EMA and ECDC approve mixing of COVID-19 vaccines
The EMA and ECDC have approved the use of different COVID-19 vaccines for initial and booster doses, citing evidence of strong immune responses from heterologous schedules.
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Norway limits home visitors to 10 and ends alcohol service at midnight
Norway has introduced new restrictions on private gatherings and alcohol service hours due to rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations.
Spanish Public Health Commission approves the usage of the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11 years.
The Spanish Public Health Commission approves the usage of the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11 years. Vaccination rollout for this age group will begin on December 15.
Plant-based COVID-19 vaccine shows 71% efficacy in Phase 3 trial
A Phase 3 trial of a plant-based COVID-19 vaccine by GSK and Medicago demonstrated 71% efficacy against all circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants, including 75% against the Delta variant, with no severe cases in the vaccinated group. The Omicron variant was not present during the trial period.
Italy introduces Super Green Pass for venues and hospitality
Italy implements the Super Green Pass, required for entry to theatres, cinemas, music venues, sports events, restaurants, and bars, valid for vaccinated individuals or those recovered from COVID-19 within six months.
Maldives confirms first Omicron case in arriving tourist
The Maldives has reported its first case of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in a tourist who arrived in the country. Genome sequencing confirmed the presence of the variant in Malé City.
Pfizer–BioNTech vaccine approved for Australian children aged 5 to 11
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has provisionally approved the use of the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 in Australia, with rollout scheduled to begin on 10 January 2022 following an independent recommendation.
Cook Islands reports first COVID-19 case in 10-year-old boy from repatriation flight
The Cook Islands confirmed its first case of COVID-19 in a 10-year-old boy who arrived on a repatriation flight from New Zealand on 1 December and is in quarantine.