Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories
Ardern called the low reports of new cases "incredible," adding that places like schools and some accepted recreation will be allowed starting May 11, but things like gyms and libraries will stay prohibited, according to CNN.
"It's been nearly five weeks living and working in ways that just two months ago would have been impossible," said Ardern. "But we did. And we have done it together."
On March 23, New Zealand had just over 100 cases of COVID-19, but Ardern decided it was time to take action, and put the entire country into one of the most restrictive lockdowns — everyone, except for essential workers, had to stay home for four weeks, only leaving for groceries or solo exercising (though swimming at the beach is prohibited). The country was also shut off to any international travel.
Experts say New Zealand’s strategy against COVID-19 may have worked better than other countries who tried to instead slow the spread and “flatten the curve.”
“Other countries have had a gradual ramp-up, but our approach is exactly the opposite,” Michael Baker, a professor of public health at the University of Otago in New Zealand, told The Washington Post earlier this month.
As information about the coronavirus pandemic rapidly changes, PEOPLE is committed to providing the most recent data in our coverage. Some of the information in this story may have changed after publication. For the latest on COVID-19, readers are encouraged to use online resources from CDC, WHO, and local public health departments. PEOPLE has partnered with GoFundMe to raise money for the COVID-19 Relief Fund, a GoFundMe.org fundraiser to support everything from frontline responders to families in need, as well as organizations helping communities. For more information or to donate, click here.
Source: Read Full Article