The Ministry of Health can confirm the whole genome sequencing of the Australian tourist who visited Wellington is the Delta variant of COVID-19.
New South Wales health officials have this evening confirmed an epidemiological link and we were awaiting confirmation of the completion of whole genome sequencing.
Director of Public Health Dr Caroline McElnay says the confirmation reinforces we are taking the right approach with our precautionary actions to ensure COVID-19 stays out of the community. “The signs so far are encouraging – testing has ramped up and there have not been any community cases at this point. “But I want to emphasise the importance of staying vigilant, stay home if unwell and get advice about having a test, wash hands