All of New Zealand will go into a snap three-day lockdown after confirming one case of COVID-19 in the community.
The case was confirmed in the most populous city, Auckland, earlier today, and that city will be in lockdown for seven days.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says they can not confirm yet whether the case is the Delta variant, but the risk posed by Delta means they must act quickly.
The case is New Zealand’s first in the community in six months.
“We have made decisions on the basis that it is better to start high and go down levels rather than start too low, not contain the virus and see it move quickly,” Ms Ardern said.
“We’ve seen overseas, particularly in Sydney, unnecessary trips outdoors have spread the virus and communities have not been able to get on top of it. So I ask New Zealanders to please follow the rules to the letter.”
New Zealand Health Chief Executive Dr Ashley Bloomfield said the case was a 58-year-old man who became symptomatic on Saturday.
The man’s wife has been tested and since returned a negative result.
Under level 4 restrictions, New Zealanders will only be able to leave their homes for:
- Physical exercise in their neighbourhood
- Visiting supermarkets, dairies (convenience stories) and pharmacies
- Necessary medical care or getting a COVID-19 test
“And if you undertake these activities, please wear a mask when you leave the house,” Ms Ardern added. (ABC News)
