​The Ashburton District Council is urging all residents to play their part in reducing the spread of the coronavirus, with the help of the new 'Unite Against COVID-19' national resource.

The 'Unite Against COVID-19' website (covid19.govt.nz) is the new single source of truth for all information about the coronavirus COVID-19 in New Zealand, and has taken over as the public information provider from the Ministry of Health (MoH).

Council Chief Executive, Hamish Riach says everyone has a responsibility to follow the advice and instructions provided by the Government through the new resource.

"The 'Unite Against COVID-19' website is the go-to for everyone in our community. The Council, as with many organisations, is continually assessing the global outbreak and its potential impacts for Mid Canterbury, but we understand that all of our community must be united in responding to the disease.

"You can play your part by following the simple steps outlined on the 'Unite Against COVID-19 website."

The resource provides a central place for all COVID-19 information, including how to prevent infection and disease spread, how to self-isolate, what financial support is available, and ongoing Government announcements.

To help protect themselves and others from the spread of the coronavirus, 'Unite Against COVID-19' reports that people should:

• regularly wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds
• cough or sneeze into their elbow or by covering their mouth and nose with tissues
• put used tissues in the bin or a bag immediately
• avoid close contact with people who are unwell
• avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth if their hands are unclean
• clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and objects
• stay home if they feel unwell and call Healthline on 0800 358 5453​

If you suspect you have COVID-19 symptoms, phone Healthline on 0800 358 5453 or call your GP before visiting.​