A man in New Zealand allegedly took ten COVID-19 vaccine shots in a single day. Prompting the country’s health ministry to launch an investigation. Reports suggest the man went to several vaccination clinics to get his COVID-19 vaccine shots and he was paid to take the shots.
According to local media, he was paid to take shots on behalf of others while pretending to be the people who had allegedly hired him. Astrid Koornneef, COVID-19 vaccine, and immunisation programme manager told Stuff that the country’s Ministry of Health was taking the situation seriously. “We are very concerned about this situation and are working with the appropriate agencies,” she says.
Authorities are increasing the vaccination programme in the country
The Delta variant was the dominant strain in New Zealand, where there was a surge in COVID-19 cases. The government had imposed a three-and-a-half-month lockdown on Auckland after Prime Minister Ardern declared that the “hard truth is that Delta is here and not going away.” Authorities in Auckland reopened nightclubs, cafes, and cinemas earlier this month. Though face masks are mandatory. As well as public gatherings were under restrictions. Vaccination certificates are a requirement for entry into bars and nightclubs, according to health officials.
Prime Minister Ardern says, no country in the world has been able to eradicate the Delta variant. Authorities are increasing the vaccination program in the country. With more than 83% of the population now immunized. In a balancing act meant to control the virus, the government unveiled a new three-tier traffic light system to combat the virus while keeping the country open for business. Authorities in Auckland are keeping a close eye on domestic border roadblocks. Which is to remain in place until mid-December.
At its peak, Auckland was reporting 150 Delta variant cases; however, officials decided to reopen amid a nationwide vaccination drive. In comparison to other countries, New Zealand has largely been able to combat the virus. With only 40 deaths reported since the pandemic began last year.