Japan records 269 daily COVID-19 deaths
Japan reported a record 269 daily deaths from COVID-19 on 17 February 2022, with new cases reaching 95,208 and severe cases rising to 1,469.
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South Korea reports 90,443 new daily COVID-19 cases, total reaches 1.55 million
South Korea recorded 90,443 new daily cases, raising the national total to 1.55 million, as the Omicron variant drove a surge in infections and led to the suspension of the men's basketball league.
South Korea reports 57,177 new daily COVID-19 cases, raising total to 1.46 million
South Korea recorded 57,177 new daily cases, bringing the national total to 1,462,421, with 61 deaths and 314 critical patients reported in 24 hours.
Vietnam lifts curbs on international flights from 15 February
Vietnam removes restrictions on international passenger flights from 15 February, restoring flight frequencies to pre-pandemic levels with no limit on numbers. The move follows a gradual resumption of services and easing of quarantine rules for vaccinated travellers.
Mauritian flag raised on Chagos Archipelago for first time
The Mauritian flag was raised on the Chagos Archipelago, an Indian Ocean territory controlled by the UK, marking the first such event. The move followed a government-led expedition and was described as a historic moment by the Mauritian prime minister.
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, tests positive for COVID-19
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, tests positive for COVID-19.
Hong Kong reports a record 2,071 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, thereby bringing the territory-wide total of confirmed cases to 25,051
Hong Kong reports a record 2,071 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, thereby bringing the territory-wide total of confirmed cases to 25,051.
Sweden advises fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose for over-80s and care recipients
The Public Health Agency of Sweden recommends a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for people over 80, nursing home residents, and those receiving at-home care. The measure follows ongoing high transmission and declining immune response in older populations.