Kiwis will have to take more responsibility for their own health – in the next step of our Covid response.  

That's the message from Chris Hipkins – as the Government reveals a new close contact exemption scheme, designed to minimise supply chain disruption.  

Critical business workers found to be close contacts won't need to isolate in phase two of an Omicron outbreak – subject to daily negative rapid antigen tests. 

Covid Minister Hipkins told Heather du Plessis-Allan businesses like health services and food production will self-assess against the criteria. 

“They’ll get a letter that says you can test yourself against the criteria, you’re an essential business, and they they’ll make the decisions about whether they want someone from their workforce to come in even if they’re a close contact.” 

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