A woman in her 70s is the first person to die from COVID-19 in New Zealand, announced Dr Bloomfield today.
The woman, from the West Coast was initially emitted into hospital for what was thought to be influenza. Dr Bloomfield says she had underlying health issues.
“Understandable, the family would like to take their time to grieve,” he said. “The latest sad news reinforces our move to alert level four,” he went on to say.
There are 63 new cases of the virus as of today, bringing the total to 514. Bloomfield says they are investigating more possible clusters.
Quoting the words of Wellington hospital intensive care specialist, Dr Paul Young, Bloomfield said “If New Zealand pulls together as a community and stays home, you will save more lives than I will in my entire career.”
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the thoughts from everyone in the country would be with the family of person who died.
“It…brings home exactly why we are taking such strong measures to stop the virus,” said Ardern.
She reminded people of the importance of protecting the elderly and those with underlying health issues. “Today’s death is a reminder of the fight that we have on our hands … stay at home, break the chain and save lives.”
