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Covid live: Germany to begin rollout of Novavax’s jab; New Zealand to end vaccine mandates after Omicron peak Covid live: Germany to begin rollout of Novavax’s jab; New Zealand to end vaccine mandates after Omicron peak
(32 minutes later)
Latest updates: Germany hopes protein-based vaccine comparable to flu jabs will help sway people sceptical of mRNA vaccinesLatest updates: Germany hopes protein-based vaccine comparable to flu jabs will help sway people sceptical of mRNA vaccines
Our Berlin bureau chief, Philip Oltermann, reports on the rollout of Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine in Germany:Our Berlin bureau chief, Philip Oltermann, reports on the rollout of Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine in Germany:
Germany will offer its population a new protein-based Covid-19 vaccine comparable to conventional flu jabs this week, in the hope of swaying a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines.Germany will offer its population a new protein-based Covid-19 vaccine comparable to conventional flu jabs this week, in the hope of swaying a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines.
About 1.4m doses of the Nuvaxovid vaccine developed by the US biotech company Novavax are to arrive in Germany this week, the country’s health minister, Karl Lauterbach, confirmed last Friday. A further 1m doses are to arrive the week after, with the German government’s total order for the year 2022 amounting to 34m doses.About 1.4m doses of the Nuvaxovid vaccine developed by the US biotech company Novavax are to arrive in Germany this week, the country’s health minister, Karl Lauterbach, confirmed last Friday. A further 1m doses are to arrive the week after, with the German government’s total order for the year 2022 amounting to 34m doses.
Novavax’s product has until now only been used in Indonesia and the Philippines, but was permitted for use in the EU last December. It is still awaiting authorisation in the US, as some concerns about the company’s production capacity persist.Novavax’s product has until now only been used in Indonesia and the Philippines, but was permitted for use in the EU last December. It is still awaiting authorisation in the US, as some concerns about the company’s production capacity persist.
Unlike the novel mRNA vaccines produced by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna or viral vector made by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, Nuvaxovid is a protein subunit vaccine. It contains a non-infectious component on the surface of the Sars-CoV-2 virus, which induces a protective immune response when the body’s immune cells come into contact with it.Unlike the novel mRNA vaccines produced by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna or viral vector made by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, Nuvaxovid is a protein subunit vaccine. It contains a non-infectious component on the surface of the Sars-CoV-2 virus, which induces a protective immune response when the body’s immune cells come into contact with it.
Novavax announced last Junethat its vaccine had proven more than 90% effective against symptomatic infections with the Alpha variant, in trials including nearly 30,000 volunteers in the US and Mexico.Novavax announced last Junethat its vaccine had proven more than 90% effective against symptomatic infections with the Alpha variant, in trials including nearly 30,000 volunteers in the US and Mexico.
The company says its product is similarly effective against the Delta and Omicron variants, especially after a booster shot administered six months after the second jab. Germany’s Paul Ehrlich Institute notes that the data proving the vaccine’s efficacy against more infectious variants remains limited.The company says its product is similarly effective against the Delta and Omicron variants, especially after a booster shot administered six months after the second jab. Germany’s Paul Ehrlich Institute notes that the data proving the vaccine’s efficacy against more infectious variants remains limited.
Surveys in Germany suggest a considerable interest in the Novavax jab among the 19.8 million people in the country who have so far declined to take a jab against Covid-19. Out of 4,000 unvaccinated hospital workers surveyed in Berlin, 1,800 expressed an interest in the protein-based vaccine.Surveys in Germany suggest a considerable interest in the Novavax jab among the 19.8 million people in the country who have so far declined to take a jab against Covid-19. Out of 4,000 unvaccinated hospital workers surveyed in Berlin, 1,800 expressed an interest in the protein-based vaccine.
In the northern states of Lower Saxony, the health ministry said 6,000 people had put their name on a waiting list for Nuvaxovid by early February.In the northern states of Lower Saxony, the health ministry said 6,000 people had put their name on a waiting list for Nuvaxovid by early February.
Some scientists question whether the new vaccine will prove a game changer in a country whose overall vaccination rate has been flatlining around 75% for months. Lars Korn, co-author of a current survey of anti-vaxxer attitudes conducted by the University of Erfurt, told public broadcaster ZDF that two-thirds of respondents would continue to completely reject any form of vaccination.Some scientists question whether the new vaccine will prove a game changer in a country whose overall vaccination rate has been flatlining around 75% for months. Lars Korn, co-author of a current survey of anti-vaxxer attitudes conducted by the University of Erfurt, told public broadcaster ZDF that two-thirds of respondents would continue to completely reject any form of vaccination.
Hello! I’m Léonie Chao-Fong with you on the live blog today. Thanks for following along for all the latest coronavirus developments. If you’ve just joined us, here is a quick snapshot of all the most recent news stories.Hello! I’m Léonie Chao-Fong with you on the live blog today. Thanks for following along for all the latest coronavirus developments. If you’ve just joined us, here is a quick snapshot of all the most recent news stories.
Over-75s and people with suppressed immune systems in the UK are to be offered another Covid-19 booster vaccination in the coming weeks to increase potentially waning protection, after advice from the government’s vaccines watchdog.Over-75s and people with suppressed immune systems in the UK are to be offered another Covid-19 booster vaccination in the coming weeks to increase potentially waning protection, after advice from the government’s vaccines watchdog.
Germany expects vaccinations with Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid, to begin across the country over the course of this week, the health ministry said. The government hopes the new protein-based Covid-19 vaccine will help sway a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines. Germany expects vaccinations with Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine to begin across the country over the course of this week, the health ministry said. The government hopes the new protein-based Nuvaxovid will help sway a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines.
Britons can now only order a free box of lateral flow Covid-19 tests every 72 hours, according to the government’s website. It comes ahead of Boris Johnson’s announcement later today that all remaining Covid restrictions in England will be lifted this week as he unveils the government’s long-term strategy for living with the virus.Britons can now only order a free box of lateral flow Covid-19 tests every 72 hours, according to the government’s website. It comes ahead of Boris Johnson’s announcement later today that all remaining Covid restrictions in England will be lifted this week as he unveils the government’s long-term strategy for living with the virus.
South Africa’s health department says it is changing Covid vaccination rules to try to increase uptake, as inoculations have slowed and the country has ample vaccine stocks.South Africa’s health department says it is changing Covid vaccination rules to try to increase uptake, as inoculations have slowed and the country has ample vaccine stocks.
International tourists and business travellers began arriving in Australia with few restrictions today. Australia closed its borders to tourists in March 2020 in a bid to reduce the local spread of Covid, but on Monday removed its final travel restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers. International tourists and business travellers began arriving in Australia with few restrictions today. Australia closed its borders to tourists in March 2020 in an effort to reduce the local spread of Covid, but on Monday removed its final travel restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers.
New Zealand will lift Covid vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday. New Zealand will lift Covid vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, its prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, said on Monday.
Nurseries in England continue to be severely affected by the pandemic, with latest official data showing record numbers of early years and childcare settings reporting Covid cases at the end of last month.Nurseries in England continue to be severely affected by the pandemic, with latest official data showing record numbers of early years and childcare settings reporting Covid cases at the end of last month.
Jordan’s prime minister, Bisher al-Khasawneh, has tested positive for Covid-19 during an official visit to Egypt, state news agency Petra news agency reports. All other official meetings have been cancelled, Jordan’s information minister said, including a scheduled meeting with Egyptian president Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.Jordan’s prime minister, Bisher al-Khasawneh, has tested positive for Covid-19 during an official visit to Egypt, state news agency Petra news agency reports. All other official meetings have been cancelled, Jordan’s information minister said, including a scheduled meeting with Egyptian president Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.
Over-75s and people with suppressed immune systems in the UK are to be offered another Covid-19 booster vaccination in the coming weeks to increase potentially waning protection, after advice from the government’s vaccines watchdog.Over-75s and people with suppressed immune systems in the UK are to be offered another Covid-19 booster vaccination in the coming weeks to increase potentially waning protection, after advice from the government’s vaccines watchdog.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has formally advised a rollout of an additional booster this spring for groups of people seen as most vulnerable to severe coronavirus.The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has formally advised a rollout of an additional booster this spring for groups of people seen as most vulnerable to severe coronavirus.
The recommendation is that additional boosters should be offered to people aged 75 or over, and residents in older people’s care homes, and anyone aged 12 or above who is immunosuppressed.The recommendation is that additional boosters should be offered to people aged 75 or over, and residents in older people’s care homes, and anyone aged 12 or above who is immunosuppressed.
The announcement came just before Boris Johnson’s formal unveiling of plans to abolish all domestic coronavirus restrictions across England, including an end to mandatory self-isolation. The announcement came just before Boris Johnson’s formal unveiling of plans to end all domestic coronavirus restrictions across England including mandatory self-isolation.
A decision on the precise plan was delayed at the last minute amid tensions between the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, over funds for free Covid-19 testing.A decision on the precise plan was delayed at the last minute amid tensions between the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, over funds for free Covid-19 testing.
Groups seen as being at the greatest risk of severe coronavirus are also likely to be offered a further booster jab this autumn, before an expected rise in infections over winter, the JCVI added.Groups seen as being at the greatest risk of severe coronavirus are also likely to be offered a further booster jab this autumn, before an expected rise in infections over winter, the JCVI added.
As Hong Kong battles its worst coronavirus outbreak, pleas for the city’s large proportion of unvaccinated elderly population to get their jabs have been issued by authorities, medical experts and concerned family members. As Hong Kong battles its worst coronavirus outbreak, pleas for the city’s large proportion of unvaccinated older population to get their jabs have been issued by authorities, medical experts and concerned family members.
While younger Hongkongers have largely embraced the vaccination programme, the majority of residents aged 80 and above are resisting, South China Morning Post reports.While younger Hongkongers have largely embraced the vaccination programme, the majority of residents aged 80 and above are resisting, South China Morning Post reports.
Some 40% of Hong Kong residents aged 70 and above remain unvaccinated, even though jabs became available to them last February. Many of those have cited concerns about the safety of the shots or lack of trust in the government. Forty per cent of Hong Kong residents aged 70 and above remain unvaccinated, even though jabs became available to them last February. Many of those have cited concerns about the safety of the shots or lack of trust in the government.
Sit Pui-yu, 72, said he will not take a Covid-19 vaccine even if his refusal will mean he is no longer able to access restaurants or markets. He told the paper: Sit Pui-yu, 72, said he will not take a Covid-19 vaccine even if his refusal would mean he was no longer able to access restaurants or markets. He told the paper:
Hong Kong reported 7,533 new Covid cases on Monday, a new record high, and a further 13 deaths including a 11-month-old child. Hong Kong reported 7,533 new Covid cases on Monday, a record high, and a further 13 deaths including a 11-month-old child.
The provision of free lateral flow tests in the UK has been rationed ahead of the announcement of the government’s “Living with Covid” plan, according to reports. The provision of free lateral flow tests in the UK has been rationed ahead of the announcement of the government’s “living with Covid” plan, according to reports.
Members of the public can now only order a free box of lateral flow Covid-19 tests every 72 hours, according to the government’s website.Members of the public can now only order a free box of lateral flow Covid-19 tests every 72 hours, according to the government’s website.
On Sunday, the website allowed people to order a box of tests every 24 hours. It has now been updated to say that people can order “one pack every 3 days”.On Sunday, the website allowed people to order a box of tests every 24 hours. It has now been updated to say that people can order “one pack every 3 days”.
The update comes ahead of Boris Johnson’s announcement to scrap most PCR testing and restrict free lateral flows, probably to older age groups.The update comes ahead of Boris Johnson’s announcement to scrap most PCR testing and restrict free lateral flows, probably to older age groups.
Here’s the full story on how tensions between the UK’s chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, have led to delays over signing off the government’s strategy to end all remaining Covid regulations in England, by my colleagues Jessica Elgot and Rowena Mason:Here’s the full story on how tensions between the UK’s chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, have led to delays over signing off the government’s strategy to end all remaining Covid regulations in England, by my colleagues Jessica Elgot and Rowena Mason:
Plans to sign off the government’s strategy to end all remaining Covid regulations in England have been delayed at the last minute amid tensions between the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, over funds for free Covid testing.Plans to sign off the government’s strategy to end all remaining Covid regulations in England have been delayed at the last minute amid tensions between the chancellor, Rishi Sunak, and the health secretary, Sajid Javid, over funds for free Covid testing.
Cabinet ministers were told of the delay as they arrived at No 10 on Monday morning amid the final wrangling over the “living with Covid” strategy expected to be announced to the House of Commons in the afternoon.Cabinet ministers were told of the delay as they arrived at No 10 on Monday morning amid the final wrangling over the “living with Covid” strategy expected to be announced to the House of Commons in the afternoon.
A government source said there was still no agreement between the Treasury and the Department of Health and Social Care on the extent of the testing cutbacks, although another source at the DHSC insisted Javid had accepted the fiscal position that most testing must end.A government source said there was still no agreement between the Treasury and the Department of Health and Social Care on the extent of the testing cutbacks, although another source at the DHSC insisted Javid had accepted the fiscal position that most testing must end.
The source denied Javid was seeking new money and said that instead he wanted to “reprioritise” his existing budgets by moving funds from other areas within the department to cover the additional testing.The source denied Javid was seeking new money and said that instead he wanted to “reprioritise” his existing budgets by moving funds from other areas within the department to cover the additional testing.
“DHSC are absolutely not asking for additional funding, they want to reprioritise within the existing budget,” the source said.“DHSC are absolutely not asking for additional funding, they want to reprioritise within the existing budget,” the source said.
Last week, the Guardian reported that the Treasury was driving efforts to reduce costs from an estimated annual £15bn, with an opening suggestion of cutting the budget by more than 90%, to £1.3bn.Last week, the Guardian reported that the Treasury was driving efforts to reduce costs from an estimated annual £15bn, with an opening suggestion of cutting the budget by more than 90%, to £1.3bn.
Javid is said to want to fund enough testing to ensure the survival of the Panoramic antiviral drugs trial, which officials believe would need free lateral flow tests for over-50s and vulnerable adults under 50 until at least September.Javid is said to want to fund enough testing to ensure the survival of the Panoramic antiviral drugs trial, which officials believe would need free lateral flow tests for over-50s and vulnerable adults under 50 until at least September.
The Scottish unit of French vaccine-maker Valneva has received a grant of up to £20m to partly fund the research and development (R&D) of manufacturing its Covid-19 vaccine VLA2001, the company said.The Scottish unit of French vaccine-maker Valneva has received a grant of up to £20m to partly fund the research and development (R&D) of manufacturing its Covid-19 vaccine VLA2001, the company said.
Valneva will receive the funds from Scotland’s national economic development agency Scottish Enterprise. The first grant of up to £12.5m will support the company’s efforts on its inactivated, whole virus coronavirus vaccine candidate. The second round of up to £7.5m will be used for Valneva’s other vaccines.Valneva will receive the funds from Scotland’s national economic development agency Scottish Enterprise. The first grant of up to £12.5m will support the company’s efforts on its inactivated, whole virus coronavirus vaccine candidate. The second round of up to £7.5m will be used for Valneva’s other vaccines.
The announcement comes after the UK government decided to scrap its agreement to buy 100m doses of Valneva’s Covid vaccine, amid allegations of a breach of agreement that the company has strenuously denied.The announcement comes after the UK government decided to scrap its agreement to buy 100m doses of Valneva’s Covid vaccine, amid allegations of a breach of agreement that the company has strenuously denied.
“Rogue” antibodies that attack the lining of blood vessels may contribute to deadly blood-clotting in some coronavirus patients, according to a new study.“Rogue” antibodies that attack the lining of blood vessels may contribute to deadly blood-clotting in some coronavirus patients, according to a new study.
Researchers at the University of Michigan studied the blood samples of nearly 250 patients hospitalised for Covid-19. They found higher-than-expected levels of “antiphospholipid autoantibodies”, which can trigger blood clots in the arteries and veins of patients with autoimmune disorders, in about half of the patients.Researchers at the University of Michigan studied the blood samples of nearly 250 patients hospitalised for Covid-19. They found higher-than-expected levels of “antiphospholipid autoantibodies”, which can trigger blood clots in the arteries and veins of patients with autoimmune disorders, in about half of the patients.
While antibodies typically help the body neutralise infections, autoantibodies are antibodies produced by the immune system that mistakenly target and sometimes damage the body’s own systems and organs. In patients with autoimmune disorders, they can trigger blood clots in the arteries and veins.While antibodies typically help the body neutralise infections, autoantibodies are antibodies produced by the immune system that mistakenly target and sometimes damage the body’s own systems and organs. In patients with autoimmune disorders, they can trigger blood clots in the arteries and veins.
In Covid-19 patients, these clots can block vessels, triggering strokes, causing long-term damage to organs and lung problems that impair patients’ ability to breathe.In Covid-19 patients, these clots can block vessels, triggering strokes, causing long-term damage to organs and lung problems that impair patients’ ability to breathe.
More research is indeed but researchers say the study may lead to screening and treatment for Covid-19 patients at greatest risk of blood clots, both during the initial infection and later, among those who suffer from long Covid symptoms.More research is indeed but researchers say the study may lead to screening and treatment for Covid-19 patients at greatest risk of blood clots, both during the initial infection and later, among those who suffer from long Covid symptoms.
We’re gonna have to individualise treatment for long Covid patients, Dr Jason Knight, a rheumatologist at Michigan Medicine and co-author of the study, said:We’re gonna have to individualise treatment for long Covid patients, Dr Jason Knight, a rheumatologist at Michigan Medicine and co-author of the study, said:
Our education correspondent, Sally Weale, looks at Covid-19 figures in nurseries in England:Our education correspondent, Sally Weale, looks at Covid-19 figures in nurseries in England:
Nurseries in England continue to be severely affected by the pandemic, with latest official data showing record numbers of early years and childcare settings reporting Covid cases at the end of last month.Nurseries in England continue to be severely affected by the pandemic, with latest official data showing record numbers of early years and childcare settings reporting Covid cases at the end of last month.
As the government prepared to lift remaining Covid restrictions, government statistics published on Monday revealed more than 5,000 settings reported one or more cases of Covid in the week beginning the 24 January.As the government prepared to lift remaining Covid restrictions, government statistics published on Monday revealed more than 5,000 settings reported one or more cases of Covid in the week beginning the 24 January.
The total was slightly lower a week later, dropping from 5189 to 4559, but the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) said the figures showed that staff and children were still catching and becoming ill with Covid. The total was slightly lower a week later, dropping from 5,189 to 4,559, but the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) said the figures showed staff and children were still catching and becoming ill with Covid.
Purnima Tanuku, NDNA chief executive, said NDNA survey data for the second week in February showed absence rates for staff and children beginning to drop. “This will be a major relief for nurseries and parents but with absence still around 9% this shows the impact of the pandemic is not completely over for settings or children.”Purnima Tanuku, NDNA chief executive, said NDNA survey data for the second week in February showed absence rates for staff and children beginning to drop. “This will be a major relief for nurseries and parents but with absence still around 9% this shows the impact of the pandemic is not completely over for settings or children.”
It was also confirmed by Ofsted that as of today nurseries and childminders will no longer be required to report to the watchdog if there is a confirmed case of Covid. “While settings will be relieved that the administrative burden of reporting cases will be eased … it shows that staff and children are still catching and being ill with Covid-19,” said Tanuku. It was also confirmed by Ofsted that as of today nurseries and childminders would no longer be required to report to the watchdog if there was a confirmed case of Covid. “While settings will be relieved that the administrative burden of reporting cases will be eased … it shows that staff and children are still catching and being ill with Covid-19,” said Tanuku.
“Nurseries are still telling us that Covid is impacting on how they staff and resource their setting and this must be taken into account by Ofsted inspectors when any visits take place; either by allowing deferrals or taking into account the pressures that settings and staff are under.”“Nurseries are still telling us that Covid is impacting on how they staff and resource their setting and this must be taken into account by Ofsted inspectors when any visits take place; either by allowing deferrals or taking into account the pressures that settings and staff are under.”
The Queen is expected to speak by telephone with Boris Johnson and conduct virtual audiences this week, a day after testing positive for coronavirus.The Queen is expected to speak by telephone with Boris Johnson and conduct virtual audiences this week, a day after testing positive for coronavirus.
The 95-year-old monarch, who is experiencing mild cold-like symptoms, is self-isolating at Windsor Castle where she expects to be at her desk continuing “light duties” over the coming days, Buckingham Palace has said.The 95-year-old monarch, who is experiencing mild cold-like symptoms, is self-isolating at Windsor Castle where she expects to be at her desk continuing “light duties” over the coming days, Buckingham Palace has said.
She is due to speak to the prime minister on Wednesday for her regular weekly update and is planning to go ahead with other virtual diplomatic audiences scheduled with foreign ambassadors, the palace said.She is due to speak to the prime minister on Wednesday for her regular weekly update and is planning to go ahead with other virtual diplomatic audiences scheduled with foreign ambassadors, the palace said.
Here’s an interesting thread from Dr Adam Kucharski, an associate professor in infectious disease epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, on where the pandemic goes from here.Here’s an interesting thread from Dr Adam Kucharski, an associate professor in infectious disease epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, on where the pandemic goes from here.
A post-infection so-called “honeymoon period” can follow after an epidemic has peaked and begins to decline, he writes. As immunity accumulates in a population, we may end up in a situation where R (the effective reproduction number) drops considerably below one.A post-infection so-called “honeymoon period” can follow after an epidemic has peaked and begins to decline, he writes. As immunity accumulates in a population, we may end up in a situation where R (the effective reproduction number) drops considerably below one.
In short, we shouldn’t assume that post-Omicron levels of infection are where things will stay for good, he writes.In short, we shouldn’t assume that post-Omicron levels of infection are where things will stay for good, he writes.
In the UK, a cabinet meeting where the prime minister’s plan to lift all remaining domestic Covid restrictions in England was set to be rubber-stamped has been delayed, PA news agency reports.In the UK, a cabinet meeting where the prime minister’s plan to lift all remaining domestic Covid restrictions in England was set to be rubber-stamped has been delayed, PA news agency reports.
The meeting, due to take place on Monday morning, has reportedly been shifted to the afternoon while Boris Johnson receives more briefings. The plan is still expected to be signed off, the agency understands.The meeting, due to take place on Monday morning, has reportedly been shifted to the afternoon while Boris Johnson receives more briefings. The plan is still expected to be signed off, the agency understands.
As part of Johnson’s “Living with Covid” plan, the legal requirement for anyone with Covid to isolate will be ditched a month earlier than planned. Free PCR and lateral flow tests for all will be axed to rein in public spending, which could be a point of contention between senior ministers. The tests will reportedly be kept for the over-80s.As part of Johnson’s “Living with Covid” plan, the legal requirement for anyone with Covid to isolate will be ditched a month earlier than planned. Free PCR and lateral flow tests for all will be axed to rein in public spending, which could be a point of contention between senior ministers. The tests will reportedly be kept for the over-80s.
On Sunday, the prime minister told the BBC the UK spent two billion on testing in January alone and that such high expenditure did not need to continue.On Sunday, the prime minister told the BBC the UK spent two billion on testing in January alone and that such high expenditure did not need to continue.
The national contact tracing service is also expected to be wound down and schoolchildren will no longer be told to get tested twice a week.The national contact tracing service is also expected to be wound down and schoolchildren will no longer be told to get tested twice a week.
Our Berlin bureau chief, Philip Oltermann, reports on the rollout of Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine in Germany:Our Berlin bureau chief, Philip Oltermann, reports on the rollout of Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine in Germany:
Germany will offer its population a new protein-based Covid-19 vaccine comparable to conventional flu jabs this week, in the hope of swaying a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines.Germany will offer its population a new protein-based Covid-19 vaccine comparable to conventional flu jabs this week, in the hope of swaying a sizeable minority that remains sceptical of the novel mRNA technology used in the most commonly used vaccines.
About 1.4m doses of the Nuvaxovid vaccine developed by the US biotech company Novavax are to arrive in Germany this week, the country’s health minister, Karl Lauterbach, confirmed last Friday. A further 1m doses are to arrive the week after, with the German government’s total order for the year 2022 amounting to 34m doses.About 1.4m doses of the Nuvaxovid vaccine developed by the US biotech company Novavax are to arrive in Germany this week, the country’s health minister, Karl Lauterbach, confirmed last Friday. A further 1m doses are to arrive the week after, with the German government’s total order for the year 2022 amounting to 34m doses.
Novavax’s product has until now only been used in Indonesia and the Philippines, but was permitted for use in the EU last December. It is still awaiting authorisation in the US, as some concerns about the company’s production capacity persist.Novavax’s product has until now only been used in Indonesia and the Philippines, but was permitted for use in the EU last December. It is still awaiting authorisation in the US, as some concerns about the company’s production capacity persist.
Unlike the novel mRNA vaccines produced by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna or viral vector made by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, Nuvaxovid is a protein subunit vaccine. It contains a non-infectious component on the surface of the Sars-CoV-2 virus, which induces a protective immune response when the body’s immune cells come into contact with it.Unlike the novel mRNA vaccines produced by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna or viral vector made by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, Nuvaxovid is a protein subunit vaccine. It contains a non-infectious component on the surface of the Sars-CoV-2 virus, which induces a protective immune response when the body’s immune cells come into contact with it.
Novavax announced last Junethat its vaccine had proven more than 90% effective against symptomatic infections with the Alpha variant, in trials including nearly 30,000 volunteers in the US and Mexico.Novavax announced last Junethat its vaccine had proven more than 90% effective against symptomatic infections with the Alpha variant, in trials including nearly 30,000 volunteers in the US and Mexico.
The company says its product is similarly effective against the Delta and Omicron variants, especially after a booster shot administered six months after the second jab. Germany’s Paul Ehrlich Institute notes that the data proving the vaccine’s efficacy against more infectious variants remains limited.The company says its product is similarly effective against the Delta and Omicron variants, especially after a booster shot administered six months after the second jab. Germany’s Paul Ehrlich Institute notes that the data proving the vaccine’s efficacy against more infectious variants remains limited.
Surveys in Germany suggest a considerable interest in the Novavax jab among the 19.8 million people in the country who have so far declined to take a jab against Covid-19. Out of 4,000 unvaccinated hospital workers surveyed in Berlin, 1,800 expressed an interest in the protein-based vaccine.Surveys in Germany suggest a considerable interest in the Novavax jab among the 19.8 million people in the country who have so far declined to take a jab against Covid-19. Out of 4,000 unvaccinated hospital workers surveyed in Berlin, 1,800 expressed an interest in the protein-based vaccine.
In the northern states of Lower Saxony, the health ministry said 6,000 people had put their name on a waiting list for Nuvaxovid by early February.In the northern states of Lower Saxony, the health ministry said 6,000 people had put their name on a waiting list for Nuvaxovid by early February.
Some scientists question whether the new vaccine will prove a game changer in a country whose overall vaccination rate has been flatlining around 75% for months. Lars Korn, co-author of a current survey of anti-vaxxer attitudes conducted by the University of Erfurt, told public broadcaster ZDF that two-thirds of respondents would continue to completely reject any form of vaccination.Some scientists question whether the new vaccine will prove a game changer in a country whose overall vaccination rate has been flatlining around 75% for months. Lars Korn, co-author of a current survey of anti-vaxxer attitudes conducted by the University of Erfurt, told public broadcaster ZDF that two-thirds of respondents would continue to completely reject any form of vaccination.
Our Berlin correspondent, Kate Connolly, reports on how recent analysis of autopsies in Germany show how most people whose deaths were attributed to Covid-19 died of the virus.Our Berlin correspondent, Kate Connolly, reports on how recent analysis of autopsies in Germany show how most people whose deaths were attributed to Covid-19 died of the virus.
Analysis of autopsies in Germany carried out on Covid-19 patients has shown that 86% of people died as a direct result of the virus, rather than from other causes.Analysis of autopsies in Germany carried out on Covid-19 patients has shown that 86% of people died as a direct result of the virus, rather than from other causes.
Data from 1,129 autopsies on Germany’s DeRegCOVID register which was started in April 2020, have come to the definitive conclusion that most people whose deaths were attributed to Covid – even those of a higher age who would be more likely to have other conditions – died of Covid rather than with Covid.Data from 1,129 autopsies on Germany’s DeRegCOVID register which was started in April 2020, have come to the definitive conclusion that most people whose deaths were attributed to Covid – even those of a higher age who would be more likely to have other conditions – died of Covid rather than with Covid.
The data has been collected from 29 different locations, most of them university clinics or hospitals, throughout Germany, of deaths that occurred up to October 2021.The data has been collected from 29 different locations, most of them university clinics or hospitals, throughout Germany, of deaths that occurred up to October 2021.
The number of men who died considerably outweighed the number of women by 1.8 to 1. Among men, the majority were aged 65-69 and 80-84, while the majority of women who died were over 85.The number of men who died considerably outweighed the number of women by 1.8 to 1. Among men, the majority were aged 65-69 and 80-84, while the majority of women who died were over 85.
Pathologists said they hoped the analysis would help them to gain more information about the illnesses’ development.Pathologists said they hoped the analysis would help them to gain more information about the illnesses’ development.
The evidence shows that during the first two waves of the virus, half of the patients who died, according to those who underwent a postmortem did so within two weeks of their first symptoms appearing. In the third wave, this had reduced to 41%.The evidence shows that during the first two waves of the virus, half of the patients who died, according to those who underwent a postmortem did so within two weeks of their first symptoms appearing. In the third wave, this had reduced to 41%.
The main cause of death was irreversible damage to lungs due to acute adult respiratory distress syndrome (DAD/ARDS) followed by multiple organ failure. DAD/ARDS was frequently responsible for those deaths which occurred in the first two weeks, while multiple organ failure was more likely to occur in those patients who died from two to five weeks after their first symptoms occurred.The main cause of death was irreversible damage to lungs due to acute adult respiratory distress syndrome (DAD/ARDS) followed by multiple organ failure. DAD/ARDS was frequently responsible for those deaths which occurred in the first two weeks, while multiple organ failure was more likely to occur in those patients who died from two to five weeks after their first symptoms occurred.
The third most likely cause of death was bacterial or fungal infections in the lungs. In the remaining 14% of patients, Covid 19 accompanied other conditions.The third most likely cause of death was bacterial or fungal infections in the lungs. In the remaining 14% of patients, Covid 19 accompanied other conditions.
However, the researchers stressed their results were a conservative estimate. The fatal heart attacks and heart failure that killed patients with coronavirus may well have been a direct result of the infection, they said.However, the researchers stressed their results were a conservative estimate. The fatal heart attacks and heart failure that killed patients with coronavirus may well have been a direct result of the infection, they said.
In a statement, Saskia von Stillfried from the Institute for Pathology at the University Hospital RWTH Aachen said:In a statement, Saskia von Stillfried from the Institute for Pathology at the University Hospital RWTH Aachen said:
She said this was in line with data collected by the government disease control agency, the Robert Koch Institute.She said this was in line with data collected by the government disease control agency, the Robert Koch Institute.
Hello everyone. It’s Léonie Chao-Fong here again, taking over the live blog from Tom Ambrose to bring you all the latest global developments on the coronavirus pandemic. Feel free to get in touch on Twitter or via email.Hello everyone. It’s Léonie Chao-Fong here again, taking over the live blog from Tom Ambrose to bring you all the latest global developments on the coronavirus pandemic. Feel free to get in touch on Twitter or via email.
We start with some breaking news. Jordan’s prime minister, Bisher al-Khasawneh, has tested positive for Covid-19 during an official visit to Egypt, state news agency Petra news agency reports.We start with some breaking news. Jordan’s prime minister, Bisher al-Khasawneh, has tested positive for Covid-19 during an official visit to Egypt, state news agency Petra news agency reports.
The agency quotes Jordan’s information minister as saying coronavirus tests after a meeting between Khasawneh and his Egyptian counterpart proved positive.The agency quotes Jordan’s information minister as saying coronavirus tests after a meeting between Khasawneh and his Egyptian counterpart proved positive.
All other official meetings have been cancelled, the minister added, including a scheduled meeting with Egyptian president Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.All other official meetings have been cancelled, the minister added, including a scheduled meeting with Egyptian president Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.
The prime minister will isolate at home after returning to Jordan, the report said.The prime minister will isolate at home after returning to Jordan, the report said.
Here is a round-up of the day’s top Covid news stories so far:Here is a round-up of the day’s top Covid news stories so far:
South Africa’s health department says it is changing Covid vaccination rules to try to increase uptake, as inoculations have slowed and the country has ample vaccine stocks.South Africa’s health department says it is changing Covid vaccination rules to try to increase uptake, as inoculations have slowed and the country has ample vaccine stocks.
Hong Kong confirmed on Monday that its vaccine bubble will be expanded to include shopping malls and supermarkets, but said exemptions and random inspections would happen at some sites.Hong Kong confirmed on Monday that its vaccine bubble will be expanded to include shopping malls and supermarkets, but said exemptions and random inspections would happen at some sites.
International tourists and business travellers began arriving in Australia with few restrictions today.Australia closed its borders to tourists in March 2020 in a bid to reduce the local spread of Covid, but on Monday removed its final travel restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers.International tourists and business travellers began arriving in Australia with few restrictions today.Australia closed its borders to tourists in March 2020 in a bid to reduce the local spread of Covid, but on Monday removed its final travel restrictions for fully vaccinated passengers.
New Zealand will lift Covid vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday.New Zealand will lift Covid vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday.
In the UK, anti-vaxxers will be banned from “harmful and disruptive” protests outside schools and vaccination clinics after Priti Patel accepted an amendment to a bill due to be debated in parliament this week.In the UK, anti-vaxxers will be banned from “harmful and disruptive” protests outside schools and vaccination clinics after Priti Patel accepted an amendment to a bill due to be debated in parliament this week.
Boris Johnson will proclaim that the lifting of all remaining Covid restrictions in England this week marks a “moment of pride” when he unveils the government’s long-term strategy for living with the virus, despite concerns from scientists, health experts and Labour that the move is premature.Boris Johnson will proclaim that the lifting of all remaining Covid restrictions in England this week marks a “moment of pride” when he unveils the government’s long-term strategy for living with the virus, despite concerns from scientists, health experts and Labour that the move is premature.
Companies will have to pay for testing and decide policies on self-isolation for staff, a business minister has said in advance of Boris Johnson’s formal announcement that all remaining domestic Covid restrictions in England will end.Companies will have to pay for testing and decide policies on self-isolation for staff, a business minister has said in advance of Boris Johnson’s formal announcement that all remaining domestic Covid restrictions in England will end.
A vast majority of Japanese people think the rollout of booster shots against Covid is too slow and give mixed reviews to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s handling of the pandemic, polls show.A vast majority of Japanese people think the rollout of booster shots against Covid is too slow and give mixed reviews to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s handling of the pandemic, polls show.
That’s it from me, Tom Ambrose. I’ll be back tomorrow but, for now, I’m handing over to my colleague, Léonie Chao-Fong, who will be along shortly to continue bringing you all the latest coronavirus news from around the world.That’s it from me, Tom Ambrose. I’ll be back tomorrow but, for now, I’m handing over to my colleague, Léonie Chao-Fong, who will be along shortly to continue bringing you all the latest coronavirus news from around the world.