July 1.
The health authority’s director, Dr. Martin Hefford, said that some services would still be available for free to help prevent and manage Covid-19, especially for those most at risk. These include free vaccines and antiviral medications for those who qualify. Health Minister Shane Reti has also extended the deadline for free rapid antigen tests until September 30. Children 13 and under can still see their doctor for free during business hours, including for Covid-19.
However, Dr. Michael Baker, a professor at Otago University, said that treating Covid-19 like other diseases could be a mistake. He pointed out that the virus is still spreading rapidly in New Zealand, causing waves of infection. At the peak of the most recent wave, more than 55 people a day were being hospitalized. Even now, five people a day are dying from the virus, and hundreds are developing long-term symptoms.
Dr. Baker said that it was good that free vaccines, antivirals, and tests were still available, but more effort was needed to manage the virus. He called for a strong, integrated approach to all respiratory infections, emphasizing the importance of prevention, access to care, and self-isolation when sick. He also expressed hope that government support for Covid-19 services would continue long-term. He concluded by saying that managing the virus was a partnership between the government, health providers, and the public, and that everyone needed to work together.