SimplyInfo.org Coronavirus Live Blog 11.30.2021
This is an ongoing weekly update of news headlines, new studies, and data related to the coronavirus outbreak. The newest information is at the top. If you have a question or want to discuss this issue in-depth, we have been discussing this issue in our chat system. Covid blog Information is updated once a week.
Last week’s blog post from 11.23.21 can be found here
We have moved older live blog posts to an archive that can be found in the right-side navigation.
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The discovery of the Omicron variant dominated the news this week. Below are graphs for deaths and cases in South Africa. The case rate jumped rapidly while the death rate did not. These will be two factors along with hospitalizations that will determine how big of a deal this new variant truly is.
Vaccine Related Information:
Greece makes vaccines mandatory for over-60s
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
China Pledges 1 Billion Vaccine Doses for Africa
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/30/world/omicron-variant-covid
Covax sets aside vaccine doses for North Korea.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/30/world/omicron-variant-covid/covax-sets-aside-vaccine-doses-for-north-korea
U.K. to offer boosters for all adults 3 months after second shot
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-GZ47TIZ5CNH43FX7VSONGZF7KQ
China’s Sinovac says it could develop and mass-produce a vaccine for omicron
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-QTYM6LDMIRB2ZP7XNG7KWWCCVY
Pfizer poised to request authorization for coronavirus booster for 16 and 17 year olds
The companies are expected to seek clearance soon from federal regulators, who are said to be reassured by Israeli safety data. https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/11/29/covid-vaccine-16-17-year-olds/
Frustrated by vaccine inequity, a South African lab is on the cusp of replicating Moderna’s shot
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/11/28/afrigen-south-africa-vaccine-moderna/
Moderna says an omicron variant vaccine could be ready in early 2022
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/28/moderna-says-an-omicron-variant-vaccine-could-be-ready-in-early-2022.html
Omicron COVID-19 variant: Pfizer, BioNTech say vaccine could be reworked in 100 days to counter strain –
Johnson & Johnson said it was also testing the effectiveness of its vaccine against the variant
https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/covid-omicron-variant-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-reworked-100-days
Scientific Research & Variants:
Two Israeli doctors confirmed with Omicron variant, including first case of community spread
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
“It is not yet clear whether these people had also visited southern Africa,” the statement added.
“The GGD [Municipal Public Health Service] will notify the people involved and start source and contact tracing.”
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
Two cases of Omicron Covid variant identified in UK The B.1.1.529 variant, described in Britain
as ‘the most worrying we’ve seen’, was first found in southern Africa
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/27/two-cases-of-omicron-covid-variant-identified-in-uk
Omicron infections: eight further cases found in England
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/30/omicron-more-cases-found-in-uk
The number includes nine cases in Scotland and five in England, according to government figures.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
UK: School staff and pupils in Essex tested for Omicron Covid variant Contact tracers establish
link to primary school after identifying cases in nearby church and KFC
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/29/school-staff-and-pupils-in-essex-tested-for-omicron-covid-variant
Scotland finds 6 cases of Omicron, but no sign its spread is ‘sustained.’
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/29/world/omicron-variant-covid/scotland-finds-6-cases-of-omicron-but-no-sign-its-spread-is-sustained
There are 5 cases of Omicron in England and 6 in Scotland with more expected, UK health official says
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
Omicron community transmission possible in Scotland, England –
Cases identified in people who have not traveled to southern Africa.
https://www.politico.eu/article/omicron-community-transmission-possible-in-scotland-england/
Australia confirms sixth case of Omicron variant
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
NSW records two further Omicron cases
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/politicsnow-coronavirus-live-news-two-omicron-cases-confirmed-in-nsw/live-coverage/7717cd953bf77c46360cbeb7b77fbaab
Coronavirus news Australia: Concern new Covid-19 variant is in Sydney
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/coronavirus-news-australia-victoria-nsw-issue-new-isolation-order/live-coverage/4c325c5d215924fedb7fcda3b12d678d
Omicron variant detected in Australia, Europe
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20211128_18/
Two people on a flight from South Africa to Australia test positive for covid
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14490640?
French Health Minister Olivier Veran said Sunday that eight possible Omicron cases had been identified in France,
adding it was possible the variant was already circulating in the country.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
France detects eight possible Omicron cases – Health Ministry
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/omicron-variant-likely-be-circulating-france-health-minister-2021-11-28/
At least 17 countries and territories have confirmed cases of the Omicron variant
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
Italy confirms 5 new Omicron variant cases
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html?utm_source=trendbar
Italy confirms first case of Omicron Covid-19 variant in a traveler coming from Mozambique
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-28-21
The new variant raises alarm in India, which remains vulnerable to another virus wave.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/30/world/omicron-variant-covid#fda-merck-pill-molnupiravir
European Union says it detected 42 omicron cases — and they’re mild
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-XIMNMKHTAZEGZEPBIH6RF52O7E
Regeneron’s antibody cocktail could be less effective against omicron, says maker
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-M2YXT5H6GJHMHHRVZMLIXVIQG4
“Existing vaccines might not be effective against omicron variant right away, Moderna CEO says”
https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Existing-vaccines-might-not-be-effective-against-16662644.php
Doctors hope Omicron causes milder cases of Covid — but it’s still too early to say
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/30/doctors-hope-omicron-causes-milder-cases-of-covid-but-its-still-too-early-to-say/
Dutch officials found two omicron cases before South Africa alarm was raised: Latest COVID-19 updates
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-booster-biden-administration/8802961002/
Netherlands says Omicron variant now found in 14 of Friday’s passengers from South Africa
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
Dutch test for new variant after finding 61 COVID cases among South Africa passengers
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/dutch-find-61-covid-cases-among-south-africa-passengers-looking-new-variant-2021-11-27/
61 COVID-19 cases found on flight from South Africa to Netherlands amid screening for new variant
https://thehill.com/policy/international/583231-61-covid-19-cases-found-on-flight-from-south-africa-to-netherlands-amid
Netherlands confirms 13 cases of Omicron variant
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20211129_01/
“Netherlands’ National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) said in
a statement published Sunday that the variant had been detected through the sequencing of the 61
positive Covid-19 results obtained by local health authorities at the airport on Friday. It added that
the sequencing “had not been entirely completed” and that it was “possible that the new variant will
be found in more test samples.”
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-28-21
Suspected Omicron Covid cases found in Germany and Czech Republic
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/27/suspected-omicron-covid-cases-found-germany-czech-republic
Coronavirus digest: Germany confirms third case of omicron variant – A person who arrived in the western
state of Hesse from South Africa has been infected with the new variant. Denmark and Italy are the latest
EU countries to announce omicron cases. Follow DW for the latest.
https://www.dw.com/en/coronavirus-digest-germany-confirms-third-case-of-omicron-variant/a-59961474
First Latin American cases of omicron variant reported in Brazil
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-SY4WO5V6JJFANEVVTBNIOMGGT4
Hospitalizations up sharply in South African province where omicron variant detected
https://thehill.com/policy/international/583553-hospitalizations-up-sharply-in-south-african-province-where-omicron-has
Omicron may already be in US – what are the ‘unusual’ symptoms to look out for? ‘
Some of these, such as confusion, abdominal pain and shortness of breath, are not widely
known as Covid-19 symptoms, yet are hallmarks of the most severe forms of the disease’
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/omicron-us-symptoms-b1965699.html
Portugal detects 13 cases of Omicron tied to a soccer team.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/29/world/europe/portugal-omicron-soccer-team.html
Scientists are studying whether Omicron leads to severe illness.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/28/world/covid-omicron-variant-news/omicron-variant-severe-symptoms-mild
Spain confirms its first case of Omicron variant
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html?utm_source=trendbar
How Big a Genetic Jump Omicron is Compared to Other Variants
https://ritholtz.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Africa-focused-subsampling-768×682.png
“Genomic epidemiology of novel coronavirus – Africa-focused subsampling”
https://nextstrain.org/ncov/gisaid/africa?l=scatter&scatterY=S1_mutations
What Doctors Need to Know About Omicron — Picture to become clearer in 2 weeks, but here’s what we know now
https://www.medpagetoday.com/special-reports/exclusives/9592
These countries and territories have confirmed Omicron infections:
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
It’s the fourth Omicron case to be discovered in Germany. Two previous infections were
detected in Munich and a third case was found in the state of Hesse.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
Japan confirms first Omicron case
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20211130_21/
Singapore says two travellers to Sydney with Omicron transited at Changi
https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/singapore-says-two-travellers-sydney-with-omicron-transited-changi-2021-11-30/
“A Scared Nu World: Here’s What We Know About The COVID “Omicron” Strain”
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/scared-nu-world-heres-what-we-know-about-new-covid-strain
BBC radio interview with a journalist that was on the flight from South Africa to Netherlands.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w172xv5gfkfpm2q
The new variant, expected to be designated ‘Nu’, has been found to have 32 spike protein
mutations, compared with the 13 to 17 seen in the Delta variant
https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3157410/coronavirus-quarantine-hotel-guest-linked-cross
Denmark confirms 2 cases of Omicron coronavirus variant
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-28-21
The Omicron variant has worrisome mutations, but scientists say vaccines seem likely to work against it.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/26/world/covid-vaccine-boosters-variant/omicron-variant-has-worrisome-mutations-but-more-study-is-needed-who-says
The Omicron variant has worrisome mutations, but scientists say vaccines seem likely to work against it.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/26/world/covid-vaccine-boosters-variant/omicron-variant-has-worrisome-mutations-but-more-study-is-needed-who-says
Omicron variant symptoms ‘unusual but mild’, says South African doctor
https://nypost.com/2021/11/27/omicron-variant-symptoms-unusual-but-mild-says-south-african-doctor/
“South African doctor who raised alarm about omicron variant says symptoms are ‘unusual but mild’ –
Dr Angelique Coetzee noticed otherwise healthy patients showing unusual symptoms and worries
how the new variant might hurt the elderly”
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/science-and-disease/south-african-doctor-raised-alarm-omicron-variant-says-symptoms/
youtube video link: “COVID-19 I Dr Angelique Coetzee on fears of looming harsher lockdown measures”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0KT1QXLeHY
BBC video link: “Omicron symptoms mild so far, says South African doctor who spotted it
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-59450988
Covid live news: Third Omicron case found in UK; Netherlands confirms at least 13 cases of new variant
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2021/nov/28/covid-live-news-uk-germany-and-italy-detect-omicron-cases-israel-bans-all-visitors
Austria detects its first case of Omicron
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2021/nov/28/covid-live-news-uk-germany-and-italy-detect-omicron-cases-israel-bans-all-visitors
Doctor who discovered Omicron variant says UK ‘panicking unnecessarily’ and that symptoms ‘extremely mild’
The doctor who discovered the Omicron variant said the UK was “panicking unnecessarily” and that the symptoms are “extremely mild”.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2021/nov/28/covid-live-news-uk-germany-and-italy-detect-omicron-cases-israel-bans-all-visitors
Nov 26: “What’s known and unknown about Omicron, the coronavirus variant identified in South Africa”
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/26/whats-known-and-unknown-about-the-coronavirus-variant-identified-in-south-africa/
Nov 28: “Scientists rapidly identified the Omicron variant. But firm answers about its impact could take weeks”
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/28/scientists-rapidly-identified-the-omicron-variant-but-firm-answers-about-its-impact-could-take-weeks/
Omicron raises concerns about global vaccine equity and hesitancy – African Union officials have complained
about the lack of vaccines since the U.S., U.K. and EU pre-purchased the bulk of available supplies at the end of 2020.
https://www.politico.com/news/2021/11/28/omicron-variant-global-vaccine-equity-523417
Omicron: Why Did WHO Skip Over Two Letters in Greek Alphabet to Name Latest Variant?
https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2021/11/omicron-who-skip-letters-greek-alphabet-nu-xi.html
Canada’s first cases of the omicron coronavirus variant confirmed in Ottawa
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/omicron-variant-canada-travellers-1.6265927
Canadian health officials also confirmed the country’s first two Omicron cases in Ottawa on Sunday.
Both individuals carrying the variant had recently traveled from Nigeria
https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/28/world/coronavirus-omicron-variant-spreading-intl/index.html
Scientists warn of new Covid variant with high number of mutations
The B.1.1.529 variant was first spotted in Botswana and six cases have been found in South Africa
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/24/scientists-warn-of-new-covid-variant-with-high-number-of-mutations
WHO calls special meeting to discuss new Covid variant found in South Africa with ‘a large number of mutations’
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/25/who-calls-special-meeting-to-discuss-new-covid-variant-from-south-africa-with-large-number-of-mutations.html
What we know so far about the B.1.1.529 COVID variant causing concern in South Africa
https://www.euronews.com/next/2021/11/25/what-we-know-so-far-about-the-b-1-1-529-covid-variant-causing-concern-in-south-africa
What do we know about the new ‘worst ever’ Covid variant?
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/25/what-do-we-know-about-the-new-worst-ever-covid-variant
“Probable Vaccine-Escaping Covid Variant Sequenced in Gauteng, South Africa and Spreading Rapidly;
Press Underplaying Downside Risk”
https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/11/probable-vaccine-escaping-covid-variant-sequenced-in-gauteng-south-africa-and-spreading-rapidly-press-underplaying-downside-risk.html
Vaccine scientists are already testing the new coronavirus variant
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-26-21/h_4dc658279877e244b639adf513dd1e01
The Belgian government has said that one individual has tested positive for the B.1.1.529 variant,
the new strain of the coronavirus that was just detected in South Africa.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-26-21/index.html
W.H.O. says new variant in South Africa is ‘of concern’ as countries impose travel restrictions.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/26/world/covid-variant-travel-restrictions.html
Classification of Omicron (B.1.1.529): SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern
https://www.who.int/news/item/26-11-2021-classification-of-omicron-(b.1.1.529)-sars-cov-2-variant-of-concern
What’s known and unknown about Omicron, the coronavirus variant identified in South Africa
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/26/whats-known-and-unknown-about-the-coronavirus-variant-identified-in-south-africa/
Heavily mutated coronavirus variant puts scientists on alert – Researchers are racing to determine whether a fast-spreading
variant in South Africa poses a threat to COVID vaccines’ effectiveness.
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-03552-w
How will the Omicron coronavirus variant affect Europe this winter? – Scientists are concerned that the B.1.1.529
mutation could bypass immunization from both vaccination or prior infection.
https://www.politico.eu/article/nu-coronavirus-new-variant-vaccine-africa-europe-travel-winter-november-december-2021/
Fetal Brains Appear Unaffected by Mom’s Milder COVID —
Small MRI study involving pregnant women with mild to moderate infection revealed no problems
https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/rsna/95933
New Mayo Clinic study finds more women are COVID ‘long haulers’ –
Researchers suspect the findings are due to differences in immune response between men and women.
https://www.kare11.com/article/news/local/kare11-sunrise/mayo-clinic-study-covid-long-haulers-women/89-24943926-6a4c-44dd-81e5-38d91317a472
A Breath of Virus-Free Air — Advanced air purification can reduce hospital-acquired infections
https://www.medpagetoday.com/opinion/second-opinions/95827
Healthcare-associated infection impact with bioaerosol treatment and COVID-19 mitigation measures
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670121002693
Bats from Cambodia identified as having coronaviruses related to SARS-COV-2
https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50977213/bats-from-cambodia-identified-as-having-coronaviruses-related-to-sars-cov-2/
Scientists uncover coronavirus-related SARS-CoV-2 in Cambodian bats sampled more than 10 years ago
https://www.nydailynews.com/coronavirus/ny-covid-bats-cambodia-closely-related-virus-decade-ago-20211125-hgfemusxlbaopbof3c7focvmgq-story.html
A novel SARS-CoV-2 related coronavirus in bats from Cambodia
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-26809-4
Outbreaks & Restrictions:
China locks down cities near Mongolia border amid Covid-19 outbreak
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-covid-19-variant-11-30-21/index.html
Federal strike team starts at St. Cloud Hospital amid COVID surge, staffing shortage
“We’re seeing numbers now that we haven’t seen since the last surge in November [and] December of 2020.”
https://www.startribune.com/military-medical-team-starts-at-st-cloud-hospital-amid-covid-surge-staffing-shortage-centracare/600122016/
COVID In Minnesota: State Tallies More Than 10,000 Reinfections Since Pandemic’s Start
https://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2021/11/26/covid-in-minnesota-state-tallies-more-than-10000-reinfections-since-pandemics-start
Stricter coronavirus testing being weighed for all travelers to U.S. Biden administration
also considering measures such as a 7-day self-quarantine and retesting several days after arrival.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/11/30/omicron-stricter-travel-rules-us-entry/
Britain tightens COVID rules as world on alert over omicron variant
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/11/27/high-alert-world-rushes-to-contain-new-covid-variant
COVID-19 spike sending Minnesota students home, closing schools
Some schools are changing mask and safety policies to thwart a rise in infections.
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/11/23/covid19-spike-sending-minnesota-students-home-closing-schools
More countries restrict travel from southern Africa.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/27/world/covid-omicron-variant-news#omicron-travel-restrictions-covid
“Among the eight countries that have been targeted with travel restrictions, none has vaccinated even one-third of
its population — and in Malawi, the immunization rate is in the single digits, according to Our World in Data.”
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/covid-variant-fallout-omnicron/2021/11/27/8c6e0548-4f02-11ec-a7b8-9ed28bf23929_story.html
France to announce new Covid measures as infections surge
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2021/nov/24/covid-news-live-south-korea-reports-record-daily-cases-us-to-require-vaccination-proof-at-all-border-crossings?page=with:block-619e2edd8f0866e46b622c62#block-619e2edd8f0866e46b622c62
Netherlands records highest number of daily Covid cases since start of pandemic
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2021/nov/24/covid-news-live-south-korea-reports-record-daily-cases-us-to-require-vaccination-proof-at-all-border-crossings?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with:block-619e4c6d8f0858c716a6aca5#block-619e4c6d8f0858c716a6aca5
Italy poised to tighten Covid rules for unvaccinated with ‘super green pass’
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/24/italy-poised-to-tighten-rules-for-unvaccinated-with-super-green-pass
COVID in Israel: Cases highest in month, immunity declining, expert warns – Over 50% of new virus carriers are
younger than 12. PM Bennett called on parents to get kids vaccinated and ordered antigen tests for
students before they return to school after the Hanukkah break.
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/coronavirus/covid-daily-cases-at-the-highest-in-a-month-as-kids-start-getting-jabbed-685770
Experts: Vaccine Immunity Waning, Signs Israel Facing Fifth COVID Wave – The expert cabinet advising the
Israel’s government said that the children’s vaccination drive would not be enough by itself to halt the spread of COVID
https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/experts-vaccine-immunity-waning-signs-israel-facing-fifth-covid-wave-1.10410409
COVID cases break records in Europe, prompting booster shot rethink
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/europe-rethinks-booster-shot-policy-covid-cases-hit-records-2021-11-24/
Europe is facing 700,000 more Covid deaths — but masks could prevent many of them, WHO says
https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/24/world/coronavirus-newsletter-intl-24-11-21/index.html
Massachusetts governor orders some hospitals to delay nonessential procedures
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-IBHERJETM5CATNO4WGI25JDXVA
NT State north of Albany: “Glens Falls Hospital, amid COVID-19 surge, ‘past capacity’ –
‘Let me be blunt’ leader of hospital says, ‘get the vaccine immediately’
https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Glens-Falls-Hospital-amid-COVID-19-crush-past-16647029.php#content
Coronavirus latest: Dutch hospitals postpone chemotherapy amid COVID surge Germany’s death toll tops 100,000;
South Korea’s serious patients at record high
https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Coronavirus-Free-to-read/Coronavirus-latest-Dutch-hospitals-postpone-chemotherapy-amid-COVID-surge
South Africa to be put on England’s travel red list over new Covid variant Flights from six countries will
be banned as officials review travel measures after scientists voice concern over variant
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/25/scientists-call-for-travel-code-red-over-covid-variant-found-in-southern-africa
European Commission proposes activating “emergency brake” on travel from certain countries
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-26-21/index.html
Delta says its travel partner Virgin Atlantic has now canceled its service between Johannesburg and London Heathrow.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-26-21/index.html
These are the countries that have announced restrictions so far:
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-26-21/index.html
U.S. will begin new travel restrictions amid concerns over a new coronavirus variant
https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2021/11/26/1059339865/coronavirus-variant-covid-omicron-travel-bans
New COVID Variant Sparks U.S. Travel Ban for Southern Africa — Characterized as “red flag,”
but questions remain about immune escape, transmissibility
https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/95906
‘Worse than the worst-case scenario’: Belgium tightens coronavirus rules –
Vaccine booster rollout to be speeded up, says PM Alexander De Croo.
https://www.politico.eu/article/belgium-new-coronavirus-restrictions-november-december-2021/
The Netherlands moves toward lockdown as coronavirus cases surge – From 5 p.m. to 5 a.m,
non-essential shops, restaurants, bars and cultural venues will have to close.
https://www.politico.eu/article/the-netherlands-moves-toward-lockdown-as-coronavirus-cases-surge/
Coronavirus live news Australia: Australia preparing to tighten travel rules in response to Omicron Covid variant
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/coronavirus-live-news-australia-moderna-to-rapidly-advance-omicronspecific-booster-candidate/live-coverage/c1cec62b6cecf4561c86a6835fa6154a?
30 Wisconsin counties now seeing critically high COVID-19 activity, DHS says
https://fox47.com/news/local/30-wisconsin-counties-now-seeing-critically-high-covid-19-activity-dhs-says
All Other Covid News:
A panel of F.D.A. advisers meeting about Merck’s Covid pill.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/30/world/omicron-variant-covid#fda-merck-pill-molnupiravir
FDA Staff: Mediocre Efficacy for Merck’s Pill in High-Risk COVID —
Full analysis pours cold water on molnupiravir’s initially promising findings
https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/95922
Merck’s Covid Pill Recommended for High-Risk Adults by F.D.A. Panel
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/30/world/omicron-variant-covid
FDA: Merck COVID pill effective; experts will review safety
https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2021/11/26/health-officials-say-mercks-covid-19-pill-is-effective/
New data, analyses take some of the shine off Merck’s Covid pill
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/26/new-data-analyses-take-some-of-the-shine-off-mercks-covid-pill/
Vaccine Politics Not Working to Biden Administration Advantage
https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/11/vaccine-politics-not-working-to-biden-administration-advantage.html
New York Islanders games postponed due to COVID cases
https://abc7ny.com/new-york-islanders-covid-cases-nhl-games-postponed/11274960/
Massachusetts could soon have a digital vaccination passport, governor says
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-UP6CP6AUGVHX7FTWPLFZI6K4AI
This year’s flu strain is particularly dangerous for older adults
https://wtop.com/health-fitness/2021/11/this-years-flu-strain-is-particularly-dangerous-for-older-adults/
Head Start imposes new mask rules for children, mandates vaccinations for adults
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/30/covid-omicron-variant-live-updates/#link-IDQHPDDUN5CM5HXHO6KVO2G2GY
A federal judge blocks Biden’s vaccine mandate for U.S. health workers.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/30/world/vaccine-mandate-health-workers-blocked.html
NYC officials highly recommend even the vaccinated wear masks inside in public due to Omicron concerns
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html?utm_source=trendbar
“The Campaign to Protect Christmas Profits from Omicron”
https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/11/the-campaign-to-protect-christmas-profits-from-omicron.html
Biden: Omicron coronavirus variant ’cause for concern, not a cause for panic’
https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/583382-biden-omicron-variant-cause-for-concern-not-a-cause-for-panic
Biden says ‘lockdowns’ not needed to curb coronavirus variant
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/583388-biden-says-lockdowns-not-needed-to-curb-coronavirus-variant
DeSantis: COVID-19 lockdowns ‘not going to happen’ in Florida over omicron variant
https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/desantis-to-speak-at-press-conference-with-florida-highway-patrol/
A consortium of four labs have joined efforts to assist with sequencing to expand surveillance efforts,
an official from the New York State’s Dept. of Health Wadsworth Center said.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
In July, the US donated 5.7 million doses of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine and another 2.2 million doses in August.
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/covid-variant-omicron-11-29-21/index.html
Maine lawmaker who flouted pandemic rules resigns after wife’s COVID-19 death –
State Rep. Chris Johansen, R-Monticello, contracted COVID-19 this summer along with his wife, Cindy, who later died from the virus. https://www.pressherald.com/2021/11/29/maine-lawmaker-who-flouted-pandemic-rules-resigns-after-wifes-covid-19-death/
New York declares covid state of emergency as Gov. Hochul warns that omicron variant ‘is coming’
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/11/27/new-york-omicron-coronavirus-variant
Wisconsin children lead state with most COVID-19 cases overall
https://www.nbc15.com/2021/11/26/wisconsin-children-lead-state-with-most-covid-19-cases-overall/
Peru has the world’s highest COVID death rate. Here’s why
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2021/11/27/1057387896/peru-has-the-worlds-highest-covid-death-rate-heres-why
The WHO is seeking a new treaty on handling future pandemics. It could be a hard sell
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2021/11/28/npr-who-seeks-a-new-treaty-on-handling-future-pandemics-it-could-be-a-hard-sell
Swiss voters back law behind Covid vaccine certificate After tense campaign,
early results show about two-thirds in favour of law giving legal basis for Covid pass
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/28/tensions-swiss-vote-covid-vaccine-certificate-law
South Africa mulling compulsory COVID-19 jabs for some places, activities
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/safrica-faces-4th-covid-19-wave-new-variant-behind-rising-infections-2021-11-28/
Dutch police arrest couple who fled from Covid hotel after traveling to South Africa
https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/new-covid-variant-south-africa-11-28-21/h_40d7e6168669cfe253a2a90d36c38bbe
Dutch covid quarantine escapees boarded plane
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/dutch-police-arrest-couple-that-fled-covid-quarantine-2021-11-28/
COVID quarantine breacher who climbed down bedsheet rope pleads guilty
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-08-03/bedsheet-rope-covid-quarantine-breacher-guilty/100345658
C.D.C. reports the largest revision of state vaccine numbers to date.
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2021/11/23/world/covid-vaccine-boosters-mandates/about-1-2-million-extra-vaccine-doses-were-reported-in-pennsylvania-according-to-the-cdc
To wear or not to wear a mask? Experts answer your questions
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/
A Hong Kong quarantine hotel guest went maskless and wore a ‘selfish’ valve mask. His neighbor got covid.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-ZCGWCNWJMVHUNAN7QLNTBBVWUY
France’s Macron warns of ‘explosive’ situation as Guadeloupe is hit by unrest over vaccine mandates
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-L3NB6OL4VRCQVNALVR5KJ67ZPA
US hospitals prepare for influx of Covid patients as millions travel for Thanksgiving
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/nov/24/us-covid-thanksgiving-travel-hospitals-health-workers-vaccines-boosters
Despite vaccines, the U.S. has lost more lives to Covid this year than last.
The higher death toll is attributed to lower-than-needed vaccination rates
and the relaxation of everyday precautions amid a rise of the highly contagious Delta variant.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/24/world/united-states-death-toll-covid.html
“Virus expert Trevor Bedford on annual Covid boosters and the inevitable next pandemic”
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/24/virus-expert-trevor-bedford-on-annual-covid-boosters-and-the-inevitable-next-pandemic/
As vaccination efforts falter, the U.S. must get serious about Covid-19 testing and reporting
https://www.statnews.com/2021/11/24/as-vaccination-efforts-falter-get-serious-covid-19-testing-reporting/
Doc Took ‘Miracle Drug’, Still Got COVID; St. Jude Has Billions as Families Go Broke —
This past week in healthcare investigations
https://www.medpagetoday.com/special-reports/exclusives/95726
In a long line of medical conspiracy theories, ivermectin is the latest to seduce many,
including Aaron Rodgers
https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2021/11/15/ivermectin-covid-sen-ron-johnson-medical-conspiracy-theory-aaron-rodgers-covid-19-pierre-kory/8473964002/
Denver reinstates mask mandate with exemption for the vaccinated
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-ZFQNSUTBXZHMVA5KBLBX7BZ6GM
Health agency warns European coronavirus surge could be ‘window into the future’ for the Americas
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-EZ2GNYNR7FC27KS3EE3X6QABIA
Vaccinated people must continue taking precautions, WHO says
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/24/covid-delta-variant-live-updates/#link-U7WFYU23PFBCTLJCVLHUSXDKRI
Doctor Fighting to Use Ivermectin for COVID-19 Suspended by Hospital: Lawyer
https://www.newsweek.com/doctor-fighting-use-ivermectin-covid-19-suspended-hospital-lawyer-1652588
Experimental chewing gum may reduce virus spread; Booster shot protection may be longer lasting
https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/experimental-chewing-gum-may-reduce-virus-spread-booster-shot-protection-may-be-2021-11-22
Omaha, NE Downtown drive-thru COVID vaccine clinic closed after ‘repeated vandalism’
https://nebraska.tv/newsletter-daily/downtown-drive-thru-covid-vaccine-clinic-closed-after-repeated-vandalism?
No booze, no sunbathing, lots of Vegemite: Welcome to quarantine at Howard Springs, NT
https://www.traveller.com.au/no-booze-no-sunbathing-lots-of-vegemite-welcome-to-quarantine-at-howard-springs-nt-h1w1my
How’s That Vaccine Mandate Working for the Federal Government? —
Agency-by-agency breakdown shows high levels of compliance with mandates
https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19vaccine/95896
Supply-Chain Crisis Only Getting Worse With China’s 7-Week Port Quarantine
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-11-24/china-s-seven-week-port-quarantine-is-blocking-shipping-recovery
Dow futures plunge 400 points amid fears of new Covid variant found in South Africa
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/26/stock-futures-open-to-close-market-news.html
Coronavirus: Fact-check – did mutations or ivermectin help stamp out Delta in Japan?
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/world/2021/11/coronavirus-fact-check-did-mutations-or-ivermectin-help-stamp-out-delta-in-japan.html
Delta Variant May Have “Mutated Itself Into Extinction” In Japan, Suggest Researchers
https://www.iflscience.com/health-and-medicine/delta-variant-may-have-mutated-itself-into-extinction-in-japan-suggest-researchers/
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