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Covid news live: up to 100,000 NHS England staff unvaccinated; thousands protest over New Zealand’s vaccine mandates Covid news live: up to 100,000 NHS England staff unvaccinated; thousands protest over New Zealand’s vaccine mandates
(32 minutes later)
Speculation mounts UK government will announce NHS vaccine mandate today; anti-vaccination mandate protesters descend on WellingtonSpeculation mounts UK government will announce NHS vaccine mandate today; anti-vaccination mandate protesters descend on Wellington
Within a year since February 2020, the UK’s pandemic response – and Randox’s role in it – became a matter of public scrutiny, not least due to the company being named in a lobbying scandal involving the Conservative MP Owen Paterson.
My colleague Rob Davies examines how the healthcare firm went from a one-man-band operation to winning £500m in government Covid contracts:
The eastern German state of Saxony may have ordered tough curbs on the unvaccinated to push them to get the Covid-19 jab, but shop assistant Sabine Lonnatzsch, 59, is unmoved.The eastern German state of Saxony may have ordered tough curbs on the unvaccinated to push them to get the Covid-19 jab, but shop assistant Sabine Lonnatzsch, 59, is unmoved.
The new rules are “discriminatory” because they are “pushing the unvaccinated further into a corner,” she tells AFP, adding that she won’t change her mind about getting inoculated - she just won’t go to restaurants or events anymore.The new rules are “discriminatory” because they are “pushing the unvaccinated further into a corner,” she tells AFP, adding that she won’t change her mind about getting inoculated - she just won’t go to restaurants or events anymore.
“I’ve had corona cases in my family and in my eyes it is nothing more than a bad flu,” she says.“I’ve had corona cases in my family and in my eyes it is nothing more than a bad flu,” she says.
With Covid infections rocketing in Germany, Saxony this week became the first to largely exclude unvaccinated people from indoor dining, cinemas and bars.With Covid infections rocketing in Germany, Saxony this week became the first to largely exclude unvaccinated people from indoor dining, cinemas and bars.
The new rules, likely to be emulated by other states in the coming weeks, are designed not only to reduce the spread of Covid but also to encourage more people to get inoculated.The new rules, likely to be emulated by other states in the coming weeks, are designed not only to reduce the spread of Covid but also to encourage more people to get inoculated.
But Lonnatzsch is not the only one resisting the jab in the town of Radeberg in Bautzen district, which has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country at just 45.7%.But Lonnatzsch is not the only one resisting the jab in the town of Radeberg in Bautzen district, which has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country at just 45.7%.
The clothing store No 1 Mode where she works has a sign in the window that lets customers know that all are welcome - regardless of vaccination status.The clothing store No 1 Mode where she works has a sign in the window that lets customers know that all are welcome - regardless of vaccination status.
Across the town square, the co-owner of Cafe Roethig also has no plans to get the vaccine.Across the town square, the co-owner of Cafe Roethig also has no plans to get the vaccine.
Like many people in the region, Carola Roethig, 58, is “not convinced” by the jab because “it was developed in such a short space of time”.Like many people in the region, Carola Roethig, 58, is “not convinced” by the jab because “it was developed in such a short space of time”.
The district of Bautzen has one of the highest incidence rates in the country at 645.3 cases per 100,000 people, but Roethig is not worried about catching the virus.The district of Bautzen has one of the highest incidence rates in the country at 645.3 cases per 100,000 people, but Roethig is not worried about catching the virus.
The new rules are “definitely bad for business,” she says at the cafe’s bakery counter, which is lined with untouched fresh cakes, tarts and iced donuts. “Many of our customers are not vaccinated, so we are losing income, because fewer people are coming in,” she says.The new rules are “definitely bad for business,” she says at the cafe’s bakery counter, which is lined with untouched fresh cakes, tarts and iced donuts. “Many of our customers are not vaccinated, so we are losing income, because fewer people are coming in,” she says.
The rules are also bad for her personal life. “I’m not allowed to go to a restaurant in the evening and have a nice dinner with my husband. I don’t think it is right.”The rules are also bad for her personal life. “I’m not allowed to go to a restaurant in the evening and have a nice dinner with my husband. I don’t think it is right.”
Outside the cafe, 40-year-old Susan feels the same. “Nothing would convince me” to get the jab, she says, without giving her last name. “I see no sense in it because [vaccinated people] can still get the disease and infect others.”Outside the cafe, 40-year-old Susan feels the same. “Nothing would convince me” to get the jab, she says, without giving her last name. “I see no sense in it because [vaccinated people] can still get the disease and infect others.”
The new rules come as new infections surge in Germany, with the national incidence rate reaching 213.7 cases per 100,000 people over the past seven days on Tuesday - a record since the pandemic began.The new rules come as new infections surge in Germany, with the national incidence rate reaching 213.7 cases per 100,000 people over the past seven days on Tuesday - a record since the pandemic began.
The political parties looking to form a coalition government after September’s election have so far ruled out compulsory vaccinations and general lockdowns to tackle the surge.The political parties looking to form a coalition government after September’s election have so far ruled out compulsory vaccinations and general lockdowns to tackle the surge.
But with just 67% of the population fully jabbed, ministers say encouraging more people to get vaccinated is key to bringing the numbers down.But with just 67% of the population fully jabbed, ministers say encouraging more people to get vaccinated is key to bringing the numbers down.
In neighbouring France, more than 74% are fully vaccinated, and in Spain the figure is more than 77%. German health experts have named a target rate of 85%.In neighbouring France, more than 74% are fully vaccinated, and in Spain the figure is more than 77%. German health experts have named a target rate of 85%.
However, in a recent a Forsa survey carried out for the health ministry, 65% of unvaccinated respondents declared there was “no way” they would take a Covid jab and 23% were “reluctant”.However, in a recent a Forsa survey carried out for the health ministry, 65% of unvaccinated respondents declared there was “no way” they would take a Covid jab and 23% were “reluctant”.
Outside Radeberg town hall, a modest queue of people formed for a vaccination event organised to encourage more people to get the jab.Outside Radeberg town hall, a modest queue of people formed for a vaccination event organised to encourage more people to get the jab.
Kitchen assistant Mirmirza Kabirzada, 36, had previously hesitated but with the numbers rising so dramatically, “now I realised this is very important,” he says.Kitchen assistant Mirmirza Kabirzada, 36, had previously hesitated but with the numbers rising so dramatically, “now I realised this is very important,” he says.
Intensive care nurse Nicole Wieberneit, 39, is waiting in line to get her booster. She is optimistic that the new rules will encourage more people to get vaccinated.Intensive care nurse Nicole Wieberneit, 39, is waiting in line to get her booster. She is optimistic that the new rules will encourage more people to get vaccinated.
“When it becomes about the freedom to travel, to go out to eat, I think more people will come forward. Freedom is very important to people in Saxony,” she says.“When it becomes about the freedom to travel, to go out to eat, I think more people will come forward. Freedom is very important to people in Saxony,” she says.
All 1.4 million NHS staff in England will have to be vaccinated against Covid by next spring if they want to keep their jobs, Sajid Javid will confirm to MPs on Tuesday.All 1.4 million NHS staff in England will have to be vaccinated against Covid by next spring if they want to keep their jobs, Sajid Javid will confirm to MPs on Tuesday.
The health secretary has decided to press ahead with making jabs compulsory despite health unions and some doctors’ organisations voicing strong opposition.The health secretary has decided to press ahead with making jabs compulsory despite health unions and some doctors’ organisations voicing strong opposition.
The move means that about 100,000 frontline personnel who have not yet had both doses of Covid vaccine will have to get jabbed or face dismissal. Many of them are women who are or hope to become pregnant or who are from a minority ethnic background.The move means that about 100,000 frontline personnel who have not yet had both doses of Covid vaccine will have to get jabbed or face dismissal. Many of them are women who are or hope to become pregnant or who are from a minority ethnic background.
Javid considered bringing in the new requirement before this winter, but opted to delay it until what is thought likely to be April 2022 after warnings that doing that sooner would exacerbate NHS understaffing by triggering an exodus of key personnel at the time when the health service is under its greatest pressure.Javid considered bringing in the new requirement before this winter, but opted to delay it until what is thought likely to be April 2022 after warnings that doing that sooner would exacerbate NHS understaffing by triggering an exodus of key personnel at the time when the health service is under its greatest pressure.
The minister believes that, while some NHS staff may leave, making jabs mandatory will drive up vaccination rates by prompting refuseniks to finally get vaccinated in the same way that has already occurred with care home staff, who have to be immunised by this Friday or risk losing their job.The minister believes that, while some NHS staff may leave, making jabs mandatory will drive up vaccination rates by prompting refuseniks to finally get vaccinated in the same way that has already occurred with care home staff, who have to be immunised by this Friday or risk losing their job.
While some care home workers are quitting rather than getting jabbed, vaccination rates in that sector have risen sharply since Javid announced in June that he was making it compulsory.While some care home workers are quitting rather than getting jabbed, vaccination rates in that sector have risen sharply since Javid announced in June that he was making it compulsory.
He believes the change will enhance patients’ safety by making them less likely to contact Covid in healthcare settings from an NHS worker.He believes the change will enhance patients’ safety by making them less likely to contact Covid in healthcare settings from an NHS worker.
The latest official statistics show that about 90% of NHS staff have already had two doses. In all 1,303,605 of the 1,452,256 NHS staff in England (89.8%) had received both jabs by 24 October, according to the NHS’s electronic staff record.The latest official statistics show that about 90% of NHS staff have already had two doses. In all 1,303,605 of the 1,452,256 NHS staff in England (89.8%) had received both jabs by 24 October, according to the NHS’s electronic staff record.
Read the full story here:Read the full story here:
Earlier, we reported that there are between 80,000 and 100,000 NHS workers in England who are unvaccinated against coronavirus, according to Chris Hopson, the chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents England’s NHS trusts.Earlier, we reported that there are between 80,000 and 100,000 NHS workers in England who are unvaccinated against coronavirus, according to Chris Hopson, the chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents England’s NHS trusts.
He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that as well as the risk of workers infecting colleagues, patients and visitors, there is also a risk to the health service if large numbers of staff leave as a result of mandatory vaccination.He told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that as well as the risk of workers infecting colleagues, patients and visitors, there is also a risk to the health service if large numbers of staff leave as a result of mandatory vaccination.
More than 75,000 extra deaths have taken place in private homes in England and Wales since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, new analysis shows.More than 75,000 extra deaths have taken place in private homes in England and Wales since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, new analysis shows.
Extra deaths - known as “excess deaths” - are the number of deaths above the average for the non-pandemic years of 2015-19.Extra deaths - known as “excess deaths” - are the number of deaths above the average for the non-pandemic years of 2015-19.
A total of 75,474 excess deaths in homes in England and Wales were registered between March 7 2020 and October 29 2021, according to PA news agency analysis of data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Of this number, just 8,824 - or 12% - were deaths that involved Covid-19.A total of 75,474 excess deaths in homes in England and Wales were registered between March 7 2020 and October 29 2021, according to PA news agency analysis of data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Of this number, just 8,824 - or 12% - were deaths that involved Covid-19.
Deaths in private homes have been consistently well above the 2015-19 average since April 2020. Even during recent months, when almost all lockdown restrictions have been eased across the country, the figure has typically been between 700 and 900 a week.Deaths in private homes have been consistently well above the 2015-19 average since April 2020. Even during recent months, when almost all lockdown restrictions have been eased across the country, the figure has typically been between 700 and 900 a week.
More than 10,000 excess deaths in private homes have been registered in England and Wales since the start of August. This compares with around 5,000 excess deaths in hospitals and 1,400 in care homes over the same period.More than 10,000 excess deaths in private homes have been registered in England and Wales since the start of August. This compares with around 5,000 excess deaths in hospitals and 1,400 in care homes over the same period.
The figures show there are still many more people than usual dying in their own homes.The figures show there are still many more people than usual dying in their own homes.
Analysis published earlier this year by the ONS found that, while the majority of deaths due to Covid-19 in England and Wales in 2020 happened in hospitals and care homes, many deaths from other causes, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer, happened in private homes of people who - in a non-pandemic year - may have typically died elsewhere, such as in hospital.Analysis published earlier this year by the ONS found that, while the majority of deaths due to Covid-19 in England and Wales in 2020 happened in hospitals and care homes, many deaths from other causes, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer, happened in private homes of people who - in a non-pandemic year - may have typically died elsewhere, such as in hospital.
Deaths from diabetes in private homes were 60% higher in 2020 compared with the average for 2015-19, while those from chronic rheumatic heart disease and Parkinson’s disease were both up 66%.Deaths from diabetes in private homes were 60% higher in 2020 compared with the average for 2015-19, while those from chronic rheumatic heart disease and Parkinson’s disease were both up 66%.
For dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, deaths were up 65%, with increases of 44% and 37% for prostate cancer and breast cancer respectively.For dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, deaths were up 65%, with increases of 44% and 37% for prostate cancer and breast cancer respectively.
Separate ONS figures published on Tuesday show that a total of 10,987 deaths in all settings were registered in England and Wales in the week to 29 October. This was 1,228 above the five-year average. Covid-19 accounted for 859 (70%) of these excess deaths.Separate ONS figures published on Tuesday show that a total of 10,987 deaths in all settings were registered in England and Wales in the week to 29 October. This was 1,228 above the five-year average. Covid-19 accounted for 859 (70%) of these excess deaths.
It is also the 17th week in a row that deaths have been above the pre-pandemic average. The number of Covid-19 deaths is still well below levels seen at the peak of the second wave of the virus, however.It is also the 17th week in a row that deaths have been above the pre-pandemic average. The number of Covid-19 deaths is still well below levels seen at the peak of the second wave of the virus, however.
In the week to January 29, 8,433 deaths involving coronavirus were registered in England and Wales - around 10 times the number registered in the most recent week.In the week to January 29, 8,433 deaths involving coronavirus were registered in England and Wales - around 10 times the number registered in the most recent week.
A nine-day-old baby girl is one of the youngest people in the UK to have died after testing positive for Covid-19.A nine-day-old baby girl is one of the youngest people in the UK to have died after testing positive for Covid-19.
Ivy-Rose was born 14 weeks prematurely, which her grief-stricken mother, Katie Leeming, is convinced was down to her becoming so sick nine days after contracting Covid while pregnant.Ivy-Rose was born 14 weeks prematurely, which her grief-stricken mother, Katie Leeming, is convinced was down to her becoming so sick nine days after contracting Covid while pregnant.
Leeming had not been vaccinated against Covid, and doesn’t want to to tear herself apart by thinking about what might have been if she had done things differently.Leeming had not been vaccinated against Covid, and doesn’t want to to tear herself apart by thinking about what might have been if she had done things differently.
A family friend has organised a GoFundMe fundraiser towards funeral costs and expenses for Ivy-Rose.A family friend has organised a GoFundMe fundraiser towards funeral costs and expenses for Ivy-Rose.
The i paper has the awful story.The i paper has the awful story.
Related: Why pregnant women need clearer messaging on Covid vaccine safetyRelated: Why pregnant women need clearer messaging on Covid vaccine safety
The story highlights how much more still needs to be done to improve messaging around Covid vaccination for pregnant women.The story highlights how much more still needs to be done to improve messaging around Covid vaccination for pregnant women.
Guidance from medical organisations, such as the Royal College of Midwives is that women who are pregnant should get vaccinated. The NHS advice is that pregnant women can get vaccinated but that it is preferable for them to have the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines as they have been more widely used during pregnancy in other countries and no safety concerns have been identified.Guidance from medical organisations, such as the Royal College of Midwives is that women who are pregnant should get vaccinated. The NHS advice is that pregnant women can get vaccinated but that it is preferable for them to have the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines as they have been more widely used during pregnancy in other countries and no safety concerns have been identified.
Related: ‘Get the vaccine’: family of Covid victim’s plea to pregnant womenRelated: ‘Get the vaccine’: family of Covid victim’s plea to pregnant women
Oralia Perez waited nervously and excitedly on the US side of the border from Mexico for the chance to hug her sister and mother for the first time in almost 20 months.Oralia Perez waited nervously and excitedly on the US side of the border from Mexico for the chance to hug her sister and mother for the first time in almost 20 months.
One minute after midnight east coast time, ie the first moments of Monday – which was still Sunday night, 10.01pm local time, in El Paso, west Texas, where she was – the US government lifted pandemic restrictions on non-essential cross-border travel for those who are vaccinated.One minute after midnight east coast time, ie the first moments of Monday – which was still Sunday night, 10.01pm local time, in El Paso, west Texas, where she was – the US government lifted pandemic restrictions on non-essential cross-border travel for those who are vaccinated.
As soon as the deadline passed, Oralia’s sister, Guadalupe Perez, and their mother, Lorena Hernandez, were among the first to rush by foot across one of the international bridges linking Mexico and the US, and in the late fall chill and the darkness, they flung themselves into each other’s arms.As soon as the deadline passed, Oralia’s sister, Guadalupe Perez, and their mother, Lorena Hernandez, were among the first to rush by foot across one of the international bridges linking Mexico and the US, and in the late fall chill and the darkness, they flung themselves into each other’s arms.
The last time the three had been together was February 2020.The last time the three had been together was February 2020.
“As soon as we found out they were being allowed to pass, we couldn’t wait for today,” Oralia said. “They were very difficult months.”“As soon as we found out they were being allowed to pass, we couldn’t wait for today,” Oralia said. “They were very difficult months.”
Hernandez said she had been afraid the authorities would decide yet again it wasn’t time to reopen the border. But having crossed successfully she stroked Oralia’s hair and beamed.Hernandez said she had been afraid the authorities would decide yet again it wasn’t time to reopen the border. But having crossed successfully she stroked Oralia’s hair and beamed.
The women repaired for the night and on Monday morning they had a celebratory breakfast together at the American chain staple, International House of Pancakes (Ihop), in El Paso. Then they went shopping, thrilled to be back in each other’s company, Oralia told the Guardian.The women repaired for the night and on Monday morning they had a celebratory breakfast together at the American chain staple, International House of Pancakes (Ihop), in El Paso. Then they went shopping, thrilled to be back in each other’s company, Oralia told the Guardian.
The US temporarily limited inbound border crossings from Canada and Mexico to only “essential travel” from 21 March 2020. Restrictions were extended again and again, finally coming to an end at the start of this week.The US temporarily limited inbound border crossings from Canada and Mexico to only “essential travel” from 21 March 2020. Restrictions were extended again and again, finally coming to an end at the start of this week.
Read the full story here:Read the full story here:
France’s public health authority has recommended people under 30 be given Pfizer’s Comirnaty Covid vaccine when available instead of Moderna Inc’s Spikevax jab, which carried comparatively higher risks of heart-related problems.France’s public health authority has recommended people under 30 be given Pfizer’s Comirnaty Covid vaccine when available instead of Moderna Inc’s Spikevax jab, which carried comparatively higher risks of heart-related problems.
The Haute Autorite de Sante (HAS), which does not have legal power to ban or license drugs but acts as an adviser to the French health sector, cited “very rare” risks linked to myocarditis, a heart disease, that had shown up in recent data on the Moderna vaccine and in a French study published on Monday.The Haute Autorite de Sante (HAS), which does not have legal power to ban or license drugs but acts as an adviser to the French health sector, cited “very rare” risks linked to myocarditis, a heart disease, that had shown up in recent data on the Moderna vaccine and in a French study published on Monday.
“Within the population aged under 30, this risk appears to be around five times lesser with Pfizer’s Comirnaty jab compared with Moderna’s Spikevax jab,” HAS said in its opinion published on Monday.“Within the population aged under 30, this risk appears to be around five times lesser with Pfizer’s Comirnaty jab compared with Moderna’s Spikevax jab,” HAS said in its opinion published on Monday.
The decision in Paris came after regulators in several other countries, including Canada, Finland and Sweden, had also taken a more defensive stance on Spikevax over heart-related safety concerns affecting younger people.The decision in Paris came after regulators in several other countries, including Canada, Finland and Sweden, had also taken a more defensive stance on Spikevax over heart-related safety concerns affecting younger people.
The European Union’s drug regulator last month approved Moderna’s booster vaccine for all age groups over 18, at least six months after the second dose.The European Union’s drug regulator last month approved Moderna’s booster vaccine for all age groups over 18, at least six months after the second dose.
The European Medicines Agency earlier this year said that it had found a possible link between the very rare inflammatory heart condition and Covid vaccines from both Pfizer’s and Moderna’s vaccines.The European Medicines Agency earlier this year said that it had found a possible link between the very rare inflammatory heart condition and Covid vaccines from both Pfizer’s and Moderna’s vaccines.
However, according to the EMA, the benefits of both mRNA shots in preventing Covid-19 continue to outweigh the risks, the regulator said, echoing similar views expressed by US regulators and the World Health Organization.However, according to the EMA, the benefits of both mRNA shots in preventing Covid-19 continue to outweigh the risks, the regulator said, echoing similar views expressed by US regulators and the World Health Organization.
France’s HAS said that its recommendation, which would apply regardless of the vaccine’s use as a first, second or third “booster” dose, would be valid until more scientific findings on the matter are known.France’s HAS said that its recommendation, which would apply regardless of the vaccine’s use as a first, second or third “booster” dose, would be valid until more scientific findings on the matter are known.
For persons aged over 30, however, the authority explicitly recommended the use of the Moderna vaccine, saying its effectiveness was slightly superior.For persons aged over 30, however, the authority explicitly recommended the use of the Moderna vaccine, saying its effectiveness was slightly superior.
More than four in 10 adults in England who were hesitant about getting a coronavirus vaccine have since been vaccinated, figures suggest.More than four in 10 adults in England who were hesitant about getting a coronavirus vaccine have since been vaccinated, figures suggest.
Forty-four per cent of people previously hesitant have since been jabbed, while 55% remained unvaccinated, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.Forty-four per cent of people previously hesitant have since been jabbed, while 55% remained unvaccinated, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
It found hesitancy was highest in younger people, but this group was more likely than hesitant older adults to have since taken up an offered vaccine.It found hesitancy was highest in younger people, but this group was more likely than hesitant older adults to have since taken up an offered vaccine.
Two-thirds of those now vaccinated said they had been motivated by wanting restrictions to ease and life to return to normal.Two-thirds of those now vaccinated said they had been motivated by wanting restrictions to ease and life to return to normal.
More than half of those who remained unvaccinated said they were worried about potential side-effects.More than half of those who remained unvaccinated said they were worried about potential side-effects.
Before approval, the vaccines underwent a rigorous testing process to pass standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).Before approval, the vaccines underwent a rigorous testing process to pass standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Reports of serious side-effects, such as allergic reactions, have been rare, and no long-term complications have been reported, the NHS says.Reports of serious side-effects, such as allergic reactions, have been rare, and no long-term complications have been reported, the NHS says.
For its Covid-19 Vaccine Opinions Study, the ONS followed up with 2,482 adults who had reported vaccine hesitancy when originally surveyed between 13 January and 8 August.For its Covid-19 Vaccine Opinions Study, the ONS followed up with 2,482 adults who had reported vaccine hesitancy when originally surveyed between 13 January and 8 August.
These are people who had declined a vaccine (25%) or who said they were unlikely (33%) or unsure (42%) about getting a jab. This period saw a decline in vaccine hesitancy, from 10% to 3% of all adults.These are people who had declined a vaccine (25%) or who said they were unlikely (33%) or unsure (42%) about getting a jab. This period saw a decline in vaccine hesitancy, from 10% to 3% of all adults.
Uptake was highest among those who were unsure (60%) and lowest among those who had initially declined a jab (21%).Uptake was highest among those who were unsure (60%) and lowest among those who had initially declined a jab (21%).
Forty-six per cent of 18- to 29-year-olds had since been vaccinated, which the ONS said can partially be explained by a higher percentage being “undecided and open to change”.Forty-six per cent of 18- to 29-year-olds had since been vaccinated, which the ONS said can partially be explained by a higher percentage being “undecided and open to change”.
There were lower rates of hesitancy in older people, but a smaller percentage (19%) of those aged 70 and over had since been vaccinated.There were lower rates of hesitancy in older people, but a smaller percentage (19%) of those aged 70 and over had since been vaccinated.
A smaller proportion of clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) adults who had displayed hesitancy were now vaccinated (16%) compared with non-CEV adults (42%).A smaller proportion of clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) adults who had displayed hesitancy were now vaccinated (16%) compared with non-CEV adults (42%).
Among CEV adults and adults aged 70 and over who had shown hesitancy, a large proportion had declined a vaccine (68% and 62% respectively).Among CEV adults and adults aged 70 and over who had shown hesitancy, a large proportion had declined a vaccine (68% and 62% respectively).
Fewer vaccine-hesitant disabled people had since been vaccinated compared with non-disabled adults – 34% versus 46%.Fewer vaccine-hesitant disabled people had since been vaccinated compared with non-disabled adults – 34% versus 46%.
The ONS said this suggests that disabled adults were more likely to have “deep rooted concerns”.The ONS said this suggests that disabled adults were more likely to have “deep rooted concerns”.
While there were higher rates of hesitancy among black adults compared with white adults, uptake in these groups was similar.While there were higher rates of hesitancy among black adults compared with white adults, uptake in these groups was similar.
Overall, out of those who remained unvaccinated, 58% were worried about potential side-effects, long-term effects of the vaccine (54%) and not thinking that the jab was safe (32%). Fifty-five per cent said they thought the vaccine had been developed too quickly.Overall, out of those who remained unvaccinated, 58% were worried about potential side-effects, long-term effects of the vaccine (54%) and not thinking that the jab was safe (32%). Fifty-five per cent said they thought the vaccine had been developed too quickly.
A group of hospitals in the Netherlands has called for the government to take new measures to stem rising Covid cases, saying they are “heading straight for a healthcare disaster” with neither space nor staff to handle more patients with coronavirus.A group of hospitals in the Netherlands has called for the government to take new measures to stem rising Covid cases, saying they are “heading straight for a healthcare disaster” with neither space nor staff to handle more patients with coronavirus.
Covid infections in the Netherlands, as in other parts of Europe, are approaching all-time highs despite adult vaccination levels around 85%.Covid infections in the Netherlands, as in other parts of Europe, are approaching all-time highs despite adult vaccination levels around 85%.
Last week, prime minister Mark Rutte’s government announced new measures to slow the spread of the virus, two months after scrapping social distancing rules.Last week, prime minister Mark Rutte’s government announced new measures to slow the spread of the virus, two months after scrapping social distancing rules.
Steps included the reintroduction of face masks in stores and broader use of the country’s proof-of-vaccination “corona pass”.Steps included the reintroduction of face masks in stores and broader use of the country’s proof-of-vaccination “corona pass”.
However, cases have continued to rise and the Netherlands’ Institute for Health (RIVM) is due to release new infection figures later on Tuesday that may pass the previous all-time high of 12,997 cases reported on 20 December.However, cases have continued to rise and the Netherlands’ Institute for Health (RIVM) is due to release new infection figures later on Tuesday that may pass the previous all-time high of 12,997 cases reported on 20 December.
In a letter to Rutte’s government, the five hospitals in southern province of Limburg said:In a letter to Rutte’s government, the five hospitals in southern province of Limburg said:
They urged fresh measures including beginning immediately with booster vaccination shots for elderly and vulnerable patients.They urged fresh measures including beginning immediately with booster vaccination shots for elderly and vulnerable patients.
Rutte’s government has said it will offer booster shots to patients over the age of 60 once six months has passed since they were fully vaccinated.Rutte’s government has said it will offer booster shots to patients over the age of 60 once six months has passed since they were fully vaccinated.
His government is due to announce whether it will take fresh measures at a news conference scheduled for Friday.His government is due to announce whether it will take fresh measures at a news conference scheduled for Friday.
Leo fled his hometown in southern Mexico after his uncle was murdered by gang members and he received death threats. Earlier this year, he, his wife and their two children headed to the US-Mexico border hoping to claim asylum.Leo fled his hometown in southern Mexico after his uncle was murdered by gang members and he received death threats. Earlier this year, he, his wife and their two children headed to the US-Mexico border hoping to claim asylum.
After months of waiting, he hoped he would finally get his chance on Monday. But even as US borders opened, they remained closed to asylum seekers.After months of waiting, he hoped he would finally get his chance on Monday. But even as US borders opened, they remained closed to asylum seekers.
When Leo, 23, and his family approached the port of entry in Nogales, Mexico with his and his wife’s vaccination cards in hand, they were told by a border official they could not enter and seek asylum.When Leo, 23, and his family approached the port of entry in Nogales, Mexico with his and his wife’s vaccination cards in hand, they were told by a border official they could not enter and seek asylum.
“I feel dispirited and sad,” Leo, who asked his last name not be published for fear of reprisals from the gang he fled, told Reuters. President Joe Biden “is just continuing the same policies of Donald Trump”, he said.“I feel dispirited and sad,” Leo, who asked his last name not be published for fear of reprisals from the gang he fled, told Reuters. President Joe Biden “is just continuing the same policies of Donald Trump”, he said.
Biden has kept in place a controversial US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) order, first implemented by his predecessor in March 2020, that allows migrants to be immediately expelled without an opportunity to seek asylum.Biden has kept in place a controversial US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) order, first implemented by his predecessor in March 2020, that allows migrants to be immediately expelled without an opportunity to seek asylum.
The Biden administration has said the CDC’s order, known as Title 42, remains necessary to prevent the spread of Covid-19, as asylum seekers are processed in crowded settings at the border.The Biden administration has said the CDC’s order, known as Title 42, remains necessary to prevent the spread of Covid-19, as asylum seekers are processed in crowded settings at the border.
Any foreign national attempting to enter the United States without proper documentation will be subject to expulsion regardless of vaccination status, according to the Department of Homeland Security.Any foreign national attempting to enter the United States without proper documentation will be subject to expulsion regardless of vaccination status, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Advocates have criticised the Biden administration’s continuation of the expulsion policy as borders reopen.Advocates have criticised the Biden administration’s continuation of the expulsion policy as borders reopen.
The idea that a vaccinated asylum seeker is more of a risk than a vaccinated tourist is laughable, said Noah Gottschalk, global policy lead with Oxfam America, one of the advocacy groups suing the Biden administration to overturn the Title 42 order.The idea that a vaccinated asylum seeker is more of a risk than a vaccinated tourist is laughable, said Noah Gottschalk, global policy lead with Oxfam America, one of the advocacy groups suing the Biden administration to overturn the Title 42 order.
Gottschalk said the exclusion of vaccinated asylum seekers strengthens the group’s argument that the policy isn’t about public health.Gottschalk said the exclusion of vaccinated asylum seekers strengthens the group’s argument that the policy isn’t about public health.
In September, a federal judge ordered the Biden administration to stop expelling family units – parents or legal guardians arriving with their children – under the Title 42 order.In September, a federal judge ordered the Biden administration to stop expelling family units – parents or legal guardians arriving with their children – under the Title 42 order.
The administration appealed, and a higher court put the judge’s ruling on hold as the case moves forward.The administration appealed, and a higher court put the judge’s ruling on hold as the case moves forward.
Last month, more than 1,300 medical professionals signed letters to the CDC urging it to end the border expulsions order, saying it lacked epidemiological evidence to justify it and put migrants at risk.Last month, more than 1,300 medical professionals signed letters to the CDC urging it to end the border expulsions order, saying it lacked epidemiological evidence to justify it and put migrants at risk.
New York-based nonprofit Human Rights First has documented more than 7,600 kidnappings and other attacks on migrants stuck in Mexico who were blocked from entering the US since Biden took office in January.New York-based nonprofit Human Rights First has documented more than 7,600 kidnappings and other attacks on migrants stuck in Mexico who were blocked from entering the US since Biden took office in January.
Leo has been working in construction to pay rent in Nogales, but he says his earnings are not enough to support his family. “They abuse you because they know you are not from here, they pay you what they want,” he said.Leo has been working in construction to pay rent in Nogales, but he says his earnings are not enough to support his family. “They abuse you because they know you are not from here, they pay you what they want,” he said.
He is also worried about his children getting hit by a stray bullet when gunshots ring out at night. The US State Department recommends Americans reconsider travel to the Mexican state of Sonora, where Nogales is located, due to crime and kidnapping.He is also worried about his children getting hit by a stray bullet when gunshots ring out at night. The US State Department recommends Americans reconsider travel to the Mexican state of Sonora, where Nogales is located, due to crime and kidnapping.
“We were fleeing a place that was dangerous,” said Leo. “And here it is the same.”“We were fleeing a place that was dangerous,” said Leo. “And here it is the same.”
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_
Chris Hopson, the chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, said he was expecting a UK government announcement on a deadline for mandatory vaccination for NHS staff today. He said there are between 80,000 and 100,000 NHS workers in England who are unvaccinated against coronavirus. Unison head of health Sara Gorton said it is wrong to “leap to the law” by bringing in mandatory vaccination instead of trying to persuade NHS workers to get jabbed.Chris Hopson, the chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, said he was expecting a UK government announcement on a deadline for mandatory vaccination for NHS staff today. He said there are between 80,000 and 100,000 NHS workers in England who are unvaccinated against coronavirus. Unison head of health Sara Gorton said it is wrong to “leap to the law” by bringing in mandatory vaccination instead of trying to persuade NHS workers to get jabbed.
More than four in ten adults in England who were hesitant about getting a coronavirus vaccine have since been vaccinated, figures suggest. Some 44% of people previously hesitant have since been jabbed, while 55% remained unvaccinated, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.More than four in ten adults in England who were hesitant about getting a coronavirus vaccine have since been vaccinated, figures suggest. Some 44% of people previously hesitant have since been jabbed, while 55% remained unvaccinated, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
Dominic Raab, the deputy prime minister, has defended UK prime minister Boris Johnson’s appearance at a hospital yesterday at times without a face mask, which was the subject of much criticism on social media. Raab said “In any clinical setting, you follow the rules that are applied there.” The website of the hospital Johnson visited states that visitors must wear masks at all time.Dominic Raab, the deputy prime minister, has defended UK prime minister Boris Johnson’s appearance at a hospital yesterday at times without a face mask, which was the subject of much criticism on social media. Raab said “In any clinical setting, you follow the rules that are applied there.” The website of the hospital Johnson visited states that visitors must wear masks at all time.
In New Zealand an unusually large protest gathered steam in central Wellington today when about 2,000 people, some threatening violence, rallied against vaccine mandates and lockdowns. Protests took place across the country with some participants waving large Trump flags. Attacks on both police and reporters were also documented.In New Zealand an unusually large protest gathered steam in central Wellington today when about 2,000 people, some threatening violence, rallied against vaccine mandates and lockdowns. Protests took place across the country with some participants waving large Trump flags. Attacks on both police and reporters were also documented.
Ukraine registered a record 833 coronavirus-related deaths over the past 24 hoursUkraine registered a record 833 coronavirus-related deaths over the past 24 hours
Thailand plans to reopen its borders to workers from neighbouring Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, a government official said today, in a bid to ease a labour shortage that is hurting its export and tourism-dependent economy.Thailand plans to reopen its borders to workers from neighbouring Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, a government official said today, in a bid to ease a labour shortage that is hurting its export and tourism-dependent economy.
Covid-19 patients in Singapore who remain unvaccinated by choice will have to pay for their hospitalisation bills from 8 December, the government has ruled.Covid-19 patients in Singapore who remain unvaccinated by choice will have to pay for their hospitalisation bills from 8 December, the government has ruled.
India could resume deliveries of Covid-19 shots to global vaccine-sharing platform Covax in a few weeks for the first time since April. It would end a suspension of supplies that has hurt the vaccination efforts of poorer countries.India could resume deliveries of Covid-19 shots to global vaccine-sharing platform Covax in a few weeks for the first time since April. It would end a suspension of supplies that has hurt the vaccination efforts of poorer countries.
Residents of a city in China that borders Russia have been offered major cash rewards for tips on the continuing Delta outbreak, with local officials declaring a “people’s war” on the virus.Residents of a city in China that borders Russia have been offered major cash rewards for tips on the continuing Delta outbreak, with local officials declaring a “people’s war” on the virus.
China has broadened its definition of close contact in the latest drive to control the further spread of the virus during winter. The new methodology says that people who happen to be in the same area at the same time as an infected person for a short period of time may be asked to get a test or quarantineChina has broadened its definition of close contact in the latest drive to control the further spread of the virus during winter. The new methodology says that people who happen to be in the same area at the same time as an infected person for a short period of time may be asked to get a test or quarantine
In the United States, there is a renewed campaign to vaccinate rural Americans due to the stark difference in Covid-19 cases and deaths among those living in less-populated areas compared with towns and cities.In the United States, there is a renewed campaign to vaccinate rural Americans due to the stark difference in Covid-19 cases and deaths among those living in less-populated areas compared with towns and cities.
In Australia a Carlton AFL player is refusing to have his Covid-19 vaccinations before the club’s pre-season training.In Australia a Carlton AFL player is refusing to have his Covid-19 vaccinations before the club’s pre-season training.
That is it from me, Martin Belam, today. Lucy Campbell will be here to pick up the baton shortly.That is it from me, Martin Belam, today. Lucy Campbell will be here to pick up the baton shortly.