Venkat Raman
Auckland, December 15, 2020
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins
With the Coronavirus pandemic raging through United States of America, Europe and in many countries of Asia, New Zealand remains vulnerable despite having controlled its spread, Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said.
Although the country has not witnessed community cases in recent weeks, the risk is high with the return of New Zealanders (citizens and permanent residents) and the proposed arrival of seasonal workers from countries which experience high incidence of Covid-19.
New Zealanders are expected to travel widely to various parts of the country during the holiday season and participate in various festivals and mass-gatherings, thereby increasing the risk of contracting Covid-19 further.
Extensive response
Announcing the government’s plan in case the Virus re-emerges in the community today, he said that while it was difficult to predict how a case can emerge, he assured New Zealanders that planning in coordination with various ministries has been extensive.
“The planning process includes scenario testing and understanding actions that might be needed, including, as a last resort, Alert Level changes. We will continue to respond swiftly and openly during the holiday period. If a positive case is found in the community, we will use the usual approach to communicating with the public,” he said.
Mr Hipkins said that in such an event, either he or Director General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield (or his official) will provide updates and advice through the Media and through the Health Ministry website.
Three Broad Scenarios
The government’s Covid Plan for Summer has taken into account three broad scenarios.
The Plan outlines how to Reduce the risk, Get Ready and Respond.
Mr Hipkins said that for each of the scenarios, extensive contingency plans are in place.
“We have learnt from previous cases and regional lockdowns and used that knowledge to refine our plans and preparations. We know what to do and the health system is standing ready. People and resources are on call. Our supply chains are stocked. Since March, New Zealand has strengthened and evolved its ability to respond to Covid-19,” he said.
According to him, improved testing and contact tracing capacity have enabled the government to successfully manage outbreak of the Virus four times without having to change alert levels.
Elimination Strategy
“Our Summer planning approach to manage any community cases over the holidays supports New Zealand’s elimination strategy for Covid-19. If we find it, we will stamp it out, and we have made sure that the government’s Covid-19 team and the national support network are ready,” he said.
Mr Hipkins said that the agencies of the government are well connected and have worked closely Civil Defence and Emergency Management, local government iwi and community leaders to obtain a fully-coordinated response.
“People in remote locations where there is limited cell phone coverage would very likely be safe from exposure to Covid-19 but they should follow public health advice upon return from those locations. This is a personal responsibility,” he said.
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