New Calculation: New Zealand Considering New Strategy As Delta Variant Grows

New Zealand recognized that its ambitious “zero Covid” strategy could no longer be viable, while an epidemic of the contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus continues to spread, which already has accumulated more than 70 cases.

The minister in charge of the response to Covid-19, Chris Hipkins, has reported 21 more cases in a contagious outbreak that emerged last week in the capital Auckland, after six months without local infections, causing a nationwide shutdown.

Hipkins said the contagious nature of the Delta variant makes it harder to contain, questioning the virus’s total elimination strategy.

“The magnitude of the risk of contagion and the speed at which the virus is spreading is something which, despite all the best preparation in the world, puts our healthcare system in a difficult position,” Hipkins said, the AFP news agency reported.

New Zealand’s hailed strategy against Covid-19, which has resulted in just 26 deaths out of a population of 5 million, focuses on removing the virus from the community through strict border controls and to total closures when cases are detected.

However, the appearance of the Delta variant forces a rethinking of the strategy of the government of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Delta “This is unlike anything we have faced before in this pandemic,” Hipkins admitted.

“This changes everything, it means that all our existing preparation seems less adequate and there are great doubts about our long term plans”, added the minister.

Neighboring Australia has also followed a strategy of “zero Covid”, and the spread of the Delta variant generated frustration among authorities.

The epidemic in New Zealand has highlighted the slowness of the vaccination campaign in the country, where only 20% of the population is fully vaccinated.

“The government’s complacency and inability to secure and deliver the vaccine has left us exposed, completely vulnerable to the delta variant.”said Chris Bishop, spokesperson for the National Opposition Party.

Hipkins insisted that eliminating the virus remains the priority in the face of the current epidemic, which is racking up 71 active cases.

The national lockdown is due to end Tuesday evening, although the minister said Auckland could have additional restrictions even if they are lifted elsewhere.