As of this morning, there are 83 new cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand, with 78 of them confirmed and 5 probable. This brings the total number of cases to 451.
12 of these cases are in hospitals, with 2 in intensive care units, one of which is in need of a ventilator. In total, 50 people have recovered from the virus.
There are 5 known “clusters” in New Zealand.
As Kiwis continue to arrive into the country, they are being required to remain in strict quarantine for 2 weeks. Government Controller John Ombler says he has seen reports of arriving travellers who are being quarantined in hotels without food.
There is a small number of Air New Zealand staff that have been tested positive for COVID-19, says Sarah Stuart-Black Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management. Air New Zealand is expected to confirm more details of this later today.
Officials also addressed the demand for flu vaccines as we head into the winter months. The vaccination programme has been brought forward this year, and the campaign is “the biggest its ever been” with 400,000 more vaccines available, says Stuart-Black.
The flu vaccines will be prioritised for at-risk, elderly and healthcare professionals.
