Health alerts
This information is effective from 16 January 2026 and was last updated 10am on Friday 16 January 2026.
Respiratory infections
Patient / carer requirements
Recovery can be compromised if you are not in good health. While Southern Cross hospitals do not routinely test all patients for Covid-19, we have implemented an individual risk assessment as your ongoing health is our top priority.
Under the following circumstances your specialist may review your general wellbeing and recommend a rapid antigen test (RAT) if:
- You have any cold-like symptoms
- You are a household contact of someone with Covid-19
- You have had Covid-19 in the last 2-7 weeks
It is possible that a positive RAT may result in postponement of your planned procedure until you have recovered.
Requirements for visitors at Southern Cross hospitals
- If you feel unwell, or have any respiratory symptoms, please do not visit our hospitals.
- The Ministry of Health advises that if you are Covid-19 positive, that you stay at home for
five days. Please do not visit our hospitals during this time. For more information, please go
to https://covid19.govt.nz/ - When visiting our hospitals, please use the available hand sanitiser on arrival to help protect
your whānau.
If you have any questions please contact your hospital.