02/03/2020
Good evening everyone.
As some of you may be aware, this afternoon the first case of Novel Coronavirus (Covid-2019) in New Zealand was confirmed by the Ministry of Health (MoH). It is the only case in the country at this stage, and the individual is said to be in an improving condition.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/410625/new-zealand-confirms-case-of-covid-19-coronavirus
We just wanted to update you with the latest information we have from the MoH and Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Travel restrictions are still in place for anyone who has been present in, or transited through mainland China up to 14 days prior to their departure to New Zealand. The same travel restrictions are now in place for anyone who has been present in, or transited through Iran or any other notified country.
Further information from INZ can be found here:https://www.immigration.govt.nz/documents/media/inz-response-to-the-novel-coronavirus.pdf (last updated this afternoon, 28 February 2020 at 4:30pm).
Ministry of Health have stated that there may be other isolated cases such as the one confirmed this afternoon, however, the risk of a community outbreak remains low. The Government and MoH continue to monitor the situation closely, with updates every 48 hours.
We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
At this time, we would like to remind you of some of the precautionary measures you can take to protect yourself from the risk of infection:
- Wash your hands frequently using soap and hot water, cleaning all parts of your hands for at least 20 seconds before drying thoroughly
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, with a tissue or a flexed elbow
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever or a cough
For Covid-2019 related health concerns, please contact the Healthline on 0800 358 5453
And for immigration concerns relating to Covid-2019, please contact the Immigration Contact Centre on 0508 225 288 (within New Zealand), or +64 9 952 1679 (outside New Zealand).