The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed on Tuesday (21/9) that the spread of COVID-19 caused by the delta variant has now dominated compared to cases caused by other coronavirus variants.
“The number of transmissions caused by each of the Alpha, Beta and Gamma variants is less than one percent. The transmission that occurs worldwide is now completely dominated by the Delta variant,” said Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO technical lead for COVID-19.
According to Van Kerkhove, the delta variant is so contagious that it beats other variants circulating around the world.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people rallied Tuesday in Melbourne against the government-imposed restrictions on the construction industry in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Officials announced that a construction site in Melbourne would be closed for two weeks, amid fears that worker movement could trigger the spread of COVID-19.
Construction workers are now also required to have received at least one dose of coronavirus vaccination before being allowed to return to work.
Melbourne, in the state of Victoria, reported 603 new cases Tuesday, the most infections there in a single day this year.
In New Zealand, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Tuesday that fines for violating coronavirus restrictions would increase from November.
The change will increase the fine for someone who willfully disobeys COVID-19 containment regulations, from about $2,800 to $8,400. Those who violate the restrictions could also face up to six months in prison.
Businesses that violate coronavirus restrictions can be fined up to $10,500. (ps/rs)
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