The Latest Breaking News from Omicron

Chinese producers outperform French competitors in the Covid-19 self-test market

With the Omicron variant of Covid-19 wreaking worldwide havoc, the demand for tests is exploding. Companies producing test kits are living through a golden age. But it is mainly Chinese companies which are scooping up the profits, with just a few French test-makers jumping on the bandwagon.

Radio France Internationale · Jan 20, 2022

Welsh Government says 69,000 more people would have caught Covid if it hadn't brought in restrictions

Wales' health minister denied the government had overreacted to Omicron fears

Wales Online · Jan 20, 2022

Professor Luke O'Neill says Covid-19 pandemic is 'effectively coming to an end' in Ireland

The immunologist said Covid-19 is effectively turning into the flu and Omicron has caused 50% less hospitalisations than Delta

Dublin Live · Jan 20, 2022

Grattan on Friday: Scott Morrison's ministerial team looks far from match-fit

It sounded a touch desperate – Prime Minister Scott Morrison imploring backpackers to “come on down” to Australia, as the Omicron crisis escalated.

The Conversation · Jan 20, 2022

Omicron pushes COVID deaths toward 2,000 per day

Omicron's death toll is rising as cases decline on the East Coast.

Axios · Jan 20, 2022

Taiwan to mandate COVID vaccination proof for entertainment venues

Taiwan will mandate the use of passes that provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry into entertainment venues, the government said on Thursday, as it seeks to reduce infection risks while tackling a small rise in domestic Omicron cases.

Reuters · Jan 20, 2022

Will the UK go into another lockdown in 2022?

Omicron variant of coronavirus led to huge spike in cases over New Year but has since subsided, prompting Boris Johnson to drop social restrictions

The Independent UK · Jan 20, 2022

How long is Omicron’s incubation period? How it differs from Delta and other Covid variants

New strain thought to develop in sufferers at faster pace than original coronavirus

The Independent UK · Jan 20, 2022

Thai GDP expected to grow 3.5%-4.5% in 2022 despite Omicron - FinMin

The economy is still expected to grow 3.5%-4.5% this year driven by fiscal policy, exports and investment, despite an outbreak of the Omicron coronavirus variant remaining a challenge, the finance minister said on Thursday.

Bangkok Post · Jan 20, 2022

When can I get my Covid booster jab? Everything you need to know

Spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus introduces fresh note of urgency to top-up vaccination drive

The Independent UK · Jan 20, 2022