More than 3 months after reporting its first case of Covid-19, New Zealand has triumphed over the coronavirus on Monday (8 Jun) when its last active case recovered.
This places New Zealand (NZ) in the prestigious ranks of a handful of countries that have successfully eliminated the virus.
While Singaporeans congratulated the Kiwis on their victory, some also pointed out that we can learn a thing or two from them when it comes to combatting the outbreak.
On Monday (8 Jun), NZ reported 0 active Covid-19 patients for the first time since 28 Feb when the coronavirus first emerged in the country.
The country reported 1,154 confirmed cases and 22 death during this period and underwent one of the strictest lockdowns that spanned 7 weeks.
Prime Minister (PM) Jacinda Ardern is also expected to announce the easing of remaining restrictions – which includes social distancing – later today.
Though the milestone is “significant”, the country will continue to be vigilant against the coronavirus.
For starters, border controls will remain in place with only New Zealanders and their families being allowed to enter the country. They will also be subjected to a 2-week quarantine after their return.
The authorities will also be reportedly conducting “surveillance testing” on frontline workers at the borders.
At the time of writing, only a handful of countries have successfully triumphed over the coronavirus, comprising mostly of small islands with few infections.
As Singaporeans congratulated NZ on the victory, many also pointed out that we can learn a thing or 2 from them on how to keep the outbreak under control.
Indeed, PM Lee Hsien Loong has had a few virtual meetings with PM Jacinda Ardern over the course of the outbreak, and we’re certain that they’ve had productive exchanges over how best to combat the pandemic.
Indeed, as Singapore enters Phase 1 of reopening, we must continue to adhere to Covid-19 regulations so our nation can hopefully eradicate the virus soon.
While there are stark differences – such as population density – between the two countries, the cooperative spirit that the Kiwis have shown during these difficult times is nonetheless something that we can learn from.
MS News congratulates New Zealand on emerging victorious over the coronavirus and hopes Singapore will be able to celebrate such a milestone too, in the very near future.
Featured image adapted from Facebook.
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