New Zealand authorities have reported that eight policemen were placed in self-isolation after people spit on them who said they had tested positive for HIV, or that they had symptoms.

Police Commissioner Andrew Koester said during a press conference today, Wednesday, that spitting is an escalating danger for both police and society during the Corona pandemic.

Coaster added that if someone spit or coughed on another person and transmitted the infection, he may face a 14-year prison sentence.

He continued: "The behavior of a small minority of people in targeting police or people through coughing or spitting is disappointing and very worrying. It is totally unacceptable behavior."