New Zealand has confirmed that it has successfully flattened the curve and controlled the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), announcing that it will ease nationwide lockdown in the coming days.
In a report by Rappler, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that the country has successfully stopped “an uncontrolled explosion” of the disease, and that they have “done what very few countries have been able to do.”
“We have stopped a wave of devastation,” added the Prime Minister.
Ardern also noted that the country will move its maximum Level 4 COVID-19 alert to Level 3 on April 27, and maintain it for two weeks while they assess the situation.
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The easing of the lockdown would result in reopening of businesses and some schools, relaxing of local travel, as well as allowing gatherings of up to 10 people for events like weddings and funerals. However, Ardern said social distancing rules will still be observed.
“I couldn’t feel prouder of the start we have made together but I also feel a huge responsibility to ensure that we do not lose any of the gains we have made either,” Rappler quoted the Prime Minister as saying.
New Zealand was deemed one of the countries that were successful in containing the disease, after it implemented a month-long lockdown in March—including closure of borders, stay-at-home regulations, and shutting down non-essential businesses and services.
It has so far recorded only 1,445 COVID-19 cases and 13 fatalities—with 1,006 recoveries as of April 21.
The leader added that the easing of the lockdown will help the economy, which has been deeply hit by the preventive measures. Experts forecasted that the unemployment rate in the country may reach 26 percent.
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