Omicron variant poses ‘very high’ global risk, countries must prepare: WHO
Omicron was first reported on Nov 24 from South Africa, where infections have risen steeply.
Covid-19
Singapore, Malaysia aim to expand land VTL to general travellers from mid-Dec
Discussions will also start on piloting a sea VTL to allow Singapore cruise ships to call at Malaysian ports.
Fully vaccinated China Airlines pilot contracts Covid-19
The pilot tested positive for the virus after receiving a PCR test on his fifth day in quarantine.
Indonesia imposes travel ban over Omicron threat, experts say more needed
Scientists fear mutations could make Omicron more infectious and render certain treatments and immune defenses less effective.
Moderna says vaccines likely less effective against Omicron
Vaccine resistance could lead to more sickness and hospitalisations and prolong the pandemic.
Patients with Omicron Covid-19 variant showing ‘very mild’ symptoms: South African doctor
The news of the new variant emerging from South Africa prompted a swift reaction from several countries.
Coronavirus pandemic to cost global tourism $2.7 trillion in 2021: UN
While international tourism has taken a hit from the outbreak of disease in the past, the coronavirus is unprecedented in its geographical spread.
Experts recommend booster dose in the light of deteriorating Covid-19 situation
Scientists are calling the B.1.1.529 variant the ‘most heavily’ mutated version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus discovered so far.
Asia stocks tumble, havens rally on worry over new Covid-19 variant; STI down 1%
While researchers are yet to determine whether the B.1.1529 variant is more transmissible or lethal than previous ones, the authorities around the world have been quick to act.
Philippines falls at bottom in COVID-19 resilience report
Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam also rank at the bottom in the Bloomberg list.