New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at record rates as the country battles a new wave of the Omicron strain that is particularly affecting the older population.
Deaths reached 151 in the seven days to July 16, compared with 115 in the worst week of the previous wave, in March, according to Health Ministry data. In the latest 24 hours, there were 26 COVID-related deaths, all aged over 60, the ministry said in a statement on Friday.
There have been 64,780 active cases in the past seven days, although authorities have said many infections are unreported.
Emergency departments, GPs and medical centres are under pressure. However, Health Ministry data shows hospitalisation levels remain below those seen during the March peak.
The Government is resisting pressure from some doctors to reinstate restrictions on public gatherings or mandate the wearing of masks at schools.
However, Education Ministry chief Iona Holsted said on Thursday it had advised schools to enforce the wearing of masks as much as practicable when children returned from holidays next week.
"We understand that implementing mask policies can be a challenge but ask that you take action to strengthen your mask-wearing policy as soon as possible."
