New COVID variant explodes across Australia and only 1 in 10 are ready for the new wave, doctors urge vaccination, and how to stay safe
How to get vaccinated
Live Events
Check your eligibility on your state health website (e.g., Services Australia, WA Health)
Book an appointment through your local GP, pharmacy, or vaccination hub
It's free for most eligible Australians
How to stay safe this winter
Wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces
Improving ventilation at home and work
Washing hands frequently
Staying home if you feel unwell
Testing for COVID if symptoms appear
(You can now subscribe to our
(You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel
A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, is rapidly spreading across Australia. This subvariant, a descendant of Omicron , has been detected in multiple states, including Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia , and Queensland.The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated NB.1.8.1 as a "variant under monitoring" due to its increasing global prevalence and potential to evade immunity from previous infections or vaccinations. In Australia, genomic sequencing indicates that NB.1.8.1 accounts for over 40% of cases in Victoria and is now the dominant strain in wastewater samples collected in Perth.NB.1.8.1 is believed to be more transmissible than earlier strains. Research suggests it may infect cells more efficiently and partially sidestep existing immunity. Common symptoms include sore throat, fatigue, fever, mild cough, muscle aches, and nasal congestion. Gastrointestinal symptoms may also occur in some cases.Despite its increased transmissibility, no current evidence exists that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than previous variants. However, the rise in cases has led to increased hospitalizations, particularly among vulnerable populations.Health experts encourage the public to understand the importance of booster vaccinations to protect against severe disease. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler has strongly encouraged Australians to get their COVID-19 booster, especially as winter approaches. Current vaccines, including the most recent booster targeting the JN.1 variant, are expected to offer protection against NB.1.8.1.Booster uptake in Australia remains low, with just over 6% of Australians receiving a booster in the past six months. Health authorities stress that COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccinations are free and safe to receive together, urging immediate action to prevent a healthcare crisis during the winter season.In addition to vaccination, residents are encouraged to practice good hygiene, stay home when ill, and monitor public health updates.These measures are crucial in mitigating the spread of NB.1.8.1 and protecting the community, particularly those at higher risk.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NDTV
34 minutes ago
- NDTV
US Researchers Develop New mRNA Vaccine To Fight Covid-19
New Delhi: Amid fresh surge in Covid-19 cases, a team of US researchers has developed a new type of mRNA vaccine that is more scalable and adaptable to tackle continuously evolving viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and H5N1. While the currently available mRNA vaccines are highly effective at inducing an immune response against Covid, they present challenges like the high amount of mRNA needed to produce them and the constantly evolving nature of the pathogen. "The virus changes, moving the goal post, and updating the vaccine takes some time," said senior author Suresh Kuchipudi, chair of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health. To address these challenges, the researchers created a proof-of-concept Covid vaccine using what's known as a "trans-amplifying" mRNA platform. In this approach, the mRNA is separated into two fragments -- the antigen sequence and the replicase sequence -- the latter of which can be produced in advance, saving crucial time in the event a new vaccine must be developed urgently and produced at scale. In addition, the researchers analysed the spike-protein sequences of all known variants of the SARS-CoV-2 for commonalities, rendering what's known as a "consensus spike protein" as the basis for the vaccine's antigen. In mice, the vaccine induced a robust immune response against many strains of SARS-CoV-2. "This has the potential for more lasting immunity that would not require updating, because the vaccine has the potential to provide broad protection," said Kuchipudi. "Additionally, this format requires an mRNA dose 40 times less than conventional vaccines, so this new approach significantly reduces the overall cost of the vaccine." The study, published in the journal npj Vaccines could inform more efficient vaccine development for other constantly evolving RNA viruses with pandemic potential, Kuchipudi said. "We hope to apply the principles of this lower-cost, broad-protection antigen design to pressing challenges like bird flu."
The Hindu
an hour ago
- The Hindu
Chemists' association demands high-level enforcement task force to act against counterfeit drug networks
Drawing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's attention to the escalating crisis of counterfeit medicines in Karnataka, the Bangalore District Chemists and Druggists Association (BDCDA) has demanded that a high-level enforcement task force be set up to conduct Statewide operations against spurious drug networks. In a letter to the Chief Minister, the chemists' body has said there is an urgent need for a dedicated team led by senior IPS officers and enforcement officials from the Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration to conduct Statewide operations against counterfeit drug networks. Global reputation Lauding the government for its decision to recall not-of-standard quality (NSQ) drugs from end points, BDCDA president B. Thirunavukkarasu said the menace of counterfeit drugs not only endangers the lives of our citizens but also tarnishes India's global reputation in the pharmaceutical trade and inflicts significant economic damage. 'Recent reports indicate a 50% surge in counterfeit medicines post-COVID-19 pandemic, attributed to factors such as consumer preference for discounted drugs, inadequate government vigilance, and lenient prohibitive laws,' he said. 'The recall of NSQ drugs addresses only a fraction of the problem. The root issue lies in the unchecked manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit medicines. Notably, Karnataka has flagged 26 medicines as misbranded or spurious, consumed for common problems such as acidity, pain relief, and for cholesterol control. However, the absence of widespread seizures in the State does not imply the non-existence of counterfeit drugs. It highlights potential gaps in detection and enforcement,' Mr. Thirunavukkarasu said. Pointing out that Karnataka's Health Minister has acknowledged the acute shortage of drug inspectors in the State, with only eight out of 112 sanctioned posts filled, he said, 'This shortfall hampers effective surveillance and enforcement against counterfeit drug operations. To address this, we propose the formation of a high-level task force led by IPS officers, in collaboration with enforcement officers from the Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration. Such a team will be instrumental in conducting Statewide search and seizure operations, ensuring stringent punishment of culprits involved in the counterfeit drug trade.' Breach of QR code security The letter, also addressed to the Health and Home Ministers apart from the Chief Secretary and the Principal Secretary (Health), pointed out that the integrity of QR codes, introduced as an anti-counterfeiting measure, has been compromised. Reports indicate that counterfeiters have successfully replicated functional QR codes on fake medicine packages, rendering the current authentication system ineffective. This breach poses a significant threat to consumer safety and undermines trust in pharmaceutical products, the letter stated. 'Our observations suggest a disturbing trend of unauthorised supplies infiltrating Karnataka through semi-wholesalers, procuring agents, and sub-stockists. These entities are instrumental in supplying counterfeit medicines to unregulated e-commerce and quick commerce platforms, exacerbating the spread of fake drugs.' The chemists' body has also demanded that the online sale of medicines be temporarily suspended until a robust and enforceable regulatory mechanism is established.
NDTV
an hour ago
- NDTV
5 Travel Destinations To Avoid In 2025 Amid Rising COVID-19 Concerns
As the world gradually regains its rhythm after the initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new variant - NB.1.8.1 - is once again fuelling a surge in cases across several regions. While the urge to travel remains strong, health and safety must remain top priorities. With certain destinations currently experiencing significant spikes in infections, it's wise to reconsider or postpone non-essential travel to these areas. According to a recent report by Moneycontrol, here are five destinations facing rising COVID-19 cases that travellers should approach with caution in 2025: 1. Singapore Famed for its cleanliness and world-class healthcare, Singapore is currently witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases. Daily infections are climbing, and hospital admissions have reached record highs. Travellers are strongly advised to check the latest health advisories and entry regulations before planning a visit. 2. Taiwan Taiwan, once praised for its pandemic response, is now grappling with a fresh wave of infections. The government has reinstated strict health protocols, including enhanced testing and mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces. Tourists should stay informed about local guidelines and consider deferring non-essential travel. 3. Hong Kong Hong Kong has reported a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases, prompting the return of travel restrictions and social distancing measures. With the healthcare system under renewed pressure, potential visitors are urged to monitor official updates and exercise caution when making travel plans. 4. China China is once again facing a widespread outbreak, with hospitals in several regions under strain. Authorities have reintroduced stringent containment measures and issued travel warnings. If you're considering a trip to China, it may be best to wait until the situation stabilises and restrictions ease. 5. Select U.S. States While the situation varies across the United States, states like New York, California, and Ohio have seen a noticeable rise in COVID-19 cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to monitor these developments closely. Travellers should stay updated on local advisories and follow all recommended health precautions. Travel Smart, Stay Safe While the world is eager to move forward, the pandemic continues to remind us that caution is key. Before booking any trip: Check the latest travel advisories from trusted sources like the WHO, CDC, or your local health authority. Ensure your vaccinations and boosters are up to date. Follow local health guidelines, including mask mandates and hygiene protocols. Consider travel insurance that covers COVID-related disruptions. Your health - and the health of those around you - is worth protecting. Travel can wait; safety cannot.
