The fifth case of covid 19 in New Zealand has been confirmed
The fifth case of covid 19 in New Zealand has been confirmed
7 March 2020
The woman, in her 40s, is the partner of the third case.
Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield says it fits the existing pattern of spread within families.
He says the woman has been in self-isolation at home since earlier this week.
Forty-three North Shore Hospital staff are in self-isolation after treating a woman in her 70s thought to be a probable case of Covid-19.
The woman was one of eight New Zealanders to have travelled on the Grand Princess cruise ship last month.
She had been treated in hospital for a respiratory illness - she recovered and was discharged but is now back in hospital with an unrelated condition.
Dr Bloomfield says the woman travelled back from San Francisco on flight NZ7 on February 25.
He says anyone on that flight who is considered a close contact will be contacted by public health unit staff.
Of the other seven Kiwis who were on the Grand Princess - five are well while two others have mild symptoms.
One has tested negative - but remains in self-isolation because she is a close contact of the probable case.
The other test result is pending.
© 2024 Newstalk ZB, NZCity