Australia, New Zealand tread cautiously as coronavirus lingers

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New coronavirus cases in Australia’s state of Victoria returned to the triple digits, while neighbouring New Zealand said it would ease curbs slightly in its largest city, hit by a resurgence of infections, Reuters reported.

Southeastern Victoria reported 114 new cases, a day after the daily tally fell to 94, its lowest in nearly two months. Its capital, Melbourne, is four weeks into a six-week hard lockdown that authorities have said may ease only gradually.

Australia’s closest neighbour, New Zealand, reported two new virus cases, taking its tally of infections to 1,378, while the death toll stands at 22.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said curbs in Auckland would be eased from Monday, but would be tightened again if needed.

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