Manatū Hauora – the Ministry of Health is today publishing a review of the 2022 COVID-19 winter surge package and which has underpinned this year’s planning.
The winter surge package for last year was developed to ease pressure on the health sector as the pandemic and other respiratory illnesses surged.
The range of measures was designed to reduce severe illness and stop hospitals becoming overwhelmed. They included expanding access and eligibility to second boosters, antiviral medicines, free masks and rapid antigen tests, with a focus on reaching those most vulnerable to COVID-19, including Māori, Pacific and disabled people.
The Rapid Review, carried out by Allen + Clarke, was aimed at identifying lessons that could inform our preparation for this winter.