Figures suggest two-step reopening would result in second, larger peak of hospitalisations and deaths, but findings not supported by other studies

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Lifting lockdown restrictions in two stages in New South Wales could overwhelm intensive care units for up to five weeks over the Christmas period, according to modelling from a new expert advisory group.

Easing restrictions when 70% of NSW adults are fully vaccinated and further relaxing rules at 80% would lead to a “worst-case scenario”, suggests OzSage, a recently formed advisory group of experts in epidemiology, health and economics.