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Covid infection survey delays stretch to a year

By
Kaniva Staff
-

By RNZ.co.nz

A long-awaited survey of Covid-19 infections has been delayed until next year.

In a statement, the deputy director of health Andrew Old admitted to RNZ the work “has taken longer than expected”.

The ministry had originally planned to launch two surveys after the March peak of cases. An infection survey would randomly sample people to assess the prevalence of Covid-19 in the community.

The second survey, a seroprevalence survey, would assess the number of people with antibodies to Covid-19 from infection, vaccination, or a combination of both.

Former director-general of public health Ashley Bloomfield said in July he expected the surveys to start shortly.

At the time, he said the infection survey would be run over a six-month period and test 1000 people a week. The second survey would be a blood test.

“Both are well developed and nearly ready to start rolling out in the next few weeks.”

But Old today told RNZ the survey is now delayed again from the final quarter of this year until 2023. A second phase is not expected to start until July, a full year after it was initially expected to launch.

Old said the survey had taken longer to implement because of the “Covid-19 and winter illness surge on our health sector, as well as the resetting of roles and responsibilities, governance, priorities and budgets prompted by the health sector reforms.”

This had a greater impact on the survey than expected, he said.

New Zealand relies on people reporting infections, and on wastewater testing to assess the spread of Covid-19 in communities. Recent wastewater results have suggested only 35 percent of cases are reported.

The United Kingdom has had a prevalence survey in place since 2020.

Old said the surveys are helpful studies, “but not critical to our response”.

Part of the delay was caused by an additional stage to the survey being added. “This additional stage has a strong Maori and Pasifika component, which has been shaped in consultation with our sector partners, and will further enhance understanding of the impact of Covid-19 on specific communities and inform the ongoing public health response.”

In August, University of Auckland Covid-19 modeller Dr Dion O’Neale said prevalence surveys were one of the best ways to get an estimate of the true number of infections in a community.

Test rugby: All Blacks and England draw 25-25 at Twickenham

By
Kaniva Staff
-

    All Black Richie Mo'unga on the ball during the Autumn Nations Series International rugby union match between England and New Zealand at Twickenham stadium.

    Photo: Ian Kington / AFP

    The All Blacks and England have drawn 25-25 in New Zealand’s final Test of the year at Twickenham this morning.

    The All Blacks blew a 19-point lead in the final 10 minutes of their season, leaving them to settle for the draw.

    In a penalty-ridden game, the All Blacks made the best possible start to the Test with two unanswered tries to Dalton Papali’i and Codie Taylor in the first 10 minutes and never let go of the lead until the final minute of the game.

    Despite regular attacks on the New Zealand line, England were unable to cross for a try until the final 10 minutes of the game, but then scored three tries to level the scores.

    All Blacks first five-eighth Richie Mo'unga takes on England's defence during the 25-25 draw at Twickenham.

    All Blacks first five-eighth Richie Mo’unga takes on England’s defence during the 25-25 draw at Twickenham. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

    New Zealand led 17-3 at half-time, with Reiko Ioane scoring their third try in the 50th minute.

    A drop goal from Beuden Barrett with 10 minutes to go appeared to seal the victory for the visitors with a 25-6 lead, but England immediately hit back with their first try in the 71st minute, before Freddie Steward scored again two minutes later.

    The All Blacks were also forced to play the final minutes of the game with 14 players after Barrett was yellow-carded for a professional foul while trying to prevent England’s first try, and the hosts crossed the line with a minute to go to secure the draw.

    See how the match unfolded with RNZ’s live blog

    Earlier today, Georgia recorded the greatest moment in their rugby history, landing a penalty in the final minutes to stun Wales 13-12 in Cardiff. Scotland also beat a 14-man Argentina 52-29, while South Africa overwhelmed Italy 63-21.

    – RNZ

    Rugby League World Cup final: Australia defeat Toa Samoa 30-10

    By
    Kaniva Staff
    -

    Toa Samoa scored two tries in the Rugby League World Cup final in Manchester this morning, but were unable to stop a dominant Australian side from winning the title.

      Samoa's Jaydn Su'a (R) tackles Australia's Nathan Cleary during the Rugby League World Cup Men's final between Australia and Samoa at Old Trafford stadium.

      Samoa’s Jaydn Su’a (R) tackles Australia’s Nathan Cleary during the Rugby League World Cup Men’s final between Australia and Samoa at Old Trafford stadium. Photo: AFP / Oli Scarff

      After leading 14-0 at half-time, Australia went on to win 30-10.

      Samoa were the first Pacific Island team to reach the final in the tournament’s history, but after a solid start they were no match for Australia, as the holders ran in six tries on their way to yet another World Cup crown.

      See how the match unfolded with RNZ’s live blog

      Australia have now won nine titles from the last 10 Rugby League World Cups.

      Two early tries from Latrell Mitchell and James Tedesco set Australia on course to continue their domination of the competition.

      Liam Martin’s third try of the tournament, after a sustained spell of Samoa pressure, gave the holders a 14-0 lead which they held until the break, before another converted try from Cameron Murray in the second half put Australia in total control.

      To their credit, the Samoans did not give up and nearly brought the house down when Brian To’o deservedly got them on the scoresheet with a well-worked try, getting fans dreaming of a remarkable comeback.

      The Kangaroos quickly dashed any such hopes with another try, a second of the game from Tedesco, before Samoa did have one more memory to take home from a memorable tournament as Stephen Crichton intercepted the ball and crossed the line.

      Mitchell had the final say for the brilliant Kangaroos with another fine try in the final minute, ensuring that since 1972 Australia have only returned from one World Cup without the trophy in their hands.

      The Jillaroos also made it three titles in a row with a 54-4 dismantling of New Zealand earlier in the day.

      – RNZ / Reuters

      King hopes United Arab Emirates’ diabetes centre will deliver services in Tonga

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      The king of Tonga hopes a centre for diabetes in the United Arab Emirates will one day deliver its services in Tonga.

      According to current World Health Organisation (WHO) figures, 19.1 percent of males and 24.5 percent of females in Tonga have diabetes. The figures are matched by much higher levels of obesity, a situation which has led Tonga to be christened “the diabetes heavyweight of the Pacific.”

      King hopes that his people could one day access such services in the Kingdom of Tonga

      “Tonga is on the heavier end of the obesity statistics for the Pacific Islands with 69 percent of the adult population being obese”.

      King Tupou VI was at the United Arab Emirates this week and he was given an opportunity to visit the Imperial College London Diabetics Centre (ICLDC) in Abu Dhabi.

      A statement from the Palace Office in Tonga said: “His Majesty King Tupou VI wanted  “to ascertain the potential of a partnership in addressing Non-Communicable Diseases in particular diabetes and its related illnesses”.

      The king was welcomed by Dr. Nicolas Richards, the Executive Director of the Centre together with his senior staff team.

      The Centre is the first healthcare facility established by Mubadala Investment Company in partnership with Imperial College London in 2006.

      It has treated more than 100,000 patients and is a state-of-the-art outpatient facility that specialises in diabetes treatment, research, training and public health awareness”.

      “Imperial College London (ICL) is a leading science-based university with a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. Mubadala’s partnership with ICL brings best-in-class expertise in diabetes care to the region, where the condition is among the region’s most critical healthcare issues”.

      “The Centre implements Robust Process Improvement (RPI) concepts and methodology in designing and updating clinical and managerial processes with an emphasis on quality of care as well as patient safety and satisfaction”.

      The Palace Office said His Majesty “shared his hope that his people could one day access such services in the Kingdom of Tonga”.

      Covid-19: More than 4000 cases of coronavirus reported on Saturday

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      By RNZ.co.nz

      Covid-19 cases are on the up, with more than 4000 cases reported so far this weekend.

      The Health Ministry revealed 4322 cases of the virus were reported today.

      That’s more than 1500 more than the 2776 cases reported last Saturday, 12 November.

      Earlier this week, health officials held a media conference and said cases could skyrocket over the summer period.

      Deputy Director-General of the Public Health Agency Dr Andrew Old said current modelling indicated cases could rise to a peak similar to that seen in July – between 10,000 and 11,000 cases per day.

      He encouraged people to ensure they were up to date with their vaccinations, stay home if they were symptomatic, test if unwell and to open doors and windows as much as possible if they were entertaining over the summer months.

      Old said there was also “good evidence that mask use reduces transmission”.

      The ministry would be publishing a “summer checklist” to help people prepare, he said.

      New Zealand remained in a “strong position” to manage the ongoing Covid-19 cases but Old cautioned: “We’re not out of the Covid woods yet”.

      Toa Samoa has united all Samoans globally says rugby league boss

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      By RNZ.co.nz

      Toa Samoa players are being hailed for uniting Samoans in Samoa and around the world as they head into the final of the Rugby League World Cup against Australia’s Kangaroos in Manchester this weekend.

      Toa Samoa fans in Māngere

      Speaking from Apia, the president of Rugby League Samoa, Tagaloa Fa’afouina Su’a, said it’s an “indescribable” feeling since last weekend’s thrilling golden point victory over England in extra time to win 27-26.

      “I think the Rugby League World Cup is one of the best things that has happened in the last two or three years for our nation – not just here in Samoa but all around the world. All Samoans around the world and our Pacific island brothers as well and even in New Zealand too because New Zealand is our brother too.”

      Tagaloa reflected on Toa Samoa’s dramatic defeat to England 60-6 in the opening game of the tournament.

      “It was tough to absorb at the time and you know I think it was a blessing in disguise for us to have that, I would say, very embarrassing situation. But it’s footie. It’s not how we start it, it’s how we end it. It’s always in the boys’ mind, and to move on from that situation after that game.”

      The main thing is that everyone in Toa Samoa is “on the same page” with whatever challenges and issues they face.

      “We don’t hold any grudges against each other, we just put everything on the table you know – be honest with each other, open-minded and that’s the atmosphere. I think that’s the main thing. No use going into a battle with your mind not free, not relaxed.”

      As thousands of Toa Samoa supporters globally gear up to celebrate with car parades and marches, Tagaloa described it as an emotional time and asked fans to celebrate responsibly and respectfully.

      “I think that’s how most people feel – very emotional and overwhelmed with what the team has done. It’s just unbelievable.

      “In the hearts of Samoan people, the boys are already champions. They don’t have to prove anything else to the world or us. All they need to do is prove it to themselves – that they can go do that extra mile. Just one more.”

      Black Ferns players to receive $25K bonus payment each

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      By RNZ.co.nz

      The Black Ferns players will each receive a $25,000 bonus payment following their victory in the women’s Rugby World Cup final last week.

      New Zealand Rugby said in a statement to RNZ on Friday that it had worked with sponsors to create a bonus pool of almost one million dollars.

      It said bonuses were not included in the Black Ferns’ contracts but considered the payments appropriate given the scale of the teams’ success, culminating in an upset of England in the final at Eden Park.

      “New Zealand Rugby, with generous contributions from key partners Sky, Adidas and ASB, have created a bonus pool of almost $1m to acknowledge the incredible success of the Black Ferns team and management at the Rugby World Cup,” NZ Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson said in the statement.

      “Each member of the Rugby World Cup winning Black Ferns squad will receive a bonus payment of $25,000.

      “While bonuses were not built into Black Ferns contracts, NZR considers that they are appropriate given the scale of the Black Ferns’ RWC campaign.

      “Accordingly, as we have done previously in respect of All Blacks RWC bonus payments, we have worked with commercial partners to create a pool that rewards the players for their historic and special performance.”

      The Black Ferns drew a full house of 42,000 fans to the final at Eden Park on Saturday, which they won 34-31.

      A New Zealand audience of more than one million people are reported to have watched the final, although World Rugby confirmed the tournament made a substantial financial loss.

      – RNZ

      Jail term for two Police officers who kicked and knocked out man’s tooth in Vava‘u

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      Two police officers have been sent to prison by a Supreme Court judge who said they punched and kicked the 21-year-old man – smashing his tooth out in the process – during an attempt to restrain him.

      A Tongan Police officer. Photo/Kaniva Tonga

      The Vava’u officers Viliami Halalilo and Tukumo’ui Havea were sentenced at Neiafu Supreme court on November 15  after Justice Nicholas Cooper found them guilty of common assault on October 28 by assaulting Liuaki Fainu.

      The officers responded to a call for assistance from Lusinita Fainu at Ha’alaufuli. Lusinita told Police she and her drunken husband had a quarrel and wanted him removed from the address.

      The officers arrested Liuaki and took him to the police station.

      Liuaki did not want to be placed in the cells so he fled and got to the Taunga residence before he felt two people had grabbed him.   

      One of the officers punched the back of his head before he fell to the ground dizzy. It was Halalilo who had thrown that punch, the court was told.

      Both officers were wearing safety boots.

      A witness told the court that ” Viliami Halalilo kicked the person lying down to the top of his head. He saw this with his own eyes. A kick to the head a punch and then stood this person up and used his knee to hit his head”.

      The witness said it was at that point that Mr. Havea arrived and kicked and punched the head of Liuaki.

      “The punch connected with the top of his head. During that time, the person being assaulted apologised and begged the officers to stop, saying he was their brother”.

      Liuaki was later released and he went to a dentist who checked the injuries to his mouth. The dentist told the court one of Liuaki’s  permanent teeth at the top and front was missing.

      “She agreed that a kick could cause that and the type of force required would have had to be big”, a court judgement read.

      Justice Cooper said: “I consider, his tooth was knocked out” but Liuaki “was not best placed to see who was doing exactly what out of the two people he says were present”.

      The judge also said that given the circumstances, “it is quite impossible for me to say who kicked his tooth out”.

      Both officers denied the witnesses’ accounts and claimed they did not assault Liuaki.

      Justice Cooper said the evidence provided by Sila and Liuaki “was totally independent, I am absolutely sure that their accounts are the correct and honest version of what took place”.

      In convicting the officers Mr Cooper said: “Both Mr. Halalilo and Mr. Havea I find guilty of common assault by punching and kicking Mr. Fainu”.

      Mr Cooper later sentenced the duo to six-months imprisonment each with the last two-months suspended for one-year, on conditions.

      Researchers around the world seek answers to questions about spread and danger of Covid-19

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      As New Zealand faces a third wave of Covid-19 infections, people continue to have questions about the disease and how it affects people. These questions are reflected in research being undertaken by international experts in several countries. These are some of the main questions being looked at around the world.

      1. Why do people respond so differently to the virus?

      According to research at Georgetown Centre for Global Health Science and Security individual responses are the key to how severely they will react to the virus. This could depend on the amount of virus people are exposed to and any pre-existing health problems they may have.

      2. What’s a sufficient level of immunity?

      Research at the University of Chicago suggest that knowing how well a partially immune population could transmit the virus at any time could dramatically improve forecasting and the potential for effective policy responses. Work is being done to determine what combination of factors,  whether antibodies alone or other physiological factors, help establish the right level of immunity to repel Covid-19 infection and create asymptomatic cases.

      3. How common will reinfection be? (Or, how long will immunity last?)

      Although Covid-19 reinfection has been rare so far, experts want to know whether it will become more common and how severe those infections will be.

      This has led to discussions about whether protection against infection is comparatively short-lived, but protection against severe disease is longer lasting. Work at the University of Florida suggests that vaccine-induced protection lasts for a different period than infection-induced protection.

      4. How will variants affect efforts to curb Covid-19?

      Like the rest of the world, New Zealand has been subjected to infections by a number of Covid variants. Researchers around the world are looking at what effect variants have on the effectiveness of vaccines and treatment. This includes work at the Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine in Switzerland on whether virus changes will be severe or occur in smaller steps.

      5. What is long Covid, and who is most at risk?

      Some Covid-19 patients have reported debilitating and varied symptoms weeks and months after recovering. Researchers at Yale University are studying long-term symptoms to help design therapy.

      6. How does Covid-19 interact with children?

      Most children appear to avoid severe cases of Covid-19 and experts want to know whether the disease is spread more easily and how often among children with asymptomatic infections.

      7. What proportion of transmission do asymptomatic people account for?

      Because asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic people may unknowingly infect others, some experts have shown interest in discovering how infectious these patients are.

      8. Can we pinpoint who may become a superspreader?

      Experts at the University of Texas want to know whether it is possible to identify which people are at risk of becoming superspreaders. Although they represent a minority of infections, they account for the majority of viral transmission. 

      9. What can genetic sequencing tell us about the virus?

      A number of international experts are investigating whether it is possible to use genetic sequencing to predict how the virus might change in the future. Dutch experts at the Erasmus Medical Centre  are researching the use if genomic markers for key properties that should cause concern.

      10. What is the effect of non-medical interventions?

      The use of a range of measures to limit the spread of Covid-19 such as social distancing, mask-wearing, and school closures are being investigated at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. However, because the measures were often put in place at the same time it is hard to determine which were effective.

      11. How does SARS-CoV-2 differ from its cousin, SARS-1?

      Experts want to know how SARS-CoV-2 differs from its cousin, SARS-1. They are investigating why SARS-2 can replicate in people’s upper airways, making it more easily transmissible than SARS-1, which replicates in cells deeper in the lungs. This could help drug manufacturers learn how to prevent upper airway replication of the virus and determine the risks posed by other coronaviruses that may jump from an animal species

      12. Where did SARS-CoV-2 come from?

      Although experts largely agree that the source of the virus was almost certainly a bat, they still do not know how a bat virus managed to find its way into humans.

      Vava‘u fatal house fire reinvestigation: Police ask public to ‘refrain from commenting further’

      By
      Kaniva Staff
      -

      Police in Tonga have asked the public not to comment further on the incident in Vava’u last week in which a house fire claimed the life of a 46-year-old woman.

      The victim, Tongan-New Zealand born Tu’imala Unise Moala, died in what an inquest determined as a result of smoke inhalation and severe burning.

      Her body was laid to rest last week, a day after her death. But her family said livestreamed videos taken at the scene of the house fire appeared to have hold some important clues about Moala’s cause of death.

      Their concerns triggered Police to reinvestigate the incident.

      Tonga Police said that a team of investigators from Tongatapu were currently in Vava’u working together with local Vava’u Police in the new investigation.

      “We are working closely with our counterparts from NZ Police that are currently part of the capacity development program working with Tonga Police”, it said.

      Tonga Police are also in close contact with the deceased’s family members in Tonga and New Zealand.

      Police Commissioner Shane McLennon has asked the public to refrain from commenting further and sharing misleading and out of context remarks.

      “I ask members of the public to please respect the deceased and her family by giving them  the respect they deserve at this very difficult time. Investigations are ongoing and we are gathering all necessary information on the matter”, the Commissioner said.

      “We are grateful to those members of the public who have come forward and provided information, including video material. I am also asking that if anyone has information that they feel would be useful to assist Tonga Police in this matter, to bring that information forward to the Neiafu Police Station or to contact  Tonga Police Headquarters, as opposed to engaging in on-line commentary.

      “I would also point out that Tonga Police and local Vava’u officials have followed established procedures as required by the Inquests Act, immediately following the house fire and subsequent loss of life. Having said that, Tonga Police intend consulting with our colleagues at the Attorney General’s Office on options to update legislation as the current Inquests Act dates from 1912 and was last amended in 1988.

      “Tonga Police want to ensure that current best practice models are used where sudden deaths occur and which require further investigation or inquiry.

      “We need to constantly review and update policy, procedure and legislation to reflect the times in which we live.

      “I want the public to have confidence that Tonga Police are open and accountable, that we all need to work together, and that Tonga Police need the help and assistance of the communities that we serve, to keep our communities safe and secure”.

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