NSW outlines 'Roadmap to Freedom’, New Zealand hopeful on vaccines, Japan set to extend State of Emergency

With major Asian economies still grappling with the continued surge in coronavirus cases, courtesy of the Delta variant outbreaks, Australia’s most populous state of New South Wales (NSW) is moving towards easing the restrictions.

NSW reported 1405 new COVID-19 infections on Thursday, the state is on track to hit 80% of those eligible for vaccination having received two doses by mid-October.

Therefore, the vaccination progress has prompted the Australian government to lay out a re-opening timeline - 'Roadmap to Freedom’.

Key takeaways (via Reuters)

“Stay-at-home orders for adults who have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine will be lifted from the Monday after NSW passes the 70 percent double vaccination target.”

“Gatherings in the home and public spaces: Up to five visitors will be allowed in a home where all adults are vaccinated ... Up to 20 people can gather in outdoor settings.”

“Venues including hospitality, retail stores and gyms will reopen subject to density restrictions.”

“Personal services such as hairdressers and nail salons can open subject to density restrictions.”

more to come ....