A better comparison

How to control a pandemic without a lockdown (Nov 12) was a lengthy and lucid article about the way Taiwan was able to control the coronavirus pandemic with great success.

The writer, Nikki Macdonald, suggested New Zealand could follow its example to prepare for the next one.

I suggest New Zealand should also consider the Swedish approach.

Sweden followed the original pandemic response and, despite being hit hard by the first wave, total excess deaths during the first two years was among the lowest in Europe.

Sweden did not impose lockdowns or close primary schools. Its focus was to reduce the spread of the virus but also to consider other aspects of public health and to protect freedoms and fundamental rights.

Swedes modified their behaviour but were not forced to, because their citizens had high trust in the authorities and their advice. The 2020 Corona Commission admitted Sweden should have done more to protect the elderly, as 90% of those who died were 70 years or older.

New Zealand, with its low population and climate, is perhaps more similar to Sweden than highly populated and tropical Taiwan.

Jeanette Forbes, Christchurch