Omicron variant may produce more infections than Delta, but the risk of hospitalisation is lesser by 40 to 45 per cent, two new studies from Britain have&nbsp;revealed.

The preliminary studies — one paper from Scotland and the other from England — that are&nbsp;yet to be peer reviewed stated that the Omicron variant was associated with milder symptoms and likely to cause less hospitalisation than Delta.

During a media briefing on Wednesday, Jim McMenamin, director at Public Health Scotland and co-author, called the research “qualified good news.”

“Qualified because these are early observations, they are statistically significant, and we are showing a reduced risk of hospitalisations,” AFP quoted McMenamin as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-panic-due-to-the-rapid-surge-of-omicron-us-stores-put-limits-on-at-home-covid-test-purchase-439154">Amid panic due to the rapid surge of Omicron, US stores put limits on at-home Covid test purchase</a>

The <a href="https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/severity-of-omicron-variant-of-concern-and-vaccine-effectiveness-">Scottish paper</a> examined Covid cases reported in November and December and compared the infections caused by Delta against Omicron.

The study also found that a booster dose would provide&nbsp;significant additional protection against symptomatic infection.

The study was small and there were no people under 60 hospitalised at the time, but the authors said they had adjusted for these limitations using statistical methods.

The second paper from Imperial College London had similar findings, suggesting that there was a 20 to 25 per cent reduction in hospitalisation for Omicron compared to Delta, and a 40 to 45 per cent reduction in hospitalisations lasting one night or longer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-alert-uk-records-over-100000-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-439145">Omicron alert: UK records over 100,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours</a>

The <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/mrc-global-infectious-disease-analysis/covid-19/report-50-severity-omicron/">London study,</a> which included 56,000 omicron cases and 269,000 delta cases, also called for a booster dose for additional protection against the Omicron.

Azra Ghani of the Imperial College London, who co-authored the study, said in a statement, “Whilst the reduced risk of hospitalisation with the Omicron variant is reassuring, the risk of infection remains extremely high.”

“With the addition of the booster dose, vaccines continue to offer the best protection against infection and hospitalisation.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant may produce more infections than Delta, but the risk of hospitalisation is lesser by 40 to 45 per cent, two new studies from Britain have revealed.

Omicron variant may produce more infections than Delta, but the risk of hospitalisation is lesser by 40 to 45 per cent, two new studies from Britain have revealed. The preliminary studies — one paper from Scotland and the other from England — that are yet to be peer reviewed stated that the Omicron variant was associated with milder symptoms and likely to cause less hospitalisation than Delta. During a media briefing on Wednesday, Jim McMenamin, director at Public Health Scotland and co-author, called the research “qualified good news.” “Qualified because these are early observations, they are statistically significant, and we are showing a reduced risk of hospitalisations,” AFP quoted McMenamin as saying. Also read | Amid panic due to the rapid surge of Omicron, US stores put limits on at-home Covid test purchase The Scottish paper examined Covid cases reported in November and December and compared the infections caused by Delta against Omicron. The study also found that a booster dose would provide significant additional protection against symptomatic infection. The study was small and there were no people under 60 hospitalised at the time, but the authors said they had adjusted for these limitations using statistical methods. The second paper from Imperial College London had similar findings, suggesting that there was a 20 to 25 per cent reduction in hospitalisation for Omicron compared to Delta, and a 40 to 45 per cent reduction in hospitalisations lasting one night or longer. Also read | Omicron alert: UK records over 100,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours The London study, which included 56,000 omicron cases and 269,000 delta cases, also called for a booster dose for additional protection against the Omicron. Azra Ghani of the Imperial College London, who co-authored the study, said in a statement, “Whilst the reduced risk of hospitalisation with the Omicron variant is reassuring, the risk of infection remains extremely high.” “With the addition of the booster dose, vaccines continue to offer the best protection against infection and hospitalisation.” (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron causes 40-45% less hospitalisation than Delta variant, reveal UK studies

A study published by the Lancet has revealed that the immunity offered by the AstraZeneca-Oxford’s COVID-19 vaccine wanes three months after receiving two doses, underlining the importance of booster shots.

The findings were based on the data of two million people in Scotland and 42 million people in Brazil who were vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine, which is known as Covishield in India.

While analysing the data from Scotland, the researchers found that there was approximately a five-fold increase in the chance of being hospitalised or dying from COVID-19 nearly five months after being double vaccinated.

The decline in effectiveness begins to first appear around three months, when the risk of hospitalisation and death is double that of two weeks after the second dose, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-gradually-spreads-in-india-200-cases-detected-so-far-says-govt-438646">Omicron gradually spreads in India: 200 cases detected so far, says govt</a>

The researchers from Scotland and Brazil found that the risk of hospitalisation and death increases three-fold just short of four months after the second vaccine dose. Similar numbers were seen for Brazil, they said.

“Vaccines have been a key tool in fighting the pandemic, but waning in their effectiveness has been a concern for a while,” said Professor Aziz Sheikh, from the University of Edinburgh, UK.

“By identifying when waning first starts to occur in the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, it should be possible for governments to design booster programmes that can ensure maximum protection is maintained,” Sheikh said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-fourth-booster-dose-for-over-60s-and-medics-as-omicron-rages-438890">Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages</a>

The team was able to compare data between Scotland and Brazil as they had a similar interval between doses —12 weeks —and initial prioritisation of who was vaccinated — people at highest risk of severe disease and healthcare workers.

The dominant variant was different in each country during the study period —Delta in Scotland and Gamma in Brazil.

This means the decline in effectiveness is likely because of vaccine waning and the impact of variants, the researchers said.

However, the experts warned that these figures should be treated with caution because it is becoming harder to compare non-vaccinated people to those vaccinated with similar characteristics, particularly among older age groups where so many people are now vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

A study published by the Lancet has revealed that the immunity offered by the AstraZeneca-Oxford’s COVID-19 vaccine wanes three months after receiving two doses, underlining the importance of booster shots.

A study published by the Lancet has revealed that the immunity offered by the AstraZeneca-Oxford’s COVID-19 vaccine wanes three months after receiving two doses, underlining the importance of booster shots. The findings were based on the data of two million people in Scotland and 42 million people in Brazil who were vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine, which is known as Covishield in India. While analysing the data from Scotland, the researchers found that there was approximately a five-fold increase in the chance of being hospitalised or dying from COVID-19 nearly five months after being double vaccinated. The decline in effectiveness begins to first appear around three months, when the risk of hospitalisation and death is double that of two weeks after the second dose, they said. Also read | Omicron gradually spreads in India: 200 cases detected so far, says govt The researchers from Scotland and Brazil found that the risk of hospitalisation and death increases three-fold just short of four months after the second vaccine dose. Similar numbers were seen for Brazil, they said. “Vaccines have been a key tool in fighting the pandemic, but waning in their effectiveness has been a concern for a while,” said Professor Aziz Sheikh, from the University of Edinburgh, UK. “By identifying when waning first starts to occur in the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, it should be possible for governments to design booster programmes that can ensure maximum protection is maintained,” Sheikh said. Also read | Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages The team was able to compare data between Scotland and Brazil as they had a similar interval between doses —12 weeks —and initial prioritisation of who was vaccinated — people at highest risk of severe disease and healthcare workers. The dominant variant was different in each country during the study period —Delta in Scotland and Gamma in Brazil. This means the decline in effectiveness is likely because of vaccine waning and the impact of variants, the researchers said. However, the experts warned that these figures should be treated with caution because it is becoming harder to compare non-vaccinated people to those vaccinated with similar characteristics, particularly among older age groups where so many people are now vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca’s Covid vaccine immunity declines after 3 months, says Lancet study

At a time when some countries are planning to roll out a third booster dose, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has announced that people over the age of 60 and medics would be given a fourth booster jab to protect against the fast-spreading Omicron variant.

The decision comes after Israel announced a slew of restrictions while avoiding a lockdown to curb the spread of the virus. The country has detected 175 cases of the new strain.

“The citizens of Israel were the first in the world to receive the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and we are continuing to pioneer with the fourth dose as well,” the Guardian quoted Bennet as saying on Tuesday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-should-be-concerned-about-omicron-not-panicked-biden-438876">We should be concerned about omicron, not&nbsp;panicked: Biden</a>

The Israeli prime minister urged all those who meet the criteria to “go and get vaccinated.”

A statement from the health ministry noted that apart from the elderly and medical staff, the immunodeficient people will also be eligible for the fourth shot, which would be administered at least four months after the third jab.

Bennett’s remarks came following a meeting of the country's ministerial coronavirus cabinet which convened amid growing concern over the spread of the Omicron variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-500mn-free-tests-deploy-military-personnel-to-fight-covid-19-surge-438722">US to send 500mn free tests, deploy military personnel to fight COVID-19 surge</a>

Israel's decision also comes close on the heels of the first known death in the country due to the Omicron strain.&nbsp;Soroka Hospital, located in the southern city of Beersheba, said a man in his 60s died Monday, two weeks after he was hospitalised. It said the man had suffered from pre-existing health issues but gave no further details.

Earlier Tuesday, lawmakers banned citizens and residents from US travel, adding it to a list of more than 50 countries declared off-limits in an effort to contain the Omicron coronavirus variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-within-a-week-the-strain-increased-from-3-to-73-of-us-covid-19-cases-438597">&nbsp;Within a week, Omicron strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases</a>

A parliamentary committee voted to approve a health ministry recommendation putting the United States on Israel's “red list,” along with Italy, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Morocco, Portugal, Switzerland and Turkey, committee spokeswoman Ronit Gal said in a statement.

The ban comes into effect Wednesday and will remain in force for at least a week, Gal added.

(With inputs from agencies)

At a time when some countries are planning to roll out a third booster dose, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has announced that people over the age of 60 and medics would be given a fourth booster jab to protect against the fast-spreading Omicron variant.

At a time when some countries are planning to roll out a third booster dose, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has announced that people over the age of 60 and medics would be given a fourth booster jab to protect against the fast-spreading Omicron variant. The decision comes after Israel announced a slew of restrictions while avoiding a lockdown to curb the spread of the virus. The country has detected 175 cases of the new strain. “The citizens of Israel were the first in the world to receive the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and we are continuing to pioneer with the fourth dose as well,” the Guardian quoted Bennet as saying on Tuesday. Also read | We should be concerned about omicron, not panicked: Biden The Israeli prime minister urged all those who meet the criteria to “go and get vaccinated.” A statement from the health ministry noted that apart from the elderly and medical staff, the immunodeficient people will also be eligible for the fourth shot, which would be administered at least four months after the third jab. Bennett’s remarks came following a meeting of the country's ministerial coronavirus cabinet which convened amid growing concern over the spread of the Omicron variant. Also read | US to send 500mn free tests, deploy military personnel to fight COVID-19 surge Israel's decision also comes close on the heels of the first known death in the country due to the Omicron strain. Soroka Hospital, located in the southern city of Beersheba, said a man in his 60s died Monday, two weeks after he was hospitalised. It said the man had suffered from pre-existing health issues but gave no further details. Earlier Tuesday, lawmakers banned citizens and residents from US travel, adding it to a list of more than 50 countries declared off-limits in an effort to contain the Omicron coronavirus variant. Also read | Within a week, Omicron strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases A parliamentary committee voted to approve a health ministry recommendation putting the United States on Israel's “red list,” along with Italy, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Morocco, Portugal, Switzerland and Turkey, committee spokeswoman Ronit Gal said in a statement. The ban comes into effect Wednesday and will remain in force for at least a week, Gal added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages

While Australia has opened booster shot to locals who have had their second dose of Covid jab more than five months ago, the country might not be able to achieve its target of 80 per cent till year end.<o:p></o:p>

An analysis by western media house, Guardian, has showed that despite the government’s consistent tries of getting people vaccinated as soon as possible, Australia might suffer from the problem of vaccine hesitancy.<o:p></o:p>

In the initial days of vaccine programme, the Australian government faced problems in convincing the local population to get vaccinated. Amid the rising vaccine hesitancy in the country, Australia had a slow start in the vaccine rollout. <o:p></o:p>

This slow pace translated into more than half of all second doses being administered in the final four months of 2021. Now, the booster doses have been opened to all eligible nationals who have received their second dose in the past five months.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-news-switzerland-tightens-covid-curbs-denmark-imposes-new-restrictions-and-more-438051">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-news-switzerland-tightens-covid-curbs-denmark-imposes-new-restrictions-and-more-438051/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, people who received their second dose in the late second half of 2021 are not yet eligible for a booster shot this month and won’t be till the start of February. This can slow down the progress rate of Australia’s booster campaign.<o:p></o:p>

"We do know from evidence from the first two doses that a longer interval between the first dose and second dose gives you higher antibodies, higher protection," says Cyra Patel, a PhD candidate at the Australian National University.<o:p></o:p>

"And that is consistent with our knowledge of immunology as well. We have seen that with other vaccines a longer interval gives you a better boosting effect. It’s really a balance between getting you protection from another dose earlier and giving you better protection if you have a longer interval."<o:p></o:p>

As per the data, majority of the people who have had their second shot five months ago have received their booster shot. Thus indicating that while the booster rate is on track, it is the initial slow pace that has caused a delay in Australia’s timeline.<o:p></o:p>

Experts defend the interval time by stating that the six month interval time is because of the clinical trials. "That’s the time period that the clinical trials use. So we have got clear evidence and that has been reviewed by the TGA and other regulators that definitely at six months you are definitely going to see a boosting effect," Patel said.

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

While Australia has opened booster shot to locals who have had their second dose of Covid jab more than five months ago, the country might not be able to achieve its target of 80 per cent till year end.

While Australia has opened booster shot to locals who have had their second dose of Covid jab more than five months ago, the country might not be able to achieve its target of 80 per cent till year end. An analysis by western media house, Guardian, has showed that despite the government’s consistent tries of getting people vaccinated as soon as possible, Australia might suffer from the problem of vaccine hesitancy. In the initial days of vaccine programme, the Australian government faced problems in convincing the local population to get vaccinated. Amid the rising vaccine hesitancy in the country, Australia had a slow start in the vaccine rollout. This slow pace translated into more than half of all second doses being administered in the final four months of 2021. Now, the booster doses have been opened to all eligible nationals who have received their second dose in the past five months. WATCH | However, people who received their second dose in the late second half of 2021 are not yet eligible for a booster shot this month and won’t be till the start of February. This can slow down the progress rate of Australia’s booster campaign. "We do know from evidence from the first two doses that a longer interval between the first dose and second dose gives you higher antibodies, higher protection," says Cyra Patel, a PhD candidate at the Australian National University. "And that is consistent with our knowledge of immunology as well. We have seen that with other vaccines a longer interval gives you a better boosting effect. It’s really a balance between getting you protection from another dose earlier and giving you better protection if you have a longer interval." As per the data, majority of the people who have had their second shot five months ago have received their booster shot. Thus indicating that while the booster rate is on track, it is the initial slow pace that has caused a delay in Australia’s timeline. Experts defend the interval time by stating that the six month interval time is because of the clinical trials. "That’s the time period that the clinical trials use. So we have got clear evidence and that has been reviewed by the TGA and other regulators that definitely at six months you are definitely going to see a boosting effect," Patel said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia won't be able to meet booster campaign target: Reports

As the Omicron variant is spreading more rapidly across the country, UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has invited locals aged 30 and above to book their Covid boosters, starting from Monday.<o:p></o:p>

Medical experts are worried that the number of Omicron cases will rise alarmingly in the coming few months. To avoid the spread of the vaccine and to make sure that people do not fall severely ill if infected, the medical experts have suggested locals to get their booster shot dose.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Declining trust in Boris Johnson can lead to increase in Covid cases in UK">Declining trust in Boris Johnson can lead to increase in Covid cases in UK</a></o:p>

UK has nearly 7.5 million people aged between 30 and 39, out of which 3.5 million people are eligible for their dose of Covid booster from Monday, NHS reported.<o:p></o:p>

Now, all eligible people have been allowed to book their booster jab after 61 days (two months) of getting their second dose.<o:p></o:p>

This announcement comes as a recent report by London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) — which is a part of UK government's scientific advisory group for emergencies&nbsp;(SAGE) — claimed that the UK could record 25,000 to 75,000 Covid deaths by April.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-heres-what-the-pandemic-will-look-like-in-2022-434239">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-heres-what-the-pandemic-will-look-like-in-2022-434239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Experts fear that if strict rules are not imposed, the Omicron variant may spread rapidly, considering the current doubling times.<o:p></o:p>

"The key point is that under a range of plausible scenarios, stringent action is needed on or before 18 December 2021 if doubling times stay at 2.5 days. Even if doubling times rise to around 5 days, stringent action is likely still needed in December," the report, seen by the Guardian, reads. "The rapid spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Omicron</a>&nbsp;means that action to limit pressures on the health system might have to come earlier than intuition suggests."<o:p></o:p>

As the Omicron variant is spreading more rapidly across the country, UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has invited locals aged 30 and above to book their Covid boosters, starting from Monday.

As the Omicron variant is spreading more rapidly across the country, UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has invited locals aged 30 and above to book their Covid boosters, starting from Monday. Medical experts are worried that the number of Omicron cases will rise alarmingly in the coming few months. To avoid the spread of the vaccine and to make sure that people do not fall severely ill if infected, the medical experts have suggested locals to get their booster shot dose. Also read | Declining trust in Boris Johnson can lead to increase in Covid cases in UK UK has nearly 7.5 million people aged between 30 and 39, out of which 3.5 million people are eligible for their dose of Covid booster from Monday, NHS reported. Now, all eligible people have been allowed to book their booster jab after 61 days (two months) of getting their second dose. This announcement comes as a recent report by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) — which is a part of UK government's scientific advisory group for emergencies (SAGE) — claimed that the UK could record 25,000 to 75,000 Covid deaths by April. WATCH | Experts fear that if strict rules are not imposed, the Omicron variant may spread rapidly, considering the current doubling times. "The key point is that under a range of plausible scenarios, stringent action is needed on or before 18 December 2021 if doubling times stay at 2.5 days. Even if doubling times rise to around 5 days, stringent action is likely still needed in December," the report, seen by the Guardian, reads. "The rapid spread of Omicron means that action to limit pressures on the health system might have to come earlier than intuition suggests."

UK invites locals over 30 to register for booster jabs amid Omicron surge

Amid growing concerns over the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, a parliamentary committee has recommended that the efficacy of Covid vaccines must be evaluated and the government conduct more research to examine the need for booster doses to contain the new strain 
 
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health, which presented its report on Friday, also said that concerns with regard to the new strain developing immunoescape mechanism should be critically addressed.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whos-chief-scientist-soumya-swaminathan-asks-people-not-to-panic-433996/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In view of loss of life during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the committee noted that the measures taken by the health ministry to contain or prevent the spread of SARS-COV-2 proved to be squarely inadequate and suggested that the focus should be on strengthening health infrastructure, ensuring adequate availability of beds, supply of oxygen cylinders and essential medicines. 
 
With the threat of a third wave looming around, the government should utilise the time in strengthening public health infrastructure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-omicron-in-india-updates-two-cases-found-in-karnataka-433212" hreflang="en">LIVE: India reports third Omicron case from Gujarat</a> 
 
This is evident from the fact that unlike the first wave (which peaked in September 2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic, which largely was restricted to urban areas where testing was introduced rapidly, the second wave (peaked in May) largely spread through rural towns and villages, it said in its report 
 
The committee, thus, observed that there is a dire need for improving the geographical spread of testing facilities in rural regions of the country. It also recommended establishing sync between PHCs/CHCs with the VRDLs in the states. 
 
In its report, the committee said it apprehends that a rise in mutations in the virus may lead to reporting of more virulent and transmissible strain of the Covid virus in the country and strongly recommended the Union health ministry to adopt a zero-tolerance COVID-19 policy and closely track Covid cases across the country.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/omicron-travel-chaos-countries-that-imposed-travel-curbs-over-new-covid-variant-432196">Omicron travel chaos: Countries that imposed travel curbs over new Covid variant</a> 
 
"The committee believes that timely detection and isolation of potentially infectious people is very crucial in reducing the impact of the pandemic. The importance of diagnostic testing therefore, cannot be overlooked," the panel said in its report 
 
Besides, the government must aggressively keep pushing the vaccination programme in terms of granting approval to more vaccines, ramping up vaccine production, enhancing delivery capacity and increasing the vaccination rate, the committee said in its recommendations 
 
"With the incidence of highly mutated Omicron (B.1.1.529) strain of Covid virus, the committee strongly believes that the efficacy of the vaccines must be evaluated. The concerns with regards to the new strain developing immunoescape mechanism need to be critically addressed," it recommended 
 
An efficient and widely deployed testing mechanism will go a long way in preventing the spread of the infection, the panel noted 
 
The committee said although the second wave came almost six months after the peak of the first wave, India's testing infrastructure remained "abysmal and highly insufficient" 
 
The report stated that to combat the current pandemic and other future emergencies, India must realise its full testing capacity and augment this capacity even further and that the government should ensure that the testing should far outpace the growth of the cases to arrest future waves of Covid early 
 
"The committee also noted that with the new strain of Covid, Omicron (B.1.1.529), exhibiting 30 plus mutations, tracking and testing facilities especially at airports must also be strengthened and rigorous testing and screening of travellers must be carried out," it said 
 
"The committee is also concerned about the efficacy of the present vaccines and the possibility of mutated strain like Omicron evading vaccine immunity. The committee, therefore recommends the government to conduct more research and examine the need of administering booster dose of vaccines for containing the newer strain of virus," the committee said in its recommendations 
 
The committee recommended Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia INSACOG to closely monitor the new strain of the virus and work towards upgrading the genome sequencing infrastructure in the country 
 
With WHO designating Omicorn as a "Variant of Concern", the government must take immediate measures to prevent the transmission of any newer strains in the country, the committee said in its recommendations 
 
Further noting that the North-East region was engulfed during the second wave of the pandemic, the committee said it is high time the ministry pulls up its socks and take concrete steps to improve the largely insufficient healthcare facilities in the North-East Region of the country. 
 
The committee also sought to be apprised of the 'plan of action' with respect to utilisation of Rs 64,179.55 crore allocated for strengthening public health infrastructure for pandemic preparedness.

&nbsp;

Amid growing concerns over the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, a parliamentary committee has recommended that the efficacy of Covid vaccines must be evaluated and the government conduct more research to examine the need for booster doses to contain the new strain The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health, which presented its report on Friday, also said that concerns with regard to the new strain developing immunoescape mechanism should be critically addressed.

Amid growing concerns over the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, a parliamentary committee has recommended that the efficacy of Covid vaccines must be evaluated and the government conduct more research to examine the need for booster doses to contain the new strain The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health, which presented its report on Friday, also said that concerns with regard to the new strain developing immunoescape mechanism should be critically addressed. In view of loss of life during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the committee noted that the measures taken by the health ministry to contain or prevent the spread of SARS-COV-2 proved to be squarely inadequate and suggested that the focus should be on strengthening health infrastructure, ensuring adequate availability of beds, supply of oxygen cylinders and essential medicines. With the threat of a third wave looming around, the government should utilise the time in strengthening public health infrastructure. Also read | LIVE: India reports third Omicron case from Gujarat This is evident from the fact that unlike the first wave (which peaked in September 2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic, which largely was restricted to urban areas where testing was introduced rapidly, the second wave (peaked in May) largely spread through rural towns and villages, it said in its report The committee, thus, observed that there is a dire need for improving the geographical spread of testing facilities in rural regions of the country. It also recommended establishing sync between PHCs/CHCs with the VRDLs in the states. In its report, the committee said it apprehends that a rise in mutations in the virus may lead to reporting of more virulent and transmissible strain of the Covid virus in the country and strongly recommended the Union health ministry to adopt a zero-tolerance COVID-19 policy and closely track Covid cases across the country. Also see | Omicron travel chaos: Countries that imposed travel curbs over new Covid variant "The committee believes that timely detection and isolation of potentially infectious people is very crucial in reducing the impact of the pandemic. The importance of diagnostic testing therefore, cannot be overlooked," the panel said in its report Besides, the government must aggressively keep pushing the vaccination programme in terms of granting approval to more vaccines, ramping up vaccine production, enhancing delivery capacity and increasing the vaccination rate, the committee said in its recommendations "With the incidence of highly mutated Omicron (B.1.1.529) strain of Covid virus, the committee strongly believes that the efficacy of the vaccines must be evaluated. The concerns with regards to the new strain developing immunoescape mechanism need to be critically addressed," it recommended An efficient and widely deployed testing mechanism will go a long way in preventing the spread of the infection, the panel noted The committee said although the second wave came almost six months after the peak of the first wave, India's testing infrastructure remained "abysmal and highly insufficient" The report stated that to combat the current pandemic and other future emergencies, India must realise its full testing capacity and augment this capacity even further and that the government should ensure that the testing should far outpace the growth of the cases to arrest future waves of Covid early "The committee also noted that with the new strain of Covid, Omicron (B.1.1.529), exhibiting 30 plus mutations, tracking and testing facilities especially at airports must also be strengthened and rigorous testing and screening of travellers must be carried out," it said "The committee is also concerned about the efficacy of the present vaccines and the possibility of mutated strain like Omicron evading vaccine immunity. The committee, therefore recommends the government to conduct more research and examine the need of administering booster dose of vaccines for containing the newer strain of virus," the committee said in its recommendations The committee recommended Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia INSACOG to closely monitor the new strain of the virus and work towards upgrading the genome sequencing infrastructure in the country With WHO designating Omicorn as a "Variant of Concern", the government must take immediate measures to prevent the transmission of any newer strains in the country, the committee said in its recommendations Further noting that the North-East region was engulfed during the second wave of the pandemic, the committee said it is high time the ministry pulls up its socks and take concrete steps to improve the largely insufficient healthcare facilities in the North-East Region of the country. The committee also sought to be apprised of the 'plan of action' with respect to utilisation of Rs 64,179.55 crore allocated for strengthening public health infrastructure for pandemic preparedness.

Omicron: Parliamentary panel recommends evaluation of vaccines, more research for booster dose

As the Omicron variant of COVID-19 spreads rapidly around the world, there has been intense debate on the need to take a third dose or a booster shot for extra protection against the deadly virus.

Even as some countries deliberate and study the necessity of a booster dose, Israel's healthcare expert Prof Jonathan Halevy told WION on Thursday asserted that an additional Covid jab was imperative for strong protection.

“People who are double vaccinated, after a gap of 6 months following the second dose are considered to be unvaccinated. So, it only calls for the necessity to take a booster shot. Actually, the level of immunity goes down below protection level on the average in six months after the second vaccination, though it differs from person to person,” Halevy said.

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When asked whether there has been any progress in treating Covid illness, Halevy said, “As far as medications go, I believe that we are now in a much better shape compared to the year-and-a-half ago when the virus started. We now have an arsenal of medications and among them are Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations. If God forbid we have a fifth wave, we can treat the patients much earlier and efficaciously.”

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The health expert also stressed that the children need to be vaccinated as quickly as possible, but lamented the slow pace of the vaccination rate in Israel.

“It is well proven that the vaccine is safe for children and unfortunately in Israel, the pace of vaccination among children 5-11 years old is too slow. We are trying to plead to parents not to hesitate and do it at a quicker pace. I am more apprehended by the slow pace of vaccination among kids,” said Halevy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-omicron-was-first-found-in-san-francisco-433638">Why Omicron was first found in San Francisco</a>

When asked whether it was possible to implement a national mandate making vaccines compulsory in Israel, as suggested by the country’s coronavirus czar Salman Zarka, Halevy pointed out that such orders won’t be passed in Israel.

“I don’t believe it will happen in Israel, as it is a very vivid democracy with a very meticulous approach to human rights. So, I think that coming out with a law to mandate vaccination for everyone will not happen in Israel. But I think sanctions or penalties should be given,” he said.

Out of a population of 9.4 million, 5.7 million Israelis have received two vaccine doses, and 4 million have had a third booster shot, according to Israel's health ministry data.

Israel rolled out vaccinations for children aged five to 11 last week, one of only a handful of countries to inoculate minors that young.

As the Omicron variant of COVID-19 spreads rapidly around the world, there has been intense debate on the need to take a third dose or a booster shot for extra protection against the deadly virus.

As the Omicron variant of COVID-19 spreads rapidly around the world, there has been intense debate on the need to take a third dose or a booster shot for extra protection against the deadly virus. Even as some countries deliberate and study the necessity of a booster dose, Israel's healthcare expert Prof Jonathan Halevy told WION on Thursday asserted that an additional Covid jab was imperative for strong protection. “People who are double vaccinated, after a gap of 6 months following the second dose are considered to be unvaccinated. So, it only calls for the necessity to take a booster shot. Actually, the level of immunity goes down below protection level on the average in six months after the second vaccination, though it differs from person to person,” Halevy said. Also read | Omicron: No kissing under mistletoe this Christmas, advises British politician When asked whether there has been any progress in treating Covid illness, Halevy said, “As far as medications go, I believe that we are now in a much better shape compared to the year-and-a-half ago when the virus started. We now have an arsenal of medications and among them are Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations. If God forbid we have a fifth wave, we can treat the patients much earlier and efficaciously.” Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated The health expert also stressed that the children need to be vaccinated as quickly as possible, but lamented the slow pace of the vaccination rate in Israel. “It is well proven that the vaccine is safe for children and unfortunately in Israel, the pace of vaccination among children 5-11 years old is too slow. We are trying to plead to parents not to hesitate and do it at a quicker pace. I am more apprehended by the slow pace of vaccination among kids,” said Halevy. Also read | Why Omicron was first found in San Francisco When asked whether it was possible to implement a national mandate making vaccines compulsory in Israel, as suggested by the country’s coronavirus czar Salman Zarka, Halevy pointed out that such orders won’t be passed in Israel. “I don’t believe it will happen in Israel, as it is a very vivid democracy with a very meticulous approach to human rights. So, I think that coming out with a law to mandate vaccination for everyone will not happen in Israel. But I think sanctions or penalties should be given,” he said. Out of a population of 9.4 million, 5.7 million Israelis have received two vaccine doses, and 4 million have had a third booster shot, according to Israel's health ministry data. Israel rolled out vaccinations for children aged five to 11 last week, one of only a handful of countries to inoculate minors that young.

Two-dose vaccines insufficient, booster dose must for protection against Covid: Israel’s health expert

As coronavirus cases continue to surge in the US, authorities on Friday&nbsp;approved Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna booster shots for all those over 18.&nbsp;

The booster doses were earlier authorised&nbsp;for people over 65. The FDA said the move will "eliminate confusion about who may receive a booster dose" as the country grapples with the virus.

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According to the FDA, people who have received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines would be eligible to take the vaccine six months after the second shot and those who had taken the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can get a booster two months after their first shot.

Pfizer and Moderna had earlier requested authorities for booster doses even as some US states including California, Louisiana and Kansas have already directed&nbsp;adults to take the booster shots.

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Reports say most deaths and hospitalisations has taken place among the unvaccinated people as the US continues to battle the Delta variant.

According to the White House, 80 per cent of Americans aged 12 and over have received at least one dose of the vaccine with 2.6 million kids aged between 5-11 having received one dose.

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The White House said the government has invested billions of dollars in vaccine manufacturing. The US is the worst-hit country with the virus recording over 47 million coronavirus cases and more than&nbsp;768,700 fatalities.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As coronavirus cases continue to surge in the US, authorities on Friday approved Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna booster shots for all those over 18. The booster doses were earlier authorised for people over 65.

As coronavirus cases continue to surge in the US, authorities on Friday approved Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna booster shots for all those over 18. The booster doses were earlier authorised for people over 65. The FDA said the move will "eliminate confusion about who may receive a booster dose" as the country grapples with the virus. Also Read: US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine According to the FDA, people who have received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines would be eligible to take the vaccine six months after the second shot and those who had taken the Johnson & Johnson vaccine can get a booster two months after their first shot. Pfizer and Moderna had earlier requested authorities for booster doses even as some US states including California, Louisiana and Kansas have already directed adults to take the booster shots. Also Read: Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge Reports say most deaths and hospitalisations has taken place among the unvaccinated people as the US continues to battle the Delta variant. According to the White House, 80 per cent of Americans aged 12 and over have received at least one dose of the vaccine with 2.6 million kids aged between 5-11 having received one dose. Also Read: AstraZeneca's Evusheld therapy provides protection against COVID-19 for at least 6 months The White House said the government has invested billions of dollars in vaccine manufacturing. The US is the worst-hit country with the virus recording over 47 million coronavirus cases and more than 768,700 fatalities. (With inputs from Agencies)

US approves COVID-19 booster shots for all adults

Israeli officials completed their COVID-19 "war games" named “Omega Exercise” which was conducted to prepare for the next deadlier variant of the virus.

The Israeli government said it was the "next war" as claimed that the report would be presented to world leaders next week. The new virus was strain was named "Omega" as officials conducted simulated exercises aimed at fighting the new virus.

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PM Naftali Bennett ordered the border to be sealed while&nbsp;informing Gaza officials and the Palestinian Authority. The Israeli prime minister asserted that the "pandemic wargame" was not a secret and&nbsp;he wanted to share the information with other countries.

The Israeli prime minister said although the country had battled the Delta strain but deadlier strain could arrive. The exercise&nbsp;analysed the preparedness of various departments to handle the new crisis including hospitals, communication units&nbsp;and security agencies.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel approves Covid shot for children

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Bennett entered a nuclear bunker which was reportedly built to shield against an attack by Iran and missiles from Gaza. The exercise was designed to take place over a 10-week period in the December holidays with children being hospitalised.

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The Israeli prime minister focussed efforts on being better prepared for the pandemic. The Prime Minister's Office said the country had beaten the fourth wave and "is in an excellent situation" but added that "we are not closing up shop". The PM's offices said the drill was the "first of its kind in the world".

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The country had experienced a surge in coronavirus cases in August and September as it began its booster vaccine programme. Reports claim over 80 per cent of the population have taken both doses of the virus in Israel.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Israeli officials completed their COVID-19 "war games" named “Omega Exercise” which was conducted to prepare for the next deadlier variant of the virus. The Israeli government said it was the "next war" as claimed that the report would be presented to world leaders next week.

Israeli officials completed their COVID-19 "war games" named “Omega Exercise” which was conducted to prepare for the next deadlier variant of the virus. The Israeli government said it was the "next war" as claimed that the report would be presented to world leaders next week. The new virus was strain was named "Omega" as officials conducted simulated exercises aimed at fighting the new virus. Also Read: Israel reports subvariant of Delta coronavirus strain PM Naftali Bennett ordered the border to be sealed while informing Gaza officials and the Palestinian Authority. The Israeli prime minister asserted that the "pandemic wargame" was not a secret and he wanted to share the information with other countries. The Israeli prime minister said although the country had battled the Delta strain but deadlier strain could arrive. The exercise analysed the preparedness of various departments to handle the new crisis including hospitals, communication units and security agencies. Watch: Israel approves Covid shot for children Bennett entered a nuclear bunker which was reportedly built to shield against an attack by Iran and missiles from Gaza. The exercise was designed to take place over a 10-week period in the December holidays with children being hospitalised. Also Read: More than 1 million Israelis who haven’t got booster shots will lose quarantine exemption The Israeli prime minister focussed efforts on being better prepared for the pandemic. The Prime Minister's Office said the country had beaten the fourth wave and "is in an excellent situation" but added that "we are not closing up shop". The PM's offices said the drill was the "first of its kind in the world". Also Read: Israel to reopen borders for tourists for selected countries The country had experienced a surge in coronavirus cases in August and September as it began its booster vaccine programme. Reports claim over 80 per cent of the population have taken both doses of the virus in Israel. (With inputs from Agencies)

Israel conducts COVID-19 'wargame' to beat fictitious Omega strain

People who received Johnson &amp; Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine may benefit from a booster dose of Pfizer or&nbsp;Moderna, preliminary results of a US study published Wednesday showed.

The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), was eagerly awaited in the United States because it looked at the possibility of "mixing" vaccines, using a different vaccine than the initial doses for the booster shot,&nbsp;which is not currently allowed in the country.

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The study was conducted on 458 adults who had been vaccinated with one of three US-approved brands (Pfizer,&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;or J&amp;J) for at least 12 weeks.

These three groups were each divided into three new groups to receive one of the available vaccines as a booster. The nine groups consisted of about 50 people each.

Researchers then analyzed antibody levels 15 days after the booster shot.

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For people originally inoculated with J&amp;J, antibody levels were four times higher after a J&amp;J booster, 35 times higher after a Pfizer booster and 76 times higher after a&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;booster.

And antibody levels for those who had originally received&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;shots were higher "irrespective of the booster vaccine administered," when compared with those who had initially received Pfizer or J&amp;J, the study said.

Additionally, "no safety concerns were identified" after booster doses were administered, it found.

The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, has several limitations, however.

The number of participants was small, and the immune response could evolve over time, beyond the 15 days observed during the study.

"Important not to get too carried away with the findings," tweeted Peter Hotez, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine.

Results from trials on a second J&amp;J booster shot conducted by the company itself were "impressive," he said.

The NIH study should fuel discussions by a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expert committee, which is scheduled to consider applications for a booster dose from&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;and J&amp;J on Thursday and Friday, respectively.

A booster from Pfizer has already been approved in the United States for certain populations, such as people aged 65 or older, adults with high-risk medical conditions and those in jobs where they are frequently exposed to the coronavirus.

People who received Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine may benefit from a booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna, preliminary results of a US study published Wednesday showed.

People who received Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine may benefit from a booster dose of Pfizer or Moderna, preliminary results of a US study published Wednesday showed. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), was eagerly awaited in the United States because it looked at the possibility of "mixing" vaccines, using a different vaccine than the initial doses for the booster shot, which is not currently allowed in the country. Also read | WHO says it is 'last chance' to find origin of COVID-19 The study was conducted on 458 adults who had been vaccinated with one of three US-approved brands (Pfizer, Moderna or J&J) for at least 12 weeks. These three groups were each divided into three new groups to receive one of the available vaccines as a booster. The nine groups consisted of about 50 people each. Researchers then analyzed antibody levels 15 days after the booster shot. Also read | Smoking, marijuana may increase risk of breakthrough COVID-19 infection: Study For people originally inoculated with J&J, antibody levels were four times higher after a J&J booster, 35 times higher after a Pfizer booster and 76 times higher after a Moderna booster. And antibody levels for those who had originally received Moderna shots were higher "irrespective of the booster vaccine administered," when compared with those who had initially received Pfizer or J&J, the study said. Additionally, "no safety concerns were identified" after booster doses were administered, it found. The study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, has several limitations, however. The number of participants was small, and the immune response could evolve over time, beyond the 15 days observed during the study. "Important not to get too carried away with the findings," tweeted Peter Hotez, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine. Results from trials on a second J&J booster shot conducted by the company itself were "impressive," he said. The NIH study should fuel discussions by a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expert committee, which is scheduled to consider applications for a booster dose from Moderna and J&J on Thursday and Friday, respectively. A booster from Pfizer has already been approved in the United States for certain populations, such as people aged 65 or older, adults with high-risk medical conditions and those in jobs where they are frequently exposed to the coronavirus.

Moderna or Pfizer booster works better for people vaccinated with J&J: Study

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths.

Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so.

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On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further.

In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters.

The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv

Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well.

"The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government.

"This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive. Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths. Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so. On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further. In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters. The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well. "The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government. "This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's booster Covid vaccine drive shows effect on Delta variant spread

July has been termed as the 'world’s hottest month ever recorded, as confirmed by US government scientists.

This provides a further indication of the unfolding climate crisis that is affecting almost every part of the planet.

The global land and ocean surface temperature last month was one degree Celsius, 0.9C (1.6F), hotter than the 20th-century average of 15.8C (60.4F), making it the hottest month since modern record-keeping began 142 years ago.

Asia had its hottest July on record, besting the previous record set in 2010. Europe had its second-hottest July on record-tying with July 2010 and trailing behind July 2018, and North America, South America, Africa and Oceania all had a top-10 warmest July.

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NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D, in a statement said, "Scientists from across the globe delivered the most up-to-date assessment of the ways in which the climate is changing".

"Spinrad said in a statement. "It is a sobering IPCC report that finds that human influence is, unequivocally, causing climate change, and it confirms the impacts are widespread and rapidly intensifying."

The Noaa climate report has also found that Arctic sea ice extent was more than 18 per cent below an average set between 1981 to 2010, the fourth smallest extent since satellite records began in 1979.

It is now “very likely” that 2021 will rank among the 10 hottest years ever recorded, Noaa stated.

July has been termed as the 'world’s hottest month ever recorded, as confirmed by US government scientists. This provides a further indication of the unfolding climate crisis that is affecting almost every part of the planet.

July has been termed as the 'world’s hottest month ever recorded, as confirmed by US government scientists. This provides a further indication of the unfolding climate crisis that is affecting almost every part of the planet. The global land and ocean surface temperature last month was one degree Celsius, 0.9C (1.6F), hotter than the 20th-century average of 15.8C (60.4F), making it the hottest month since modern record-keeping began 142 years ago. Asia had its hottest July on record, besting the previous record set in 2010. Europe had its second-hottest July on record-tying with July 2010 and trailing behind July 2018, and North America, South America, Africa and Oceania all had a top-10 warmest July. Also read | US issues new terrorism threat warning ahead of 9/11 anniversary NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D, in a statement said, "Scientists from across the globe delivered the most up-to-date assessment of the ways in which the climate is changing". "Spinrad said in a statement. "It is a sobering IPCC report that finds that human influence is, unequivocally, causing climate change, and it confirms the impacts are widespread and rapidly intensifying." The Noaa climate report has also found that Arctic sea ice extent was more than 18 per cent below an average set between 1981 to 2010, the fourth smallest extent since satellite records began in 1979. It is now “very likely” that 2021 will rank among the 10 hottest years ever recorded, Noaa stated.

More people will die if countries start booster shots, experts claim

The United States has authorised an extra dose of Covid vaccine for people with weakened immune systems, as the country struggles to thwart the Delta variant.

"The country has entered yet another wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the FDA is especially cognizant that immunocompromised people are particularly at risk for severe disease," said acting&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Janet Woodcock in a statement.

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Speaking at a White House COVID-19 press briefing, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said the shots would be available to certain people who are moderately and severely immune compromised, such as people who have had organ transplants and some cancer patients. She estimated the group of vulnerable people was less than 3 per cent&nbsp;of adults.

"This action is about ensuring our most vulnerable, who may need an additional dose to enhance their biological responses to the vaccines are better protected against COVID-19," Walensky said.

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet on Friday to discuss this issue and offer recommendations.

Top US&nbsp;infectious disease official Dr. Anthony Fauci said US&nbsp;officials do not believe elderly or others who are not immunocompromised need another vaccine dose at this moment.

Cases and hospitalisations have surged across the country in the past month. Some hospitals in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi have run out of beds, and the outbreak is spreading beyond the epicenter in the US&nbsp;South to Oregon and Washington state.

Some other countries, such as Israel and Germany, plan to or have already administered third shots to elderly or vulnerable people to try to slow the spread of the contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States has authorised an extra dose of Covid vaccine for people with weakened immune systems, as the country struggles to thwart the Delta variant. "The country has entered yet another wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the FDA is especially cognizant that immunocompromised people are particularly at risk for severe disease," said acting Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Janet Woodcock in a statement.

The United States has authorised an extra dose of Covid vaccine for people with weakened immune systems, as the country struggles to thwart the Delta variant. "The country has entered yet another wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the FDA is especially cognizant that immunocompromised people are particularly at risk for severe disease," said acting Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Janet Woodcock in a statement. Speaking at a White House COVID-19 press briefing, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said the shots would be available to certain people who are moderately and severely immune compromised, such as people who have had organ transplants and some cancer patients. She estimated the group of vulnerable people was less than 3 per cent of adults. "This action is about ensuring our most vulnerable, who may need an additional dose to enhance their biological responses to the vaccines are better protected against COVID-19," Walensky said. The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet on Friday to discuss this issue and offer recommendations. Top US infectious disease official Dr. Anthony Fauci said US officials do not believe elderly or others who are not immunocompromised need another vaccine dose at this moment. Cases and hospitalisations have surged across the country in the past month. Some hospitals in Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi have run out of beds, and the outbreak is spreading beyond the epicenter in the US South to Oregon and Washington state. Some other countries, such as Israel and Germany, plan to or have already administered third shots to elderly or vulnerable people to try to slow the spread of the contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies)

US authorises Covid booster jabs for those with weak immune systems to thwart Delta variant