Both global weekly COVID-19 incidence and deaths declined again, according to last week’s WHO epi update, while there was also some evidence of the Western Pacific and Eastern Mediterranean regions passing the peak in the current wave. Japan, South Korea and the USA recorded the highest numbers of new weekly cases, while in the Western Pacific, the biggest proportional increases in new cases were in Palau and Tonga (up 109 and 51 percent respectively). Senior WHO officials expressed concern that numbers could rise again during the northern winter and have stressed the need for booster doses (where available), avoiding crowds or wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and ensuring good ventilation. Read more
In related news:
- The latest ECDC update reported on Germany’s new infection-protection law which includes a mandate on wearing FFP2 masks ‘on long-distance public transport and air travel (medical masks for the 6±14 age group and staff)’ from Oct 1, 2022 to Apr 7, 2023.
- An article written by Assoc. Professor Paul Griffin and posted by The Conversation this week, ‘Better COVID vaccines are on the way. What do they do? And what technology might we see in future? Read more
- The Aust. government has published ‘Getting help for Long COVID’ in which it explains the different symptoms that can occur with the condition and other relevant information. Read more
- The Victorian government has published a comprehensive guide on helping to lower the spread of COVID-19 through good ventilation. It includes information on why it is important and ‘How to improve ventilation at home or in the workplace’. 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.