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Covid live: thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension; Italy ‘green pass’ to be mandatory in private sector Covid live: thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension; Italy ‘green pass’ to be mandatory in private sector
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French health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday; Italy set to make a vaccination pass mandatory in public and private sectorFrench health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday; Italy set to make a vaccination pass mandatory in public and private sector
Hackers stole the personal data of around 1.4 million people who took Covid-19 tests in the Paris region in the middle of 2020, hospital officials in the French capital disclosed on Wednesday.
AFP reports that hospital officials said they filed a complaint with the Paris prosecutor’s office on Wednesday after confirming on 12 September that such a cyber attack took place over the summer.
Stolen were the identities, social security numbers and contact details of people tested as well as the identities and contact details of health professionals who dealt with them, along with the test results, the hospital organisation said.
But no other health information was stolen, they said.
In all, “the stolen files concern 1.4 million people, almost exclusively for tests taken in the middle of 2020” in the Paris region, the hospitals organisation said in a statement.
Those affected “will be notified individually in the coming days”, they said.
The facts of the case were also reported to France’s data watchdog, the CNIL, and the French National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI).
The CNIL said it had “opened an investigation into this violation”.
The hackers did not target the national testing files but rather a “secure service for sharing files”, which were used in September 2020 to transmit information “useful for contact tracing” to various health authorities.
The ministry of health also told AFP it has decided to file a complaint so that “all light is brought to bear on the leak, its consequences, and all the measures needed are taken to prevent a repeat of such an event”.
New data from Moderna’s large Covid vaccine trial shows that the protection it offers declines over time, supporting the case for booster doses, the company said in a news release reported by Reuters on Wednesday.New data from Moderna’s large Covid vaccine trial shows that the protection it offers declines over time, supporting the case for booster doses, the company said in a news release reported by Reuters on Wednesday.
Several recent studies have suggested that its vaccine may have an edge over a similar shot from Pfizer and German partner BioNTech in terms of maintaining efficacy over time.Several recent studies have suggested that its vaccine may have an edge over a similar shot from Pfizer and German partner BioNTech in terms of maintaining efficacy over time.
Experts said the difference is likely due to Moderna’s higher dose of messenger RNA (mRNA) and the slightly longer interval between the first and second shots.Experts said the difference is likely due to Moderna’s higher dose of messenger RNA (mRNA) and the slightly longer interval between the first and second shots.
Both vaccines proved to be exceedingly effective at preventing illness in their large phase III studies.Both vaccines proved to be exceedingly effective at preventing illness in their large phase III studies.
The analysis released on Wednesday, however, showed a chink in the Moderna shot’s armour over time, with higher rates of infection among people vaccinated roughly 13 months ago compared with those vaccinated roughly eight months ago. The study has yet to undergo peer review.The analysis released on Wednesday, however, showed a chink in the Moderna shot’s armour over time, with higher rates of infection among people vaccinated roughly 13 months ago compared with those vaccinated roughly eight months ago. The study has yet to undergo peer review.
Moderna on 1 September submitted its application to the US Food and Drug Administration seeking authorization for a booster shot.Moderna on 1 September submitted its application to the US Food and Drug Administration seeking authorization for a booster shot.
Briefing documents from the FDA’s analysis of Pfizer’s booster application, released earlier on Wednesday, suggest that a key issue the agency will consider is whether vaccine protection is waning.Briefing documents from the FDA’s analysis of Pfizer’s booster application, released earlier on Wednesday, suggest that a key issue the agency will consider is whether vaccine protection is waning.
Previous data on Moderna’s shot had shown lasting protection, making the case for boosters more challenging.Previous data on Moderna’s shot had shown lasting protection, making the case for boosters more challenging.
In the new analysis, Moderna compared the vaccine’s performance in more than 14,000 volunteers vaccinated between July and October of 2020 to some 11,000 volunteers originally in the placebo group who were offered the shot between December 2020 and March 2022 following its US emergency use authorization.In the new analysis, Moderna compared the vaccine’s performance in more than 14,000 volunteers vaccinated between July and October of 2020 to some 11,000 volunteers originally in the placebo group who were offered the shot between December 2020 and March 2022 following its US emergency use authorization.
They identified 88 Covid cases among those who got the two shots more recently, compared with 162 cases among those vaccinated last year. Overall, however, only 19 cases were considered severe, a key benchmark in assessing waning protection.They identified 88 Covid cases among those who got the two shots more recently, compared with 162 cases among those vaccinated last year. Overall, however, only 19 cases were considered severe, a key benchmark in assessing waning protection.
Moderna said there was a trend toward a lower rate of severe cases among the more recently vaccinated, although the finding was not statistically significant.The company said the waning immunity seen in the new analysis adds to evidence that a booster is needed.Moderna said there was a trend toward a lower rate of severe cases among the more recently vaccinated, although the finding was not statistically significant.The company said the waning immunity seen in the new analysis adds to evidence that a booster is needed.
The company also highlighted two studies showing long-lasting protection against severe disease.The company also highlighted two studies showing long-lasting protection against severe disease.
In a study conducted with Kaiser Permanente Southern California while the highly transmissible Delta variant was circulating, researchers found the Moderna vaccine was 87% effective at preventing a Covid diagnosis, and 96% effective at preventing hospitalisation.In a study conducted with Kaiser Permanente Southern California while the highly transmissible Delta variant was circulating, researchers found the Moderna vaccine was 87% effective at preventing a Covid diagnosis, and 96% effective at preventing hospitalisation.
They had analysed data on more than 352,000 people who got two doses of the Moderna vaccine compared with the same number of unvaccinated individuals with similar ages and risk factors.They had analysed data on more than 352,000 people who got two doses of the Moderna vaccine compared with the same number of unvaccinated individuals with similar ages and risk factors.
Moderna also highlighted a study published last week by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looking at data from more than 32,000 visits to urgent care centres, emergency rooms and hospitals in nine states or major cities.Moderna also highlighted a study published last week by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looking at data from more than 32,000 visits to urgent care centres, emergency rooms and hospitals in nine states or major cities.
It found that Moderna’s vaccine was 95% effective at preventing hospitalisation among individuals of all ages compared with 80% for the Pfizer/BioNTech shot and 60% for the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson.It found that Moderna’s vaccine was 95% effective at preventing hospitalisation among individuals of all ages compared with 80% for the Pfizer/BioNTech shot and 60% for the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson.
As more adults get their Covid vaccines, children who aren’t yet eligible for vaccination in most countries are representing a larger percentage of hospitalisations and even deaths, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) warned on Wednesday.As more adults get their Covid vaccines, children who aren’t yet eligible for vaccination in most countries are representing a larger percentage of hospitalisations and even deaths, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) warned on Wednesday.
Nine months in to this year, infections among children and adolescents in the Americas have surpassed 1.9 million cases, and they face significant health risks, the regional branch of the World Health Organization (WHO) said.Nine months in to this year, infections among children and adolescents in the Americas have surpassed 1.9 million cases, and they face significant health risks, the regional branch of the World Health Organization (WHO) said.
Experts say the pandemic has triggered the worst educational crisis ever seen in the Americas due to the absence of in-person schooling.Experts say the pandemic has triggered the worst educational crisis ever seen in the Americas due to the absence of in-person schooling.
The pandemic has also disrupted sexual and reproductive health services across more than half of the region’s countries, helping to fuel one of the largest jumps in teenage pregnancy seen in a decade, PAHO said.The pandemic has also disrupted sexual and reproductive health services across more than half of the region’s countries, helping to fuel one of the largest jumps in teenage pregnancy seen in a decade, PAHO said.
Lockdowns and economic disruptions have increased the risk of domestic violence and for many kids, their homes may not be a safe place, said PAHO director Carissa Etienne in a briefing.Lockdowns and economic disruptions have increased the risk of domestic violence and for many kids, their homes may not be a safe place, said PAHO director Carissa Etienne in a briefing.
So far, the only vaccine approved by the WHO for adolescents is the Pfizer shot, while Moderna has asked for emergency use approval of its vaccine for 12-15-year-olds, according to PAHO assistant director Jarbas Barbosa.So far, the only vaccine approved by the WHO for adolescents is the Pfizer shot, while Moderna has asked for emergency use approval of its vaccine for 12-15-year-olds, according to PAHO assistant director Jarbas Barbosa.
He said China’s Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm have also requested WHO approval or the use of their vaccines for adolescents and children from 3 to 17 years old.He said China’s Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm have also requested WHO approval or the use of their vaccines for adolescents and children from 3 to 17 years old.
Some countries have gone ahead and started vaccinating children and adolescents, such as Chile and Cuba, not waiting for WHO approval, Barbosa said.Some countries have gone ahead and started vaccinating children and adolescents, such as Chile and Cuba, not waiting for WHO approval, Barbosa said.
Cuba began vaccinating adolescents this month in a drive to immunise more than 90% of its population by December, and will start inoculating children aged 2 to 10 this week, becoming the first country in the world to vaccinate children under six years of age en masse.Cuba began vaccinating adolescents this month in a drive to immunise more than 90% of its population by December, and will start inoculating children aged 2 to 10 this week, becoming the first country in the world to vaccinate children under six years of age en masse.
It’s the only country in Latin America to develop vaccines against Covid: the Abdala, given to most adult Cubans, the Soberana-2, administered so far mainly to adolescents and children, and the booster Soberana Plus. They do not yet have WHO approval.It’s the only country in Latin America to develop vaccines against Covid: the Abdala, given to most adult Cubans, the Soberana-2, administered so far mainly to adolescents and children, and the booster Soberana Plus. They do not yet have WHO approval.
PAHO praised Chile, Uruguay and Colombia for successful programs to limit the pandemic’s impact on young people.PAHO praised Chile, Uruguay and Colombia for successful programs to limit the pandemic’s impact on young people.
“Children and teens across our region are at risk of becoming the generation that missed out on the health, education and social opportunities,” Etienne said.“Children and teens across our region are at risk of becoming the generation that missed out on the health, education and social opportunities,” Etienne said.
Here’s a roundup of the key developments:Here’s a roundup of the key developments:
The European Union’s chief executive has warned that Covid vaccinations must be accelerated to avoid “a pandemic of the unvaccinated”. Speaking in Strasbourg, Ursula von der Leyen said in her state of the union address: “Let’s do everything possible [so] that this does not turn into a pandemic of the unvaccinated.”The European Union’s chief executive has warned that Covid vaccinations must be accelerated to avoid “a pandemic of the unvaccinated”. Speaking in Strasbourg, Ursula von der Leyen said in her state of the union address: “Let’s do everything possible [so] that this does not turn into a pandemic of the unvaccinated.”
Italy is to make a Covid-19 “green pass” mandatory for public and private sector workers, a minister said on Wednesday, becoming the first European country to do so as it tries to accelerate vaccination rates and stamp out infections.Italy is to make a Covid-19 “green pass” mandatory for public and private sector workers, a minister said on Wednesday, becoming the first European country to do so as it tries to accelerate vaccination rates and stamp out infections.
Thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday under a new Covid-19 law that punishes people in care professions who refuse to get immunised against the virus.Thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday under a new Covid-19 law that punishes people in care professions who refuse to get immunised against the virus.
Covid restrictions to the UK will return if the virus gets “out of control” again this year, the health secretary has said, with a dangerous new variant or the NHS at risk of being overwhelmed identified as the moment “plan B” could be triggered.Covid restrictions to the UK will return if the virus gets “out of control” again this year, the health secretary has said, with a dangerous new variant or the NHS at risk of being overwhelmed identified as the moment “plan B” could be triggered.
A surge in coronavirus cases has pushed the healthcare system in the Canadian province of Alberta to the verge of collapse, as healthcare workers struggle against mounting exhaustion and a growing anti-vaccine movement in the region.A surge in coronavirus cases has pushed the healthcare system in the Canadian province of Alberta to the verge of collapse, as healthcare workers struggle against mounting exhaustion and a growing anti-vaccine movement in the region.
Republican lawmakers in over half of US states have removed powers to protect the public against infectious diseases since the start of the pandemic, reports Kaiser Health News. A review by the news organisation found that at least 26 states have passed laws that permanently weaken government powers to protect public health.Republican lawmakers in over half of US states have removed powers to protect the public against infectious diseases since the start of the pandemic, reports Kaiser Health News. A review by the news organisation found that at least 26 states have passed laws that permanently weaken government powers to protect public health.
The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has condemned the lack of distribution of Covid vaccines to African countries and called for stronger medical manufacturing capacity across the continent.The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has condemned the lack of distribution of Covid vaccines to African countries and called for stronger medical manufacturing capacity across the continent.
Singapore has reported its highest one-day Covid case total in more than a year, with 837 cases recorded on Tuesday. In response to the growing outbreak, the government has paused reopening plans and reimposed some restrictions.Singapore has reported its highest one-day Covid case total in more than a year, with 837 cases recorded on Tuesday. In response to the growing outbreak, the government has paused reopening plans and reimposed some restrictions.
The WHO special envoy for the global coronavirus response, David Nabarro, has praised the UK’s approach of “learning to live with the virus” but criticised the government for giving booster shots and doses to 12- to 15-year-olds.The WHO special envoy for the global coronavirus response, David Nabarro, has praised the UK’s approach of “learning to live with the virus” but criticised the government for giving booster shots and doses to 12- to 15-year-olds.
The European Union is donating an additional 200m vaccine doses to other countries in a bid to speed up global immunisation. EU chief executive Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to add to the 250m doses already promised with a further 200m doses by the middle of next year.The European Union is donating an additional 200m vaccine doses to other countries in a bid to speed up global immunisation. EU chief executive Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to add to the 250m doses already promised with a further 200m doses by the middle of next year.
Pfizer has said US regulators should approve a booster dose of the vaccine it developed with Germany’s BioNTech six months after the second dose, due to waning effectiveness of the shot over time, Reuters reports.Pfizer has said US regulators should approve a booster dose of the vaccine it developed with Germany’s BioNTech six months after the second dose, due to waning effectiveness of the shot over time, Reuters reports.
The US is pushing for global leaders to support a target to get 70% of the world’s population vaccinated against Covid by 2022 in a bid to end the pandemic, according to a draft document seen by Reuters.The US is pushing for global leaders to support a target to get 70% of the world’s population vaccinated against Covid by 2022 in a bid to end the pandemic, according to a draft document seen by Reuters.
The UK health secretary Sajid Javid has said that people in the public eye should be “very careful with their language” after Nicki Minaj drew widespread condemnation for spreading Covid misinformation on Twitter.The UK health secretary Sajid Javid has said that people in the public eye should be “very careful with their language” after Nicki Minaj drew widespread condemnation for spreading Covid misinformation on Twitter.
Javid has said there are “no risk-free decisions” as he defended the government’s “sensible” autumn and winter plan. Asked why the government has not immediately introduced its more restrictive “plan B” amid warnings of a surge in hospitalisations, he told Sky News that although it is “right for the government to reassure people we have a plan”, vaccines are the “first line of defence”.Javid has said there are “no risk-free decisions” as he defended the government’s “sensible” autumn and winter plan. Asked why the government has not immediately introduced its more restrictive “plan B” amid warnings of a surge in hospitalisations, he told Sky News that although it is “right for the government to reassure people we have a plan”, vaccines are the “first line of defence”.
Healthcare staff in England can decide whether children get a Covid vaccine against the wishes of their parents, according to government guidelines published on Wednesday that left some headteachers fearing protests at the school gates.Healthcare staff in England can decide whether children get a Covid vaccine against the wishes of their parents, according to government guidelines published on Wednesday that left some headteachers fearing protests at the school gates.
Rates of Covid-19 have risen by a third in North America over the past week, due to surges in the US and Canada, where new infections have doubled in the province of Alberta, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.Rates of Covid-19 have risen by a third in North America over the past week, due to surges in the US and Canada, where new infections have doubled in the province of Alberta, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.
More than four million people stopped wearing face coverings in public in the UK this summer, official figures have revealed as a senior government scientific adviser warned Tuesday’s maskless cabinet meeting would be “toxic” to already falling public adherence to guidance.More than four million people stopped wearing face coverings in public in the UK this summer, official figures have revealed as a senior government scientific adviser warned Tuesday’s maskless cabinet meeting would be “toxic” to already falling public adherence to guidance.
Vaccination clinics in England have been given orders to be ready to start delivering boosters jabs “as soon as possible”. NHS chiefs in England have sent a letter to all local health organisations providing instructions for an imminent start to the booster campaign, PA news reports.Vaccination clinics in England have been given orders to be ready to start delivering boosters jabs “as soon as possible”. NHS chiefs in England have sent a letter to all local health organisations providing instructions for an imminent start to the booster campaign, PA news reports.
I’m signing off now. Thanks so much for joining me today. This blog will be staying live but we are pausing for a while so please check back later.I’m signing off now. Thanks so much for joining me today. This blog will be staying live but we are pausing for a while so please check back later.
Leading doctors have expressed dismay over comments made by the Health Secretary about mask wearing.Leading doctors have expressed dismay over comments made by the Health Secretary about mask wearing.
Sajid Javid, who has retained his position as health secretary in the cabinet reshuffle, said the Government’s advice was that people should consider wearing face coverings when they were gathered in a crowded space with people they did not normally mix with, PA news reports.Sajid Javid, who has retained his position as health secretary in the cabinet reshuffle, said the Government’s advice was that people should consider wearing face coverings when they were gathered in a crowded space with people they did not normally mix with, PA news reports.
Javid said a photograph of the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, showing ministers around the table with their faces uncovered, was consistent with that advice. And Tory MPs do not need to wear masks in the Commons because they are not “strangers”, he added.Javid said a photograph of the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, showing ministers around the table with their faces uncovered, was consistent with that advice. And Tory MPs do not need to wear masks in the Commons because they are not “strangers”, he added.
But the British Medical Association (BMA) said that the remarks “send a message that the pandemic is over”.But the British Medical Association (BMA) said that the remarks “send a message that the pandemic is over”.
The BMA said that ministers should be “leading by example”.The BMA said that ministers should be “leading by example”.
Javid told Sky News:Javid told Sky News:
Asked about Conservative MPs who were not wearing masks when he made his statement in the Commons, he said:Asked about Conservative MPs who were not wearing masks when he made his statement in the Commons, he said:
Addressing the remarks, Dr Chaand Nagpaul, chair of council at the BMA said: “As the Government’s own health advisers recognise, we are at a critical moment in the development of the pandemic.Addressing the remarks, Dr Chaand Nagpaul, chair of council at the BMA said: “As the Government’s own health advisers recognise, we are at a critical moment in the development of the pandemic.
Nagpaul highlighted that there are thousands of new Covid-19 cases every day and Covid-19 patients occupying more than 8,000 hospital beds.Nagpaul highlighted that there are thousands of new Covid-19 cases every day and Covid-19 patients occupying more than 8,000 hospital beds.
He added:He added:
Vaccination clinics in England have been given orders to be ready to start delivering boosters jabs “as soon as possible”.Vaccination clinics in England have been given orders to be ready to start delivering boosters jabs “as soon as possible”.
NHS chiefs in England have sent a letter to all local health organisations providing instructions for an imminent start to the booster campaign, PA news reports.NHS chiefs in England have sent a letter to all local health organisations providing instructions for an imminent start to the booster campaign, PA news reports.
It is expected that the National Bookings System will open on Monday to some people as they become eligible for the jab.It is expected that the National Bookings System will open on Monday to some people as they become eligible for the jab.
People will be called forward to book six months after they had their second dose.Most vaccination clinics will begin the booster programme next week but a small number of sites, including some hospitals, could begin sooner.People will be called forward to book six months after they had their second dose.Most vaccination clinics will begin the booster programme next week but a small number of sites, including some hospitals, could begin sooner.
And care home residents should expect to get their booster by the end of next month.The letter states that vaccination of health and social care workers “can begin immediately” in some hospitals.And care home residents should expect to get their booster by the end of next month.The letter states that vaccination of health and social care workers “can begin immediately” in some hospitals.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) set out its plan for boosters for more than 30 million British adults on Tuesday.The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) set out its plan for boosters for more than 30 million British adults on Tuesday.
The JCVI expressed a preference for people to get the Pfizer jab as a third dose, regardless of which jab they were initially given.The JCVI expressed a preference for people to get the Pfizer jab as a third dose, regardless of which jab they were initially given.
But it said that half doses of the Moderna jab could be used as an alternative.But it said that half doses of the Moderna jab could be used as an alternative.
The letter, from Professor Sir Keith Willett and Dr Nikita Kinnari from NHS England, states people will be offered the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, and initially the Moderna vaccine will not be used in the programme, but it could be at a later date.The letter, from Professor Sir Keith Willett and Dr Nikita Kinnari from NHS England, states people will be offered the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, and initially the Moderna vaccine will not be used in the programme, but it could be at a later date.
On the co-administration of the flu jab, health leaders said that this should be considered “wherever eligibility for both programmes, supply and regulation allow”.On the co-administration of the flu jab, health leaders said that this should be considered “wherever eligibility for both programmes, supply and regulation allow”.
But the NHS has been keen to stress that people should not delay one vaccine in order to get both jabs at the same time.But the NHS has been keen to stress that people should not delay one vaccine in order to get both jabs at the same time.
GPs have also been ordered to offer the jab to care home residents before November 1.GPs have also been ordered to offer the jab to care home residents before November 1.
The letter states:The letter states:
It states that the national booking system will be “open to people when they become eligible, six months after their second jab, with priority for “those who are most at risk and those with the longest interval since the second dose of their primary course”.It states that the national booking system will be “open to people when they become eligible, six months after their second jab, with priority for “those who are most at risk and those with the longest interval since the second dose of their primary course”.
On the vaccine to be used it states:On the vaccine to be used it states:
More than four million people stopped wearing face coverings in public this summer, official figures have revealed as a senior government scientific adviser warned Tuesday’s maskless cabinet meeting would be “toxic” to already falling public adherence to guidance.More than four million people stopped wearing face coverings in public this summer, official figures have revealed as a senior government scientific adviser warned Tuesday’s maskless cabinet meeting would be “toxic” to already falling public adherence to guidance.
Use of face coverings has been dropping since its peak at the beginning of May, when 98% of people said they had worn one in the past week when leaving the house. That dipped to 89% this month, implying 4.5 million people in Great Britain stopped wearing masks at all, Office for National Statistics data showed.Use of face coverings has been dropping since its peak at the beginning of May, when 98% of people said they had worn one in the past week when leaving the house. That dipped to 89% this month, implying 4.5 million people in Great Britain stopped wearing masks at all, Office for National Statistics data showed.
ONS does not gather data on regular mask-wearers, whose numbers will be lower. YouGov asked if people had “worn a face mask when in public places” in the past fortnight and found only 61% said yes, a fall of 10 percentage points from mid July to 9 September.ONS does not gather data on regular mask-wearers, whose numbers will be lower. YouGov asked if people had “worn a face mask when in public places” in the past fortnight and found only 61% said yes, a fall of 10 percentage points from mid July to 9 September.
In London, where masks remain mandatory on Transport for London services, compliance was at about 82% in August, implying hundreds of thousands of people were not wearing masks. However, officers had excluded only 221 people from using services and directed 53 to leave in the seven weeks since 19 July, when wider UK law on masks changed and passengers no longer faced the threat of prosecution.In London, where masks remain mandatory on Transport for London services, compliance was at about 82% in August, implying hundreds of thousands of people were not wearing masks. However, officers had excluded only 221 people from using services and directed 53 to leave in the seven weeks since 19 July, when wider UK law on masks changed and passengers no longer faced the threat of prosecution.
Finn Brennan, an organiser for the trade union Aslef, said there were “fewer and fewer people wearing masks and … no obvious sign of enforcement … staff are feeling much more at risk”. Train passengers have also complained of patchy usage.Finn Brennan, an organiser for the trade union Aslef, said there were “fewer and fewer people wearing masks and … no obvious sign of enforcement … staff are feeling much more at risk”. Train passengers have also complained of patchy usage.
Behavioural scientists and Covid bereaved this week voiced anger at the message sent by images of Boris Johnson and his cabinet gathering closely around the cabinet table without masks, as average weekly fatalities from Covid rose to the highest level since March.Behavioural scientists and Covid bereaved this week voiced anger at the message sent by images of Boris Johnson and his cabinet gathering closely around the cabinet table without masks, as average weekly fatalities from Covid rose to the highest level since March.
Read more from my colleagues Robert Booth, Hannah Devlin and Gwyn Topham here:Read more from my colleagues Robert Booth, Hannah Devlin and Gwyn Topham here:
Reports of a “death of the city” due to the Covid crisis have been greatly exaggerated, according to a survey of Parisians and Londoners that found little change in people’s satisfaction with urban life or plans to move out in the near future.Reports of a “death of the city” due to the Covid crisis have been greatly exaggerated, according to a survey of Parisians and Londoners that found little change in people’s satisfaction with urban life or plans to move out in the near future.
The report by King’s College London and the Université de Paris, based on polling carried out in April and May, found that cafe, club and restaurant closures, lockdowns and home working had not dented inhabitants’ enthusiasm for the two capitals.The report by King’s College London and the Université de Paris, based on polling carried out in April and May, found that cafe, club and restaurant closures, lockdowns and home working had not dented inhabitants’ enthusiasm for the two capitals.
Compared with a pre-pandemic survey in 2019, the study found little change in the share of Londoners and Parisians planning to leave, greater satisfaction with local services and majorities believing their capital will bounce back, albeit slowly.Compared with a pre-pandemic survey in 2019, the study found little change in the share of Londoners and Parisians planning to leave, greater satisfaction with local services and majorities believing their capital will bounce back, albeit slowly.
Kelly Beaver of pollsters Ipsos Mori said:Kelly Beaver of pollsters Ipsos Mori said:
Read the full story here:Read the full story here:
Pope Francis has spoken about the “denier” cardinals who refused the coronavirus vaccine, in a thinly veiled barb against his main opponent who recently contracted Covid-19.Pope Francis has spoken about the “denier” cardinals who refused the coronavirus vaccine, in a thinly veiled barb against his main opponent who recently contracted Covid-19.
The pontiff told reporters as he flew home from a trip to Slovakia:The pontiff told reporters as he flew home from a trip to Slovakia:
The 84-year-old did not name the man he was referring to, but conservative US Cardinal Raymond Burke, one of Francis’ fiercest and most vocal critics in the Catholic Church, was recently admitted to hospital in the US with Covid-19.The 84-year-old did not name the man he was referring to, but conservative US Cardinal Raymond Burke, one of Francis’ fiercest and most vocal critics in the Catholic Church, was recently admitted to hospital in the US with Covid-19.
The pope said that in the heart of the Vatican, “everyone is vaccinated, with the exception of a small group”.The pope said that in the heart of the Vatican, “everyone is vaccinated, with the exception of a small group”.
The pope is a strong advocate of coronavirus vaccines and has previously expressed his incomprehension with those who refuse to take it.The pope is a strong advocate of coronavirus vaccines and has previously expressed his incomprehension with those who refuse to take it.
Highlighting the jabs that have for decades protected children against measles or polio, he said during a press conference onboard the papal plane:Highlighting the jabs that have for decades protected children against measles or polio, he said during a press conference onboard the papal plane:
Healthcare staff in England can decide whether children get a Covid vaccine against the wishes of their parents, according to government guidelines published on Wednesday that left some headteachers fearing protests at the school gates.Healthcare staff in England can decide whether children get a Covid vaccine against the wishes of their parents, according to government guidelines published on Wednesday that left some headteachers fearing protests at the school gates.
The guidelines say vaccinations for children aged 12 to 15 will be administered by School Age Immunisation Service (SAIS) teams that already carry out flu and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations in England. The role of schools will be limited to providing a site and distributing information and consent forms to pupils and parents.The guidelines say vaccinations for children aged 12 to 15 will be administered by School Age Immunisation Service (SAIS) teams that already carry out flu and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations in England. The role of schools will be limited to providing a site and distributing information and consent forms to pupils and parents.
In cases where parents withhold consent but the child wants to go ahead, the guidelines say the vaccination teams will determine if the child is able to make an informed decision – known as Gillick competence – and “make every effort to contact a parent to check before they proceed”.In cases where parents withhold consent but the child wants to go ahead, the guidelines say the vaccination teams will determine if the child is able to make an informed decision – known as Gillick competence – and “make every effort to contact a parent to check before they proceed”.
“If a parent objects to their child being vaccinated but the child wants to be vaccinated and is judged to be Gillick competent, the healthcare professional will try to reach agreement between the parent and child. However, the parent cannot overrule the decision of a Gillick competent child,” the guidelines state. In that scenario the child will be vaccinated.“If a parent objects to their child being vaccinated but the child wants to be vaccinated and is judged to be Gillick competent, the healthcare professional will try to reach agreement between the parent and child. However, the parent cannot overrule the decision of a Gillick competent child,” the guidelines state. In that scenario the child will be vaccinated.
In cases where parents refuse consent and the child is not deemed to be Gillick competent or does not want to be vaccinated, the guidelines from the UK health security agency say a vaccination will not be given.In cases where parents refuse consent and the child is not deemed to be Gillick competent or does not want to be vaccinated, the guidelines from the UK health security agency say a vaccination will not be given.
According to the NHS, Gillick competence is when children under the age of 16 “can consent to their own treatment if they’re believed to have enough intelligence, competence and understanding to fully appreciate what’s involved in their treatment”.According to the NHS, Gillick competence is when children under the age of 16 “can consent to their own treatment if they’re believed to have enough intelligence, competence and understanding to fully appreciate what’s involved in their treatment”.
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Rates of Covid-19 have risen by a third in North America over the past week, due to surges in the US and Canada, where new infections have doubled in the province of Alberta, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.Rates of Covid-19 have risen by a third in North America over the past week, due to surges in the US and Canada, where new infections have doubled in the province of Alberta, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.
Hospitals in Alberta are facing critical staffing shortages, according to PAHO, the regional branch of the World Health Organization.Hospitals in Alberta are facing critical staffing shortages, according to PAHO, the regional branch of the World Health Organization.
The US is reporting more than 100,000 new daily infections for the first time since January and hospital capacity in many southern US states remains worryingly low, the agency said.The US is reporting more than 100,000 new daily infections for the first time since January and hospital capacity in many southern US states remains worryingly low, the agency said.
As many parts of the world report a steady decrease in coronavrius infections, the Americas reported a nearly 20% increase in new cases, PAHO said.As many parts of the world report a steady decrease in coronavrius infections, the Americas reported a nearly 20% increase in new cases, PAHO said.
Most South American countries are seeing continuing declines in Covid-19 cases and deaths, it said, while infections are surging in Costa Rica, Guatemala and Belize and many hospitals there are saturated with Covid patients.Most South American countries are seeing continuing declines in Covid-19 cases and deaths, it said, while infections are surging in Costa Rica, Guatemala and Belize and many hospitals there are saturated with Covid patients.
Meanwhile, infections have slowed in the Caribbean, with the exception of Grenada, Barbados and Bermuda that are reporting sharp jumps in new cases, and Jamaica saw its highest weekly case count since the beginning of the pandemic.Meanwhile, infections have slowed in the Caribbean, with the exception of Grenada, Barbados and Bermuda that are reporting sharp jumps in new cases, and Jamaica saw its highest weekly case count since the beginning of the pandemic.
Carissa Etienne, PAHO director, said in a weekly briefing:Carissa Etienne, PAHO director, said in a weekly briefing:
But she said doses have not been equally distributed in the region and there is still a long way to go to reach everyone who needs a vaccine.But she said doses have not been equally distributed in the region and there is still a long way to go to reach everyone who needs a vaccine.
The British government said a further 201 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday, bringing the UK total to 134,647.The British government said a further 201 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday, bringing the UK total to 134,647.
Separate figures published by the Office for National Statistics show there have now been 159,000 deaths registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.Separate figures published by the Office for National Statistics show there have now been 159,000 deaths registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.
As of 9am on Wednesday, there had been a further 30,597 lab-confirmed Covid-19 cases in the UK, the government said.As of 9am on Wednesday, there had been a further 30,597 lab-confirmed Covid-19 cases in the UK, the government said.
Meanwhile, government data up to September 14 shows that of the 92,650,551 Covid jabs given in the UK, 48,480,178 were first doses, a rise of 21,478 on the previous day.Meanwhile, government data up to September 14 shows that of the 92,650,551 Covid jabs given in the UK, 48,480,178 were first doses, a rise of 21,478 on the previous day.
Some 44,170,373 were second doses, an increase of 61,627.Some 44,170,373 were second doses, an increase of 61,627.
The world’s poorest countries will be left $12tn (£8.7tn) worse off by 2025 amid a weaker economic recovery from Covid-19 as wealthy nations limit their access to vaccines, the United Nations has warned.The world’s poorest countries will be left $12tn (£8.7tn) worse off by 2025 amid a weaker economic recovery from Covid-19 as wealthy nations limit their access to vaccines, the United Nations has warned.
In its annual trade and development report, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad) said low-income countries had been hit much harder by the pandemic than during the 2008 financial crisis, adding to their debts and piling pressure on their public finances.In its annual trade and development report, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad) said low-income countries had been hit much harder by the pandemic than during the 2008 financial crisis, adding to their debts and piling pressure on their public finances.
The UN’s economic arm said there were growing risks that low-income developing countries would fall further behind due to limited progress in deploying coronavirus vaccines, despite western leaders promising to “build back better” from the crisis.The UN’s economic arm said there were growing risks that low-income developing countries would fall further behind due to limited progress in deploying coronavirus vaccines, despite western leaders promising to “build back better” from the crisis.
“So far, the world economy appears to be building back separately,” it said in the report.“So far, the world economy appears to be building back separately,” it said in the report.
Unctad said the global economy was bouncing back strongly this year thanks to the continuation of financial support measures begun in 2020 from governments around the world, as well as rapid progress with vaccines in advanced economies. It forecast global growth would hit 5.3% this year, the fastest rate in nearly five decades, after a fall of 3.5% in 2020.Unctad said the global economy was bouncing back strongly this year thanks to the continuation of financial support measures begun in 2020 from governments around the world, as well as rapid progress with vaccines in advanced economies. It forecast global growth would hit 5.3% this year, the fastest rate in nearly five decades, after a fall of 3.5% in 2020.
However, the UN agency warned it would take several years for the world economy to recover the losses dealt by the Covid-19 shock, as the pace of growth slows from an initial rapid rebound in 2021, and as governments and central banks come under pressure to scale back emergency support.However, the UN agency warned it would take several years for the world economy to recover the losses dealt by the Covid-19 shock, as the pace of growth slows from an initial rapid rebound in 2021, and as governments and central banks come under pressure to scale back emergency support.
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Chile has announced plans to reopen its borders to visitors on Wednesday as it seeks to restore its critical tourism industry ahead of the southern hemisphere summer following the outbreak of the pandemic. Reuters reports:Chile has announced plans to reopen its borders to visitors on Wednesday as it seeks to restore its critical tourism industry ahead of the southern hemisphere summer following the outbreak of the pandemic. Reuters reports:
Pfizer has said US regulators should approve a booster dose of the vaccine it developed with Germany’s BioNTech six months after the second dose, due to waning effectiveness of the shot over time, Reuters reports.Pfizer has said US regulators should approve a booster dose of the vaccine it developed with Germany’s BioNTech six months after the second dose, due to waning effectiveness of the shot over time, Reuters reports.
The news agency cites documents the drugmaker submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration. Reuters reports:The news agency cites documents the drugmaker submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration. Reuters reports:
Thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday under a new Covid-19 law that punishes people in care professions who refuse to get immunised against the virus.Thousands of unvaccinated French health workers face suspension without pay from Wednesday under a new Covid-19 law that punishes people in care professions who refuse to get immunised against the virus.
President Emmanuel Macron gave workers including staff at hospitals, retirement home workers and the fire service – 2.7 million people in total – an ultimatum on 12 July to get at least one shot by 15 September or resign.President Emmanuel Macron gave workers including staff at hospitals, retirement home workers and the fire service – 2.7 million people in total – an ultimatum on 12 July to get at least one shot by 15 September or resign.
Two months later, thousands of healthcare workers are still baulking at getting jabbed, raising the spectre of disruptions to services in facilities forced to suspend staff without pay, AFP reports.Two months later, thousands of healthcare workers are still baulking at getting jabbed, raising the spectre of disruptions to services in facilities forced to suspend staff without pay, AFP reports.
A hospital in the southern city of Montelimar confirmed that it had already begun cancelling non-urgent operations because of a shortage of vaccinated anaesthetists.A hospital in the southern city of Montelimar confirmed that it had already begun cancelling non-urgent operations because of a shortage of vaccinated anaesthetists.
The hospital’s deputy director, Philippe Charre, said three allergy specialists would also be absent over their refusal to comply with the vaccine mandate.The hospital’s deputy director, Philippe Charre, said three allergy specialists would also be absent over their refusal to comply with the vaccine mandate.
Public sector union the CGT has warned of a “health catastrophe” if the government suspends large numbers of hospital workers and bars vaccine-shy GPs.Public sector union the CGT has warned of a “health catastrophe” if the government suspends large numbers of hospital workers and bars vaccine-shy GPs.
“We have to keep these people on the job until they have been replaced,” said Christophe Prudhomme, an emergency services doctor and MP with the leftwing France Unbowed party.“We have to keep these people on the job until they have been replaced,” said Christophe Prudhomme, an emergency services doctor and MP with the leftwing France Unbowed party.
The government has vowed to see the policy through. “We will not back down,” prime minister Jean Castex said last month.The government has vowed to see the policy through. “We will not back down,” prime minister Jean Castex said last month.
Covid restrictions will return if the virus gets “out of control” again this year, the UK health secretary has said, with a dangerous new variant or the NHS at risk of being overwhelmed identified as the moment “plan B” could be triggered.Covid restrictions will return if the virus gets “out of control” again this year, the UK health secretary has said, with a dangerous new variant or the NHS at risk of being overwhelmed identified as the moment “plan B” could be triggered.
Sajid Javid said he thought another lockdown was unlikely but admitted it would be “irresponsible” to rule out ordering people stay at home in England for a fourth time since the pandemic began.Sajid Javid said he thought another lockdown was unlikely but admitted it would be “irresponsible” to rule out ordering people stay at home in England for a fourth time since the pandemic began.
He urged the public to remain vigilant after ministers published their “winter plan”, which will rely on vaccines to help life remain as close to normal as possible in the run-up to Christmas, despite Covid cases and deaths already being at a much higher point than they were at this time last year.He urged the public to remain vigilant after ministers published their “winter plan”, which will rely on vaccines to help life remain as close to normal as possible in the run-up to Christmas, despite Covid cases and deaths already being at a much higher point than they were at this time last year.
Under plan A, the focus will remain on ensuring the 10% of people who have not had a jab yet get their first shot, rolling out boosters to the over-50s and clinically vulnerable and offering to inoculate children aged 12 to 15.Under plan A, the focus will remain on ensuring the 10% of people who have not had a jab yet get their first shot, rolling out boosters to the over-50s and clinically vulnerable and offering to inoculate children aged 12 to 15.
However, if the Covid situation deteriorates, face masks could be made mandatory again on public transport and in shops, vaccine passports may be introduced and people could be asked to work from home again where possible.However, if the Covid situation deteriorates, face masks could be made mandatory again on public transport and in shops, vaccine passports may be introduced and people could be asked to work from home again where possible.
Javid said there was not one single trigger point that would lead to plan B being introduced, but suggested it was likely to come into force if a dangerous new variant emerged against which vaccines were less effective or the NHS was at risk of being overwhelmed.Javid said there was not one single trigger point that would lead to plan B being introduced, but suggested it was likely to come into force if a dangerous new variant emerged against which vaccines were less effective or the NHS was at risk of being overwhelmed.
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Cuba is seeking approval from the World Health Organization (WHO) for three Covid-19 vaccines, according to the state-run corporation that produces them, even as it begins administering shots en masse to toddlers.Cuba is seeking approval from the World Health Organization (WHO) for three Covid-19 vaccines, according to the state-run corporation that produces them, even as it begins administering shots en masse to toddlers.
Rolando Perez Rodriguez, director of research and development at BioCubaFarma, made the announcement during a discussion broadcast by state media on Tuesday evening on a vaccination campaign that aims to immunize more than 90% of the population by November, Reuters reports.Rolando Perez Rodriguez, director of research and development at BioCubaFarma, made the announcement during a discussion broadcast by state media on Tuesday evening on a vaccination campaign that aims to immunize more than 90% of the population by November, Reuters reports.
Perez said:Perez said:
The Caribbean island is vaccinating its population at one of the fastest rates in the world with local drugs Abdala, Soberana-2 and Soberana Plus, all authorised for emergency use by local regulators amid a Delta variant-driven surge that has strained its health system.The Caribbean island is vaccinating its population at one of the fastest rates in the world with local drugs Abdala, Soberana-2 and Soberana Plus, all authorised for emergency use by local regulators amid a Delta variant-driven surge that has strained its health system.
Cuba, which is the only one in the region to develop a vaccine against the virus, says its vaccines have an efficacy above 90% and initial results are similar to those of other top vaccines significantly reducing transmission, critical illness and death, though critics have complained those results have yet to be peer reviewed.Cuba, which is the only one in the region to develop a vaccine against the virus, says its vaccines have an efficacy above 90% and initial results are similar to those of other top vaccines significantly reducing transmission, critical illness and death, though critics have complained those results have yet to be peer reviewed.
The vaccination campaign includes children as young as two with toddlers across the country scheduled to get the first of two shots starting on Thursday, public health ministry official Dr Maria Elena Soto said during the same broadcast, becoming the first in the world under six years of age to be immunised en masse.The vaccination campaign includes children as young as two with toddlers across the country scheduled to get the first of two shots starting on Thursday, public health ministry official Dr Maria Elena Soto said during the same broadcast, becoming the first in the world under six years of age to be immunised en masse.
Over the past week, Cuba averaged about 7,500 cases per day and nearly 80 deaths, down significantly from a month ago but still one of the highest rates in the world in terms of cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with about 20% under 20 years of age.Over the past week, Cuba averaged about 7,500 cases per day and nearly 80 deaths, down significantly from a month ago but still one of the highest rates in the world in terms of cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with about 20% under 20 years of age.
Italy is to make a Covid-19 “green pass” mandatory for public and private sector workers, a minister said on Wednesday, becoming the first European country to do so as it tries to accelerate vaccination rates and stamp out infections.Italy is to make a Covid-19 “green pass” mandatory for public and private sector workers, a minister said on Wednesday, becoming the first European country to do so as it tries to accelerate vaccination rates and stamp out infections.
The pass, a digital or paper certificate showing someone has received at least one vaccine dose, tested negative or recently recovered from the virus, was originally conceived to ease travel among EU states.The pass, a digital or paper certificate showing someone has received at least one vaccine dose, tested negative or recently recovered from the virus, was originally conceived to ease travel among EU states.
Italy was among a group of countries that also made it an internal requirement for people to access venues such as museums, gyms and indoor dining in restaurants, Reuters reports.Italy was among a group of countries that also made it an internal requirement for people to access venues such as museums, gyms and indoor dining in restaurants, Reuters reports.
Regional affairs minister Mariastella Gelmini said on state radio that a cabinet meeting on Thursday would be “an important moment” in extending the obligatory use of the document.Regional affairs minister Mariastella Gelmini said on state radio that a cabinet meeting on Thursday would be “an important moment” in extending the obligatory use of the document.
Italy has also gradually extended use of the pass in the workplace, despite frictions over the issue in prime minister Mario Draghi’s national unity coalition. Gelmini said the government was now ready to go further.Italy has also gradually extended use of the pass in the workplace, despite frictions over the issue in prime minister Mario Draghi’s national unity coalition. Gelmini said the government was now ready to go further.
She told RAI radio:She told RAI radio:
Italy has the second-highest Covid-19 death toll in Europe after Britain and the eighth-highest in the world. About 73% of its 60-million-strong population have had at least one Covid shot, and 65% are fully vaccinated, figures broadly in line with most other European Union countries.Italy has the second-highest Covid-19 death toll in Europe after Britain and the eighth-highest in the world. About 73% of its 60-million-strong population have had at least one Covid shot, and 65% are fully vaccinated, figures broadly in line with most other European Union countries.
Thursday’s cabinet meeting may be a tense one. Rightwing leader Matteo Salvini, the leader of the co-ruling League, has repeatedly resisted extending the use of the green pass, but his party is internally split on the issue.Thursday’s cabinet meeting may be a tense one. Rightwing leader Matteo Salvini, the leader of the co-ruling League, has repeatedly resisted extending the use of the green pass, but his party is internally split on the issue.
It remains to be seen if the government will go as far as pre-announced by Gelmini, who is from Silvio Berlusconi’s conservative Forza Italia party.It remains to be seen if the government will go as far as pre-announced by Gelmini, who is from Silvio Berlusconi’s conservative Forza Italia party.
Opponents of the green pass say it tramples on freedoms and is a backdoor way of forcing people to vaccinate. Talk of making it mandatory for public sector workers alone had already triggered muted protests, which would probably be stronger if it were extended to private firms.Opponents of the green pass say it tramples on freedoms and is a backdoor way of forcing people to vaccinate. Talk of making it mandatory for public sector workers alone had already triggered muted protests, which would probably be stronger if it were extended to private firms.
Several other European countries use the health pass for leisure activities and travel, but none has made it mandatory for all public or private sector workers.Several other European countries use the health pass for leisure activities and travel, but none has made it mandatory for all public or private sector workers.