New Zealand reports 1st virus vaccine death

Wellington

New Zealand has reported its first coronavirus vaccinedeath. A health board that monitors vaccine safety said Monday a womandied from myocarditis after taking the Pfizer vaccine. The board said the womanlikely developed the condition because of the vaccine, although she had othermedical issues which may have contributed.

Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said myocarditis was a very rareside effect and there was clear evidence that taking the vaccine was much saferthan being infected with COVID-19.

Health authorities have so far administered vaccines to more than 2 million NewZealanders. The board declined to answer questions from The Associated Press,including the woman's age and the date of her death, citing protocol because amedical examiner, known as a coroner, is investigating the case further.

Also Monday, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Auckland would remainin strict lockdown for at least two more weeks and the rest of the country forat least one more week, but with slightly fewer restrictions, as the nationbattles an outbreak of the delta variant.