Covid-19: 222 new community cases and one death
There are 222 new community cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today - 197 in Auckland, 20 in Waikato, two in Wairarapa and two in Taupō.
The Ministry of Health has also announced one new Covid-19-related death. The patient, who was in their late-70s, was admitted to hospital on November 11 and subsequently tested positive for Covid-19.
"Our thoughts are with the patient’s whânau and friends at this deeply sad time," the Ministry said in a statement. "We would also like to acknowledge the team at Auckland City Hospital and all health care workers for their continued hard work and dedication."
Public health officials are currently investigating a common link between cases reported in Taupo, Tararua and Masterton.
Nine of the Waikato cases were from Ôtorohanga, seven from Hamilton, one from Te Awamutu, one from Te Kuiti, and two are awaiting confirmation.
Of the cases, 12 were known contacts already in isolation and a further two have now been linked, the Ministry said. Investigations into the remaining six are underway today.
There are three people currently receiving care for Covid-19 at Waikato Hospital, including two who were transferred from the community isolation facility last night. Public health staff in the Waikato region are now supporting 338 people to isolate at home, including 92 cases and 246 contacts.
The Northland case is currently in Auckland but has a residential address in Northland. This case is linked to another case within the same household.
There are 91 people in hospital and seven in ICU.
