Have you got a QR code?

With COVID-19 cases still high in Australia, Kiwis are reminded that continued vigilance is importance to prevent another outbreak. To this end, the Ministry of Education is reminding early childhood services about the importance of displaying a QR code poster at entrance points and the reception area.

Displaying QR code posters for the NZ COVID Tracer App, makes it easier to notify contacts if there is a confirmed case in your area, which reduces the likelihood of further spread. The app is an important tool in the government’s contact tracing armoury and continues to increase in functionality.

The app works by creating a digital diary of all the places a person visits through the scanning of QR codes. People simply need to scan the QR code for a location on their phone and the app records the information, making it easier to contact a person in the case of an outbreak. The app also makes it possible for people to register their contact information so that the National Close Contact Service can get in touch if necessary.

Schools and early learning services no longer need to register with Business Connect to generate a poster. Instead, it's easy to generate your own here -  (click ‘create your poster now’). If you have any questions about getting your poster, or want help generating several posters, email help@covidtracer.min.health.nz. There is further information about the app and creating a QR Code poster on the Ministry of Health website.

While we can all be more relaxed at Alert Level 1, the global pandemic is still underway and likely to continue for the foreseeable future. It’s important to remain cautious and to maintain good hygiene practices to minimise the risk of community transmission.

The Ministry of Education is encouraging all early learning services to continue to adhere to the golden rules described below:

The Golden Rules for everyone at Alert Level 1

• If you’re sick, stay home. Don’t go to work or school. Don’t socialise.
• If you have cold or flu symptoms call your doctor or Healthline (0800 358 5453) and make sure you get tested.
• Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.
• Sneeze and cough into your elbow, and regularly disinfect shared surfaces.
• If you are told by health authorities to self-isolate you must do so immediately.
• If you’re concerned about your wellbeing, or have underlying health conditions, work with your GP to understand how best to stay healthy.
• Keep track of where you’ve been and who you’ve seen to help contact tracing if needed. Use the NZ COVID Tracer app as a handy way of doing this.
• Businesses should help people keep track of their movements by displaying the Ministry of Health QR Code for contact tracing.
• Stay vigilant. There is still a global pandemic going on. People and businesses should be prepared to act fast to step up Alert Levels if we have to.
• People will have had different experiences over the last couple of months. Whatever you’re feeling — it’s okay. Be kind to others. Be kind to yourself.

For more information read the guidance for licensed early learning services and kohanga reo at alert Level 1 on the Ministry of Education website.