The US has approved the use of a second booster for people aged over 50 while many European countries start to vaccinate those aged 60 for the fourth dose. In Australia, we start to vaccinate those at high risk including those aged over 65, aboriginals over 50, and disability residents together with those who are immunocompromised. The widespread of BA.2 Omicron variants makes greater protection of the vulnerable ones are the priority.
It is now clear that we have reached a plateau in our vaccination program with about 94% receiving 2 doses but only 66%of 12+ having three doses. Clearly, the mild symptoms of contracting Omicron discouraged many to get their third dose. As a result, the number of people infected is still increasing at over 50,000 a day with average deaths per day in the 30s. Society is going back to normal except that we still have certain isolation rules for being infected and close contact.
This is the Covid Normal we are now having.
People believe that it getting infected may not be avoidable but getting vaccinated will protect many from getting seriously ill. Masks are still widely used by many until the infection number goes down. Close to 18% of the population now have antibodies. It is hoped that more research in finding the cure for Covid together with more vaccinations will help us to live a normal life.
It now leaves the government to provide a greater effort in educating the public about what we have learned about Covid, especially how we can have greater protection for ourselves through various measures.
One thing the state governments are doing right is that the isolation rules are not yet to be relaxed. On the other hand, more support to keep up with the systematic testing and public hygiene policies should be developed to help the smooth running of society.
Recovery is on its way, but we need to be cautious.
Raymond Chow
Publisher, Blessing CALD