New Zealand to tighten curbs if there's an Omicron outbreak, rules out lockdowns
New Zealand's tight controls and geographic advantage has helped it remain free of the Omicron variant in the community, although many cases have now been reported at quarantine facilities at the border.
A "red" traffic light setting would be imposed within 24 to 48 hours of Omicron arriving in the community, Ardern told a news conference, which would mean masks would be mandated and there would be limits on public gatherings."When we have evidence of Omicron transmitting in the community we won’t use lockdowns, instead the whole country will move into Red within 24 to 48 hours," Ardern said, adding that Omicron would eventually arrive.
"We know from other countries it can take as little as 14 days for Omicron cases to grow from the hundreds into the thousands," she said.About 93% of New Zealand's population over the age of 12 are fully vaccinated and about 20% have had booster shots. Ardern said more people must get boosters.
People arriving have to apply for a place at state-managed quarantine facilities. The government this week stopped issuing any new slots amid a surge in the number of people arriving with Omicron.Register now for FREE unlimited access to Reuters.comDaily Briefing Subscribe to our daily curated newsletter to receive the latest exclusive Reuters coverage delivered to your inbox.
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