New Zealand Lifts All COVID-19 Restrictions

On Monday, New Zealand announced the complete removal of all remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including the mandatory wearing of masks in hospitals.

The move comes as the country's Health Minister, Ayesha Verrall, highlighted that despite fluctuations in infection numbers, New Zealand is no longer experiencing the massive surge in cases observed last year.

This, coupled with an improved level of population immunity, has paved the way for a safe relaxation of restrictions.

Farrell, as reported by Radio New Zealand, pointed out that daily hospital admissions due to COVID-19 now account for only 2.2% of total daily admissions.

Moreover, it is likely that New Zealand has surpassed the peak of this winter's influenza season. These positive trends have emboldened the government's decision to ease restrictions.

Starting from midnight, a series of measures will come into effect. Notably, the mandatory requirement to wear masks when visiting healthcare facilities or eldercare centers will be lifted.

Additionally, individuals infected with the virus will no longer be subjected to a compulsory seven-day isolation period; this duration has been reduced to five days.

The Health Ministry advises current COVID-19 patients to remain at home during their recovery, but the legal compulsion for this isolation is no longer in place.