Australia- New South Wales reported 2,566 new cases, up from 2,482 on Saturday. It is one of Australia’s most populous states. Australian officials said that there was no need to hold down on Christmas celebrations despite having risen in new infections in Sydney. Though, a high vaccination rate is helping to keep people out of hospitals.
Greg Hunt Health Minister said that he was confident Australia would not need strict lockdown over Christmas following the Netherlands to avoid the spread of the new Omicron Variant.
He said, ‘’ we’re going into summer, we have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world and a very different set of circumstances. So we don’t see that’s likely situation in Australia.’’
He added that the Netherlands suffered vastly higher infections. Also, more deaths than in Australia over the pandemic. Furthermore, in winters, it’s more likely to get a hike in cases.
Talking to reporters in a televised media conference he said, ‘’ we’re well prepared and people are overwhelmingly… continuing to do an amazing job.’’ He was referring to more than 90% vaccination rate in Australia.
Booster Shot
As the new Omicron variant is spreading quickly, it is suggested to get a booster shot. New South Wales premier Dominic Perrottet said that cases in intensive care remained low in the state which is ‘’incredibly positive.’’ He said, ‘’ It’s a time for calm. But it’s also an important time to go out and get your booster shot. As vaccination has been key to New South Wales’ success.
Meanwhile, in Victoria State, cases fell from 1,504 to 1,240 on Sunday. Almost 18 cases are in an intensive care. Australia has managed much better than other countries previously after shutting down its borders in March 2020.
Ventilators and Intensive care cases
Meanwhile, Morrison repeated on Saturday that all focus should be on hospitalizations. Also, cases on ventilators and intensive care than actual cases numbers. Talking to a media conference in Hobart in the Island state of Tasmania, he said, ‘’ I wouldn’t agree that Australians are complacent about it. We take this incredibly seriously. It’s best addressed with a calm head and clear plan.’’’ Furthermore, incoming travelers will continue to get a PCR test within 24 hours of arrival. However, only isolate until they receive a negative result. Premier Dominic Perrottet said that it’s a challenging time for international travel with new rules. However, with the emergence of the new variant, Australia wanted to make sure that its two biggest cities have a consistent approach.
