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Covid live: US to begin vaccinating children aged 5-11; WHO approves emergency use of India’s Covaxin Covid live: US to begin vaccinating children aged 5-11; WHO approves emergency use of India’s Covaxin
(about 1 hour later)
US to begin giving Pfizer vaccines to children aged five to 11; WHO approves Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech’s Covid vaccine for emergency useUS to begin giving Pfizer vaccines to children aged five to 11; WHO approves Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech’s Covid vaccine for emergency use
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority said on Wednesday it had given its approval to use Pfizer’s Covid vaccine for those between five and eleven years of age.
The authority added in a statement its decision was “based on data provided by the company, which showed the vaccine met the special regulatory requirements”.
The World Economic Forum said on Wednesday that it is postponing its event planned for later this month in the Chinese city of Tianjin due to the outbreak of Covid cases in the country, where new locally transmitted cases hit a near three-month high.
“Regretfully, due to the circumstances around the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and recent cases in major cities and provinces in China, the Annual Meeting of the New Champions will be rescheduled,” the WEF said in an email to participants.
Covid-19 deaths and infections have declined across the Americas for the 8th consecutive week, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday, warning that a very high percentage of hospitalised cases now are unvaccinated people.
In North America, all three countries reported drops in weekly cases and deaths, and there has been a notable decline in hospitalisations in the United States and Canada, PAHO said, with similar declines in South and Central America.
The regional health branch of the World Health Organization said 46% of the Latin American and Caribbean population have been fully vaccinated, and a majority of countries have already reached the WHO’s 40% vaccination coverage target set for the end of the year.
“Vaccine inequity remains the biggest barrier to reaching our coverage targets,” PAHO assistant director Jarbas Barbosa said in a briefing.
Given the limited supply of vaccines, he urged authorities to prioritise the elderly, frontline workers, and people with pre-existing conditions, to protect them and also to prevent health systems from becoming overburdened with severe cases.
PAHO recommends providing booster doses to people who are immunocompromised, including cancer patients, HIV positive individuals, patients on corticoids and transplant recipients.
PAHO said people over the age of 60 who received inactivated virus vaccines made by China’s Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm should also get booster shots.
Four Russian regions said on Wednesday they would extend a one-week workplace shutdown that took effect nationwide on 30 October in response to a surge in Covid cases, Reuters reports.Four Russian regions said on Wednesday they would extend a one-week workplace shutdown that took effect nationwide on 30 October in response to a surge in Covid cases, Reuters reports.
It comes as the daily Covid death toll from the country’s epidemic hit a record high. A further 1,189 deaths were reported on Wednesday, and the government coronavirus task force also reported 40,443 new infections in the last 24 hours.It comes as the daily Covid death toll from the country’s epidemic hit a record high. A further 1,189 deaths were reported on Wednesday, and the government coronavirus task force also reported 40,443 new infections in the last 24 hours.
The president Vladimir Putin ordered the shutdown last month, giving regional authorities the option of extending it.The president Vladimir Putin ordered the shutdown last month, giving regional authorities the option of extending it.
Authorities in the Kursk and Bryansk regions, which border Ukraine, the Chelyabinsk region near the Ural mountains and Tomsk in Siberia said their shutdowns would be prolonged.Authorities in the Kursk and Bryansk regions, which border Ukraine, the Chelyabinsk region near the Ural mountains and Tomsk in Siberia said their shutdowns would be prolonged.
“The tense epidemiological situation forces us to extend the period of non-working days by another week,” the Tomsk governor Sergei Zhvachkin said in a statement. “One non-working week is not enough to stop the chain of infection.”“The tense epidemiological situation forces us to extend the period of non-working days by another week,” the Tomsk governor Sergei Zhvachkin said in a statement. “One non-working week is not enough to stop the chain of infection.”
Moscow authorities, meanwhile, said businesses there would reopen on Monday.Moscow authorities, meanwhile, said businesses there would reopen on Monday.
“The spread of the disease has stabilised in terms of its detection and its severe forms requiring hospitalisation,” RIA news agency quoted the capital’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, as saying.“The spread of the disease has stabilised in terms of its detection and its severe forms requiring hospitalisation,” RIA news agency quoted the capital’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, as saying.
Other measures, including a requirement that companies have at least 30% of their staff work from home, would remain in place, Sobyanin said.Other measures, including a requirement that companies have at least 30% of their staff work from home, would remain in place, Sobyanin said.
The health consumer watchdog in Moscow said it had recorded violations of Covid regulations at more than a quarter of the businesses it inspected last week.The health consumer watchdog in Moscow said it had recorded violations of Covid regulations at more than a quarter of the businesses it inspected last week.
The Moscow region, which includes the small cities and towns surrounding the city, also said it would not prolong the shutdown.The Moscow region, which includes the small cities and towns surrounding the city, also said it would not prolong the shutdown.
The Novgorod region announced on Monday it was extending its shutdown by a week.The Novgorod region announced on Monday it was extending its shutdown by a week.
Italy’s medicines agency AIFA on Wednesday recommended a booster of the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccine to those inoculated with the Johnson & Johnson shot, a source close to the agency has told Reuters.Italy’s medicines agency AIFA on Wednesday recommended a booster of the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccine to those inoculated with the Johnson & Johnson shot, a source close to the agency has told Reuters.
All those who have had a single shot of the J&J vaccine, regardless of age, about 1.6 million people in Italy, will be eligible to receive the booster, the source added.All those who have had a single shot of the J&J vaccine, regardless of age, about 1.6 million people in Italy, will be eligible to receive the booster, the source added.
Italy started to inoculate vulnerable groups and the over 60s with a third vaccine dose in September.Italy started to inoculate vulnerable groups and the over 60s with a third vaccine dose in September.
More than 44.8 million Italians, or 83% of the population over the age of 12, are fully vaccinated against Covid.More than 44.8 million Italians, or 83% of the population over the age of 12, are fully vaccinated against Covid.
Italy has registered 132,161 deaths linked to Covid since its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second-highest toll in Europe after the UK and the ninth-highest in the world. The country has reported 4.78 million cases to date.Italy has registered 132,161 deaths linked to Covid since its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second-highest toll in Europe after the UK and the ninth-highest in the world. The country has reported 4.78 million cases to date.
The weekly incidence of cases, after months of decline, has been rising rapidly since last week, the National Health Institute said in a report on Friday.The weekly incidence of cases, after months of decline, has been rising rapidly since last week, the National Health Institute said in a report on Friday.
In Europe, Spain and Germany have already authorised boosters for those who have had the J&J vaccine.In Europe, Spain and Germany have already authorised boosters for those who have had the J&J vaccine.
The US Food and Drug Administration on 20 October authorised booster doses of Covid vaccines from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, and said Americans can choose a different shot from their original inoculation as a booster.The US Food and Drug Administration on 20 October authorised booster doses of Covid vaccines from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, and said Americans can choose a different shot from their original inoculation as a booster.
Children as young as seven were held for hours in a Beijing school before being sent to centralised quarantine for two weeks after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.Children as young as seven were held for hours in a Beijing school before being sent to centralised quarantine for two weeks after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.
The incident, which drew alarm from parents and observers, came amid a rush of extreme measures imposed on the city over about 40 cases of the Delta variant, part of a national outbreak affecting at least 16 of China’s 31 provinces.The incident, which drew alarm from parents and observers, came amid a rush of extreme measures imposed on the city over about 40 cases of the Delta variant, part of a national outbreak affecting at least 16 of China’s 31 provinces.
Tighter curbs are expected after the National Health Commission reported a near three-month high on Tuesday, with 93 new local symptomatic cases, up from 54 a day earlier.Tighter curbs are expected after the National Health Commission reported a near three-month high on Tuesday, with 93 new local symptomatic cases, up from 54 a day earlier.
The Huajiadi Experimental primary school in Chaoyang district was quickly sealed off on Monday afternoon after it emerged a teacher had been diagnosed with coronavirus, local media reported.The Huajiadi Experimental primary school in Chaoyang district was quickly sealed off on Monday afternoon after it emerged a teacher had been diagnosed with coronavirus, local media reported.
Parents were called to the school but spent hours gathered outside the gate waiting for information on their children caught inside by the lockdown. According to reports, school authorities said the children were all being tested and some would have to remain there overnight.Parents were called to the school but spent hours gathered outside the gate waiting for information on their children caught inside by the lockdown. According to reports, school authorities said the children were all being tested and some would have to remain there overnight.
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The first trial of a drug to target the fatigue and muscle weakness experienced by more than half of people with long Covid has been launched in the UK.The first trial of a drug to target the fatigue and muscle weakness experienced by more than half of people with long Covid has been launched in the UK.
It is also the first drug trial in patients with long Covid who were not hospitalised during their initial infection.It is also the first drug trial in patients with long Covid who were not hospitalised during their initial infection.
The drug, called AXA1125, targets cellular power plants called mitochondria, which it is thought could be dysfunctional in the subset of long Covid patients with severe fatigue.The drug, called AXA1125, targets cellular power plants called mitochondria, which it is thought could be dysfunctional in the subset of long Covid patients with severe fatigue.
If successful, it could pave the way for similar trials in patients with other forms of post-viral fatigue, including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).If successful, it could pave the way for similar trials in patients with other forms of post-viral fatigue, including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
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The risk of reinfection with the dominant Delta variant of coronavirus is 74% greater than with the previous Alpha variant that was first spotted in Kent last year, official figures from the UK show.The risk of reinfection with the dominant Delta variant of coronavirus is 74% greater than with the previous Alpha variant that was first spotted in Kent last year, official figures from the UK show.
A report published by the Office for National Statistics on Wednesday recorded 358 Covid reinfections in 20,757 people between July 2020 and October 2021. While overall rates of reinfection were low, they climbed significantly after May 2021 when the Delta variant became dominant, reflecting the variant’s increased transmissibility.A report published by the Office for National Statistics on Wednesday recorded 358 Covid reinfections in 20,757 people between July 2020 and October 2021. While overall rates of reinfection were low, they climbed significantly after May 2021 when the Delta variant became dominant, reflecting the variant’s increased transmissibility.
The ONS estimates that the rate for all Covid reinfections in the UK was 11.9 per 100,000 participant days at risk, meaning that once the participants had accrued 100,000 days at risk of reinfection between them, statisticians would expect to see about 12 cases. Most reinfections were seen seven to eight months after the initial infection.The ONS estimates that the rate for all Covid reinfections in the UK was 11.9 per 100,000 participant days at risk, meaning that once the participants had accrued 100,000 days at risk of reinfection between them, statisticians would expect to see about 12 cases. Most reinfections were seen seven to eight months after the initial infection.
People who had the lowest amount of virus in their system during their earlier Covid infection were at greater risk of contracting the virus again, as were people living in multiple-occupancy houses. Teachers and others working in education were also at higher risk of reinfection, probably because of the high levels of infection in schools, the ONS found.People who had the lowest amount of virus in their system during their earlier Covid infection were at greater risk of contracting the virus again, as were people living in multiple-occupancy houses. Teachers and others working in education were also at higher risk of reinfection, probably because of the high levels of infection in schools, the ONS found.
The UK education secretary has said he has “no plans whatsoever” to close schools again during the pandemic, PA Media reports.The UK education secretary has said he has “no plans whatsoever” to close schools again during the pandemic, PA Media reports.
Nadhim Zahawi has pledged to keep schools open as he said testing pupils for Covid and vaccinating eligible children will help keep them in class.Nadhim Zahawi has pledged to keep schools open as he said testing pupils for Covid and vaccinating eligible children will help keep them in class.
His comments come as a bill is set to be introduced in the Commons that calls for a “triple lock” of protections to ensure that any future school closures would have to be approved by parliament.His comments come as a bill is set to be introduced in the Commons that calls for a “triple lock” of protections to ensure that any future school closures would have to be approved by parliament.
Zahawi told MPs that a review of extending the school day – which has been suggested by experts to help children recover learning lost during the pandemic – will be published before the end of the year.Zahawi told MPs that a review of extending the school day – which has been suggested by experts to help children recover learning lost during the pandemic – will be published before the end of the year.
Addressing the Commons education committee, he said:Addressing the Commons education committee, he said:
Zahawi told MPs:Zahawi told MPs:
A bill from Tory MP Robert Halfon, who chairs the education committee, aims to redefine schools as “essential infrastructure” to protect millions of pupils from future shutdowns.A bill from Tory MP Robert Halfon, who chairs the education committee, aims to redefine schools as “essential infrastructure” to protect millions of pupils from future shutdowns.
Zahawi told MPs that he would look at Halfon’s bill, adding:Zahawi told MPs that he would look at Halfon’s bill, adding:
His pledge came after the latest government figures showed that the number of children out of school for Covid-related reasons in England rose to nearly a quarter of a million in the week before the October half-term.His pledge came after the latest government figures showed that the number of children out of school for Covid-related reasons in England rose to nearly a quarter of a million in the week before the October half-term.
During the hearing, Zahawi was also questioned over whether the Department for Education (DfE) plans to lengthen the school day to help pupils catch up on lessons following school closures.During the hearing, Zahawi was also questioned over whether the Department for Education (DfE) plans to lengthen the school day to help pupils catch up on lessons following school closures.
He said: “What the chair is asking about is ‘are we going to have a longer school day?’. No, we’re not on the whole. We’re saying we’ve got targeted funds to deliver.”He said: “What the chair is asking about is ‘are we going to have a longer school day?’. No, we’re not on the whole. We’re saying we’ve got targeted funds to deliver.”
Last week, the government announced it would provide an extra £1.8bn to help children recover learning lost during the pandemic, bringing total catch-up funding so far to £4.9bn.Last week, the government announced it would provide an extra £1.8bn to help children recover learning lost during the pandemic, bringing total catch-up funding so far to £4.9bn.
Zahawi said:Zahawi said:
The World Health Organization on Wednesday said it had approved Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech’s Covid vaccine for emergency use, paving the way for the homegrown shot to be accepted as a valid vaccine in many poor countries.The World Health Organization on Wednesday said it had approved Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech’s Covid vaccine for emergency use, paving the way for the homegrown shot to be accepted as a valid vaccine in many poor countries.
“The Technical Advisory Group has determined that the Covaxin vaccine meets WHO standards for protection against Covid-19, that the benefit of the vaccine far outweighs risks and the vaccine can be used,” the WHO said in a tweet.“The Technical Advisory Group has determined that the Covaxin vaccine meets WHO standards for protection against Covid-19, that the benefit of the vaccine far outweighs risks and the vaccine can be used,” the WHO said in a tweet.
The WHO’s advisory group was expected to make a decision on the shot known as Covaxin last week, but asked for additional clarifications from Bharat Biotech before conducting a final risk-benefit assessment for the vaccine’s global use.The WHO’s advisory group was expected to make a decision on the shot known as Covaxin last week, but asked for additional clarifications from Bharat Biotech before conducting a final risk-benefit assessment for the vaccine’s global use.
Covaxin was also reviewed by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, which recommended its use in two doses, with an interval of four weeks, in all age groups 18 and above.Covaxin was also reviewed by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, which recommended its use in two doses, with an interval of four weeks, in all age groups 18 and above.
The emergency use listing would allow Bharat to ship the vaccine to countries that rely on WHO guidance for their regulatory decisions.The emergency use listing would allow Bharat to ship the vaccine to countries that rely on WHO guidance for their regulatory decisions.
Covaxin is the seventh to win WHO backing following two mRNA shots by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, adenovirus vector vaccines developed by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, and China’s inactivated vaccines from Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm.Covaxin is the seventh to win WHO backing following two mRNA shots by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, adenovirus vector vaccines developed by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, and China’s inactivated vaccines from Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm.
The nod also mean that the shot may be accepted as a valid vaccine for millions of Indians who have received it and want to travel nL4N2RM0WR outside the country.The nod also mean that the shot may be accepted as a valid vaccine for millions of Indians who have received it and want to travel nL4N2RM0WR outside the country.
Oman last week and Australia on Monday said they will recognise Covaxin as a valid vaccine for travellers.Oman last week and Australia on Monday said they will recognise Covaxin as a valid vaccine for travellers.
Covid vaccination is to be made compulsory for the NHS’s 1.2 million full-time staff in England, despite criticism that forcing frontline personnel to get jabbed is “heavy-handed” and will lead some to quit.Covid vaccination is to be made compulsory for the NHS’s 1.2 million full-time staff in England, despite criticism that forcing frontline personnel to get jabbed is “heavy-handed” and will lead some to quit.
However, the tough new approach will not come into force until next April year, after Sajid Javid heeded warnings that introducing it soon could lead to an exodus of staff during the winter, the health service’s busiest time of year.However, the tough new approach will not come into force until next April year, after Sajid Javid heeded warnings that introducing it soon could lead to an exodus of staff during the winter, the health service’s busiest time of year.
An announcement is due as soon as Thursday, the Guardian understands.An announcement is due as soon as Thursday, the Guardian understands.
The health secretary appears to have been influenced by NHS Providers and the NHS Confederation, the two organisations that represent NHS trusts in England, strongly advising him to delay implementing the move until next year.The health secretary appears to have been influenced by NHS Providers and the NHS Confederation, the two organisations that represent NHS trusts in England, strongly advising him to delay implementing the move until next year.
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The US is set to begin giving Covid vaccines to children aged five to 11 as soon as Wednesday, with roughly 28 million school-age kids eligible for the shots that provide protection against the illness, Reuters reports.The US is set to begin giving Covid vaccines to children aged five to 11 as soon as Wednesday, with roughly 28 million school-age kids eligible for the shots that provide protection against the illness, Reuters reports.
On Tuesday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended the Pfizer/BioNTech shot for broad use in that age group after a panel of outside advisers voted in favour.On Tuesday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended the Pfizer/BioNTech shot for broad use in that age group after a panel of outside advisers voted in favour.
While about 58% of Americans are fully vaccinated, children under 12 have not yet been eligible for shots. The Delta variant of the virus has led to thousands of children being hospitalised and they make up 25% of US cases.While about 58% of Americans are fully vaccinated, children under 12 have not yet been eligible for shots. The Delta variant of the virus has led to thousands of children being hospitalised and they make up 25% of US cases.
The vaccine, shown to be more than 90% effective at preventing symptomatic infection in children, offers an avenue for fewer quarantines or school closures and more freedoms.The vaccine, shown to be more than 90% effective at preventing symptomatic infection in children, offers an avenue for fewer quarantines or school closures and more freedoms.
The CDC director Rochelle Walensky said on Monday:The CDC director Rochelle Walensky said on Monday:
The US government will start sending 15 million vaccines for children this week to distribution centres around the country, with the paediatric program expected to be running full steam next week, White House officials said.The US government will start sending 15 million vaccines for children this week to distribution centres around the country, with the paediatric program expected to be running full steam next week, White House officials said.
Once the shots are delivered, rather than mass vaccination centres, the rollout will rely on paediatrician’s offices, children’s hospitals and pharmacies, the White House has said.Once the shots are delivered, rather than mass vaccination centres, the rollout will rely on paediatrician’s offices, children’s hospitals and pharmacies, the White House has said.
The federal government has purchased 50m doses of Pfizer’s vaccine for the rollout, and has enough supply for all 28 million eligible children, US officials said this week.The federal government has purchased 50m doses of Pfizer’s vaccine for the rollout, and has enough supply for all 28 million eligible children, US officials said this week.
Pfizer’s shot for younger children contains a lower 10-microgram dose of vaccine than the 30 micrograms given to those aged 12 and older.Pfizer’s shot for younger children contains a lower 10-microgram dose of vaccine than the 30 micrograms given to those aged 12 and older.
Following the CDC’s decision, parents can visit the vaccines.gov website to find locations offering the vaccine for the children, White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeff Zients said.Following the CDC’s decision, parents can visit the vaccines.gov website to find locations offering the vaccine for the children, White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeff Zients said.
The US Food and Drug Administration authorised the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for emergency use for children aged five to 11 years on Friday.The US Food and Drug Administration authorised the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for emergency use for children aged five to 11 years on Friday.
So far, only Pfizer’s shot has been authorised for use in the US for those under the age of 12. A few other countries including China are already vaccinating children.So far, only Pfizer’s shot has been authorised for use in the US for those under the age of 12. A few other countries including China are already vaccinating children.
Moderna said on Sunday it would delay filing its request for an emergency use authorisation for its vaccine for children aged six to 11 while the FDA reviews safety data in connection with its application for 12- to 17-year olds.Moderna said on Sunday it would delay filing its request for an emergency use authorisation for its vaccine for children aged six to 11 while the FDA reviews safety data in connection with its application for 12- to 17-year olds.
The states with the highest adult vaccination rates against Covid are also preparing bigger pushes to get children inoculated than states where hesitancy remains strong, potentially widening the gaps in protection nationwide, public health officials and experts said.The states with the highest adult vaccination rates against Covid are also preparing bigger pushes to get children inoculated than states where hesitancy remains strong, potentially widening the gaps in protection nationwide, public health officials and experts said.
Still, it remains unclear how parents will react. Many people who have been vaccinated themselves are more divided over whether or not to vaccinate their own younger children given that severe Covid is much less common for them.Still, it remains unclear how parents will react. Many people who have been vaccinated themselves are more divided over whether or not to vaccinate their own younger children given that severe Covid is much less common for them.
While the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has been used in more than 400 million people, there is no long-term data yet for its use in adults or children.While the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has been used in more than 400 million people, there is no long-term data yet for its use in adults or children.
California, New York and Washington state, all led by Democratic governors who have promoted vaccination and mask-wearing during the pandemic, are setting up mobile sites and high-volume vaccination clinics for children, spokespeople for the public health departments of those states said.California, New York and Washington state, all led by Democratic governors who have promoted vaccination and mask-wearing during the pandemic, are setting up mobile sites and high-volume vaccination clinics for children, spokespeople for the public health departments of those states said.
California has also mandated that school-age children get a vaccine once their age group is eligible, a measure being considered in New York and Washington.California has also mandated that school-age children get a vaccine once their age group is eligible, a measure being considered in New York and Washington.
Republican state governors have largely resisted measures such as mask mandates or vaccine requirements in workplaces, schools and public venues. More than a dozen states, including Florida and Texas, have tried to block schools from imposing such requirements themselves.Republican state governors have largely resisted measures such as mask mandates or vaccine requirements in workplaces, schools and public venues. More than a dozen states, including Florida and Texas, have tried to block schools from imposing such requirements themselves.
“The best-case scenario would be everyone... did their best to get the age group vaccinated because it’s going to protect their younger siblings, their older relatives and people who just don’t respond well to these vaccines,” said Pamela Zeitlin, the chair of the department of pediatrics at National Jewish Health, a hospital in Colorado.“The best-case scenario would be everyone... did their best to get the age group vaccinated because it’s going to protect their younger siblings, their older relatives and people who just don’t respond well to these vaccines,” said Pamela Zeitlin, the chair of the department of pediatrics at National Jewish Health, a hospital in Colorado.
Slovenia registered a record high new daily 3,456 Covid cases on Tuesday, or 44.7% of the number of people tested, the state health institute said, as medical experts suggest tighter restrictions to rein in the pandemic.Slovenia registered a record high new daily 3,456 Covid cases on Tuesday, or 44.7% of the number of people tested, the state health institute said, as medical experts suggest tighter restrictions to rein in the pandemic.
Currently there are 29,354 active infections in the small Alpine state of some two million people. There are 1.12 million fully vaccinated people, or 53% of the overall population.Currently there are 29,354 active infections in the small Alpine state of some two million people. There are 1.12 million fully vaccinated people, or 53% of the overall population.
Medical experts this week proposed tightening curbs on gatherings, including shorter opening hours for bars and restaurants and work from home for public sector employees, national television reported.Medical experts this week proposed tightening curbs on gatherings, including shorter opening hours for bars and restaurants and work from home for public sector employees, national television reported.
The government is expected to discuss the pandemic on Thursday.The government is expected to discuss the pandemic on Thursday.
Hundreds of Greek health care workers protested in central Athens against mandatory coronavirus vaccines for their profession on Wednesday, the Associated Press reports.Hundreds of Greek health care workers protested in central Athens against mandatory coronavirus vaccines for their profession on Wednesday, the Associated Press reports.
The protest comes a day after the government imposed more restrictions on unvaccinated Greeks amid a spike in infections, hospitalisations and deaths.The protest comes a day after the government imposed more restrictions on unvaccinated Greeks amid a spike in infections, hospitalisations and deaths.
About 300 demonstrators chanted slogans and held up banners outside the parliament building, protesting regulations that call for unvaccinated health care workers to be suspended from their jobs.About 300 demonstrators chanted slogans and held up banners outside the parliament building, protesting regulations that call for unvaccinated health care workers to be suspended from their jobs.
Health care unions have said they do not oppose the vaccines but object to them being required.Health care unions have said they do not oppose the vaccines but object to them being required.
Vaccines against the coronavirus are compulsory for workers in Greece’s health care sector and those working in care homes for the elderly.Vaccines against the coronavirus are compulsory for workers in Greece’s health care sector and those working in care homes for the elderly.
On Tuesday, Greece reported a record 6,700 new daily Covid cases and 59 deaths, bringing the total in the country of around 11 million to over 750,000 infections and more than 16,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic.On Tuesday, Greece reported a record 6,700 new daily Covid cases and 59 deaths, bringing the total in the country of around 11 million to over 750,000 infections and more than 16,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic.
Intensive care units for patients with Covid are at over 28% capacity, while regular coronavirus wards in hospitals are nearly half full, officials said. Intensive care units for patients with Covid are at over 82% capacity, while regular coronavirus wards in hospitals are nearly half full, officials said.
The health minister Thanos Plevris said on Tuesday that tougher restrictions would be imposed as of Saturday for all unvaccinated people in Greece.The health minister Thanos Plevris said on Tuesday that tougher restrictions would be imposed as of Saturday for all unvaccinated people in Greece.
Anyone without a certificate of vaccination or recent recovery from Covid will need to display a negative PCR or rapid test, conducted at their own cost at a private facility, for access to a wide range of facilities, including banks, public services, shops, hair salons and entertainment venues.Anyone without a certificate of vaccination or recent recovery from Covid will need to display a negative PCR or rapid test, conducted at their own cost at a private facility, for access to a wide range of facilities, including banks, public services, shops, hair salons and entertainment venues.
Public and private sector employees will also have to take two tests per week, up from the current one, to enter their workplaces.Public and private sector employees will also have to take two tests per week, up from the current one, to enter their workplaces.
Around 61% of Greece’s total population has been fully vaccinated, and people age 12 and over are eligible for shots.Around 61% of Greece’s total population has been fully vaccinated, and people age 12 and over are eligible for shots.
Booster shots are available for those over 50, and will be available starting Friday to all adults who received their last vaccine dose six months earlier.Booster shots are available for those over 50, and will be available starting Friday to all adults who received their last vaccine dose six months earlier.
Germany is experiencing a “massive” pandemic of the unvaccinated, the health minister Jens Spahn has said, calling for tougher action to combat a resurgence in Covid cases.Germany is experiencing a “massive” pandemic of the unvaccinated, the health minister Jens Spahn has said, calling for tougher action to combat a resurgence in Covid cases.
“We are currently experiencing mainly a pandemic of the unvaccinated and it is massive,” Spahn told reporters on Wednesday. “In some regions in Germany intensive care beds are running out again.”“We are currently experiencing mainly a pandemic of the unvaccinated and it is massive,” Spahn told reporters on Wednesday. “In some regions in Germany intensive care beds are running out again.”
Germany, Europe’s most populous country with some 83 million people, has been grappling with a fourth wave of infections in recent weeks that has seen the seven-day incidence rate hit highs not seen since May.Germany, Europe’s most populous country with some 83 million people, has been grappling with a fourth wave of infections in recent weeks that has seen the seven-day incidence rate hit highs not seen since May.
The country added 20,398 cases over the past 24 hours, the Robert Koch health institute said Wednesday, while another 194 people died.The country added 20,398 cases over the past 24 hours, the Robert Koch health institute said Wednesday, while another 194 people died.
More than 66% of the population is fully vaccinated, but Spahn expressed frustration that the uptake of jabs has slowed and that a significant group of 18 to 59 year olds remain unvaccinated.More than 66% of the population is fully vaccinated, but Spahn expressed frustration that the uptake of jabs has slowed and that a significant group of 18 to 59 year olds remain unvaccinated.
He also called for tougher checks at establishments or events where only those who can show they have been vaccinated, have recovered from Covid or have recently tested negative, are allowed to enter.He also called for tougher checks at establishments or events where only those who can show they have been vaccinated, have recovered from Covid or have recently tested negative, are allowed to enter.
In some hard-hit regions, he said, access should be limited to those who are fully vaccinated or can show proof of recovery - a system knowns as 2G in Germany.In some hard-hit regions, he said, access should be limited to those who are fully vaccinated or can show proof of recovery - a system knowns as 2G in Germany.
“It’s nothing to do with vaccine bullying,” he said, “but with avoiding an overloading of the health care system”.“It’s nothing to do with vaccine bullying,” he said, “but with avoiding an overloading of the health care system”.
His final recommendation was for a bigger push on booster jabs, saying the current pace “is insufficient”.His final recommendation was for a bigger push on booster jabs, saying the current pace “is insufficient”.
Good morning from London. I’m Lucy Campbell, I’ll be bringing you all the latest global developments on the coronavirus pandemic for the next eight hours. Please feel free to get in touch with me as I work if you have a story or tips to share! Your thoughts are always welcome.Good morning from London. I’m Lucy Campbell, I’ll be bringing you all the latest global developments on the coronavirus pandemic for the next eight hours. Please feel free to get in touch with me as I work if you have a story or tips to share! Your thoughts are always welcome.
Email: lucy.campbell@theguardian.comTwitter: @lucy_campbell_Email: lucy.campbell@theguardian.comTwitter: @lucy_campbell_
England’s deputy chief medical officer Prof Jonathan Van-Tam had some strong words this morning, saying that “too many people believe that this pandemic is now over. I personally feel there are some hard months to come in the winter and it is not over.”England’s deputy chief medical officer Prof Jonathan Van-Tam had some strong words this morning, saying that “too many people believe that this pandemic is now over. I personally feel there are some hard months to come in the winter and it is not over.”
He warned the UK public that “the caution that people take or don’t take in terms of interacting with each other: that is going to be a big determinant in what happens between now and the darkest months of the winter.”He warned the UK public that “the caution that people take or don’t take in terms of interacting with each other: that is going to be a big determinant in what happens between now and the darkest months of the winter.”
Prof Jeremy Brown of the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has said it is “far too early” to be following the lead of the US by vaccinating children aged 11 and under against coronavirus – but added that there may be a case for some youngsters receiving a jab.Prof Jeremy Brown of the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has said it is “far too early” to be following the lead of the US by vaccinating children aged 11 and under against coronavirus – but added that there may be a case for some youngsters receiving a jab.
The UK has had its highest number of daily Covid deaths reported since late February, as another 293 people have died within 28 days of a positive Covid-19 test.The UK has had its highest number of daily Covid deaths reported since late February, as another 293 people have died within 28 days of a positive Covid-19 test.
Health expert Prof Devi Sridhar in Scotland has described the scenes of delegates queuing at the Cop26 conference in Glasgow as “really concerning” during a pandemic.Health expert Prof Devi Sridhar in Scotland has described the scenes of delegates queuing at the Cop26 conference in Glasgow as “really concerning” during a pandemic.
The Netherlands is bringing back coronavirus measures including a requirement for face masks in many public spaces to combat a surge in cases. Neighbouring Belgium is also experiencing a sharp rise in the number of cases.The Netherlands is bringing back coronavirus measures including a requirement for face masks in many public spaces to combat a surge in cases. Neighbouring Belgium is also experiencing a sharp rise in the number of cases.
Hong Kong will roll out booster doses of Covid-19 vaccines from next week, health secretary Sophia Chan said today. “The elderly are the most fragile group and we have a responsibility to protect their health,” Chan said. About 1.86 million people are eligible for the booster, which they can start booking from 5 November, to receive it as soon as 11 November.Hong Kong will roll out booster doses of Covid-19 vaccines from next week, health secretary Sophia Chan said today. “The elderly are the most fragile group and we have a responsibility to protect their health,” Chan said. About 1.86 million people are eligible for the booster, which they can start booking from 5 November, to receive it as soon as 11 November.
Tighter curbs are expected in China after the National Health Commission reported Covid cases surged to a near-three-month high with 93 new local symptomatic cases recorded for Tuesday, up from 54 a day earlier.Tighter curbs are expected in China after the National Health Commission reported Covid cases surged to a near-three-month high with 93 new local symptomatic cases recorded for Tuesday, up from 54 a day earlier.
China has already urged its citizens to stockpile daily necessities, prompting panic-buying, amid surging vegetable prices linked to recent extreme weather, fears of supply shortagesChina has already urged its citizens to stockpile daily necessities, prompting panic-buying, amid surging vegetable prices linked to recent extreme weather, fears of supply shortages
South Korea has said it would ramp up Covid-19 testing at schools after a sharp rise of infections among children, weeks ahead of a plan to fully reopen schools nationwide.South Korea has said it would ramp up Covid-19 testing at schools after a sharp rise of infections among children, weeks ahead of a plan to fully reopen schools nationwide.
Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday that local government officials will be punished for falling behind their targets for Covid-19 vaccinations.Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday that local government officials will be punished for falling behind their targets for Covid-19 vaccinations.
Russia today has confirmed 40,443 new Covid-19 infections and a new official pandemic record of 1,189 daily deaths. The country is in a week long enforced shutdown in order to try to stem the rising tide of infections.Russia today has confirmed 40,443 new Covid-19 infections and a new official pandemic record of 1,189 daily deaths. The country is in a week long enforced shutdown in order to try to stem the rising tide of infections.
There have been protests in Kyiv, Ukraine today against government moves to try and halt the current wave of the virus. Ukrainian health minister Viktor Lyashko told a televised news conference “Trust me, this anti-vaccination spirit quickly disappears in intensive care units.”There have been protests in Kyiv, Ukraine today against government moves to try and halt the current wave of the virus. Ukrainian health minister Viktor Lyashko told a televised news conference “Trust me, this anti-vaccination spirit quickly disappears in intensive care units.”
The number of daily Covid-19 cases reported in the Czech Republic neared 10,000 for the first time since March, health ministry data showed.The number of daily Covid-19 cases reported in the Czech Republic neared 10,000 for the first time since March, health ministry data showed.
Poland reported more than 10,400 Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, a 24% rise week on week, government spokesman Piotr Muller said.Poland reported more than 10,400 Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, a 24% rise week on week, government spokesman Piotr Muller said.
The number of foreign tourists visiting Spain more than quadrupled in September from a year ago to nearly 4.7 million, official data showed as widespread vaccination and looser travel restrictions enticed back more visitors.The number of foreign tourists visiting Spain more than quadrupled in September from a year ago to nearly 4.7 million, official data showed as widespread vaccination and looser travel restrictions enticed back more visitors.
Seven gang leaders, representing four of New Zeland’s most well-known street gangs, joined forces in a video urging their communities to get vaccinated.Seven gang leaders, representing four of New Zeland’s most well-known street gangs, joined forces in a video urging their communities to get vaccinated.
Alan Evans has got our live coverage of Cop26, while Andrew Sparrow has UK politics live. Lucy Campbell will be here shortly to lead you through the rest of the day’s coronavirus news from the UK and around the world. I’m Martin Belam signing off – I’ll see you here tomorrow.Alan Evans has got our live coverage of Cop26, while Andrew Sparrow has UK politics live. Lucy Campbell will be here shortly to lead you through the rest of the day’s coronavirus news from the UK and around the world. I’m Martin Belam signing off – I’ll see you here tomorrow.
This next block comes with an “awkward football analogy” health warning, as PA Media rounds up some of the things that England’s deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam said to the media this morning, including that he thinks we are “kind of half-time in extra time” of dealing with the pandemic, with the final whistle coming in spring. It is unclear if he thinks we then go to penalties.This next block comes with an “awkward football analogy” health warning, as PA Media rounds up some of the things that England’s deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam said to the media this morning, including that he thinks we are “kind of half-time in extra time” of dealing with the pandemic, with the final whistle coming in spring. It is unclear if he thinks we then go to penalties.
More seriously, here are some more of his key quotes:More seriously, here are some more of his key quotes: