New Delhi: The Covid-19 pandemic continues across the world. Currently, the total number of cases stands at over 18.2 crore and more than 39.5 lakh deaths. The virus has made its way through over 200 countries and territories.
Thailand registers a record number of Covid-19 deaths since the start of the pandemic, South Africa’s third Covid wave worsens, and seven cities in Australia are now under lockdown as cases spread.
ThePrint brings you some important global stories on the coronavirus pandemic.
Thailand registers record deaths in latest outbreak
In its most severe outbreak since the start of the pandemic, Thailand reported a record 53 deaths and 4,786 infections Wednesday, reports The Guardian.
The country’s third wave started in April, when cases were linked to bars and clubs in Bangkok. The virus has spread rapidly inside prisons, construction sites, factories and crowded areas of the capital.
In view of the new crisis, the government introduced new restrictions Monday. Construction sites in Bangkok and surrounding provinces were sealed off, with workers forced to stay inside for 30 days. A ban was also enforced on dining in restaurants and on gatherings of more than 20 people in the capital and other high-risk areas.
Thailand has vaccinated less than 4 per cent of its population, and has recorded 259,301 cases and 2,023 deaths.
Seven cities in Australia now under lockdown as cases spread
Seven Australian cities are now in lockdown as authorities attempt to contain the spread of the Delta coronavirus variant, reports BBC. A day ago, Brisbane became the fourth major city under lockdown, joining Perth, Sydney and Darwin.
The seven cities now include Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Darwin, Townsville and the Gold Coast, which comprise near half the population — over 12 million people.
State leaders across the country Wednesday said they were facing a “pressure cooker situation” amid a new spike in cases and have urged a faster vaccine rollout. So far, just 5 per cent of the population remains vaccinated.
Australia has recorded 30,611 cases and 910 deaths.
Also read: Cipla gets DCGI nod to import Moderna’s Covid vaccine for restricted emergency use in India
Etihad Airways extends flight suspension from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
Etihad Airways has announced that the suspension of passenger flights from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to the UAE has been extended to 21 July this year, reports Khaleej Times.
Etihad Airways is the second flag carrier of the UAE, after Emirates.
“Etihad will not be permitted to carry passengers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka or India. However, UAE nationals, diplomatic missions, official delegations and Golden visa holders are exempted from the UAE entry restrictions. These passengers will be subject to acceptance and quarantine conditions,” the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said in a statement.
Cargo flights will continue to operate without any impact.
The UAE has recorded 6,31,160 cases and 1,807 deaths.
South Africa suffers under third Covid wave driven by Delta variant
South Africa, experiencing a severe third wave of Covid-19, currently accounts for close to 40 per cent of all Covid-19 deaths on the continent, reports Al Jazeera. The country is battling the rapid spread of the Delta variant.
According to world-leading epidemiologist Professor Salim Abdool, who also served as co-chair of South Africa’s Ministerial Advisory Committee on Covid-19, a mutation related to an enzyme that “cleaves” the spike protein – makes the Delta variant especially dangerous.
Videos of health workers buckling under pressure have also surfaced on social media.
Gauteng is experiencing a crisis. We are under pressure. Patients calling for help, they can’t breathe. No hospitals available in Gauteng both Public and Private. Protect the elderly and those with pre existing conditions.
#level5#Covid19SA #COVID19 #COVIDVaccination pic.twitter.com/H0qap6SDQl
— Bayanda Gumede?? (@BayandaGumede) June 21, 2021
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced new restrictions, including a ban on alcohol sales and gatherings, as well as an expansion of curfew hours from 9 pm to 4 am.
South Africa has recorded 19,54,466 cases and 60,264 deaths.
What else are we reading:
When will Taiwan open for travel again?: South China Morning Post
Masks Again? Delta Variant’s Spread Prompts Reconsideration of Precautions: The New York Times
Also read: How well did states handle 2nd wave? Survey puts TN, Andhra on top, Bengal, Bihar, Delhi last