Jacinda Archern bans slack Kiwi face-masking habits as New Zealand prepares itself for the Omicron surge. Some experts even call for masks to be applied to toddlers.
New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key will prohibit the use of bandanas (scarves) or tee-shirts that are pulled up over the nose starting February 3.
A NZ expert suggested that mask changes for children could go further, and even mandated the use of masks in kindergartens.
Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand is planning to end a lax New Zealand tradition of wearing scarves/bandanas/t-shirts instead of face masks.
NZ has so far seen 29 Omicron cases, but officials from the health department have yet to identify the source.
Professor Michael Baker, Otago University epidemiologist, stated that Kiwi preschool children need masks in accordance with the strict guidelines of American Centre for Disease Control.
‘At the moment, we’ve got a giant hole in our protection in New Zealand – and that is for pre-school children,’ he told the NZ Herald.
“I don’t understand why people aren’t looking at these masks in the ages that I’m in.”
NZ Police Officer demonstrates his mask with a child next to him. Experts believe that the toddler should be covered as well to prevent Covid-19 spreading.
There were 62 Covid-19 infections in this country on Tuesday. 10 of these new cases came from Omicron, a highly transmissible variant.
NZ has confirmed 29 Omicron cases so far, however health authorities have yet to pinpoint the source.
Ms. Ardern announced several steps in anticipation Omicron rapidly spreading, just like it did in other countries.
A measure included ordering 80,000,000 rapid antigen test kits, though initially NZ plans to use PCR to confirm positive cases.
NZ can perform 60,000 PCR test per day, but this is currently being increased to 78,000 per day.
Ms Ardern also continued to push the need for vaccination and especially booster shots, saying ‘two doses for Delta, three for Omicron’.
Businesses that sell food or drink must have masks on, even if people aren’t eating or drinking. You must also use the restroom and go to the counter.
NZ has ordered 80 million rapid antigen test kits to help prepare for the Omicron surge. However, NZ initially plans to use PCR tests to verify positive cases.
Masks must be worn by children on school trips that are publicly funded.
Employers covered under a vaccination mandate are required to wear N95 or surgical face masks while at work.
While N95 masks may be preferred by some Kiwis, they aren’t recommended for them or mandated because of their higher cost.
However, N95 masks may be required in high-risk situations where there is a mandate for vaccination.
All New Zealanders who work in the fields of health, disability, education fire and emergency and police protection must be vaccinated.