New Zealand / Covid 19

As it happened: Covid-19 updates for 17 May

16:51 pm on 17 May 2020

As many New Zealanders head back to work and school, the Health Ministry is assuring them it is "completely normal" to feel anxious about it.

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With the move to alert level 2 last week, many businesses have reopened and schools are set to begin classes again tomorrow.

In a statement released this afternoon, the Health Ministry said while some New Zealanders will be looking forward to being around people again for the first time in a while, it might also feel strange and some people may feel anxious.

"These feelings are completely normal. It's okay to notice that it feels different and to reach out to someone to talk about it or to look for useful tips and guidance online."

The Ministry said there were several different ways for people to seek help during the next phase of the battle against the coronavirus and there was a range of different resources available on the Ministry of Health website.

"It's also a really good time to start a daily wellbeing routine that can help keep you feeling physically and mentally fit. Looking after your mental wellbeing every day helps make coping with tougher times easier.

"Stay healthy and stay safe New Zealand."

See how the rest of the day's Covid-19 developments unfolded with RNZ's live blog:

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