The Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield briefed media this afternoon about the first Omicron strain of COVID-19 being detected in New Zealand’s managed isolation and quarantine. The case came from Germany and was transferred to quarantine after their day 0/1 positive test result.
The case is fully vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The latest figures from the Ministry of Health show that 90% of the eligible New Zealand population has had at least two doses of the vaccine.
COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says, “that means 3,788,151 New Zealanders have rolled up their sleeves to protect themselves, their whānau, friends and communities,”
“We knew yesterday we’d reached the milestone, and now that the official count is through, we can formally recognise the hard work of everyone who has played their part, and who are continuing to do their bit.
By 11.59pm last night, 3,789,662 of the 4,209,057 eligible New Zealanders aged 12 and over were fully vaccinated, with 3,969,267 (or 94%) partially vaccinated.
Pasifika are not far behind on 87% double vaccinated and 94% receiving at least one dose.
Minister Hipkins says ,”we know we still have more to do, and we will be continuing the mahi to further raise vaccination rates in those areas where it’s most needed – as well as among our Māori and Pacific communities to bring them closer to that 90 per cent fully vaccinated mark.”
Image Credit: Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora / New Zealand Government