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northNew cases in the Australian state of Victoria returned to triple digits on Sunday, while neighboring New Zealand said it would ease restrictions slightly in its largest city, hit by a resurgence of infections.
Victoria reported 114 new cases, a day after the daily count fell to 94, its lowest level in nearly two months. Its capital, Melbourne, has been in for four weeks in a harsh six-week lockdown that authorities have said could only gradually ease.
“At 100, 94, 114, whatever the number, we just couldn’t open up,” said Prime Minister Daniel Andrews.
The nation of 25 million has suffered around 25,600 infections and just over 600 deaths since the beginning of the year.
New Zealand reported two new cases of the virus on Sunday, bringing its infection count to 1,378, while the death toll stands at 22.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the curbs in Auckland will be eased starting Monday, but will be adjusted again if necessary.
However, the limits will be upheld in public gatherings and movement in Auckland, and masks will be mandatory across the country starting Monday.
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