Even as the global COVID-19 confirmed case count rose above 2.5 million today – more than 820,000 in the US - the director-general of the WHO warned that early data from some sero-epidemiologic surveys across the world ‘suggest that a relatively small percentage of the population may have been infected, even in heavily affected areas – not more than 2 to 3 percent.’ In related news from the agency, as yet there is no proof of immunity in people recuperating from SARS-CoV-2 infection - the presence of antibodies did not signify immunity to re-infection.
More on COVID-19 in our region and globally in the Apr 21 WHO Sitrep.
Other news:
A Chinese study on the characteristics of COVID-19 transmission in households found that, overall, the secondary attack rate of infection was 16.3% (children, 4% and adults, 17.1% but 27.8% in spouses of index cases). Read more
The WHO has issued guidelines on health recommendations during Ramadan.
This week saw announcements on the cancellation of two major European events due to the pandemic – Pamplona’s running of the bulls in Spain in July and Germany’s Oktoberfest in late Sept/early Oct. 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.