It has almost been a year since the first Covid-19 lockdown happened in New Zealand in March last year and ever since it has been repeated several times on different alert levels, on and off. We New Zealanders, have relatively been a fortunate lot, to have not faced as strict conditions here as in some other countries’ world over. Our geographic location, distance from the affected countries and a smaller population were some of the significant factors that contributed to initially stamp out the deadly virus. New Zealand government also acted swiftly but firmly by closing the borders completely and putting the country on a strict Level-4 lockdown as the virus struck. The general empathy shown towards businesses and common man by Jacinda led government not only helped to contain the virus and support the community but also paved the way for her to make a resounding come back.

Ever since the historic mandate Jacinda Ardern won in last October, most opposition parties were clueless on about what issue they should attack the government. The finding of UK variant of new strain has now given them this opportunity to question and blame the government about its failure to contain the virus from letting it spread it in the community. In the prevailing circumstances for any government of the world there are not many options available, where on the one hand you need to save the lives of your people and on the other hand you must be mindful of the economy not crashing down. We all must understand that we are passing through some extraordinary times and this is one situation that comes once in a lifetime. Unfortunately, there is no history or a precedence of a pandemic like this one to follow and most countries are only going on hit and trial method.

Even though the vaccines developed so far are no guarantee of 100% immunity from infection, we still need to applaud the efforts of researchers and scientists of many countries including India to have successfully developed a vaccine for the deadly disease in such a short time. In fact, we should take pride in India being among just a few countries in the world, to not only taking care of its own citizens but also looking after its neighbouring and other friendly countries. Several developed countries of the world are also waiting to receive Indian vaccine.

Vaccine or no vaccine, the best way to keep you safe and healthy is to strictly follow the Covid-19 protocols issued by the government. If we take all due precautions and maintain our hygiene, wear mask, and avoid crowded places then we are doing our bit. Any negligence, especially when we are in a lockdown situation, can be very costly not only for you but for the wider community also. If the Prime Minister is angry at the rule breachers, there is reason for that. For a silly mistake of one individual, the whole nation of 5 million suffers and it also delays recovery plans of government apart from creating new financial burdens on the already overburdened government.

So, if you are really sick and tired of repeatedly happening lockdowns, please start rigorously following the lockdown protocols and safety regulations. We have done it earlier and we can do it this time too. This is the only magic to get rid from lockdowns and only you and we together can do it. -Yugal Parashar