New Zealand has eradicated the coronavirus from its shores after health officials reported on Monday that the final person known to have been infected had recovered.
The news swiftly led to the country’s government announcing all forms of public events can again take place without limitations or social distancing guidelines.
It has been 17 days since the last new case was reported in New Zealand, and Monday also marked the first time since late February there had been no active cases.
Health officials caution that new cases could be imported into the country, which has closed its borders to everybody but citizens and residents, with some exceptions.
Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said it was a pleasing development.
“Having no active cases for the first time since February 28 is certainly a significant mark in our journey but as we’ve previously said, ongoing vigilance against Covid-19 will continue to be essential,” Dr Bloomfield said.
The New Zealand government responded by removing all restrictions on public gatherings, meaning, among other factors, sport stadiums will again be able to hold fans without regulations about social distancing.
Experts say a number of factors have helped the nation of five million wipe out the disease.
Its isolated location in the South Pacific gave it vital time to see how outbreaks spread in other countries, and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern acted decisively by imposing a strict lockdown early in New Zealand’s outbreak.
Just over 1,500 people contracted the virus in New Zealand, including 22 who died.
A four-level alert level system was introduced on 21 March to manage the outbreak within New Zealand. The alert level was initially set at level 2, but was subsequently raised to level 3 on the afternoon of 23 March. Beginning at 11:59 pm on 25 March, the alert level was moved to level 4, putting the country into a nationwide lockdown
Don't you love fake news. How about some facts A four-level alert level system was introduced on 21 March to manage the outbreak within New Zealand. The alert level was initially set at level 2, but was subsequently raised to level 3 on the afternoon
I think comparing the UK to New Zealand in any way, shape or form in regard to covid 19 is absolutely hilarious, never mind the fake news posted on the thread.
I think comparing the UK to New Zealand in any way, shape or form in regard to covid 19 is absolutely hilarious, never mind the fake news posted on the thread.
What about the comparison in regard to a trade deal with the EU being made by members of Her Majesty’s government? No wait, that’s Australia, isn’t it.
What about the comparison in regard to a trade deal with the EU being made by members of Her Majesty’s government?No wait, that’s Australia, isn’t it.
I'm delighted to inform you all that I can now declare every corner of my back garden Covid-free.
I'm sure you'll all join together to applaud my efforts.
I'm delighted to inform you all that I can now declare every corner of my back garden Covid-free.I'm sure you'll all join together to applaud my efforts.