(Picture caption: All remaining COVID-19 public health requirements including seven-day mandatory isolation and wearing face masks at health care facilities have been removed throughout Aotearoa.)
Aotearoa New Zealand’s remaining COVID-19 public health requirements including seven-day mandatory isolation and wearing face masks at health care facilities have now been removed as of August 15.
While fluctuations from week to week are expected, overall COVID-19 case rates, wastewater levels and hospitalisations have been trending downwards since the beginning of June and over the past month reported COVID-19 cases have hit their lowest levels since February 2022.
Additionally, it is likely New Zealand has now likely passed the winter influenza peak.
Public health officials have advised risk from COVID-19 is now considered low compared to other stages of the pandemic and it is safe to remove the final requirements.
Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall says while case numbers will continue to fluctuate, New Zealand has not experienced the dramatic peaks that characterised COVID-19 rates last year.
COVID-19 has put less pressure on the health system this winter and other illnesses have been better planned for and managed and paired with the population’s immunity levels, meant Cabinet was advised they could safely remove the remaining COVID-19 requirements, Minister Verrall adds.
“We have only reached this point thanks to the hard work and care New Zealanders have taken over the course of the pandemic,” she says.
“And while not mandated, the Ministry of Health guidance is to stay at home for five days if you are unwell or have tested positive for COVID-19.
“It has been a long road, however thanks to lots of hard work, New Zealand’s COVID-19 approach has moved from an emergency response to sustainable long-term management.
“Mask wearing remains an important way we can prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, in health and disability care settings.”
Visit the Unite Against COVID-19 website for information on COVID prevention and recovery.