Home » What to expect if you receive a positive COVID-19 test result

What to expect if you receive a positive COVID-19 test result

You’ve tested positive for COVID-19, now what?

Result Notification

  • You will receive a phone call from either your GP, testing centre or the local public health unit if your Covid-19 test result comes back positive.

Isolation and Support Decisions

  • If you are not notified by your GP or testing centre, you will also receive a call from someone at your local public health unit who will discuss further details and options for isolation and support for your everyday needs.
  • Please answer your phone if you can. If you miss the original phone call(s), you may receive a text message asking you to contact the local public health team to discuss your result.
  • Now that there is a higher rate of vaccination in Aotearoa New Zealand, most people who are COVID-19 positive will have mild symptoms which can easily be managed at home. 95% people who are COVID-19 positive won’t need to go hospital.

Questions or Concerns?

  • If you do not hear from your local public health unit within 24 hours of receiving your positive result, please call the COVID-19 Healthline on 0800 358 5443 (24 hours, 7 days per week).

When and where to seek help:

Call 111 if:
You have severe trouble breathing or severe chest pain
You are confused or not thinking clearly
You feel faint or pass out (lose consciousness)
Call your healthcare team (or GP if you don’t know how to reach your healthcare team) if:
You have new or worsening trouble breathing
You have worsening symptoms
You start getting better and then get worse
You have symptoms of severe dehydration such as:
– Having a very dry mouth
– Passing only a little urine (pee)
– Feel very light-headed
You may experience very mild or no symptoms. It is important to stay hydrated- drink plenty of water keep monitoring your symptoms so you notice any changes. It is important to avoid running, strenuous exercise and high impact activities.

Useful Phone Numbers

Monday–Friday 8am – 5pm

NZ wide, 24 hours, 7 days per week

Helpful Resources for You and Your Whanau: