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JASON DORDAY / Things
Auckland City commuters traveling below alert level 2.5, where face masks are required on public transport.
As New Zealanders experience Covid fatigue after months of alert level restrictions, one expert believes the two recent coronavirus deaths in the country should motivate people to take the virus more seriously again.
Clinical psychologist Jacqui Maguire said that in recent weeks many Kiwis have experienced fatigue with the approval of the pandemic novelty and that alert level restrictions are perceived as inconvenient.
“While New Zealanders may cognitively recognize the risk posed by Covid-19, it is likely that emotional exhaustion has given way to breaking the rules,” he said.
Cook Islands News / Supplied
Dr. Joe Williams, photographed with his wife Jill in the Cook Islands last year, died Friday from the coronavirus.
The death of Dr. Joe Williams and a man in his 50s on Friday, the most recent related to Covid-19 and the Auckland group, is a motivator to proactively maintain physical distancing and maintain good hand hygiene , said.
READ MORE:
* Coronavirus: Covid claims the life of former Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, Joe Williams, hours after the death of his brother
* Coronavirus: After two deaths from Covid-19 in the last 24 hours, three new cases were reported on Saturday
* Coronavirus: An Auckland man with Covid-19 dies at Middlemore Hospital, the new group’s first death
The man in his 50s was the youngest Covid-19 victim in the country. He was in the intensive care unit at Middlemore Hospital in Auckland and died on Friday afternoon.
RNZ
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says it could be weeks before the Auckland group stops spreading.
His death ended a 98-day streak without a coronavirus death.
It was believed that he worked at the Mt Wellington Americold refrigeration store, which is at the center of the new group.
Williams, an 80-year-old former Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, died a few hours later at Auckland City Hospital.
The two deaths bring the total number of Covid-19-related deaths in New Zealand to 24.
KEVIN STENT / things
Maquire said the recent deaths may bring additional anxiety to those already concerned about the recent cluster.
Maguire said the two recent deaths are a sobering reminder that the pandemic’s journey is far from over.
She said the loss may be anxiety for Kiwis and heighten concern after the resurgence of community broadcasting.
“While the Covid-19 victims are extremely saddened, it is important that people do not extrapolate the facts and catastrophize the current situation.
She said that people can manage their anxiety by focusing on what they control, acknowledging their thoughts and emotional reactions, and using calming strategies like progressive muscle relaxation and exercise.
“Talking and writing are proven emotional regulation strategies. Stay connected and take time to rest and reflect.”
