A national stocktake of medical gear is under way while Waikato's councils review their pandemic plans to prepare for the first case of coronavirus in the region. Other councils contacted, including Matamata-Piako and Taupō district councils, had similar plans in place, ready to be put into action. Given the coronavirus outbreak, we have reviewed our plans to make sure they will work." Vipond said the DHB was following the Ministry of Health guidance their pandemic plans as appropriate if Covid-19 comes to New Zealand. CHRISTEL YARDLEY/STUFF Labour's list MP in the Waikato, Jamie Strange, says the Ministry of Health will lead the country's response to coronavirus.

Source: Stuff February 27, 2020 04:16 UTC