Confirmation this week of a 33yo Hong Kong man re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. The IT worker had tested positive in March for COVID-19 and was cleared of the infection in April, however after he recently returned from Spain, he was diagnosed with a virus which through sequencing showed noticeable differences to the first. This second infection is also said to be asymptomatic, as opposed to the first which resulted in hospitalisation. Read more. Two more apparent re-infections have since been reported in Belgium and the Netherlands.
India has claimed the highest global daily incidence for the last 18 days and has now recorded more than 3.1 million cases and 58,000 deaths.
In the Americas, the PAHO director this week called for the strengthening of public health measures as deaths ‘have doubled and the number of new COVID-19 infections reported has more than doubled’ over the past six weeks. Dr Etienne said people aged 20 to 59 were behind the spread of infections but ‘almost 70% of deaths occur in individuals over 60 years old’.
Globally, over 1.7 million new COVID-19 cases and 39 000 new deaths were reported to the WHO for the week ending 23 August
In other COVID-19 news:
WHO: How to report misinformation online covering seven social media platforms Read more
On Aug 19 the WHO provided an update on ‘Considerations for quarantine of contacts of COVID-19 cases’ for the first time in five months. The interim guidance contains ‘updated guidance for the implementation of quarantine, as well as additional guidance on ventilation and on the care of children in quarantine’.
Long-Haulers Are Redefining COVID-19 Read more
The CDC no longer recommends 14-day quarantine for travellers arriving in the USA Read more
A Chinese COVID-19 vaccine has been in use since early July Read more
UQ vaccine scientists report positive results from pre-clinical testing Read more
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.