Zizi Sparks: Contact tracing should be made compulsory

Whether it's a card, an app or keeping a manual record, it's time to make some form of Covid-19 tracing compulsory by law. Photo / File

OPINION

New Zealand has arguably tackled the Covid-19 pandemic better than any other country in the world.

New Zealand's total 2005 cases are a drop in the ocean compared to the United States' 11.3 million cases, Italy's 1.24 million and even Australia's 27,756.

Because we have done so well, we have a level of freedom many internationally can only dream of.

We can go to sports games and concerts, cafes and restaurants.

We are reminded everywhere we go to use the Covid-19 Tracer App, to keep a diary of where we go and who we see so, in the event of a confirmed community case, contacts can be notified.

The importance of doing so was highlighted just last week when an Auckland customer service worker was revealed as a confirmed case. The worker visited cafes and restaurants five times in three days.

Those who had been there at the same time were asked to self-isolate and get tested. But those who had not used the Covid-19 tracer app when visiting those places may not have known they had possibly come into contact with a case.

I'll be the first to admit I am not great at using the app. My use is sporadic at best. I'll use it for big events I attend and I used it when I was in Auckland, but unless someone specifically reminds me I often forget to scan in at supermarkets, cafes, the gym and the like.

Last week, up to 1500 residents in Ngongotahā trialled a contact tracing card - no scanning required.

The card doesn't track a person's location but records other cards the wearer comes into contact with.

User feedback was the card was easy to put on and forget about and was user-friendly.

My only concern would be how you know whether it's working. The app will let you know if your scan is unsuccessful.

Christmas is fast approaching and most Kiwis will be making plans. There will be family visiting from around the country and trips to other cities nationwide.

Aucklanders will be mingling with Wellingtonians who will be in contact with Northlanders who will visit the Bay of Plenty.

If anyone unknowingly has Covid-19, we could be facilitating community spread this Christmas.

Which is why, whether it's a card, an app or keeping a manual record, it's time to make some form of Covid-19 tracing compulsory by law. Don't give people like me a choice.

Act now so we can keep our freedom.