[ad_1]
Lynn Grieveson / Press Room via Getty Images
Those returning to the MIQ facility will no longer have to stay in their room after the final Covid-19 test.
Returning New Zealanders will no longer have to stay in their room after the test on the 12th while in Managed Isolation Facility (MIQ), in a relaxation of the rules.
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins introduced the temporary rule in late January, in response to a series of cases involving the Pullman Hotel’s managed isolation facilities.
On Tuesday, an MIQ spokesperson said Things The Ministry of Health reported that room restrictions should be lifted on 12/11, starting Monday. Until now, MIQ guests had to stay in their rooms between the final test and the departure date.
RNZ
A returnee in isolation managed at the Pullman hotel believes the system is robust and well-guarded, with guests restricted to their rooms unless they have a bracelet showing they tested negative for Covid-19.
The ministry said recent operational improvements, such as limiting returnees’ movements within MIQ facilities, were “sufficient to reduce risk,” meaning the restriction could be lifted.
READ MORE:
* Covid-19: Movement at MIQ facilities restricted to limit potential spread, says Brigadier Jim Bliss
* Covid-19: Pullman Hotel MIQ facilities in Auckland reopen at reduced capacity
* Allowing Different Aircraft Arrivals at Same MIQ Facility Increases Risk of Covid Spread, Says Quarantine Expert
Current room restrictions for arrivals that must undergo a 0/1 day test, all arrivals except those traveling from Australia, Antarctica and some Pacific Island nations remain in effect, the spokesperson said.
There are 32 MIQ facilities across the country, the majority in the Auckland region.
Joseph Johnson / Stuff
There are more than 5,200 people in the 32 isolation facilities managed across the country.
As of Tuesday, there were 5,201 people in managed isolation facilities across the country and 88 people in quarantine.
New measures were introduced in February to “strengthen” MIQ protocols, including the introduction of a reservation system that requires returnees to reserve spaces for exercise and smoking, limit returnees’ movements, and ensure that people remain in their homes. rooms at any other time.
Only essential movement is allowed.
Infection prevention control protocols apply to returnees during exercise, such as being required to wear a mask and maintain a physical distance of 2 meters from those outside their bubble, they said.
The Ministry of Health and Managed Isolation and Quarantine regularly reviews its policies and procedures to ensure they remain adequate to reduce the risk of the spread of Covid-19 within the facilities, the spokesperson said.
“The safety of our returnees, workers and that of all of New Zealand remains our priority.”
More than 120,000 people have passed through the managed isolation and quarantine system since March 2020.
