The only time most of us think about wisdom teeth is when they’re causing trouble.Do they have a use beyond causing pain (and leaving you with a hefty dental bill)?Norman and Tegan talk through the history of these meddlesome molars, and what happens when you ignore them.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Surgical removal versus retention for the management of asymptomatic disease‐free impacted wisdom teethPrevalence of Third Molar Agenesis: Associated Dental Anomalies in Non-Syndromic 5923 PatientsChildhood diet may contribute to impacted wisdom teeth, research shows

Let's say you're a pretty healthy person. You have a balanced diet, exercise regularly and don't have any health issues. A multivitamin can only help, right?Not necessarily. There are lots of multivitamins out there, catering to different circumstances.Norman and Tegan take us through the evidence for (and against) taking these catch-all supplements.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Should I Take a Daily Multivitamin?Dietary antioxidants and primary prevention of age related macular degeneration: systematic review and meta-analysisDietary flavanols restore hippocampal-dependent memory in older adults with lower diet quality and lower habitual flavanol consumption

Thousands of Australians see a chiropractor for relief from back pain, headaches or stiffness.There has been a level of controversy surrounding the profession since its inception in the 19th century.But looking beyond the field's storied history, where does the evidence stand now on chiropractic?Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Evidence-Based Practice and Chiropractic CareBenefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trialsAnatomical Sciences in Chiropractic Education: A Survey of Chiropractic Programs in AustraliaA Phase 3 Randomised Trial of Nicotinamide for Skin-Cancer Chemoprevention

There are so many weird and wonderful skin potions out there, promising to fend off or reverse the signs of ageing.But do they work? And if so, how do they work?Norman and Tegan take us through their skincare routines (and some evidence, of course).Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Genetics and skin ageing - Dermato-EndocrinologyRetinoids: Active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatmentsRole of antioxidants in the skin: Anti-ageing effects

Night terrors are distressing awakenings of intense screaming, thrashing and fear that often happen at the same time each night. They're more common in children than in adults, but they can hang around or emerge later in life. Norman takes us through his own childhood night terror, and Tegan weighs in on some of the reasons they happen in the first place. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Night Terrors: Clinical Characteristics and Personality PatternsAn evolutionary perspective on night terrors

Have you ever been chastised for eating a bowl of cereal for lunch? Or having leftovers for breakfast?There are certain foods designed 'breakfast foods' in the collective imagination: eggs, toast, cornflakes, pancakes. But the stories of how they came to earn their morning timeslot are far from science-based. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Is breakfast the most important meal of the day? Bath Breakfast ProjectTowards an Evidence-Based Recommendation for a Balanced BreakfastBreakfast skipping and timing of lunch and dinner: Relationship with BMI and obesity

No pain, no gain — right?Well, if you're looking to build muscle, not necessarily. Chasing discomfort might even slow you down. Norman and Tegan discuss delayed-onset muscle soreness, and why it's not always indicative of a good workout. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences:Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Critical Neural Microdamage-Derived NeuroinflammationPost Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS) and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS): Do They Have Anything in Common?Effects of Descending Stair Walking on Health and Fitness of Elderly Obese Women“The Glorious Pain”: Attaining Pleasure and Gratification in Times of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) among Gym Goers 

Because of the country's high UV levels, Australians hear a lot about the risks of sun exposure. But there are some benefits too. Sunlight enables us to produce vitamin D for strong bones and immune function. But there are other ways rays can help our health. Norman and Tegan take a look at how the right dose of sunlight can be beneficial. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences:The effect of sunscreen on vitamin D: a reviewSanatoria revisited: sunlight and health  

Pet allergies can range from mild to severe — from a nuisance to, occasionally, anaphylaxis. When all you've got is some itchiness and a runny nose, are you doomed to a life without a furry friend?Norman and Tegan discuss the possibility of building up a tolerance to allergens.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences: Dog ownership at three months of age is associated with protection against food allergySensitisation, asthma, and a modified Th2 response in children exposed to cat allergenSpecific gut microbiome signatures and the associated pro-inflammatory functions are linked to paediatric allergy and acquisition of immune tolerance 

It's holiday season, and family feasts are inevitable. But is the post-feast nap also inevitable?Norman and Tegan explain why you get so tired after a big meal. And no ... it has nothing to do with being around your extended family.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report

Binaural beats are a phenomenon that happens in your brain when you listen to two different tones in each ear. There are lots of claims surrounding them — that they can trigger different brain waves and promote different states of mind. Norman and Tegan are here to unpack whether there's any evidence this musical illusion can aid with concentration. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences:Reverse effect of home-use binaural beats brain stimulationPilot feasibility study of binaural auditory beats for reducing symptoms of inattention in children and adolescents with ADHDBinaural beats reduce feeling of pain and discomfort during colonoscopy procedure in not-sedated patients

Caffeine is a part of many people's routines, whether it be a shot of coffee or a cup of tea. If you've ever noticed a headache creeping in when you've missed your morning cup of joe, Norman and Tegan are here to explain why. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences:Adenosine, caffeine, and sleep–wake regulation: state of the science and perspectivesCaffeine for headaches: Helpful or harmful?Caffeine in the management of patients with headache

Napping can be risky. Will you wake up feeling better or worse?There's no doubt that sometimes an afternoon snooze is an absolute necessity. Norman and Tegan explore what's going on when you nap, and what you can do to get the most benefit.References:Influence of mid-afternoon nap duration and sleep parameters on memory encoding, mood, processing speed, and vigilanceLifestyle mediators of associations among siestas, obesity, and metabolic healthEffects of planned cockpit rest on crew performance and alertness in long-haul operations

If you've ever been told to take a probiotic — after a course of antibiotics, or just for your general health — you may be wondering what they actually do. Well, Norman and Tegan are here to dig into the research about these over-the-counter supplements, which claim to support digestion, boost immunity and even improve mood. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health ReportReferences:Probiotics for the prevention of paediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhoea Multispecies Probiotic for the Prevention of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhoea in ChildrenA systematic review of gut microbiota composition in observational studies of major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia Post-Antibiotic Gut Mucosal Microbiome Reconstitution Is Impaired by Probiotics and Improved by Autologous FMT 

Consistent exercise is good for you, but does it make any difference whether you actually enjoy what you're doing?Norman and Tegan explore how fun might help you establish a work-out habit that benefits your body and your mind.Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report

As the saying goes: All good things must come to an end.  Obviously we're not talking about the pandemic — as it certainly isn't good and it certainly isn't over. We're talking about Coronacast: your little pandemic friend that (hopefully!) helped you through the scary times over the last three years. Today is Coronacast's last episode, and we're going out with a bang! What's going on with case numbers (spoiler: rising again)? Are we finally seeing the rise of a new variant? And what do we think we've learned over the last three years? BUT DON'T UNSUBSCRIBE! While Coronacast will be leaving us like OG SARS-CoV-2, Tegan and Norman aren't going anywhere.  They'll be staying right here with a new show that's all about answering the health questions everyone's asking! We know good health information is hard to come by and it's impossible to know who to trust. So send in your your health questions to our new show: What's That Rash? Every week, Norman and Tegan will have a swing at answering them, and give you some useful information and amazing stories to help you live a healthier life. Email us at thatrash@abc.net.au. First episode out 15th November. Also, genuinely, A MASSIVE thank you to every single person whose ever listened to Coronacast and/or sent in a question over the past few years. Without you, we've never have done more than 500 episodes over more than three years. You're the reason we're here and the reason we've loved doing this show. So thankyou!

As the saying goes: All good things must come to an end. But don't go away, we've got something big coming!Obviously we're not talking about the pandemic — as it certainly isn't good and it certainly isn't over.We're talking about Coronacast: your little pandemic friend that (hopefully!) helped you through the scary times over the last three years.Today is Coronacast's last episode, and we're going out with a bang! What's going on with case numbers (spoiler: rising again)? Are we finally seeing the rise of a new variant? And what do we think we've learned over the last three years?BUT DON'T UNSUBSCRIBE! While Coronacast will be leaving us like OG SARS-CoV-2, Tegan and Norman aren't going anywhere. They'll be staying right here with a new show that's all about answering the health questions everyone's asking!We know good health information is hard to come by and it's impossible to know who to trust. So send in your your health questions to our new show: What's That Rash?Every week, Norman and Tegan will have a swing at answering them, and give you some useful information and amazing stories to help you live a healthier life.Email us at thatrash@abc.net.au. First episode out 15th November.Also, genuinely, A MASSIVE thank you to every single person whose ever listened to Coronacast and/or sent in a question over the past few years.Without you, we've never have done more than 500 episodes over more than three years. You're the reason we're here and the reason we've loved doing this show. So thankyou!

Hello Coronacasters - it's been a while! We have a little bit of news to share about what's coming up for Coronacast. Also, Tegan's here to share a very special podcast recommendation! It's a new season of Science Friction! It's called Hello AI Overlords - and it's an entire season diving deep into AI. Where's it come from? Where are we heading? And what happens if it's controlled by only a handful of people. So make sure you check it out right now! Tell all your friends. And why not tell ChatGPT too.

Hello Coronacasters - it's been a while! We have a little bit of news to share about what's coming up for Coronacast.Also, Tegan's here to share a very special podcast recommendation!It's a new season of Science Friction! It's called Hello AI Overlords - and it's an entire season diving deep into AI. Where's it come from? Where are we heading? And what happens if it's controlled by only a handful of people.So make sure you check it out right now! Tell all your friends. And why not tell ChatGPT too.

There's still so much to learn about COVID, and this week we have two big things about Long COVID and how long we spread the virus. Firstly, a recent study has drawn a link between hand grip strength and post Long COVID symptoms, especially when it comes to who gets it and how badly. And secondly, a study from Hong Kong has tried to nail down what's going on in a person's immune system and how that effects the duration of shedding the virus. That's on this week's Coronacast. (And please note, we're taking the next few weeks off! But we'll be back in October)

There's still so much to learn about COVID, and this week we have two big things about Long COVID and how long we spread the virus.Firstly, a recent study has drawn a link between hand grip strength and post Long COVID symptoms, especially when it comes to who gets it and how badly.And secondly, a study from Hong Kong has tried to nail down what's going on in a person's immune system and how that effects the duration of shedding the virus.That's on this week's Coronacast.(And please note, we're taking the next few weeks off! But we'll be back in October)

It's a question that we've been asking since the very beginning of the pandemic: when will it really end? It's easy to think that because people are vaccinated and less attention is paid to COVID, it's over.  In reality more than 5000 people have died of COVID this year, and the disease burden rises every time there's a new variant. On today's Coronacast, a chat with Professor Brendan Crabb, an infectious disease expert who heads up the Burnet Institute on how he thinks the past several years have gone, and whether COVID will remain a forever virus.

It's a question that we've been asking since the very beginning of the pandemic: when will it really end?It's easy to think that because people are vaccinated and less attention is paid to COVID, it's over. In reality more than 5000 people have died of COVID this year, and the disease burden rises every time there's a new variant.On today's Coronacast, a chat with Professor Brendan Crabb, an infectious disease expert who heads up the Burnet Institute on how he thinks the past several years have gone, and whether COVID will remain a forever virus.

The COVID pandemic brought on a whole bunch of change to nearly everyone in the world. All of a sudden people were under lockdowns, out of work, unable to see their loved ones, even fighting for their lives.  But ever so steadily, things have improved. Vaccines came along and we tried to get back to normal.  But for some that’s not so easy.  According to a survey from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - we’re feeling less lonely than we were in the early days of the pandemic. But, sadly, it’s not all great news.  That’s on this week’s Coronacast.

The COVID pandemic brought on a whole bunch of change to nearly everyone in the world.All of a sudden people were under lockdowns, out of work, unable to see their loved ones, even fighting for their lives. But ever so steadily, things have improved. Vaccines came along and we tried to get back to normal.  But for some that’s not so easy. According to a survey from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - we’re feeling less lonely than we were in the early days of the pandemic.But, sadly, it’s not all great news. That’s on this week’s Coronacast.

One of the big scary unknowns that remains with COVID is long-COVID. There are hundreds of thousands of Australians with the condition. But little bit by little bit, researchers are working out more and more about it. And in some good news - it seems that the risk of long-COVID has fallen over the last couple of years.  Also, why shoving certain drugs up your nose might help avoid COVID in the first place. That’s on this week’s Coronacast

One of the big scary unknowns that remains with COVID is long-COVID.There are hundreds of thousands of Australians with the condition.But little bit by little bit, researchers are working out more and more about it.And in some good news - it seems that the risk of long-COVID has fallen over the last couple of years. Also, why shoving certain drugs up your nose might help avoid COVID in the first place.That’s on this week’s Coronacast

In the early days of COVID, it seemed like we were getting new variants of concern every few months. Wuhan led to Alpha then to Delta via a side trip to Beta for parts of the world. But ever since Omicron came in like a wrecking ball at the end of 2021... sure there has been a lot of new sub-variants, but no new challenger to take on the Big Boss. So could Omicron be the final variant? Are things starting to settle down? Will saying this mean a new variant is around the corner? All the big questions on this week's Coroncast.

In the early days of COVID, it seemed like we were getting new variants of concern every few months.Wuhan led to Alpha then to Delta via a side trip to Beta for parts of the world.But ever since Omicron came in like a wrecking ball at the end of 2021... sure there has been a lot of new sub-variants, but no new challenger to take on the Big Boss.So could Omicron be the final variant? Are things starting to settle down? Will saying this mean a new variant is around the corner?All the big questions on this week's Coroncast.

It seems like a mere week ago that we were talking about the last new variant - because it was only a week ago. Move over Eris, there's a new variant in town: Pirola.  Unlike most of the recent strains going around, this one branched off further back in the Omicron family tree.  But what of the usual questions: is it better at evading immunity? Does it cause worse disease? How do I protect myself? Also, how normal is it for a virus to mutate this much? Is it really moving this quickly, or is just because we're watching it so closely?  That's on this week's Coronacast.

It seems like a mere week ago that we were talking about the last new variant - because it was only a week ago.Move over Eris, there's a new variant in town: Pirola. Unlike most of the recent strains going around, this one branched off further back in the Omicron family tree. But what of the usual questions: is it better at evading immunity? Does it cause worse disease? How do I protect myself? Also, how normal is it for a virus to mutate this much? Is it really moving this quickly, or is just because we're watching it so closely? That's on this week's Coronacast.  

Wherever you look, viruses are going into and coming out of animals. Mostly this happens without much fanfare, though occasionally it causes big problems. Which is why it's concerning that researchers in Europe have started to sound the alarm about fur farms in Europe and other researchers looking at pig farms have found more swine flu variants than they expected. So what's going on?   References: Infection prevention and control in the context of coronavirus disease (COVID-19): a living guideline, 10 August 2023 Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection on multiple fur farms in the South and Central Ostrobothnia regions of Finland, July 2023 The genomic landscape of swine influenza A viruses in Southeast Asia

Wherever you look, viruses are going into and coming out of animals.Mostly this happens without much fanfare, though occasionally it causes big problems.Which is why it's concerning that researchers in Europe have started to sound the alarm about fur farms in Europe and other researchers looking at pig farms have found more swine flu variants than they expected.So what's going on?References:Infection prevention and control in the context of coronavirus disease (COVID-19): a living guideline, 10 August 2023Highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection on multiple fur farms in the South and Central Ostrobothnia regions of Finland, July 2023The genomic landscape of swine influenza A viruses in Southeast Asia

If you think that excavating your nose is a harmless if somewhat disgusting habit - think again. A new study reckons you could emerge with COVID-19. Other studies worry about how forgetful having your fingernail so close to the brain might make you. And have you ever given thought to your nasal microbiome much less what our primate cousins get up to (hint: it's even more disgusting)? We drill deep on rhinotillexis. References Rhinotillexomania: psychiatric disorder or habit? A review of nose picking in primates with new evidence of its occurrence in Daubentonia madagascariensis Staphylococcus aureus and the ecology of the nasal microbiome

If you think that excavating your nose is a harmless if somewhat disgusting habit - think again.A new study reckons you could emerge with COVID-19.Other studies worry about how forgetful having your fingernail so close to the brain might make you. And have you ever given thought to your nasal microbiome much less what our primate cousins get up to (hint: it's even more disgusting)?We drill deep on rhinotillexis.ReferencesRhinotillexomania: psychiatric disorder or habit?A review of nose picking in primates with new evidence of its occurrence in Daubentonia madagascariensisStaphylococcus aureus and the ecology of the nasal microbiome

We've said it before and we'll say it again - make sure you get your booster dose.  But what, you ask, is in it for me? How likely am I to be the one who dodges severe disease?  Well a new study has quantified this. It's a number familiar to epidemiologists - the number needed to treat to prevent a certain outcome.  Also this week: where are we at with repurposing existing drugs to prevent COVID?  What's happening with flu numbers? And who was Tegan's surprise fluffy office visitor?

We've said it before and we'll say it again - make sure you get your booster dose. But what, you ask, is in it for me? How likely am I to be the one who dodges severe disease? Well a new study has quantified this. It's a number familiar to epidemiologists - the number needed to treat to prevent a certain outcome. Also this week: where are we at with repurposing existing drugs to prevent COVID? What's happening with flu numbers? And who was Tegan's surprise fluffy office visitor?

In the early days of COVID, we used wastewater surveillance to spot undetected community transmission. Our sewage gave public health authorities early alerts that COVID was spreading. Wastewater surveillance also gives information on sub variants: what's on the rise and what's in decline. But there's other stuff in wastewater - and it's downright criminal.  That's captured on today's rather smelly Coronacast. References: A common allele of HLA is associated with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection Viral and antibody dynamics of acute infection with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant (B.1.529): a prospective cohort study from Shenzhen, China

In the early days of COVID, we used wastewater surveillance to spot undetected community transmission.Our sewage gave public health authorities early alerts that COVID was spreading.Wastewater surveillance also gives information on sub variants: what's on the rise and what's in decline.But there's other stuff in wastewater - and it's downright criminal. That's captured on today's rather smelly Coronacast.References:A common allele of HLA is associated with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infectionViral and antibody dynamics of acute infection with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant (B.1.529): a prospective cohort study from Shenzhen, China

A lot has been said about COVID antivirals, especially on how they might help bring down the number of deaths from the disease. But occasionally an interesting phenomenon occurs: a patient takes the antiviral drugs, feels better, only to come down with COVID again. So how do COVID antivirals work and why does the rebound sometimes happen?

A lot has been said about COVID antivirals, especially on how they might help bring down the number of deaths from the disease.But occasionally an interesting phenomenon occurs: a patient takes the antiviral drugs, feels better, only to come down with COVID again.So how do COVID antivirals work and why does the rebound sometimes happen?

It's the depths of winter, and every second person you know has a cold of some sort.  Most are mild but some can hit hard - as we all know from COVID and influenza. But what about the third virus in the unholy trinity of winter bugs?  RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is tracking a lot higher than usual for this time of year.  Who's most at risk, how can you protect yourself, and how much do the numbers have to do with increased testing overall? Oh, and what does "syncytial" even mean?

It's the depths of winter, and every second person you know has a cold of some sort. Most are mild but some can hit hard - as we all know from COVID and influenza. But what about the third virus in the unholy trinity of winter bugs? RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is tracking a lot higher than usual for this time of year. Who's most at risk, how can you protect yourself, and how much do the numbers have to do with increased testing overall? Oh, and what does "syncytial" even mean? 

It was a massive question at the start of the pandemic: is Sweden's strategy of keeping things open a better way forward? Zoom ahead a few years, and it's still on the minds of Coronacast listeners. This week, we're digging into what happened in Sweden and we also answer a question about the psychological impact of the pandemic on teenagers. Everything and more, on this week's Coronacast. Ask a question here: https://yourquestions.abc.net.au/hc/en-au/requests/new?ticket_form_id=360002468535

It was a massive question at the start of the pandemic: is Sweden's strategy of keeping things open a better way forward?Zoom ahead a few years, and it's still on the minds of Coronacast listeners.This week, we're digging into what happened in Sweden and we also answer a question about the psychological impact of the pandemic on teenagers.Everything and more, on this week's Coronacast.Ask a question here: https://yourquestions.abc.net.au/hc/en-au/requests/new?ticket_form_id=360002468535

Our immune system does an amazing job keeping us healthy - but it works in mysterious ways, especially when it comes into contact with novel viruses like SARS-CoV-2. We've talked a bit before about imprinting - the concept where the first time your immune system sees a virus can determine how it'll react to that virus in the future. And a recent study in the prestigious journal Science has found the Omicron variant could be taking advantage of that - possibly showing why people seem to be getting repeat Omicron infections. So what could this mean for public vaccination strategy and our risk of reinfection?

Our immune system does an amazing job keeping us healthy - but it works in mysterious ways, especially when it comes into contact with novel viruses like SARS-CoV-2.We've talked a bit before about imprinting - the concept where the first time your immune system sees a virus can determine how it'll react to that virus in the future.And a recent study in the prestigious journal Science has found the Omicron variant could be taking advantage of that - possibly showing why people seem to be getting repeat Omicron infections.So what could this mean for public vaccination strategy and our risk of reinfection?

We've all heard that COVID spreads in clusters and sometimes the cluster comes from a single person who can infect nearly everyone around them. They're superspreaders and it's been opaque how much virus a superspreader is actually responsible for spreading around. Now a study has found that in a group of deliberately infected people, just two of them were responsible for nearly 90 percent of all the virus emitted - even though they only had mild symptoms.

We've all heard that COVID spreads in clusters and sometimes the cluster comes from a single person who can infect nearly everyone around them.They're superspreaders and it's been opaque how much virus a superspreader is actually responsible for spreading around.Now a study has found that in a group of deliberately infected people, just two of them were responsible for nearly 90 percent of all the virus emitted - even though they only had mild symptoms.

Sometimes a study comes along that shows some amazing results and one published in The Lancet does just that. The study - which looked at people aged between 30 and 85 who were overweight or had obesity - has found a "globally available, low-cost, and safe" diabetes drug called metformin could drastically reduce the instances of long COVID by 40 per cent. Sadly they didn't find the same results with ivermectin (and they looked). So what could be going on? How could this old drug be so good at what it's doing? And how could this drug be used to help bring down long COVID cases? That's on this week's Coronacast - along with a clarification of NSW hospital data and antiviral prescriptions. Or watch us on YouTube here

Sometimes a study comes along that shows some amazing results and one published in The Lancet does just that.The study - which looked at people aged between 30 and 85 who were overweight or had obesity - has found a "globally available, low-cost, and safe" diabetes drug called metformin could drastically reduce the instances of long COVID by 40 per cent.Sadly they didn't find the same results with ivermectin (and they looked).So what could be going on? How could this old drug be so good at what it's doing? And how could this drug be used to help bring down long COVID cases?That's on this week's Coronacast - along with a clarification of NSW hospital data and antiviral prescriptions.Or watch us on YouTube here

Tegan has been playing away, making another show. It's called Quick Smart, and because you're such a loyal Coronacast listener, we'll give you a preview here.  If you like it, please find the Quick Smart feed and subscribe!  This first ep is about something weird that's happened in the last 12 months or so - the fact that all your friends - and perhaps you as well - have ADHD now. So where did this ADHD spike come from? Just how big is the gap between people seeking treatment and those able to give it? And if people are being overdiagnosed, or underdiagnosed, or diagnosed with the wrong thing... what are the risks? Check it out here!

Tegan has been playing away, making another show.It's called Quick Smart, and because you're such a loyal Coronacast listener, we'll give you a preview here. If you like it, please find the Quick Smart feed and subscribe! This first ep is about something weird that's happened in the last 12 months or so - the fact that all your friends - and perhaps you as well - have ADHD now.So where did this ADHD spike come from? Just how big is the gap between people seeking treatment and those able to give it? And if people are being overdiagnosed, or underdiagnosed, or diagnosed with the wrong thing... what are the risks?Check it out here!

The public health measures we relied on in years past to control COVID have now largely gone. Social distancing is no more and there aren't nearly as many masks around as there once was and we're grossly under-immunised. So what about antivirals? Could making them more available to more people be a way to reduce the amount of severe disease and limit the waves of COVID? Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE7At1S7tho

The public health measures we relied on in years past to control COVID have now largely gone.Social distancing is no more and there aren't nearly as many masks around as there once was and we're grossly under-immunised.So what about antivirals? Could making them more available to more people be a way to reduce the amount of severe disease and limit the waves of COVID?Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE7At1S7tho

Long COVID has nearly been around as long as COVID itself.  It wasn't long after the pandemic began before we started hearing about long haulers - people who were suffering from the virus long after testing negative. But even today, we still don't know the precise definitions of what exactly long COVID is and how many people suffer from it. But we are getting closer to a clearer picture. So why is it important to know?

Long COVID has nearly been around as long as COVID itself. It wasn't long after the pandemic began before we started hearing about long haulers - people who were suffering from the virus long after testing negative.But even today, we still don't know the precise definitions of what exactly long COVID is and how many people suffer from it.But we are getting closer to a clearer picture. So why is it important to know?

In 2021, Aussies were queueing round the block quite literally for COVID-19 vaccines one and two.

In 2021, Aussies were queueing round the block quite literally for COVID-19 vaccines one and two.

As respiratory disease goes, COVID got us good. But it's important we don't forget the old school ones like flu and RSV. There's quite a bit of flu around at the moment too. It could even be described as a surge.  So what's going on? Why are we being attacked by COVID, flu and RSV all at once? Also on today's show: * Remember that time a stranger made Norman stick something up his nose in an abandoned dungeon?  * What's going on in China now that they've dropped COVID restrictions?

As respiratory disease goes, COVID got us good. But it's important we don't forget the old school ones like flu and RSV.There's quite a bit of flu around at the moment too. It could even be described as a surge. So what's going on? Why are we being attacked by COVID, flu and RSV all at once?Also on today's show:* Remember that time a stranger made Norman stick something up his nose in an abandoned dungeon? * What's going on in China now that they've dropped COVID restrictions?

With the World Health Organisation (WHO) announcing that COVID-19 is no longer a "global health emergency", you'd be forgiven for thinking the pandemic's over. But alas, it isn't. According to WHO, the "emergency" phase is over but COVID will remain a persistent threat for a lot longer, saying the disease is still killing someone every three minutes. So how can COVID no longer be an emergency, but also remain so deadly?

With the World Health Organisation (WHO) announcing that COVID-19 is no longer a "global health emergency", you'd be forgiven for thinking the pandemic's over.But alas, it isn't.According to WHO, the "emergency" phase is over but COVID will remain a persistent threat for a lot longer, saying the disease is still killing someone every three minutes.So how can COVID no longer be an emergency, but also remain so deadly?

The Omicron variant has been spinning off all sorts of sub variants during its 17 month long reign. The latest is XBB.1.16 - known also as Arcturus - and like its sibling sub variants doesn't seem to be all that different. But while Arcturus is busy trying to become the most popular sub variant of the month, we are undergoing another wave of infections.  There are hundreds of people in hospitals around the country and it's continuing to affect how the health system operates. Also on the show: Is COVID going to the dogs?

The Omicron variant has been spinning off all sorts of sub variants during its 17 month long reign.The latest is XBB.1.16 - known also as Arcturus - and like its sibling sub variants doesn't seem to be all that different.But while Arcturus is busy trying to become the most popular sub variant of the month, we are undergoing another wave of infections. There are hundreds of people in hospitals around the country and it's continuing to affect how the health system operates.Also on the show: Is COVID going to the dogs?

The coronavirus pandemic might not be a 'pandemic' for much longer So, looking ahead, experts have come together to propose countermeasures for future epidemics and pandemics.  It's all about transparency and equity at a global scale.  References: It is time for ambitious, transformational change to the epidemic countermeasures ecosystem

The coronavirus pandemic might not be a 'pandemic' for much longerSo, looking ahead, experts have come together to propose countermeasures for future epidemics and pandemics. It's all about transparency and equity at a global scale. References:It is time for ambitious, transformational change to the epidemic countermeasures ecosystem

A team has analysed data out of China, proving the presence of animals in the Wuhan market capable of hosting SARS-CoV-2.

A team has analysed data out of China, proving the presence of animals in the Wuhan market capable of hosting SARS-CoV-2.

Another wave of COVID infections seems to be underway in parts of Australia, and NSW is leading the pack.  The variant soup is getting more complex by the day — but luckily the dominant mutations don't seem to be causing more severe disease.  Regardless, as more people get infected and re-infected, researchers are fast at work trying to determine what might protect people from long-term consequences.  References:  Adherence to Healthy Lifestyle Prior to Infection and Risk of Post-COVID-19 Condition Severe COVID-19 outcomes by cardiovascular risk profile in England in 2020: a population-based cohort study

Another wave of COVID infections seems to be underway in parts of Australia, and NSW is leading the pack. The variant soup is getting more complex by the day — but luckily the dominant mutations don't seem to be causing more severe disease. Regardless, as more people get infected and re-infected, researchers are fast at work trying to determine what might protect people from long-term consequences. References: Adherence to Healthy Lifestyle Prior to Infection and Risk of Post-COVID-19 ConditionSevere COVID-19 outcomes by cardiovascular risk profile in England in 2020: a population-based cohort study

In 2022, Australia saw an estimated 12% increase in the number of deaths compared to expert predictions.  More than half of those were due to COVID-19. And there are signs that even the deaths that couldn't be directly linked to COVID-19 are a result of the pandemic.  This pattern isn't just playing out in Australia, but around the globe. So what are the driving factors, and what can be done to address them? References:  Almost 20,000 excess deaths for 2022 in Australia One-Year Adverse Outcomes Among US Adults With Post-COVID-19 Condition vs Those Without COVID-19 in a Large Commercial Insurance Database Life expectancy changes since COVID-19

In 2022, Australia saw an estimated 12% increase in the number of deaths compared to expert predictions. More than half of those were due to COVID-19. And there are signs that even the deaths that couldn't be directly linked to COVID-19 are a result of the pandemic. This pattern isn't just playing out in Australia, but around the globe. So what are the driving factors, and what can be done to address them?References: Almost 20,000 excess deaths for 2022 in AustraliaOne-Year Adverse Outcomes Among US Adults With Post-COVID-19 Condition vs Those Without COVID-19 in a Large Commercial Insurance DatabaseLife expectancy changes since COVID-19

Since ATAGI updated its booster advice there have been lots of questions about why kids aren't able to get another jab.  We discuss the reasoning behind the age limit, as well as some other vaccine-related questions from listeners.  Also, a few controversial COVID topics... from Ivermectin to the US Energy Department's theory on where the virus came from.  References: COVID-19 vaccines for children Effect of Higher-Dose Ivermectin for 6 Days vs Placebo on Time to Sustained Recovery in Outpatients With COVID-19 Lab Leak Most Likely Origin of Covid-19 Pandemic, Energy Department Now Says

Since ATAGI updated its booster advice there have been lots of questions about why kids aren't able to get another jab. We discuss the reasoning behind the age limit, as well as some other vaccine-related questions from listeners. Also, a few controversial COVID topics... from Ivermectin to the US Energy Department's theory on where the virus came from. References:COVID-19 vaccines for childrenEffect of Higher-Dose Ivermectin for 6 Days vs Placebo on Time to Sustained Recovery in Outpatients With COVID-19Lab Leak Most Likely Origin of Covid-19 Pandemic, Energy Department Now Says

Antivirals are an important measure to prevent severe disease in vulnerable people with COVID-19.  But there have been concerns antivirals could lead to rebound infections — the resurgence of viral load following the completion of the medication. So what do the latest studies say? Also, we speak to an expert informing the parliamentary inquiry into long COVID about how to best care for patients.  Guest: Professor Tania Sorrell University of Sydney References:  SARS-CoV-2 rebound with and without antivirals Viral burden rebound in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 receiving oral antivirals in Hong Kong: a population-wide retrospective cohort study Submission—Inquiry into long COVID and repeated COVID infections

Antivirals are an important measure to prevent severe disease in vulnerable people with COVID-19. But there have been concerns antivirals could lead to rebound infections — the resurgence of viral load following the completion of the medication. So what do the latest studies say?Also, we speak to an expert informing the parliamentary inquiry into long COVID about how to best care for patients. Guest: Professor Tania SorrellUniversity of SydneyReferences: SARS-CoV-2 rebound with and without antiviralsViral burden rebound in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 receiving oral antivirals in Hong Kong: a population-wide retrospective cohort studySubmission—Inquiry into long COVID and repeated COVID infections

An old debate has been reignited after a review declared the effects of masks is uncertain and in need of further investigation.  Meanwhile Sydney scientists have found a receptor that sticks to the coronavirus and pulls it away from lung cells, opening up potential treatment avenues.  But for now, vaccines remain the best protection against severe disease. So when should you get your next booster? We answer some common questions.  References:  Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses Yes, masks reduce the risk of spreading COVID, despite a review saying they don't Fibroblast-expressed LRRC15 is a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 spike and controls antiviral and antifibrotic transcriptional programs

An old debate has been reignited after a review declared the effects of masks is uncertain and in need of further investigation. Meanwhile Sydney scientists have found a receptor that sticks to the coronavirus and pulls it away from lung cells, opening up potential treatment avenues. But for now, vaccines remain the best protection against severe disease. So when should you get your next booster? We answer some common questions. References: Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory virusesYes, masks reduce the risk of spreading COVID, despite a review saying they don'tFibroblast-expressed LRRC15 is a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 spike and controls antiviral and antifibrotic transcriptional programs

Australian adults will be able to get a fifth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine within a fortnight. People aged 18 and over who've not had a COVID vaccine or a positive case in the last six months will also be eligible for another shot.

Australian adults will be able to get a fifth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine within a fortnight.People aged 18 and over who've not had a COVID vaccine or a positive case in the last six months will also be eligible for another shot.

The majority of Australians have received at least two doses of a COVID vaccine — and they've most likely caught the virus as well.  New research suggests this hybrid immunity offers good protection against severe disease, although the risk of long COVID persists with even mild bouts of infection.  There could soon be a simple model to predict how likely you are to recover well from COVID, or whether you'll go on to develop post-viral symptoms.  Guest:  Professor Jeremy Nicholson Director, Australian National Phenome Centre, Health Futures Institute References: Protective effectiveness of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and hybrid immunity against the omicron variant and severe disease: a systematic review and meta-regression A patient-centric modeling framework captures recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection

The majority of Australians have received at least two doses of a COVID vaccine — and they've most likely caught the virus as well. New research suggests this hybrid immunity offers good protection against severe disease, although the risk of long COVID persists with even mild bouts of infection. There could soon be a simple model to predict how likely you are to recover well from COVID, or whether you'll go on to develop post-viral symptoms. Guest: Professor Jeremy NicholsonDirector, Australian National Phenome Centre, Health Futures InstituteReferences:Protective effectiveness of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and hybrid immunity against the omicron variant and severe disease: a systematic review and meta-regressionA patient-centric modeling framework captures recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection

It has been three years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global health emergency.  The WHO isn't ready to downgrade the status of the pandemic, but the committee has agreed we're at a 'transition' point.  Meanwhile an outbreak of influenza in mink has highlighted the need for greater animal-human disease surveillance.

It has been three years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global health emergency. The WHO isn't ready to downgrade the status of the pandemic, but the committee has agreed we're at a 'transition' point. Meanwhile an outbreak of influenza in mink has highlighted the need for greater animal-human disease surveillance.   

Although we didn't begin this year with any lockdowns or border closures, the pandemic hasn't abated. In fact we're off to a worse start than we had in 2022. Australia surpassed 1,000 deaths a whole week earlier than it did last year.  New subvariants are circulating fast. So what's changed? What's the best protection? And could sluggish surveillance be leaving us vulnerable?

Although we didn't begin this year with any lockdowns or border closures, the pandemic hasn't abated.In fact we're off to a worse start than we had in 2022. Australia surpassed 1,000 deaths a whole week earlier than it did last year. New subvariants are circulating fast. So what's changed? What's the best protection? And could sluggish surveillance be leaving us vulnerable?

What a year 2022 has been for COVID.  We started with a new variant sweeping the world, heavy restrictions and border closures and we end with very few restrictions remaining. We also sadly end with millions not fully vaccinated, and an aged care system that is still battling the virus. So on the last Coronacast of the year, we go down the 2022 rabbit hole and try to make some predictions for 2023.

What a year 2022 has been for COVID. We started with a new variant sweeping the world, heavy restrictions and border closures and we end with very few restrictions remaining.We also sadly end with millions not fully vaccinated, and an aged care system that is still battling the virus.So on the last Coronacast of the year, we go down the 2022 rabbit hole and try to make some predictions for 2023.

The number of new weekly COVID cases seems to be slowing, but sadly doesn't seem to be slowing fast enough to be free of the current wave by Christmas. Last year was a strong COVID Christmas, as the Omicron variant took over from Delta bringing thousands and thousands of new cases. This time, the wave will be smaller - but still noticeable. And we break down the big announcements from National Cabinet: PCR testing and the country's COVID strategy in 2023.

The number of new weekly COVID cases seems to be slowing, but sadly doesn't seem to be slowing fast enough to be free of the current wave by Christmas.Last year was a strong COVID Christmas, as the Omicron variant took over from Delta bringing thousands and thousands of new cases.This time, the wave will be smaller - but still noticeable.And we break down the big announcements from National Cabinet: PCR testing and the country's COVID strategy in 2023.

There's been a lot of discussion about the origins of COVID, especially on the question of did it come from a lab, did it form naturally - or maybe a mix of both. Well a new book called Dark Winter has tackled this question and has come to the conclusion that we better get better at identifying outbreaks - because sometimes they're intentional. While there's no direct evidence that COVID came from a lab leak, author and Professor Raina MacIntyre argues it is possible and some have been too quick to wave away the possibility.

There's been a lot of discussion about the origins of COVID, especially on the question of did it come from a lab, did it form naturally - or maybe a mix of both.Well a new book called Dark Winter has tackled this question and has come to the conclusion that we better get better at identifying outbreaks - because sometimes they're intentional.While there's no direct evidence that COVID came from a lab leak, author and Professor Raina MacIntyre argues it is possible and some have been too quick to wave away the possibility.

Protests are breaking out across parts of China in response to the Chinese government zero COVID restrictions. The number of COVID cases has soared in China in recent weeks, rising at a similar rate to what happened in March this year. The outbreak was quickly brought under control, by the use of the Government's severe measures such as forced external quarantine and city wide lockdowns. But with widespread discontent and protests, it may prove harder to keep this outbreak under control. So is this the end of China's COVID zero? References: China Covid: Shocking protests are huge challenge for China's leaders - Stephen McDonell Associations between COVID‐19 and hospitalisation with respiratory and non‐respiratory conditions: a record linkage study

Protests are breaking out across parts of China in response to the Chinese government zero COVID restrictions.The number of COVID cases has soared in China in recent weeks, rising at a similar rate to what happened in March this year.The outbreak was quickly brought under control, by the use of the Government's severe measures such as forced external quarantine and city wide lockdowns.But with widespread discontent and protests, it may prove harder to keep this outbreak under control. So is this the end of China's COVID zero?References:China Covid: Shocking protests are huge challenge for China's leaders - Stephen McDonellAssociations between COVID‐19 and hospitalisation with respiratory and non‐respiratory conditions: a record linkage study

There's hope that the current Omicron sub variant wave will be in decline again just in time for Christmas - but like everything COVID, it's hard to know for sure. Both case loads and hospitalisations due to COVID have continued to increase in the last week. The latest advice from state health authorities say that overseas experience suggests the current wave might pass relatively quickly, though they warn local conditions may mean it's different here. So what do we know about the latest wave? And is it better to have a quick one, or one that lasts for a longer time?

There's hope that the current Omicron sub variant wave will be in decline again just in time for Christmas - but like everything COVID, it's hard to know for sure.Both case loads and hospitalisations due to COVID have continued to increase in the last week.The latest advice from state health authorities say that overseas experience suggests the current wave might pass relatively quickly, though they warn local conditions may mean it's different here.So what do we know about the latest wave? And is it better to have a quick one, or one that lasts for a longer time?

Another week, another big jump in COVID case numbers and rising admissions to hospitals. The next wave is well and truly underway, with the BA4 and BA5 sub variants rapidly being replaced by versions that are even more immune evasive. However, when Omicron turned up last year there were a variety of public health measures in place to try and slow infection rates.  This time though, we've only got vaccination and an optional sense of public duty. So can we slow down the next wave, or is it coming in hard and fast?

Another week, another big jump in COVID case numbers and rising admissions to hospitals.The next wave is well and truly underway, with the BA4 and BA5 sub variants rapidly being replaced by versions that are even more immune evasive.However, when Omicron turned up last year there were a variety of public health measures in place to try and slow infection rates. This time though, we've only got vaccination and an optional sense of public duty.So can we slow down the next wave, or is it coming in hard and fast? 

Rapid-antigen tests promised so much: a quick, cheap and easy way to tell if you were COVID positive so you could make a decision to help protect yourself, family and community. But in reality, it's far more complicated. The tests were initially hard to come by, expensive for some and the rollout was patchy. And now, add to that the fact that the coronavirus has continued to evolve - making it hard to tell if RATs can even detect COVID. So on this week's Coronacast, should we give a rat about RATs anymore? And why is it important that the tests do as they say?

Rapid-antigen tests promised so much: a quick, cheap and easy way to tell if you were COVID positive so you could make a decision to help protect yourself, family and community.But in reality, it's far more complicated. The tests were initially hard to come by, expensive for some and the rollout was patchy.And now, add to that the fact that the coronavirus has continued to evolve - making it hard to tell if RATs can even detect COVID.So on this week's Coronacast, should we give a rat about RATs anymore? And why is it important that the tests do as they say?

New sub-variants of Coronavirus are increasingly appearing in Government statistics and clinical breakdowns of the virus' spread. The BQ1 and XBB sub-variants of Omicron have surged overseas, and are also starting to pick up in Australia. It's likely that they'll take over the BA5 subvariant that's been dominant for the past several months. So what could these new variants bring and given they're likely to evade our immune systems, what could it mean for spread and severe disease?

New sub-variants of Coronavirus are increasingly appearing in Government statistics and clinical breakdowns of the virus' spread.The BQ1 and XBB sub-variants of Omicron have surged overseas, and are also starting to pick up in Australia.It's likely that they'll take over the BA5 subvariant that's been dominant for the past several months.So what could these new variants bring and given they're likely to evade our immune systems, what could it mean for spread and severe disease?

For those keeping count, 2022 hasn't been a great year for animal virus outbreaks into human populations. A new study has suggested that the Omicron variant may have had a reservoir in mice. Also, there are warnings that the East Coast floods may see a rise in people infected with the Japanese encephalitis virus, and parts of Uganda are locked down to prevent an Ebola outbreak from spreading into cities and across borders. So what's going on and how can we make sense of it all?

For those keeping count, 2022 hasn't been a great year for animal virus outbreaks into human populations.A new study has suggested that the Omicron variant may have had a reservoir in mice.Also, there are warnings that the East Coast floods may see a rise in people infected with the Japanese encephalitis virus, and parts of Uganda are locked down to prevent an Ebola outbreak from spreading into cities and across borders.So what's going on and how can we make sense of it all?

After all big events, it's important to look back and think about what worked and what didn't. And one of the biggest events lately is COVID, and especially how Australia handled it. A group of researchers and experts have done just that, analyzing everything from the vaccine rollout to virus control measures to looking at what could be improved for the next pandemic. So what did we do well, and what could we have done better?

After all big events, it's important to look back and think about what worked and what didn't.And one of the biggest events lately is COVID, and especially how Australia handled it.A group of researchers and experts have done just that, analyzing everything from the vaccine rollout to virus control measures to looking at what could be improved for the next pandemic.So what did we do well, and what could we have done better?

The first COVID booster that targets the Omicron variant has finally been introduced to Australia's vaccine rollout. The vaccine from Moderna targets the BA.1 Omicron subvariant, but that's no longer the dominant strain. Omicron has continued to evolve since the vaccine was updated, and the dominant strain is now BA5. So how well will the new vaccine work with BA5? And if you've already had 4 doses, why can't you get this one as your 5th?

The first COVID booster that targets the Omicron variant has finally been introduced to Australia's vaccine rollout.The vaccine from Moderna targets the BA.1 Omicron subvariant, but that's no longer the dominant strain.Omicron has continued to evolve since the vaccine was updated, and the dominant strain is now BA5.So how well will the new vaccine work with BA5? And if you've already had 4 doses, why can't you get this one as your 5th?

The decision by National Cabinet to remove mandatory isolation for people testing positive to COVID-19 is seen by many as an "official" end to the pandemic. The period had already been reduced from two weeks to one week to 5 days, but soon it'll be gone entirely. It's one of the final public health controls that remained to try and slow the spread of the virus, and some experts say it'll lead to problems down the road. So for how long should we treat COVID differently?

The decision by National Cabinet to remove mandatory isolation for people testing positive to COVID-19 is seen by many as an "official" end to the pandemic.The period had already been reduced from two weeks to one week to 5 days, but soon it'll be gone entirely.It's one of the final public health controls that remained to try and slow the spread of the virus, and some experts say it'll lead to problems down the road.So for how long should we treat COVID differently?

Russia has been in the news for all the wrong reasons, and here's another concern to add to the list. Scientists are on the alert about the risk of another virus spilling over from animals to humans. This time it's Russian horseshoe bats and a coronavirus from the SARS family. It's known as Khosta 2 and while there has been no known human transmission so far, unlike Khosta 1 scientists say there is the possibility that it could occur. And it's not affected by vaccines for COVID-19. That's on this week's Cororonacast. Also on today's show: * Tracking new COVID variants: we look at 2.75.2

Russia has been in the news for all the wrong reasons, and here's another concern to add to the list.Scientists are on the alert about the risk of another virus spilling over from animals to humans. This time it's Russian horseshoe bats and a coronavirus from the SARS family.It's known as Khosta 2 and while there has been no known human transmission so far, unlike Khosta 1 scientists say there is the possibility that it could occur.And it's not affected by vaccines for COVID-19.That's on this week's Cororonacast.Also on today's show:* Tracking new COVID variants: we look at 2.75.2

One of the mainstays over the past few years has been daily reporting of COVID cases, hospitalisations, ICUs and deaths.

One of the mainstays over the past few years has been daily reporting of COVID cases, hospitalisations, ICUs and deaths.

When COVID hit, there were a whole lot of predictions about how many people would die. Not just of the virus itself, but the knock on effects from reduced care and other diseases. One of the latest attempts at working out the number of excess deaths is recently published and has taken a wide view of the population looking for trends. And while the group found that excess deaths from undiagnosed COVID is likely low in Australia, increased deaths from COVID-caused complications is beginning to show up.

When COVID hit, there were a whole lot of predictions about how many people would die.Not just of the virus itself, but the knock on effects from reduced care and other diseases.One of the latest attempts at working out the number of excess deaths is recently published and has taken a wide view of the population looking for trends.And while the group found that excess deaths from undiagnosed COVID is likely low in Australia, increased deaths from COVID-caused complications is beginning to show up.

It may not be long before Omicron specific vaccines are available in Australia, like they are elsewhere in the world. Last week the Therapeutic Goods Administration provisionally approved an Omicron variant specific vaccine, but we’re still waiting on ATAGI to recommend its use. So with it likely to be available soon, is it worth waiting for if you’re due for your booster or should you just get what’s available now? Also on today’s show: * Snot and the inner parts of your nose - could this be the key to finally ending the pandemic?

It may not be long before Omicron specific vaccines are available in Australia, like they are elsewhere in the world.Last week the Therapeutic Goods Administration provisionally approved an Omicron variant specific vaccine, but we’re still waiting on ATAGI to recommend its use.So with it likely to be available soon, is it worth waiting for if you’re due for your booster or should you just get what’s available now?Also on today’s show:* Snot and the inner parts of your nose - could this be the key to finally ending the pandemic?

Back at the start of the pandemic, if you tested positive for COVID - or even if you were a contact - you were looking at two weeks of isolation.  These days, that's been downgraded to a week, and contacts are generally free to go about their normal life.  But while COVID is still undeniably a health risk, having masses of people undergoing mandatory isolation takes its own toll.  So should compulsory isolation be shortened or even scrapped altogether? Also on today's show: * Are vaccination requirements still useful?  * Moderna sues Pfizer/BioNTech * Didn't I see Norman out and about without a mask on the other day?

Back at the start of the pandemic, if you tested positive for COVID - or even if you were a contact - you were looking at two weeks of isolation. These days, that's been downgraded to a week, and contacts are generally free to go about their normal life. But while COVID is still undeniably a health risk, having masses of people undergoing mandatory isolation takes its own toll. So should compulsory isolation be shortened or even scrapped altogether?Also on today's show:* Are vaccination requirements still useful? * Moderna sues Pfizer/BioNTech* Didn't I see Norman out and about without a mask on the other day? 

It seems that COVID cases in the latest wave have indeed peaked, and all things across the usual pandemic metrics are improving. It's the best COVID caseload we've had since Omicron came into our lives late last year. So has BA5 burnt itself out or is this just a small respite? And are we due for another variant? Also on today's show: * How is COVID associated with increased risks of neurological and psychiatric conditions? * Is monkeypox getting away from us?

It seems that COVID cases in the latest wave have indeed peaked, and all things across the usual pandemic metrics are improving.It's the best COVID caseload we've had since Omicron came into our lives late last year.So has BA5 burnt itself out or is this just a small respite? And are we due for another variant?Also on today's show:* How is COVID associated with increased risks of neurological and psychiatric conditions?* Is monkeypox getting away from us?

Pretty much ever since the pandemic began, we've been told to socially distance by at least 1.5 meters if possible to reduce the chances of infection. But as the science is gathered on how much viral load flows from an infected person, how relevant is that recommendation? Was it even correct in the first place? Well a new - yet to be peer reviewed - study has attempted to explain just how much virus is in one's exhaled breath aerosols. And what does this mean for how the virus is spread?

Pretty much ever since the pandemic began, we've been told to socially distance by at least 1.5 meters if possible to reduce the chances of infection.But as the science is gathered on how much viral load flows from an infected person, how relevant is that recommendation? Was it even correct in the first place?Well a new - yet to be peer reviewed - study has attempted to explain just how much virus is in one's exhaled breath aerosols.And what does this mean for how the virus is spread?

Is it finally time to say a big see ya later to the latest B5 COVID wave? The Omicron family has already brought us several waves - the first at the start of the year when it muscled out Delta and the most recent big one via B5. But there are signs that it is finally slowing down. Cases are dropping and there are small, but positive, signs that deaths are also falling. So while it may be the end of the worst of B5, what could be next?

Is it finally time to say a big see ya later to the latest B5 COVID wave?The Omicron family has already brought us several waves - the first at the start of the year when it muscled out Delta and the most recent big one via B5.But there are signs that it is finally slowing down. Cases are dropping and there are small, but positive, signs that deaths are also falling.So while it may be the end of the worst of B5, what could be next?

As more and more people become infected with COVID-19, more and more people are also going to be reinfected. But there's another type of reinfection known as a rebound infection, which can happen in the days after you've recovered. The US President Joe Biden tested positive again this week for COVID-19 only a few days after he was cleared following his treatment with antiviral medication Paxlovid. So what could be going on? How common are rebound infections and could it extend to people who don't take the drugs also being reinfected?

As more and more people become infected with COVID-19, more and more people are also going to be reinfected.But there's another type of reinfection known as a rebound infection, which can happen in the days after you've recovered.The US President Joe Biden tested positive again this week for COVID-19 only a few days after he was cleared following his treatment with antiviral medication Paxlovid.So what could be going on? How common are rebound infections and could it extend to people who don't take the drugs also being reinfected?

When the pandemic started we were so worried about surfaces. But it turned out that wasn't so much of a concern. The big thing was the very air we breathe. But as Governments largely scale back on mandates and restrictions, experts are urging more be done on things that can prevent spread of the virus And the big target is better ventilation. On today's special Coronacast, Tegan Taylor takes a look around to see how bad the air is in everyday life.

When the pandemic started we were so worried about surfaces. But it turned out that wasn't so much of a concern.The big thing was the very air we breathe.But as Governments largely scale back on mandates and restrictions, experts are urging more be done on things that can prevent spread of the virusAnd the big target is better ventilation.On today's special Coronacast, Tegan Taylor takes a look around to see how bad the air is in everyday life.

BA5 sure is making itself well known, and is responsible for soaring infection and reinfection rates right across the country. So how does it compare in infectiousness to other diseases? Well working that out is a difficult question. It's partly down to changing variables like vaccination and controls, but also changes to the virus itself. So on this week's Coronacast, why it doesn't really matter if BA5 is as infectious as measles - it's still doing a lot of damage. Also on today's show: * Enough about BA5 - what about BA2.75? Bring on the 'Centaurus' talk! * An update on pregnancy and COVID-19 * And BA5 in schools - will a booster help? cvp_20220727_episode477_ba5_infectious.mp3 13286016 830000

BA5 sure is making itself well known, and is responsible for soaring infection and reinfection rates right across the country.So how does it compare in infectiousness to other diseases? Well working that out is a difficult question.It's partly down to changing variables like vaccination and controls, but also changes to the virus itself.So on this week's Coronacast, why it doesn't really matter if BA5 is as infectious as measles - it's still doing a lot of damage.Also on today's show:* Enough about BA5 - what about BA2.75? Bring on the 'Centaurus' talk!* An update on pregnancy and COVID-19* And BA5 in schools - will a booster help?cvp_20220727_episode477_ba5_infectious.mp313286016830000

It's been a month since Coronacast took a break, and since then a lot has changed. The BA4 and 5 variants have become dominant, and immunologists are starting to worry about the state of play. Firstly, BA4 and 5 are acting a bit like new variants. They're evading vaccines and prior infections even more than original Omicron and there's no sign they're slowing down. And secondly, COVID case loads are surging and hospitals are feeling the pressure. So what else has changed over the last month, and what's the rest of winter looking like? Also on today's show: * I'm suddenly eligible for a fourth dose. Do I bother getting it? * Can you get the 2nd booster shot 28 days after having COVID (in line with information that re-infection can occur after 28 days), or is it still best to wait the 3 months, and if so, why is it best to wait? * I've had two AstraZeneca and one Moderna shots. What should I have as my fourth dose?

It's been a month since Coronacast took a break, and since then a lot has changed.The BA4 and 5 variants have become dominant, and immunologists are starting to worry about the state of play.Firstly, BA4 and 5 are acting a bit like new variants. They're evading vaccines and prior infections even more than original Omicron and there's no sign they're slowing down.And secondly, COVID case loads are surging and hospitals are feeling the pressure.So what else has changed over the last month, and what's the rest of winter looking like?Also on today's show:* I'm suddenly eligible for a fourth dose. Do I bother getting it? * Can you get the 2nd booster shot 28 days after having COVID (in line with information that re-infection can occur after 28 days), or is it still best to wait the 3 months, and if so, why is it best to wait?* I've had two AstraZeneca and one Moderna shots. What should I have as my fourth dose?

There's been a bunch of good news this week about kids and COVID, including kids under 5 moving a touch closer to become eligible for vaccination A Scandanavian study has shown that before babies are born, they get an immune benefit from their vaccinated mother. Another study has looked at a rare condition that can happen in kids after COVID, called MIS-C, and found vaccinated kids are way more protected from it And also both Pfizer and Moderna have moved slightly closer to being registered for kids under 5 in the USA. Also on today's show: * Are there rapid tests available to test for influenza? * I've noticed that cases seem to be falling. Is it just that it's being under reported? I haven't heard any mention of it in the media but it's the opposite of what I expected as we head into winter. AND WE'LL BE TAKING A BREAK FOR THE NEXT MONTH BECAUSE NORMAN IS ON HOLIDAYS. SO KEEP AN EYE ON THE FEED AND WE'LL BE BACK SOON.

There's been a bunch of good news this week about kids and COVID, including kids under 5 moving a touch closer to become eligible for vaccinationA Scandanavian study has shown that before babies are born, they get an immune benefit from their vaccinated mother. Another study has looked at a rare condition that can happen in kids after COVID, called MIS-C, and found vaccinated kids are way more protected from it And also both Pfizer and Moderna have moved slightly closer to being registered for kids under 5 in the USA.Also on today's show:* Are there rapid tests available to test for influenza?* I've noticed that cases seem to be falling. Is it just that it's being under reported? I haven't heard any mention of it in the media but it's the opposite of what I expected as we head into winter.AND WE'LL BE TAKING A BREAK FOR THE NEXT MONTH BECAUSE NORMAN IS ON HOLIDAYS. SO KEEP AN EYE ON THE FEED AND WE'LL BE BACK SOON.

This time last year, Australia's vaccination program was getting underway and many were coming forward for their first or second shots. But Australia's haven't embraced the third dose as quickly or in as large numbers. The third dose is vital for the best protection against disease, and is recommended for the majority of Australians. So why aren't people coming forward as quickly? Also on today's show: * Is it possible that we may have caught COVID without realising it? * Are there instances of assumed second COVID infections that are actually just relapses?

This time last year, Australia's vaccination program was getting underway and many were coming forward for their first or second shots.But Australia's haven't embraced the third dose as quickly or in as large numbers.The third dose is vital for the best protection against disease, and is recommended for the majority of Australians.So why aren't people coming forward as quickly?Also on today's show:* Is it possible that we may have caught COVID without realising it?* Are there instances of assumed second COVID infections that are actually just relapses?

Since the variant we now know as Omicron burst onto the scene late last year, it's proved to be a shapeshifter, spawning no fewer than five subvariants so far. Each have their own characteristics, but which is the most likely to become the dominant strain? There's finally enough data around to start making a comparison - so which subvariant will rule them all, what features give it the advantage, and what possible tools we might use to fight it? Also on today's show: * If I'm triple vaccinated and COVID is everywhere, could I have encountered it and fought it off, making me even more immune now? * What's the latest on the scary, mysterious hepatitis that's been reported in kids?

Since the variant we now know as Omicron burst onto the scene late last year, it's proved to be a shapeshifter, spawning no fewer than five subvariants so far. Each have their own characteristics, but which is the most likely to become the dominant strain?There's finally enough data around to start making a comparison - so which subvariant will rule them all, what features give it the advantage, and what possible tools we might use to fight it?Also on today's show:* If I'm triple vaccinated and COVID is everywhere, could I have encountered it and fought it off, making me even more immune now?* What's the latest on the scary, mysterious hepatitis that's been reported in kids?

While COVID continues to ravage the world, it's far from the only virus that's affecting humans at the moment. Cases of flu are soaring in Australia, and the Queensland Government is worried enough about it that it's offering all Queenslanders a free flu vaccination. And to add to that is a new outbreak of monkeypox in Europe and North America with 100 suspected and confirmed cases so far, though cases have not been severe. So what is Monkeypox, could it end up like COVID and how worried should we be?

While COVID continues to ravage the world, it's far from the only virus that's affecting humans at the moment.Cases of flu are soaring in Australia, and the Queensland Government is worried enough about it that it's offering all Queenslanders a free flu vaccination.And to add to that is a new outbreak of monkeypox in Europe and North America with 100 suspected and confirmed cases so far, though cases have not been severe.So what is Monkeypox, could it end up like COVID and how worried should we be?

We are only days away from the 2022 Federal Election, where we'll find out who'll be leading the country for the next few years. But for whoever wins, there's the huge reality of dealing with and managing the ongoing COVID pandemic, which is still killing an average of 40 Australians a day. COVID policy and response hasn't featured much during the election campaign. So on today's Coronacast, what COVID issues will face whoever wins office next? Also on today's show: * Our daughter tested positive on a RAT. We had a PCR test the same day and it came back negative. So we tested again via a RAT and it was positive again. Does this mean the PCR test wasn't done properly? * I have been diagnosed with COVID twice this year. Is this the future, COVID every 4 or 5 months?

We are only days away from the 2022 Federal Election, where we'll find out who'll be leading the country for the next few years.But for whoever wins, there's the huge reality of dealing with and managing the ongoing COVID pandemic, which is still killing an average of 40 Australians a day.COVID policy and response hasn't featured much during the election campaign.So on today's Coronacast, what COVID issues will face whoever wins office next?Also on today's show:* Our daughter tested positive on a RAT. We had a PCR test the same day and it came back negative. So we tested again via a RAT and it was positive again. Does this mean the PCR test wasn't done properly?* I have been diagnosed with COVID twice this year. Is this the future, COVID every 4 or 5 months?

A British COVID report has finally answered a question many have had: can you get long COVID, even after you're triple vaccinated. And the answer is, sadly, yes. About eight to nine percent of people have some sort of long-COVID symptoms, even after they've had their third dose. But there is some good news: long COVID is still far lower in vaccinated people than in unvaccinated. Also on today's show: * What's happening with second generation vaccines? * How worried should we really be about surface transmission?

A British COVID report has finally answered a question many have had: can you get long COVID, even after you're triple vaccinated.And the answer is, sadly, yes. About eight to nine percent of people have some sort of long-COVID symptoms, even after they've had their third dose.But there is some good news: long COVID is still far lower in vaccinated people than in unvaccinated.Also on today's show:* What's happening with second generation vaccines?* How worried should we really be about surface transmission?

While most of the Australian population is vaccinated against COVID-19, going by the amount of people who have died in 2022, this is by far the worst year of the pandemic. More than 5000 people have died so far this year, and another 30 or 40 are continuing to die on average each day at the moment. So on this week’s Coronacast, why have we stopped paying attention to deaths and can we do anything to reduce them? Also on today’s show: * Paxlovid is now part of the PBS. So what is the drug again? Who should take it? When? And why?

While most of the Australian population is vaccinated against COVID-19, going by the amount of people who have died in 2022, this is by far the worst year of the pandemic. More than 5000 people have died so far this year, and another 30 or 40 are continuing to die on average each day at the moment.So on this week’s Coronacast, why have we stopped paying attention to deaths and can we do anything to reduce them?Also on today’s show:* Paxlovid is now part of the PBS. So what is the drug again? Who should take it? When? And why?

When Omicron burst onto the scene late last year, scientists were shocked at how many mutations it had compared to previous variants. We now know that it's way more transmissible than previous variants and less nasty than Delta, although that hasn't stopped it from causing a lot of severe disease and death. But biology isn't static and Omicron has continued to evolve. First came BA1, then came a new wave of BA2 and now we're starting to see another new subvariant: BA4. So on today's Coronacast, what is BA4, where did it come from and how much of a worry is it? Also on today's show: * What's going on with the hepatitis condition in kids? Is it being caused by COVID-19?

When Omicron burst onto the scene late last year, scientists were shocked at how many mutations it had compared to previous variants.We now know that it's way more transmissible than previous variants and less nasty than Delta, although that hasn't stopped it from causing a lot of severe disease and death.But biology isn't static and Omicron has continued to evolve. First came BA1, then came a new wave of BA2 and now we're starting to see another new subvariant: BA4.So on today's Coronacast, what is BA4, where did it come from and how much of a worry is it?Also on today's show:* What's going on with the hepatitis condition in kids? Is it being caused by COVID-19?

China is fighting its largest coronavirus outbreak since the pandemic begun, but the lockdown being used to try and control it is facing resistance? Videos on social media appear to show small riots breaking out in parts of Shanghai while some residents are recording themselves screaming and yelling from their apartments in desperation. So is China's zero-COVID policy unable to withstand the onslaught of Omicron? And why is China resorting to lockdowns? Also on today's show: * How's COVID going in the USA? * Omicron refresher: Do RATs work against it? What are the main symptoms? How long is the incubation? * How much of the world has had COVID now?

China is fighting its largest coronavirus outbreak since the pandemic begun, but the lockdown being used to try and control it is facing resistance?Videos on social media appear to show small riots breaking out in parts of Shanghai while some residents are recording themselves screaming and yelling from their apartments in desperation.So is China's zero-COVID policy unable to withstand the onslaught of Omicron? And why is China resorting to lockdowns? Also on today's show:* How's COVID going in the USA?* Omicron refresher: Do RATs work against it? What are the main symptoms? How long is the incubation?* How much of the world has had COVID now?

The race has well and truly been on for third dose COVID-19 vaccinations, but now add to that vaccination for the coming flu season. The past couple of years have seen a lull in flu infections because closed borders kept more than just COVID out — but that will change this year. So what happens if you get both COVID-19 and the flu and the same time? Is it even possible? And how do you reduce the risk of that happening? Also on today's show: * Why isn't Australia pulling its weight when it comes to reporting on vaccine effectiveness?

The race has well and truly been on for third dose COVID-19 vaccinations, but now add to that vaccination for the coming flu season.The past couple of years have seen a lull in flu infections because closed borders kept more than just COVID out — but that will change this year.So what happens if you get both COVID-19 and the flu and the same time? Is it even possible? And how do you reduce the risk of that happening?Also on today's show:* Why isn't Australia pulling its weight when it comes to reporting on vaccine effectiveness?

As the BA2 subvariant of Omicron infects its way to the top of the coronavirus leaderboard, we're thanking our lucky stars that it's not as or more severe than Delta. But imagine a coronavirus variant that has genes from both Omicron and Delta: enter Deltacron The ability for two variants to combine and share genetic information is possible, and according to recent research has already happened. So what's the possibility the next variant of concern will not be due to mutation, but instead combining? Also on today's show: * Antibody profile after Omicron * What makes something a subvariant and not just a new variant? * Lots of questions about fourth doses

As the BA2 subvariant of Omicron infects its way to the top of the coronavirus leaderboard, we're thanking our lucky stars that it's not as or more severe than Delta.But imagine a coronavirus variant that has genes from both Omicron and Delta: enter DeltacronThe ability for two variants to combine and share genetic information is possible, and according to recent research has already happened.So what's the possibility the next variant of concern will not be due to mutation, but instead combining?Also on today's show:* Antibody profile after Omicron* What makes something a subvariant and not just a new variant?* Lots of questions about fourth doses

With cases rising quickly again, it's left many wondering: wasn't the peak supposed to be behind us? Well, turns out the pandemic isn't over and a mix of relaxed restrictions and the BA2 sub-variant have combined to once again push up infections. It also shows that the rollercoaster ride that we're on may not be stopping for a while, and the up and down nature is something we'll have to get used to. Also on today's show: * Increase in diabetes with long COVID * More on if we're going to need a 4th dose

With cases rising quickly again, it's left many wondering: wasn't the peak supposed to be behind us?Well, turns out the pandemic isn't over and a mix of relaxed restrictions and the BA2 sub-variant have combined to once again push up infections.It also shows that the rollercoaster ride that we're on may not be stopping for a while, and the up and down nature is something we'll have to get used to.Also on today's show:* Increase in diabetes with long COVID* More on if we're going to need a 4th dose

The sixth season of If You're Listening tells the story of Australia's turbulent history with climate change, and what that means for the future. As we approach a federal election where climate and energy is a key battleground, this eight episode series will examine how Australia wasted decades fighting change, instead of capitalising on it. This is a special listen of the first episode and is the only time it'll appear in the Coronacast feed, so if you want to check it out search for "Australia, If You're Listening" where ever you get your podcasts. Or find the links here on the ABC website: https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/if-youre-listening/

The sixth season of If You're Listening tells the story of Australia's turbulent history with climate change, and what that means for the future.As we approach a federal election where climate and energy is a key battleground, this eight episode series will examine how Australia wasted decades fighting change, instead of capitalising on it.This is a special listen of the first episode and is the only time it'll appear in the Coronacast feed, so if you want to check it out search for "Australia, If You're Listening" where ever you get your podcasts.Or find the links here on the ABC website: https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/if-youre-listening/

The sub-variant of Omicron, known at the moment as BA2, is being blamed for a rise in cases in NSW and likely in other states and territories. And overseas, Hong Kong is struggling with a wave which is killing more and more people due to low levels of vaccination in high risk age groups. So what could the sub-variant mean for Australia as the weather slowly cools down and we enter darker, cooler times? Also on today's show: * China goes into lockdown in several big cities * Australian researchers have uncovered resistance mutations to Sotrovimab

The sub-variant of Omicron, known at the moment as BA2, is being blamed for a rise in cases in NSW and likely in other states and territories.And overseas, Hong Kong is struggling with a wave which is killing more and more people due to low levels of vaccination in high risk age groups.So what could the sub-variant mean for Australia as the weather slowly cools down and we enter darker, cooler times?Also on today's show:* China goes into lockdown in several big cities* Australian researchers have uncovered resistance mutations to Sotrovimab

Occasionally, Coronacast gets a question from the audience that not only stumps them, it stumps the expert scientists as well. And this week, that question came from Helen who was wondering how many people before her had COVID and passed it on to someone else, stretching all the way from her back to Wuhan in China. It raises many interesting questions about viral evolution and how we can reduce the number of infections globally. Also on today's show: * BA2 Omicron sub-variant becoming more and more dominant, according to NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard * Coronacast will be dropping back to weekly. We'll be out every Wednesday so watch your feed!

Occasionally, Coronacast gets a question from the audience that not only stumps them, it stumps the expert scientists as well.And this week, that question came from Helen who was wondering how many people before her had COVID and passed it on to someone else, stretching all the way from her back to Wuhan in China.It raises many interesting questions about viral evolution and how we can reduce the number of infections globally.Also on today's show:* BA2 Omicron sub-variant becoming more and more dominant, according to NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard* Coronacast will be dropping back to weekly. We'll be out every Wednesday so watch your feed!

A study has found that COVID is associated with changes to the human brain in some people after they've been infected. The study, published in the journal Nature, has found brain related abnormalities in patients six months or so after their initial infection. The findings suggest this can happen regardless of severity but may be worse in those with severe disease Also on today's show: * My wife and I are in isolation at the moment after both testing positive to COVID. Her symptoms are worse than mine and she suggested I isolate in a different part of the home? * The virus in my body is a direct descendant of the virus that infected people in the wet market in Wuhan. How many people do you think it has been through to get to me? * If there is every chance we will all, eventually get Omicron, is there an argument to getting it sooner than later?

A study has found that COVID is associated with changes to the human brain in some people after they've been infected.The study, published in the journal Nature, has found brain related abnormalities in patients six months or so after their initial infection.The findings suggest this can happen regardless of severity but may be worse in those with severe diseaseAlso on today's show:* My wife and I are in isolation at the moment after both testing positive to COVID. Her symptoms are worse than mine and she suggested I isolate in a different part of the home?* The virus in my body is a direct descendant of the virus that infected people in the wet market in Wuhan. How many people do you think it has been through to get to me?* If there is every chance we will all, eventually get Omicron, is there an argument to getting it sooner than later?

Did COVID escape from a lab? Was it natural evolution? How did it happen? These are all very big questions that scientists have been working on answering ever since SARS-CoV-2 arrived in our lives in late 2019. Now, the release of two (still to be peer reviewed) articles have outlined more evidence that COVID didn't escape a lab, and instead evolved naturally in animals before jumping to humans. And on today's Coronacast, they may have even found the very cage in the Wuhan market where COVID made the jump. GUEST: Professor Eddie Holmes, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney

Did COVID escape from a lab? Was it natural evolution? How did it happen? These are all very big questions that scientists have been working on answering ever since SARS-CoV-2 arrived in our lives in late 2019.Now, the release of two (still to be peer reviewed) articles have outlined more evidence that COVID didn't escape a lab, and instead evolved naturally in animals before jumping to humans.And on today's Coronacast, they may have even found the very cage in the Wuhan market where COVID made the jump.GUEST:Professor Eddie Holmes, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney

Western Australia has reopened its border after more than a year of staying shut off from the world as part of its COVID control strategy. While people can once again travel, WA is in the middle of a growing outbreak - but it has imposed restrictions to help flatten the curve. With WA now open again, Australia is once again whole - so how is the nation tracking for COVID and how does 2022 compare to previous years? Also on today's show: * The TGA provisionally approves AstraZeneca's combination antibodies. What is it? How does it differ from vaccination? And why might it be useful?

Western Australia has reopened its border after more than a year of staying shut off from the world as part of its COVID control strategy.While people can once again travel, WA is in the middle of a growing outbreak - but it has imposed restrictions to help flatten the curve.With WA now open again, Australia is once again whole - so how is the nation tracking for COVID and how does 2022 compare to previous years?Also on today's show:* The TGA provisionally approves AstraZeneca's combination antibodies. What is it? How does it differ from vaccination? And why might it be useful?

Last year was all about the push to vaccinate adults and teens against COVID-19, and despite a slow start we certainly got there in the end. Now this year the vaccine focus has turned to two things: third doses for adults, and first doses for younger kids. So how is the vaccine rollout for 5-11s going? How do the vaccines work in kids and what is the latest of safety and efficacy?

Last year was all about the push to vaccinate adults and teens against COVID-19, and despite a slow start we certainly got there in the end.Now this year the vaccine focus has turned to two things: third doses for adults, and first doses for younger kids. So how is the vaccine rollout for 5-11s going? How do the vaccines work in kids and what is the latest of safety and efficacy?

Throughout history, war and disease have gone hand in hand. As the Russian/Ukrainian war escalates, it's still too early to know what effect it'll have on the COVID-19 pandemic but it certainly won't help. So what can we learn from previous conflicts and pandemics, like the 1918 flu pandemic or even the plague? That's on today's Coronacast Also on today's show: * What can we learn from two Omicron superspreading events in Newcastle? * Cases in WA continue to go up * Quick(ish) Fire Friday returns!

Throughout history, war and disease have gone hand in hand.As the Russian/Ukrainian war escalates, it's still too early to know what effect it'll have on the COVID-19 pandemic but it certainly won't help.So what can we learn from previous conflicts and pandemics, like the 1918 flu pandemic or even the plague?That's on today's CoronacastAlso on today's show:* What can we learn from two Omicron superspreading events in Newcastle?* Cases in WA continue to go up* Quick(ish) Fire Friday returns!

More and more states and territories are slowly removing restrictions, and letting people try to return to a sense of a normal life. Victoria yesterday said that masks can come off in most indoor environments from midnight Friday and Queensland is scrapping density limits and stopping daily press conferences. So is this finally the end of the pandemic, or more just a lull between variants? Also on today's show: * Vaccination while pregnant safe, another study finds * Worried about long-COVID? Here are four possible risk factors that might trigger it.

More and more states and territories are slowly removing restrictions, and letting people try to return to a sense of a normal life.Victoria yesterday said that masks can come off in most indoor environments from midnight Friday and Queensland is scrapping density limits and stopping daily press conferences.So is this finally the end of the pandemic, or more just a lull between variants?Also on today's show:* Vaccination while pregnant safe, another study finds* Worried about long-COVID? Here are four possible risk factors that might trigger it.

As we move to the next phases of the pandemic, there are many people who are yet to make the psychological jump and mental readjustment to a different life. Many are only mildly anxious, but there are also groups of people who are still worried about leaving their house. So what can you do if you have a friend or family member suffering from pandemic related anxiety or even depression? GUEST: Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, a psychologist and mental health researcher at the University of Newcastle

As we move to the next phases of the pandemic, there are many people who are yet to make the psychological jump and mental readjustment to a different life.Many are only mildly anxious, but there are also groups of people who are still worried about leaving their house.So what can you do if you have a friend or family member suffering from pandemic related anxiety or even depression?GUEST:Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, a psychologist and mental health researcher at the University of Newcastle

It's taken several weeks, but the number of new COVID-19 cases in Western Australia is now increasing rapidly. At the start of February, WA had a 7-day average of 19 cases a day. Now that average is nearly 100. So from here, can we expect to see a very rapid increase in cases like we saw in the eastern states over Christmas/New Year? Or could the delayed reopening and closed borders help flatten that curve? Also on today's show: * Victoria and NSW announce they're loosening restrictions even more

It's taken several weeks, but the number of new COVID-19 cases in Western Australia is now increasing rapidly.At the start of February, WA had a 7-day average of 19 cases a day. Now that average is nearly 100.So from here, can we expect to see a very rapid increase in cases like we saw in the eastern states over Christmas/New Year? Or could the delayed reopening and closed borders help flatten that curve?Also on today's show:* Victoria and NSW announce they're loosening restrictions even more

So, where's this pandemic actually heading? It's a good question and quite hard to answer as... well... no one can tell you the future. But experts have never shied away from making some educated guesses, including SAGE, the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies in the UK. They've published four scenarios ranging from as good as it can be given the circumstances to downright doom and gloom. So on today's Coronacast, what does SAGE think we can expect from the pandemic over the next few years and which scenario is most likely to be right?

So, where's this pandemic actually heading? It's a good question and quite hard to answer as... well... no one can tell you the future.But experts have never shied away from making some educated guesses, including SAGE, the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies in the UK.They've published four scenarios ranging from as good as it can be given the circumstances to downright doom and gloom.So on today's Coronacast, what does SAGE think we can expect from the pandemic over the next few years and which scenario is most likely to be right?

When COVID burst onto the scene in late 2019, it came as a shock to most of the world's population and we've all been dealing with it ever since. But to many researchers, it was less of a surprise and more of an inevitability - and now they're urging governments to act now to stop the next one. It comes down to the old medical saying: prevention is better than cure. So what can be done to help prevent the next pandemic and how much will it cost?

When COVID burst onto the scene in late 2019, it came as a shock to most of the world's population and we've all been dealing with it ever since.But to many researchers, it was less of a surprise and more of an inevitability - and now they're urging governments to act now to stop the next one.It comes down to the old medical saying: prevention is better than cure.So what can be done to help prevent the next pandemic and how much will it cost?

For months now, experts have been saying we'll need three doses to be protected from coronavirus, especially the Omicron variant. And now, it's official. Yesterday, the rules changed and people over 16 will be required to have all three doses of a COVID vaccine to be considered "up to date". So why make the change now when previously two vaccines were considered good enough? And might it mean for vaccine mandates down the track? Also on today's show: * Should me and my family just go out and get Omicron? * Should I wait the full eight weeks to get my daughters second vaccination or should I do it at six? * Does testing positive just after my booster reduce its effectiveness?

For months now, experts have been saying we'll need three doses to be protected from coronavirus, especially the Omicron variant. And now, it's official.Yesterday, the rules changed and people over 16 will be required to have all three doses of a COVID vaccine to be considered "up to date". So why make the change now when previously two vaccines were considered good enough? And might it mean for vaccine mandates down the track?Also on today's show:* Should me and my family just go out and get Omicron? * Should I wait the full eight weeks to get my daughters second vaccination or should I do it at six?* Does testing positive just after my booster reduce its effectiveness?

Two years into the pandemic, we're still discovering new things about COVID almost daily. The latest is what COVID can do to your heart, a year after you've been infected. A huge study has shown really disturbing problems from heart attacks, to strokes, to blood clots on the lungs to heart failure. So on today's Coronacast, who is at most risk? And what does this tell us about COVID as a disease? Also on today's show: * International tourists - what will they bring? * The real story about aged care * Who needs a fourth dose, when and why?

Two years into the pandemic, we're still discovering new things about COVID almost daily.The latest is what COVID can do to your heart, a year after you've been infected. A huge study has shown really disturbing problems from heart attacks, to strokes, to blood clots on the lungs to heart failure. So on today's Coronacast, who is at most risk? And what does this tell us about COVID as a disease?Also on today's show:* International tourists - what will they bring?* The real story about aged care* Who needs a fourth dose, when and why?

When it comes to ways to fight COVID-19, vaccines have been the main tool we've used so far during the pandemic. But new antivirals are being produced for use including in Australia which has recently provisionally approved two different drugs. They promise to help stop at-risk people ending up in hospital and dying. So what are the drugs, how do they work and will they usher in a new way of handling the pandemic? GUEST: Professor Josh Davis, Infectious Diseases, Uni Newcastle, past president of the Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases and member of the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce

When it comes to ways to fight COVID-19, vaccines have been the main tool we've used so far during the pandemic. But new antivirals are being produced for use including in Australia which has recently provisionally approved two different drugs. They promise to help stop at-risk people ending up in hospital and dying. So what are the drugs, how do they work and will they usher in a new way of handling the pandemic? GUEST: Professor Josh Davis, Infectious Diseases, Uni Newcastle, past president of the Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases and member of the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce

When it comes to ways to fight COVID-19, vaccines have been the main tool we've used so far during the pandemic.But new antivirals are being produced for use including in Australia which has recently provisionally approved two different drugs.They promise to help stop at-risk people ending up in hospital and dying.So what are the drugs, how do they work and will they usher in a new way of handling the pandemic?GUEST:Professor Josh Davis, Infectious Diseases, Uni Newcastle, past president of the Australasian Society for Infectious Diseases and member of the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce

As the Omicron wave continues to subside, there's the temptation to hope that now that it's over, the whole pandemic is done. And while we can dream that it's true, hoping unfortunately won't help that become reality. The general weariness is understandable for us everyday people, but what about for policy makers and their preparations for new variants or the next wave? Also on today's show: * Are we really at Omicron's peak? * Can a person be infected simultaneously with two or more strains of coronavirus? * Why aren't COVID case numbers exploding in WA? * Will Novavax be offered as a booster? * Can you be asymptomatic and get long COVID? Could this explain why I am so tired?

As the Omicron wave continues to subside, there's the temptation to hope that now that it's over, the whole pandemic is done.And while we can dream that it's true, hoping unfortunately won't help that become reality.The general weariness is understandable for us everyday people, but what about for policy makers and their preparations for new variants or the next wave?Also on today's show:* Are we really at Omicron's peak?* Can a person be infected simultaneously with two or more strains of coronavirus?* Why aren't COVID case numbers exploding in WA?* Will Novavax be offered as a booster?* Can you be asymptomatic and get long COVID? Could this explain why I am so tired?

Looking at the family tree of coronavirus is a bit like taking a trip down memory lane. The whole crew is there including the famous ones like Alpha, Beta and Delta, and the ones that never really made it into the big time. But what if we zoom in on Omicron? Lately, there's been a bit of noise made about a few Omicron sub variants. What are they? And how much should we worry? Also on today's show: * TGA releases a post-market review for rapid antigen tests. What can we learn from it? References: https://www.tga.gov.au/post-market-review-antigen-and-rapid-antigen-tests

Looking at the family tree of coronavirus is a bit like taking a trip down memory lane.The whole crew is there including the famous ones like Alpha, Beta and Delta, and the ones that never really made it into the big time.But what if we zoom in on Omicron? Lately, there's been a bit of noise made about a few Omicron sub variants. What are they? And how much should we worry?Also on today's show:* TGA releases a post-market review for rapid antigen tests. What can we learn from it?References:https://www.tga.gov.au/post-market-review-antigen-and-rapid-antigen-tests

As the scary peaks in all states and territories in Australia, except WA, seems to be behind us, there is now a new sense of calm. Daily coronavirus cases seem to be falling for now, and there's renewed hope that the worst of this wave is behind us. And according to some experts, it could well be the case both here and globally. Due to so many people now either infected by Omicron or vaccinated, they say we may be settling into a new trough of equilibrium. So is it the end of the pandemic? Or just a calm before the next storm? Also on this week's show: * Deaths are still high * WA cases are increasing. What are their options? * Vaccines help protect against long COVID

As the scary peaks in all states and territories in Australia, except WA, seems to be behind us, there is now a new sense of calm.Daily coronavirus cases seem to be falling for now, and there's renewed hope that the worst of this wave is behind us.And according to some experts, it could well be the case both here and globally. Due to so many people now either infected by Omicron or vaccinated, they say we may be settling into a new trough of equilibrium.So is it the end of the pandemic? Or just a calm before the next storm? Also on this week's show:* Deaths are still high* WA cases are increasing. What are their options? * Vaccines help protect against long COVID

The number of people dying from COVID hit a record high this week, as large case numbers continue in most states and territories. It comes as no surprise then that NSW and Victoria announced that people can get their third dose at the three month mark, bringing it forward from the 31st January which was originally planned. So why roll out boosters even earlier? Could the number of deaths be tied to people not being as protected as they could be? Also on this week's show: * Vaccine supply and logistics * Novavax approved! * Is the term "elective surgery" a bad way of phrasing it? * Peaks? Coming soon? * How reliable are rapid antigen tests? * Kids vaccination, kids going back to school and keeping kids safe

The number of people dying from COVID hit a record high this week, as large case numbers continue in most states and territories.It comes as no surprise then that NSW and Victoria announced that people can get their third dose at the three month mark, bringing it forward from the 31st January which was originally planned.So why roll out boosters even earlier? Could the number of deaths be tied to people not being as protected as they could be? Also on this week's show:* Vaccine supply and logistics* Novavax approved!* Is the term "elective surgery" a bad way of phrasing it?* Peaks? Coming soon?* How reliable are rapid antigen tests?* Kids vaccination, kids going back to school and keeping kids safe

We're all no doubt very tired of the pandemic by now and could be forgiven for hoping now that Omicron has landed in Australia, once we get over the current outbreak it's all over. But according to evolutionary virologist Eddie Holmes, sadly Omicron won't be the last and in fact the next variant probably won't evolve from Omicron. So what can we do apart from get vaccinated and hope this terrible roller coaster ride will somehow end soon?

We're all no doubt very tired of the pandemic by now and could be forgiven for hoping now that Omicron has landed in Australia, once we get over the current outbreak it's all over.But according to evolutionary virologist Eddie Holmes, sadly Omicron won't be the last and in fact the next variant probably won't evolve from Omicron.So what can we do apart from get vaccinated and hope this terrible roller coaster ride will somehow end soon?

Well, that escalated quickly. When Coronacast left you last year, there were nearly 4000 national daily cases. Yesterday, there were more than 72,000 and there's no sign it's slowing down. Health systems in most states and territories are beginning to groan under significant pressure. Add to it probably more than one or two hundred thousand cases a day going unreported, it's fair to say COVID in Australia is in a bit of a mess. So on today's Coronacast - which will be coming out weekly for at least the next few weeks - when might the peak be here? And what can we expect in coming days and weeks?

Well, that escalated quickly.When Coronacast left you last year, there were nearly 4000 national daily cases. Yesterday, there were more than 72,000 and there's no sign it's slowing down.Health systems in most states and territories are beginning to groan under significant pressure.Add to it probably more than one or two hundred thousand cases a day going unreported, it's fair to say COVID in Australia is in a bit of a mess.So on today's Coronacast - which will be coming out weekly for at least the next few weeks - when might the peak be here? And what can we expect in coming days and weeks?

It's been a massive year for coronavirus and COVID-19. There have been outbreaks, lockdowns and a pile of new variants. But there have also been massive successes like the vast majority of Australians coming forward to be vaccinated. But sadly, the pandemic seems like it's far from over. So on today's last Coronacast of the year, we look forward to 2022 and offer some tips on how to stay safe this summer. We'll be back around February 2022! Thanks so much for listening and writing this year.

It's been a massive year for coronavirus and COVID-19. There have been outbreaks, lockdowns and a pile of new variants.But there have also been massive successes like the vast majority of Australians coming forward to be vaccinated.But sadly, the pandemic seems like it's far from over. So on today's last Coronacast of the year, we look forward to 2022 and offer some tips on how to stay safe this summer.We'll be back around February 2022! Thanks so much for listening and writing this year.

As COVID numbers continue to rapidly increase in NSW - likely due to the Omicron variant - we're being warned that modelling is pointing to 25,000 cases a day by the end of January. Yesterday, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard talked about modelling by the University of NSW which said case numbers could reach heights not seen before in Australia. And it comes as NSW continues to let its foot off the restrictions brake, redefining what a close contact is. So is what is happening there likely to happen everywhere else in the country Omicron has found its way into? Also on today's show: * A very special guest!

As COVID numbers continue to rapidly increase in NSW - likely due to the Omicron variant - we're being warned that modelling is pointing to 25,000 cases a day by the end of January.Yesterday, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard talked about modelling by the University of NSW which said case numbers could reach heights not seen before in Australia.And it comes as NSW continues to let its foot off the restrictions brake, redefining what a close contact is.So is what is happening there likely to happen everywhere else in the country Omicron has found its way into?Also on today's show:* A very special guest!

There was a large jump in COVID cases in NSW yesterday, and while we're largely moving on from day to day case numbers - this one is worth talking about. Why? Well, there's a new variant in town and health authorities are already suggesting that we can expect far more from Omicron in coming weeks. The same goes for other states and territories - like Victoria which still has higher daily figures than NSW, but hasn't yet seen a big jump. So on today's Coronacast what should we make of the rising caseload and does it matter? Also on today's show: * A deeper look at what's going on in South Africa * An announcement on Coronacast for 2022!

There was a large jump in COVID cases in NSW yesterday, and while we're largely moving on from day to day case numbers - this one is worth talking about.Why? Well, there's a new variant in town and health authorities are already suggesting that we can expect far more from Omicron in coming weeks.The same goes for other states and territories - like Victoria which still has higher daily figures than NSW, but hasn't yet seen a big jump.So on today's Coronacast what should we make of the rising caseload and does it matter?Also on today's show:* A deeper look at what's going on in South Africa* An announcement on Coronacast for 2022!

After nearly two years of constant internal border changes, by the end of this week large parts of Australia will once again be open for domestic travel. South Australia opened a few weeks ago, Queensland opened yesterday and Tasmania is due to open tomorrow. Western Australia has also finally given a date and will reopen on the 5th of February next year. So with state and territory bubbles bursting all over the place, what might come next for people who live there? Also on today's show: * How is decoupling going? * Fourth dose anyone? * Pregnancy and booster shots

After nearly two years of constant internal border changes, by the end of this week large parts of Australia will once again be open for domestic travel.South Australia opened a few weeks ago, Queensland opened yesterday and Tasmania is due to open tomorrow. Western Australia has also finally given a date and will reopen on the 5th of February next year.So with state and territory bubbles bursting all over the place, what might come next for people who live there?Also on today's show:* How is decoupling going?* Fourth dose anyone?* Pregnancy and booster shots

Australia now has two different booster options to choose from when the inevitable time comes for the third dose of coronavirus vaccine. Moderna was approved by the country's vaccine expert group ATAGI over the weekend. We'll also be able to get the booster a month earlier, with the Government announcing a shorter period due to the threat of waning immunity and new variants. So if Moderna is a choice, should you take it over Pfizer? Does it even matter? And why is the Moderna booster only a half shot? Also on today's show: * A preprint study has found that Astra seems to wane faster than other vaccines, leaving no protective effect against symptomatic disease from Omicron 15 weeks after the second dose. What could this mean for the country's booster campaign?

Australia now has two different booster options to choose from when the inevitable time comes for the third dose of coronavirus vaccine.Moderna was approved by the country's vaccine expert group ATAGI over the weekend.We'll also be able to get the booster a month earlier, with the Government announcing a shorter period due to the threat of waning immunity and new variants.So if Moderna is a choice, should you take it over Pfizer? Does it even matter? And why is the Moderna booster only a half shot?Also on today's show:* A preprint study has found that Astra seems to wane faster than other vaccines, leaving no protective effect against symptomatic disease from Omicron 15 weeks after the second dose. What could this mean for the country's booster campaign?

As the data from initial studies into how Omicron evades our immunity continue to flow in, it's becoming more and more likely that a third dose - or booster - is going to be essential. Several more studies have been released, all showing large falls in immunity to the Omicron variant. One thing that the studies imply though is that there are much higher antibody levels in people who have either been infected, or received a third dose. So how much will third doses be needed to combat Omicron? Also on today's show: Quick Fire Friday! (booster edition)

As the data from initial studies into how Omicron evades our immunity continue to flow in, it's becoming more and more likely that a third dose - or booster - is going to be essential.Several more studies have been released, all showing large falls in immunity to the Omicron variant.One thing that the studies imply though is that there are much higher antibody levels in people who have either been infected, or received a third dose.So how much will third doses be needed to combat Omicron?Also on today's show: Quick Fire Friday! (booster edition)

One of the first studies into Omicron and immunity has reported back and it's not super great news: there's significant evasion of antibodies produced by the Pfizer vaccine. But not all is lost. The study says that the Omicron variant uses the same way of getting into our cells, meaning our existing tools and techniques should be relatively easy to change so they work better. The study is not yet published, and is a very small sample size so it's worth keeping in mind that this is still a very new area of science and is subject to change. Nonetheless, as today's Coronacast explains, it does give us a glimpse of what is likely to come. Also on today's show: * Could a mozzie vaccinate someone by biting a vaxed person and then an unvaxed person? * Your booster experiences

One of the first studies into Omicron and immunity has reported back and it's not super great news: there's significant evasion of antibodies produced by the Pfizer vaccine.But not all is lost. The study says that the Omicron variant uses the same way of getting into our cells, meaning our existing tools and techniques should be relatively easy to change so they work better. The study is not yet published, and is a very small sample size so it's worth keeping in mind that this is still a very new area of science and is subject to change.Nonetheless, as today's Coronacast explains, it does give us a glimpse of what is likely to come.Also on today's show:* Could a mozzie vaccinate someone by biting a vaxed person and then an unvaxed person?* Your booster experiences

Beyond the nasty and sometimes life-threatening symptoms that COVID can bring, there's another risk: long COVID. It's the collection of prolonged symptoms including brain fog, smell loss and fatigue. And while we know that being vaccinated drastically reduces your risk of a bad bout of COVID itself, a lingering question has been whether it also protects you from long COVID. Well, according to a yet to be peer reviewed study, the answer is yes it does. Also on today's show: * Is there any research work being done to modify the virus to develop a relatively benign but transmissible COVID variant which could be released to "crowd out" the current dangerous variants? * Is there a chance that Omicron is different enough that instead of replacing Delta, you get both if not together then one after another? * And we're after your stories about getting third-doses. Was it easy? Or hard?

Beyond the nasty and sometimes life-threatening symptoms that COVID can bring, there's another risk: long COVID. It's the collection of prolonged symptoms including brain fog, smell loss and fatigue.And while we know that being vaccinated drastically reduces your risk of a bad bout of COVID itself, a lingering question has been whether it also protects you from long COVID. Well, according to a yet to be peer reviewed study, the answer is yes it does. Also on today's show:* Is there any research work being done to modify the virus to develop a relatively benign but transmissible COVID variant which could be released to "crowd out" the current dangerous variants? * Is there a chance that Omicron is different enough that instead of replacing Delta, you get both if not together then one after another?* And we're after your stories about getting third-doses. Was it easy? Or hard?

Over the next several months, the fight between Delta and Omicron is going to be scientifically fascinating. In the red corner is the current world champion Delta, which easily beat out every other variant of concern to date. In the blue corner is the challenger Omicron, whose continued existence probably relies on its ability to beat out the champion. But how will we know who's winning and when will we get a better sense of it all? Also on today's show: * What makes a virus go viral? * Who decides which variants you make vaccines for? * What happens if Omicron turns up in a place with no Delta (like Queensland or Tasmania, for example)?

Over the next several months, the fight between Delta and Omicron is going to be scientifically fascinating. In the red corner is the current world champion Delta, which easily beat out every other variant of concern to date. In the blue corner is the challenger Omicron, whose continued existence probably relies on its ability to beat out the champion. But how will we know who's winning and when will we get a better sense of it all? Also on today's show: * What makes a virus go viral? * Who decides which variants you make vaccines for? * What happens if Omicron turns up in a place with no Delta (like Queensland or Tasmania, for example)?

Over the next several months, the fight between Delta and Omicron is going to be scientifically fascinating.In the red corner is the current world champion Delta, which easily beat out every other variant of concern to date.In the blue corner is the challenger Omicron, whose continued existence probably relies on its ability to beat out the champion.But how will we know who's winning and when will we get a better sense of it all?Also on today's show:* What makes a virus go viral?* Who decides which variants you make vaccines for?* What happens if Omicron turns up in a place with no Delta (like Queensland or Tasmania, for example)?

It's been a bit more than a week since we learned of Omicron, the newest coronavirus variant of concern. And while we're still a while from knowing solid answers, the world's scientists have done an amazing job over the last 7 days unraveling parts of Omicron's mysteries. The three big questions are will our vaccines continue to work? For people who do get the virus, will it be severe and will it beat Delta to become the coronavirus champion of the world? So on today's Coronacast, what we know from the latest science about answering those big questions. Also on today's show * Does it escape previous immunity and/or our vaccines? * Is it better at spreading than Delta? * Does it matter? Does it make you sicker than previous variants? * Where's Dr Norman Swan's Omicronometer of Panic heading?

It's been a bit more than a week since we learned of Omicron, the newest coronavirus variant of concern.And while we're still a while from knowing solid answers, the world's scientists have done an amazing job over the last 7 days unraveling parts of Omicron's mysteries.The three big questions are will our vaccines continue to work? For people who do get the virus, will it be severe and will it beat Delta to become the coronavirus champion of the world?So on today's Coronacast, what we know from the latest science about answering those big questions.Also on today's show* Does it escape previous immunity and/or our vaccines?* Is it better at spreading than Delta?* Does it matter? Does it make you sicker than previous variants?* Where's Dr Norman Swan's Omicronometer of Panic heading?

Just like we're likely going to be stuck with COVID for the rest of our lives, we're probably also going to be stuck wondering which is the most effective vaccine to protect against it. Well lucky we've got science to help sort it out, with a new study putting the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines head-to-head across hundreds of thousands of people. And other scientists have been busy working out how much protection you have against reinfection, if you are infected in the first place. Also on today's show: * Quick Fire Friday * Tegan interrupts Quick Fire Friday with her own - excellent - Quick Fire Question.

Just like we're likely going to be stuck with COVID for the rest of our lives, we're probably also going to be stuck wondering which is the most effective vaccine to protect against it.Well lucky we've got science to help sort it out, with a new study putting the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines head-to-head across hundreds of thousands of people.And other scientists have been busy working out how much protection you have against reinfection, if you are infected in the first place.Also on today's show:* Quick Fire Friday* Tegan interrupts Quick Fire Friday with her own - excellent - Quick Fire Question.

As the days tick by since Omicron was discovered, it's slowly spreading around the world. One example is reports of a couple of Israeli doctors who likely picked up Omicron in the United Kingdom, before flying back home. Their symptoms are said to be mild at the moment, but more worryingly, both of the doctors were fully vaccinated with Pfizer - that's all three doses. So what do we know about how Omicron works with our current vaccines? Also on today's show: * If we have been vaccinated to recognise the spike protein, why are variants so concerning? Is it the spike that changes?

As the days tick by since Omicron was discovered, it's slowly spreading around the world.One example is reports of a couple of Israeli doctors who likely picked up Omicron in the United Kingdom, before flying back home.Their symptoms are said to be mild at the moment, but more worryingly, both of the doctors were fully vaccinated with Pfizer - that's all three doses.So what do we know about how Omicron works with our current vaccines? Also on today's show:* If we have been vaccinated to recognise the spike protein, why are variants so concerning? Is it the spike that changes?

Nearly two years into the global coronavirus pandemic, it's probably safe to say that we're all pretty much ready for it to be done. So no wonder we're hoping that very early reports from South Africa are possibly, just maybe, indicating that the Omicron variant is "milder" than variants before. But how much evidence is there for that yet? Is it true, or just wishful thinking? Also on today's show: * Is it possible that the emergence of this variant is actually an encouraging development for the COVID pandemic? * No big changes yet for Australia's international borders * The Omicron variant mutation that might end up helping us (a bit) * In previous episodes you have mentioned that variants can "out compete" other variants. What exactly does this mean and what is the mechanism behind it? * An update to the Dr Norman Swan Omicronometer of Panic

Nearly two years into the global coronavirus pandemic, it's probably safe to say that we're all pretty much ready for it to be done.So no wonder we're hoping that very early reports from South Africa are possibly, just maybe, indicating that the Omicron variant is "milder" than variants before.But how much evidence is there for that yet? Is it true, or just wishful thinking?Also on today's show:* Is it possible that the emergence of this variant is actually an encouraging development for the COVID pandemic?* No big changes yet for Australia's international borders* The Omicron variant mutation that might end up helping us (a bit)* In previous episodes you have mentioned that variants can "out compete" other variants. What exactly does this mean and what is the mechanism behind it?* An update to the Dr Norman Swan Omicronometer of Panic

As the world desperately awaits news from scientists on anything Omicron, some experts have started thinking about where the variant might have come from. One theory is that it's from someone severely immunocompromised, where the virus has had millions of opportunities to evolve against a poor immune response. But it's far from the only theory. So on today's Coronacast, a few other possibilities of where - and when - Omicron might have popped into existence. Also on today's show: * The evolutionary lineage of Omicron * How should Australia be preparing? * The Dr Norman Swan Omicronometer of Panic is born

As the world desperately awaits news from scientists on anything Omicron, some experts have started thinking about where the variant might have come from.One theory is that it's from someone severely immunocompromised, where the virus has had millions of opportunities to evolve against a poor immune response.But it's far from the only theory.So on today's Coronacast, a few other possibilities of where - and when - Omicron might have popped into existence.Also on today's show:* The evolutionary lineage of Omicron* How should Australia be preparing?* The Dr Norman Swan Omicronometer of Panic is born

It's the news we didn't want: There's a new variant of concern in town and it's got all sorts of mutations just where you don't want them. It's also got a new fancy name: Omicron, and it's reportedly outpacing Delta in countries in southern Africa. But is it really? Is it more infectious? Is it more virulent? Is it vaccine resistant, and if so by how much? How much do we really know at the moment? Should I panic? Also on today's show: * What if the Omicron variant is the sort epidemiologists expected to see earlier in the pandemic: highly transmissible and less virulent?

It's the news we didn't want: There's a new variant of concern in town and it's got all sorts of mutations just where you don't want them.It's also got a new fancy name: Omicron, and it's reportedly outpacing Delta in countries in southern Africa.But is it really? Is it more infectious? Is it more virulent? Is it vaccine resistant, and if so by how much? How much do we really know at the moment? Should I panic?Also on today's show:* What if the Omicron variant is the sort epidemiologists expected to see earlier in the pandemic: highly transmissible and less virulent?

As pandemics go, the coronavirus one is pretty big. It rapidly spread around the world, and is still causing problems. But how does it compare to past pandemics? Are we actually living in a fortunate time in human history? If we could magically replace COVID with a bug from the past, would it be a good or bad idea? Would you prefer the plague? Syphilis? Perhaps a flu pandemic might tickle your fancy. Well to help you decide, on today's Coronacast, we go through the pandemics in history. Also on today's show: * Rapid antigen tests work well against Delta * Quick Fire Friday!

As pandemics go, the coronavirus one is pretty big. It rapidly spread around the world, and is still causing problems.But how does it compare to past pandemics? Are we actually living in a fortunate time in human history?If we could magically replace COVID with a bug from the past, would it be a good or bad idea? Would you prefer the plague? Syphilis? Perhaps a flu pandemic might tickle your fancy.Well to help you decide, on today's Coronacast, we go through the pandemics in history.Also on today's show:* Rapid antigen tests work well against Delta* Quick Fire Friday!

All around the country at the moment are family discussions and debates about what to do about that one relative or friend who still doesn't want to get vaccinated. The numbers of double vaccinated people continue to rise as people realise it's in their benefit to get the jab. But there will always be holdouts, no matter what policies are put in place. So how much does it matter if someone at the Christmas party is unvaccinated when nearly 90 percent of us 12 or older are double dosed? Also on today's show: * How careful should my vaccinated pregnant daughter be about where she goes and who she sees? * What's the latest science on viral loads?

All around the country at the moment are family discussions and debates about what to do about that one relative or friend who still doesn't want to get vaccinated.The numbers of double vaccinated people continue to rise as people realise it's in their benefit to get the jab.But there will always be holdouts, no matter what policies are put in place.So how much does it matter if someone at the Christmas party is unvaccinated when nearly 90 percent of us 12 or older are double dosed?Also on today's show:* How careful should my vaccinated pregnant daughter be about where she goes and who she sees?* What's the latest science on viral loads?

When the slew of variants popped into existence last year, scientists began worrying what it could mean for vaccine resistant variants down the line. So far, the Delta variant has remained top dog. While it is much more infectious than the original coronavirus, thankfully it doesn't evade our vaccines by much. But what about down the line? As more and more of the world is vaccinated, will the virus find a way to evolve to get around vaccines? That’s on today’s Coronacast. Also on today’s show: * Lockdowns return to Europe * How is Japan doing such a good job? * What side effects can I expect from my Pfizer booster shot if I had AstraZeneca for my first and second shot?

When the slew of variants popped into existence last year, scientists began worrying what it could mean for vaccine resistant variants down the line.So far, the Delta variant has remained top dog. While it is much more infectious than the original coronavirus, thankfully it doesn't evade our vaccines by much.But what about down the line? As more and more of the world is vaccinated, will the virus find a way to evolve to get around vaccines? That’s on today’s Coronacast.Also on today’s show:* Lockdowns return to Europe* How is Japan doing such a good job?* What side effects can I expect from my Pfizer booster shot if I had AstraZeneca for my first and second shot?

As we start to reopen to the world, it's inevitable that we'll start to see more cases of COVID-19 travel over our international and domestic borders. But it's far from the only bug that will make the journey while travelling inside a human. Influenza is one viruses we've been largely protected from over the last 18 months, after international border closures put a halt to incoming flights. So on today's Coronacast, what do we have to keep in mind when reopening and can we protect ourselves and our kids against virus we haven't seen in quite a while. Also on today's show: * Will a third dose give me better protection against variants? * Is there any evidence that taking paracetamol or ibuprofen after vaccination would reduce the body's immune response?

As we start to reopen to the world, it's inevitable that we'll start to see more cases of COVID-19 travel over our international and domestic borders.But it's far from the only bug that will make the journey while travelling inside a human.Influenza is one viruses we've been largely protected from over the last 18 months, after international border closures put a halt to incoming flights.So on today's Coronacast, what do we have to keep in mind when reopening and can we protect ourselves and our kids against virus we haven't seen in quite a while.Also on today's show:* Will a third dose give me better protection against variants? * Is there any evidence that taking paracetamol or ibuprofen after vaccination would reduce the body's immune response?

It's become a common claim among people who are still COVID-19 vaccine hesitant, that they say they're "waiting for Novavax". While there are currently three safe and effective vaccines available in Australia, Novavax is still not approved for use. Australia ordered Novavax a year ago, but as yet there's still no sign of it and the TGA says its application for approval is still under evaluation. So on today's Coronacast, if someone says they're waiting for Novavax, here's what you might want to reply with. Also on today's show: * Is it best to have Astra as my third shot? * We want to hear from you! Please fill in our listener survey and tell us what you think of the show.

It's become a common claim among people who are still COVID-19 vaccine hesitant, that they say they're "waiting for Novavax".While there are currently three safe and effective vaccines available in Australia, Novavax is still not approved for use.Australia ordered Novavax a year ago, but as yet there's still no sign of it and the TGA says its application for approval is still under evaluation.So on today's Coronacast, if someone says they're waiting for Novavax, here's what you might want to reply with.Also on today's show:* Is it best to have Astra as my third shot?* We want to hear from you! Please fill in our listener survey and tell us what you think of the show.

The head of the umbrella organisation for Australia's Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations says she's nervous about the country's reopening over the next month. CEO of NACCHO Pat Turner says while some Indigenous communities are 100% fully vaccinated, others are far from done. She says part of the problem is state and territory governments wanting to leave it to the Commonwealth, and also certain religious groups bringing in misinformation and myths from the United States. On today's Coronacast, the patchy response to outbreaks in Indigenous communities and what else needs to be done before state borders reopen. GUEST: Pat Turner. CEO of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)

The head of the umbrella organisation for Australia's Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations says she's nervous about the country's reopening over the next month.CEO of NACCHO Pat Turner says while some Indigenous communities are 100% fully vaccinated, others are far from done.She says part of the problem is state and territory governments wanting to leave it to the Commonwealth, and also certain religious groups bringing in misinformation and myths from the United States.On today's Coronacast, the patchy response to outbreaks in Indigenous communities and what else needs to be done before state borders reopen.GUEST:Pat Turner. CEO of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)

For obvious reasons, pandemics are pretty hot news right now. And it seems every few weeks, we see headlines about a possible new outbreak of potentially pandemic proportions. Thankfully, we haven't seen any new disease outbreaks yet, but it doesn't mean it won't happen sometime in the future. So what should we make of recent stories revealing a jump in avian influenza cases in 2021, and how likely is it that we'll be facing down a new pandemic anytime soon? Also on today's show: * A bit of a deeper dive into a recent article/story in the British Medical Journal, alleging issues with a trial site and its phase three trials of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

For obvious reasons, pandemics are pretty hot news right now.And it seems every few weeks, we see headlines about a possible new outbreak of potentially pandemic proportions.Thankfully, we haven't seen any new disease outbreaks yet, but it doesn't mean it won't happen sometime in the future.So what should we make of recent stories revealing a jump in avian influenza cases in 2021, and how likely is it that we'll be facing down a new pandemic anytime soon?Also on today's show:* A bit of a deeper dive into a recent article/story in the British Medical Journal, alleging issues with a trial site and its phase three trials of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

When the NT's Chief Minister Michael Gunner held the COVID-19 press conference yesterday, he revealed news that many have been dreading. A significant cluster of COVID has been detected, and all the people who were announced yesterday to have contracted the disease are Indigenous Australians. It's the worst day ever for local cases in the NT since the pandemic began. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Where's our vaccination compensation scheme? * Very good news on boosters/third dose * If I've had two doses of Astra and we know that its efficacy wanes quite quickly, where does that leave me after a dose of Pfizer for my third dose? Have I caught up with all the people who had two doses of Pfizer or will I forever have less protection?

When the NT's Chief Minister Michael Gunner held the COVID-19 press conference yesterday, he revealed news that many have been dreading.A significant cluster of COVID has been detected, and all the people who were announced yesterday to have contracted the disease are Indigenous Australians.It's the worst day ever for local cases in the NT since the pandemic began.That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Where's our vaccination compensation scheme? * Very good news on boosters/third dose* If I've had two doses of Astra and we know that its efficacy wanes quite quickly, where does that leave me after a dose of Pfizer for my third dose? Have I caught up with all the people who had two doses of Pfizer or will I forever have less protection?

Nerves are running high in South Australia, as the state is now only one week away from opening the doors and inevitably letting COVID in. South Australia is leading the way for zero-COVID states, and will be the first to open its doors to people travelling from Victoria, NSW and ACT. It has a vaccination rate that is slowly increasing and may just get to 80 per cent fully vaccinated 16+ by next week. But on today's Coronacast, many are worried about what the future may hold. Also on today's show: * Good news for antibodies in breast milk * Just because you think you had COVID, doesn't mean you did

Nerves are running high in South Australia, as the state is now only one week away from opening the doors and inevitably letting COVID in.South Australia is leading the way for zero-COVID states, and will be the first to open its doors to people travelling from Victoria, NSW and ACT.It has a vaccination rate that is slowly increasing and may just get to 80 per cent fully vaccinated 16+ by next week.But on today's Coronacast, many are worried about what the future may hold.Also on today's show:* Good news for antibodies in breast milk* Just because you think you had COVID, doesn't mean you did

Australians know full well that the Delta variant loves winter. As the weather warms up here things are looking up, but overseas it's getting colder and case numbers in Europe are rising. Hopefully the heavy impact of winter and Delta won't be felt, thanks to high levels of vaccination in many western European countries. But on today's Coronacast, it hasn't stopped the reimposition of some public health control measures in Denmark. Also on today's show: * Since the pandemic started there's been a massive ramping up of technology development relating to vaccines. If they can develop a vaccine for a new pathogen so quickly, what's next?

Australians know full well that the Delta variant loves winter.As the weather warms up here things are looking up, but overseas it's getting colder and case numbers in Europe are rising.Hopefully the heavy impact of winter and Delta won't be felt, thanks to high levels of vaccination in many western European countries.But on today's Coronacast, it hasn't stopped the reimposition of some public health control measures in Denmark.Also on today's show:* Since the pandemic started there's been a massive ramping up of technology development relating to vaccines. If they can develop a vaccine for a new pathogen so quickly, what's next?

When it was clear that the daily new COVID cases in Victoria had peaked, there was hope and speculation that the numbers would drop off quickly like what happened in NSW. But sadly, we're still getting about more than a thousand new cases a day and it's starting to level off at that figure. NSW has levelled off too lately, but at a much lower level of only a couple of hundred a day. So what could be going on and why aren't Victoria's numbers falling faster? And does it matter? Also on today's show: * Could anti-virals cause unvaccinated people to double down on not being vaccinated? * If you are due for a booster in the middle of the summer, might it be much better to wait until April/May and have the next shot when it starts to get colder? * Does Norman hate South Australia?

When it was clear that the daily new COVID cases in Victoria had peaked, there was hope and speculation that the numbers would drop off quickly like what happened in NSW.But sadly, we're still getting about more than a thousand new cases a day and it's starting to level off at that figure.NSW has levelled off too lately, but at a much lower level of only a couple of hundred a day.So what could be going on and why aren't Victoria's numbers falling faster? And does it matter? Also on today's show:* Could anti-virals cause unvaccinated people to double down on not being vaccinated?* If you are due for a booster in the middle of the summer, might it be much better to wait until April/May and have the next shot when it starts to get colder?* Does Norman hate South Australia?

As vaccination rates increase and restrictions ease, plenty of us are starting to make plans for the Christmas and New Year breaks. But in most of Australia, restrictions aren't easing for everyone. For many people who aren't vaccinated, restrictions are staying or even getting harsher. So is this fair? Is it an effective way of getting the vaccination rate up? And how do you navigate tricky conversations with loved ones who don't feel the same way as you about the vax? GUEST: Professor Julie Leask, a social scientist and professor in the Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney.

As vaccination rates increase and restrictions ease, plenty of us are starting to make plans for the Christmas and New Year breaks.But in most of Australia, restrictions aren't easing for everyone. For many people who aren't vaccinated, restrictions are staying or even getting harsher. So is this fair? Is it an effective way of getting the vaccination rate up? And how do you navigate tricky conversations with loved ones who don't feel the same way as you about the vax?GUEST:Professor Julie Leask, a social scientist and professor in the Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney.

With the news that NSW has hit 90 percent double vaccination in 16+, with other parts of the country to follow soon, you could be forgiven for thinking that the pandemic is finally over. But like it or not, we're still living through a pandemic and it's likely in the coming months there'll continue to be outbreaks and waves of COVID-19. It's not all bad news though. New drugs are likely to come online soon giving doctors even more tools to treat infections and prevent deaths. So what else could be in store for us in 2022? On today's Coronacast, we pull out the crystal ball for some blatant speculation.

With the news that NSW has hit 90 percent double vaccination in 16+, with other parts of the country to follow soon, you could be forgiven for thinking that the pandemic is finally over.But like it or not, we're still living through a pandemic and it's likely in the coming months there'll continue to be outbreaks and waves of COVID-19.It's not all bad news though. New drugs are likely to come online soon giving doctors even more tools to treat infections and prevent deaths.So what else could be in store for us in 2022? On today's Coronacast, we pull out the crystal ball for some blatant speculation.

When the Doherty model was released a few months ago, it set Australia on a path to reopening at various stages of vaccination. Now that the country has hit 80 per cent double dose for 16+, experts from Doherty, Burnet and other organisations have released new models on what we can expect a little further down the line. One of the big ones is how schools can remain open - even when positive cases are detected - so long as students are tested regularly via rapid antigen testing. And the new Doherty modelling has possible ways forward for international arrivals, and vulnerable remote Indigenous communities. Also on today's show: * Why is a booster necessary? After having been double vaccinated, even if the antibody level has waned, shouldn't the memory cells of the immune system kick into action?

When the Doherty model was released a few months ago, it set Australia on a path to reopening at various stages of vaccination.Now that the country has hit 80 per cent double dose for 16+, experts from Doherty, Burnet and other organisations have released new models on what we can expect a little further down the line.One of the big ones is how schools can remain open - even when positive cases are detected - so long as students are tested regularly via rapid antigen testing.And the new Doherty modelling has possible ways forward for international arrivals, and vulnerable remote Indigenous communities.Also on today's show:* Why is a booster necessary? After having been double vaccinated, even if the antibody level has waned, shouldn't the memory cells of the immune system kick into action?

The largest age group of active COVID cases in Victoria at the moment are kids, under 9 years old. While hard to compare directly, it's a similar story in NSW. Kids are currently unable to be vaccinated, leaving them vulnerable to infection as more COVID circulates through the community - though thankfully, disease is often very mild in children. But on today's Coronacast, overseas experiences tell us that as more and more kids get COVID, we'll see more rare, but serious events popup. Also on today's show: * Are any of the rapid antigen tests approved/suitable for young children? * Do we have another COVID treatment with that new Pfizer anti-viral drug?

The largest age group of active COVID cases in Victoria at the moment are kids, under 9 years old. While hard to compare directly, it's a similar story in NSW.Kids are currently unable to be vaccinated, leaving them vulnerable to infection as more COVID circulates through the community - though thankfully, disease is often very mild in children.But on today's Coronacast, overseas experiences tell us that as more and more kids get COVID, we'll see more rare, but serious events popup.Also on today's show:* Are any of the rapid antigen tests approved/suitable for young children?* Do we have another COVID treatment with that new Pfizer anti-viral drug?

The world passed a grim milestone a few days ago: 5 million deaths from COVID-19 and counting. But the reality is, that the actual deaths from the pandemic are much, much higher. Estimating how high is hard, but researchers can use data around excess deaths - ie, an increase beyond the normal number of people who die on average year to year - as a guide. So on today's Coronacast, why reported COVID deaths are probably grossly underestimated. Also on today's show: * Australia's vaccination rate starts to slow * Who are we missing in relation to vaccination?

The world passed a grim milestone a few days ago: 5 million deaths from COVID-19 and counting.But the reality is, that the actual deaths from the pandemic are much, much higher.Estimating how high is hard, but researchers can use data around excess deaths - ie, an increase beyond the normal number of people who die on average year to year - as a guide.So on today's Coronacast, why reported COVID deaths are probably grossly underestimated.Also on today's show:* Australia's vaccination rate starts to slow* Who are we missing in relation to vaccination?

A program to vaccinate children in the United States has come closer to reality, after the CDC endorseds the use of COVID-19 shots in kids from 5 to 11. Australian health authorities and regulators have yet to decide if it should happen here, but it is expected to happen in the next couple of months. There has been some debate about whether kids should be vaccinated, with some questioning the very small risks versus the rewards. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about health problems in children from the vaccine compared to getting COVID-19 itself? Also on today's show: * More on rapid antigen tests * A new COVID treatment?

A program to vaccinate children in the United States has come closer to reality, after the CDC endorseds the use of COVID-19 shots in kids from 5 to 11.Australian health authorities and regulators have yet to decide if it should happen here, but it is expected to happen in the next couple of months.There has been some debate about whether kids should be vaccinated, with some questioning the very small risks versus the rewards.So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about health problems in children from the vaccine compared to getting COVID-19 itself?Also on today's show:* More on rapid antigen tests* A new COVID treatment?

The rules for fully vaccinated people in NSW are changing for the better next week, with a bunch of restrictions being lifted early thanks to high vaccination rates. But the unvaccinated will have to wait with restrictions longer, as the state aims for even higher levels of vaccination across the population. NSW, Victoria and the ACT are showing that it's possible to get to 95 per cent 12+ vaccination, which is resulting in case numbers falling. So on today's Coronacast, at the rate we're going, when might we run out of arms to stick needles into? Also on today's show: * More on finding which rapid-antigen test is best * If we vaccinated everyone in the world, would SARS-CoV-2 die off?

The rules for fully vaccinated people in NSW are changing for the better next week, with a bunch of restrictions being lifted early thanks to high vaccination rates.But the unvaccinated will have to wait with restrictions longer, as the state aims for even higher levels of vaccination across the population.NSW, Victoria and the ACT are showing that it's possible to get to 95 per cent 12+ vaccination, which is resulting in case numbers falling.So on today's Coronacast, at the rate we're going, when might we run out of arms to stick needles into?Also on today's show:* More on finding which rapid-antigen test is best * If we vaccinated everyone in the world, would SARS-CoV-2 die off?

It was in early May when the Delta variant was officially listed as a variant of concern. Delta turned out to be far more contagious than previous variants, and challenged Australia's public health response. But since then, there haven't been any new variants of concern listed by the World Health Organisation, though there have been a couple of new variants of interest. So why not? And what do we know about the AY4.2 variant that's causing some concern in the UK? Also on today's show: * Should I go overseas on holiday? * My friends believe that the only benefit of being vaccinated to prevent oneself from severe disease. Is this true?

It was in early May when the Delta variant was officially listed as a variant of concern.Delta turned out to be far more contagious than previous variants, and challenged Australia's public health response.But since then, there haven't been any new variants of concern listed by the World Health Organisation, though there have been a couple of new variants of interest.So why not? And what do we know about the AY4.2 variant that's causing some concern in the UK?Also on today's show:* Should I go overseas on holiday?* My friends believe that the only benefit of being vaccinated to prevent oneself from severe disease. Is this true?

From today, you can buy rapid antigen tests from the shop and use them on yourself to see if you've got COVID-19 or not. Previously, the home, general-public use of antigen tests wasn't available for purchase by the general public. So with a bunch of them on the market for the first time, what should you keep in mind and how do they differ from the usual PCR test we're so used to? That's on today's Coronacast. GUEST: Dr Ian Norton, Managing Director, Respond Global

From today, you can buy rapid antigen tests from the shop and use them on yourself to see if you've got COVID-19 or not.Previously, the home, general-public use of antigen tests wasn't available for purchase by the general public.So with a bunch of them on the market for the first time, what should you keep in mind and how do they differ from the usual PCR test we're so used to?That's on today's Coronacast.GUEST:Dr Ian Norton, Managing Director, Respond Global

Australians over 18 years of age who've waited six months from their second COVID vaccine will be given the chance to grab a booster shot if they want one. While the focus will be on aged care and healthcare workers to start, yesterday, the expert panel on vaccinations approved the use of Pfizer booster doses. And - at the moment - it's being sold as a boost, not a requirement to be considered "fully vaccinated" So on today's Coronacast, how did ATAGI come to its recommendation and what can we expect in the months ahead? Also on today's show: * Only Pfizer is approved at the moment, but I want Moderna. Should I wait? * What about mixing vaccines? * Is Norman back at the gym?

Australians over 18 years of age who've waited six months from their second COVID vaccine will be given the chance to grab a booster shot if they want one.While the focus will be on aged care and healthcare workers to start, yesterday, the expert panel on vaccinations approved the use of Pfizer booster doses.And - at the moment - it's being sold as a boost, not a requirement to be considered "fully vaccinated"So on today's Coronacast, how did ATAGI come to its recommendation and what can we expect in the months ahead?Also on today's show:* Only Pfizer is approved at the moment, but I want Moderna. Should I wait?* What about mixing vaccines?* Is Norman back at the gym?

Australia's expert vaccination panel may soon tick off on a major expansion to the country's coronavirus vaccination program, paving the way for third doses to be administered. Yesterday, the medicines regulator the TGA approved Pfizer for use as a third dose - sometimes referred to as a booster - for Australians aged 18 or over after six months after their second dose. But despite the third dose boosting immunity, the Federal Government says they won't require it to be considered fully vaccinated. Also on today's show: * How does the TGA and ATAGI work in approving and recommending vaccines? * Why only 18 years or over? * Can I go get it a bit early? * What about side effects?

Australia's expert vaccination panel may soon tick off on a major expansion to the country's coronavirus vaccination program, paving the way for third doses to be administered.Yesterday, the medicines regulator the TGA approved Pfizer for use as a third dose - sometimes referred to as a booster - for Australians aged 18 or over after six months after their second dose.But despite the third dose boosting immunity, the Federal Government says they won't require it to be considered fully vaccinated.Also on today's show:* How does the TGA and ATAGI work in approving and recommending vaccines?* Why only 18 years or over?* Can I go get it a bit early? * What about side effects?

One of the big unknowns with coronavirus is why some people are left with symptoms from the illness long after they test negative. It's known as long COVID, and studies overseas suggest it affects more than half of people who get COVID to varying degrees of severity. So now we're nearly two years into the coronavirus pandemic, have we learnt more about long-COVID and what type of symptoms seem to be most common? And because Australia has been fortunate enough to get to high levels of vaccination before massive outbreaks, are we likely to avoid the worst of it? Also on today's show: * Is Norman at odds with Australia's chief medical officer on vaccines waning? * Some of my friends in WA are hesitant to get the vaccine and anti-mandate. What do I do?

One of the big unknowns with coronavirus is why some people are left with symptoms from the illness long after they test negative.It's known as long COVID, and studies overseas suggest it affects more than half of people who get COVID to varying degrees of severity.So now we're nearly two years into the coronavirus pandemic, have we learnt more about long-COVID and what type of symptoms seem to be most common?And because Australia has been fortunate enough to get to high levels of vaccination before massive outbreaks, are we likely to avoid the worst of it?Also on today's show:* Is Norman at odds with Australia's chief medical officer on vaccines waning?* Some of my friends in WA are hesitant to get the vaccine and anti-mandate. What do I do?

As more states open their borders in coming months, more COVID than ever will be circulating through the community. Vaccines will help protect many of us, but for vulnerable people - like the elderly or immunocompromised - additional protections may be needed. So if you have someone close that is more vulnerable to severe disease from a COVID-19 infection, what are some of the things you can do to help reduce the risk? Also on today's show: * 2nd generation vaccines vs natural immunity * Will my pets need to be vaccinated too? * Are there/will there be any plant based COVID vaccines? * A study on fertility and the AstraZeneca vaccine (no problems found)

As more states open their borders in coming months, more COVID than ever will be circulating through the community. Vaccines will help protect many of us, but for vulnerable people - like the elderly or immunocompromised - additional protections may be needed. So if you have someone close that is more vulnerable to severe disease from a COVID-19 infection, what are some of the things you can do to help reduce the risk? Also on today's show: * 2nd generation vaccines vs natural immunity * Will my pets need to be vaccinated too? * Are there/will there be any plant based COVID vaccines? * A study on fertility and the AstraZeneca vaccine (no problems found)

As more states open their borders in coming months, more COVID than ever will be circulating through the community. Vaccines will help protect many of us, but for vulnerable people - like the elderly or immunocompromised - additional protections may be needed.So if you have someone close that is more vulnerable to severe disease from a COVID-19 infection, what are some of the things you can do to help reduce the risk?Also on today's show:* 2nd generation vaccines vs natural immunity* Will my pets need to be vaccinated too? * Are there/will there be any plant based COVID vaccines? * A study on fertility and the AstraZeneca vaccine (no problems found)

As more and more of the country is vaccinated, state and territory governments are starting to outline which restrictions we will lose when we reach very high levels of coverage. Over the weekend, Victoria revealed that when it reaches 90 per cent double dose in a month there will be no density caps, and masks will only be mandatory at certain high-risk settings. But how do we know when is the right time to lift restrictions and what can we learn from countries that have been this way before? Also on today's show: * Surgical masks give me "mascne" so I was going to invest in some 100 per cent silk reusable masks that are less likely to cause breakouts. They have a cotton interior but do you think they'd be effective enough against Delta? * When a zero-COVID state opens up with hopefully high vaccination rates, will it be more vulnerable because there is no natural immunity in the community from infections?

As more and more of the country is vaccinated, state and territory governments are starting to outline which restrictions we will lose when we reach very high levels of coverage.Over the weekend, Victoria revealed that when it reaches 90 per cent double dose in a month there will be no density caps, and masks will only be mandatory at certain high-risk settings.But how do we know when is the right time to lift restrictions and what can we learn from countries that have been this way before?Also on today's show:* Surgical masks give me "mascne" so I was going to invest in some 100 per cent silk reusable masks that are less likely to cause breakouts. They have a cotton interior but do you think they'd be effective enough against Delta? * When a zero-COVID state opens up with hopefully high vaccination rates, will it be more vulnerable because there is no natural immunity in the community from infections?

There's been all sorts of vaccination targets bandied about over the last year: 70 per cent, 80 per cent, 16+ eligibility, 12+ eligibility. It never seems to end. But what if - and this might not make you happy because it seems almost impossible at the moment - the real target should be 95 per cent? It's been done overseas: in Portugal and Iceland. So what would it take to do it here and what benefits do you get? Also on today's show: * Vaccine mandates are coming * When will we have a vaccine approved for children under 12yrs? * Where's Novavax? * Where's Ollie? Wally? What?

There's been all sorts of vaccination targets bandied about over the last year: 70 per cent, 80 per cent, 16+ eligibility, 12+ eligibility. It never seems to end.But what if - and this might not make you happy because it seems almost impossible at the moment - the real target should be 95 per cent?It's been done overseas: in Portugal and Iceland. So what would it take to do it here and what benefits do you get?Also on today's show:* Vaccine mandates are coming * When will we have a vaccine approved for children under 12yrs?* Where's Novavax?* Where's Ollie? Wally? What?

Greater Melbourne will finally come out of lockdown a minute before the strike of midnight tonight, which will be a huge relief to millions of people. But the city comes out of lockdown with high daily caseloads - with the rolling five day average being around 1850. When NSW came out of lockdown, its daily caseload was much lower - and has remained low and is showing no signs of increasing again. So can we expect cases to fall in Melbourne? Rise? Level off? And does reopening with a large caseload in a highly vaccinated population even matter? Also on today's show: * Australia hits 70 per cent double-dosed * Norman wants to see some quokkas * What is the difference going to be for Victoria opening up with so many more cases than NSW? * Can you get COVID-19 three times?

Greater Melbourne will finally come out of lockdown a minute before the strike of midnight tonight, which will be a huge relief to millions of people.But the city comes out of lockdown with high daily caseloads - with the rolling five day average being around 1850.When NSW came out of lockdown, its daily caseload was much lower - and has remained low and is showing no signs of increasing again.So can we expect cases to fall in Melbourne? Rise? Level off? And does reopening with a large caseload in a highly vaccinated population even matter?Also on today's show:* Australia hits 70 per cent double-dosed* Norman wants to see some quokkas* What is the difference going to be for Victoria opening up with so many more cases than NSW? * Can you get COVID-19 three times?

When the various states and territories report their daily vaccination rates as a mix of single and double doses, should they perhaps also be adding in third doses? The COVID-19 vaccines in Australia are currently limited to two doses, but so far only immunocompromised people have been approved to get a third shot. So should that be extended to older people and perhaps healthcare workers who got their vaccine in March or April? On today's Coronacast, all your questions about the third dose including waning protection from Astra and Pfizer, timing and when to count it all from. Also: thank you to all our listeners - especially those who've listened to all 400 episodes of Coronacast. You are champions!

When the various states and territories report their daily vaccination rates as a mix of single and double doses, should they perhaps also be adding in third doses?The COVID-19 vaccines in Australia are currently limited to two doses, but so far only immunocompromised people have been approved to get a third shot.So should that be extended to older people and perhaps healthcare workers who got their vaccine in March or April?On today's Coronacast, all your questions about the third dose including waning protection from Astra and Pfizer, timing and when to count it all from.Also: thank you to all our listeners - especially those who've listened to all 400 episodes of Coronacast. You are champions!

Until now, a lot of the worry about COVID-19 in Australia has been about how zero-COVID states will rejoin NSW, Victoria and the ACT. Well yesterday, Queensland put its plan forward saying that December 17, 2021 is the date its borders will be broadly reopened once again to other states, including hotspots. So with vaccination rates in Queensland lagging, will this be the push some need to go and get the jab? And what might it mean for other zero-COVID states? Also on today's show: * Third doses and Norman's mea culpa * Southern Tasmania comes out of lockdown * Your ideas to boost vaccination rates

Until now, a lot of the worry about COVID-19 in Australia has been about how zero-COVID states will rejoin NSW, Victoria and the ACT.Well yesterday, Queensland put its plan forward saying that December 17, 2021 is the date its borders will be broadly reopened once again to other states, including hotspots.So with vaccination rates in Queensland lagging, will this be the push some need to go and get the jab?And what might it mean for other zero-COVID states?Also on today's show:* Third doses and Norman's mea culpa* Southern Tasmania comes out of lockdown* Your ideas to boost vaccination rates

Victoria's lockdown will end this Thursday night, when the state expects to reach its first vaccine goal of 70 per cent double vaccinated. Reasons to leave the home and the curfew will be lifted, which will be a huge relief to the people of Melbourne which have suffered through many long lockdowns. But it's not as if the pandemic will end this week: many working in the hospital system are in for a rough time as the state opens up. Also on today's show * Mixing and matching boosters * NSW hits 80 per cent. What comes next? * The new drug Ronapreve. What is it?

Victoria's lockdown will end this Thursday night, when the state expects to reach its first vaccine goal of 70 per cent double vaccinated.Reasons to leave the home and the curfew will be lifted, which will be a huge relief to the people of Melbourne which have suffered through many long lockdowns.But it's not as if the pandemic will end this week: many working in the hospital system are in for a rough time as the state opens up.Also on today's show* Mixing and matching boosters* NSW hits 80 per cent. What comes next?* The new drug Ronapreve. What is it?

The arrival of the Delta variant really was a massive curveball that few experts saw coming. It ripped through populations overseas and quickly punched holes in Fortress Australia. It especially challenged our public health response with its incredible infectiousness and has taken hold in NSW, Victoria and ACT. But how did Delta come into existence in the first place? And as more and more of us are vaccinated, what might come next as the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve? On today's Coronacast, a very special guest explains all. GUEST: * University of Sydney evolutionary biologist Professor Eddie Holmes

The arrival of the Delta variant really was a massive curveball that few experts saw coming.It ripped through populations overseas and quickly punched holes in Fortress Australia.It especially challenged our public health response with its incredible infectiousness and has taken hold in NSW, Victoria and ACT.But how did Delta come into existence in the first place? And as more and more of us are vaccinated, what might come next as the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve?On today's Coronacast, a very special guest explains all.GUEST:* University of Sydney evolutionary biologist Professor Eddie Holmes

It's sometimes easy to forget that the COVID-19 pandemic affects more than just physical health. It also taken a massive toll on mental health. And according to some new research, the two pandemic factors that lead to the worst mental health outcomes are rising case numbers and lockdowns. Globally, the most affected groups are young people and women, and poorer countries in particular have seen higher mental health burdens. Also on today's show: * Why do some people get sicker from COVID than others? * You seem confident we will get booster shots but I heard Dr Paul Kelly sat last week that there is evidence to suggest not - that the vaccine may even last a lifetime? Did I hear incorrectly? * I live in a rural community and regularly drive past the sewerage works. The smell is often very noticeable. Is there a risk of virus carrying aerosol droplets leading to catching COVID?

It's sometimes easy to forget that the COVID-19 pandemic affects more than just physical health. It also taken a massive toll on mental health.And according to some new research, the two pandemic factors that lead to the worst mental health outcomes are rising case numbers and lockdowns.Globally, the most affected groups are young people and women, and poorer countries in particular have seen higher mental health burdens.Also on today's show:* Why do some people get sicker from COVID than others?* You seem confident we will get booster shots but I heard Dr Paul Kelly sat last week that there is evidence to suggest not - that the vaccine may even last a lifetime? Did I hear incorrectly?* I live in a rural community and regularly drive past the sewerage works. The smell is often very noticeable. Is there a risk of virus carrying aerosol droplets leading to catching COVID?

A lot of the discussion about COVID lately has been on the big outbreaks in NSW, Victoria and the ACT, and less about states that don't have current outbreaks. But as states like WA, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory start to plan their border reopenings, it also means COVID will eventually find its way in. So what can the smaller and still COVID free states expect in coming months? Will cases skyrocket in a highly vaccinated population? And will people there have to get used to restrictions that currently don't apply? Also on today's show: * What does full vaccination mean for getting (or not getting) long COVID? * We keep hearing the risk for under 12s is very low. Could you please clarify the best understanding of the hospitalisation, death, and long COVID risk for children under 12s?

A lot of the discussion about COVID lately has been on the big outbreaks in NSW, Victoria and the ACT, and less about states that don't have current outbreaks. But as states like WA, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory start to plan their border reopenings, it also means COVID will eventually find its way in. So what can the smaller and still COVID free states expect in coming months? Will cases skyrocket in a highly vaccinated population? And will people there have to get used to restrictions that currently don't apply? Also on today's show: * What does full vaccination mean for getting (or not getting) long COVID? * We keep hearing the risk for under 12s is very low. Could you please clarify the best understanding of the hospitalisation, death, and long COVID risk for children under 12s?

A lot of the discussion about COVID lately has been on the big outbreaks in NSW, Victoria and the ACT, and less about states that don't have current outbreaks.But as states like WA, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory start to plan their border reopenings, it also means COVID will eventually find its way in.So what can the smaller and still COVID free states expect in coming months? Will cases skyrocket in a highly vaccinated population? And will people there have to get used to restrictions that currently don't apply?Also on today's show:* What does full vaccination mean for getting (or not getting) long COVID?* We keep hearing the risk for under 12s is very low. Could you please clarify the best understanding of the hospitalisation, death, and long COVID risk for children under 12s?

While COVID-19 is currently in two of Australia's states and the ACT, the reality is eventually it will get everywhere. And eventually, the theory goes, COVID-19 will infect everyone. Vaccination will help stop the vast majority of people getting severe symptoms which may put them in hospital, but there'll always be people who can't or won't be immunised. So does getting COVID-19 after being vaccinated help with longer term immunity? And therefore if you're fully vaccinated, is it worth trying to get infected on purpose? Also on today's show: * How many people don't get their second dose? * What might happen now in NSW?

While COVID-19 is currently in two of Australia's states and the ACT, the reality is eventually it will get everywhere. And eventually, the theory goes, COVID-19 will infect everyone. Vaccination will help stop the vast majority of people getting severe symptoms which may put them in hospital, but there'll always be people who can't or won't be immunised. So does getting COVID-19 after being vaccinated help with longer term immunity? And therefore if you're fully vaccinated, is it worth trying to get infected on purpose? Also on today's show: * How many people don't get their second dose? * What might happen now in NSW?

While COVID-19 is currently in two of Australia's states and the ACT, the reality is eventually it will get everywhere. And eventually, the theory goes, COVID-19 will infect everyone.Vaccination will help stop the vast majority of people getting severe symptoms which may put them in hospital, but there'll always be people who can't or won't be immunised.So does getting COVID-19 after being vaccinated help with longer term immunity? And therefore if you're fully vaccinated, is it worth trying to get infected on purpose? Also on today's show:* How many people don't get their second dose?* What might happen now in NSW?

Many restrictions are being lifted in NSW today, after the state last week hit the 70 percent double vaccination target. For many, it's a time to reconnect with loved ones and start to live life once again - this time in a more COVID-normal way. But for others, the reopening is both exciting and a bit nerve wracking - as people take time to re-adjust. Also on today's show: * I'm worried about my kids going back to school * What's going on with Moderna and myocarditis/pericarditis in young men?

Many restrictions are being lifted in NSW today, after the state last week hit the 70 percent double vaccination target.For many, it's a time to reconnect with loved ones and start to live life once again - this time in a more COVID-normal way.But for others, the reopening is both exciting and a bit nerve wracking - as people take time to re-adjust.Also on today's show:* I'm worried about my kids going back to school* What's going on with Moderna and myocarditis/pericarditis in young men?

NSW will take its first step out of lockdown on Monday, and it'll be slightly bigger than expected. The state's new Premier has made some small changes in relation to what fully vaccinated people will be able to do in just a few days. So what can we expect to case numbers, vaccination rates, hospitalisation and ICU admissions? And what about the rest of the country - like Victoria and ACT - which will be taking the same steps as NSW in coming weeks and months? On today's Coronacast, a very special guest to help talks us through all the data.

NSW will take its first step out of lockdown on Monday, and it'll be slightly bigger than expected.The state's new Premier has made some small changes in relation to what fully vaccinated people will be able to do in just a few days.So what can we expect to case numbers, vaccination rates, hospitalisation and ICU admissions?And what about the rest of the country - like Victoria and ACT - which will be taking the same steps as NSW in coming weeks and months? On today's Coronacast, a very special guest to help talks us through all the data.

As case numbers continue to decline in NSW and the date for opening up gets closer, the state has started to provide details on how isolation requirements for close contacts might work for the vaccinated. For vaccinated people, isolation after close contact will be halved if you're vaccinated - though movement restrictions may still apply. It's just one of many changes coming for people in NSW and Victoria - and likely other states in coming months - as more risk tolerant ,COVID-normal policies are implemented. So on today's Coroancast, what could it look like and how have other parts of the world handled it? Also on today's show: * Why are you dissing Tamiflu? * Tegan's etymology club gains more members. It's got four people now!

As case numbers continue to decline in NSW and the date for opening up gets closer, the state has started to provide details on how isolation requirements for close contacts might work for the vaccinated. For vaccinated people, isolation after close contact will be halved if you're vaccinated - though movement restrictions may still apply. It's just one of many changes coming for people in NSW and Victoria - and likely other states in coming months - as more risk tolerant ,COVID-normal policies are implemented. So on today's Coroancast, what could it look like and how have other parts of the world handled it? Also on today's show: * Why are you dissing Tamiflu? * Tegan's etymology club gains more members. It's got four people now!

As case numbers continue to decline in NSW and the date for opening up gets closer, the state has started to provide details on how isolation requirements for close contacts might work for the vaccinated.For vaccinated people, isolation after close contact will be halved if you're vaccinated - though movement restrictions may still apply.It's just one of many changes coming for people in NSW and Victoria - and likely other states in coming months - as more risk tolerant ,COVID-normal policies are implemented.So on today's Coroancast, what could it look like and how have other parts of the world handled it?Also on today's show:* Why are you dissing Tamiflu?* Tegan's etymology club gains more members. It's got four people now!

Victoria posted a new national record for new COVID cases day yesterday, with 1763 cases. There have been a number of worrying big days recently, and there are few signs that the outbreak is slowing down in any meaningful way. So what could be going on, especially considering vaccination levels in Victoria are now higher than they were in NSW when that state hit its peak several weeks ago. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Kids and schools and ventilation * I know this could change any second, but how have we managed to dodge so many bullets in Queensland? * Can you tell me what the difference is between a 12 year old and a 10 year old getting vaccinated? * Tegan starts a drug name etymology club. Who wants in?!

Victoria posted a new national record for new COVID cases day yesterday, with 1763 cases.There have been a number of worrying big days recently, and there are few signs that the outbreak is slowing down in any meaningful way.So what could be going on, especially considering vaccination levels in Victoria are now higher than they were in NSW when that state hit its peak several weeks ago.That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Kids and schools and ventilation* I know this could change any second, but how have we managed to dodge so many bullets in Queensland?* Can you tell me what the difference is between a 12 year old and a 10 year old getting vaccinated? * Tegan starts a drug name etymology club. Who wants in?!

NSW is only days away from hitting the 70 per cent double dose vaccination figure, which will see the city begin its reopening from early next week. And while Victoria is a few weeks behind, hospitalisation and ICU data there are showing dramatic drop offs in the percentages who are admitted. It's yet another success story for COVID-19 vaccines, and hopefully is a sign of even better things to come. But on today's Coronacast, if vaccines are so successful why are we hearing about more people in hospital for COVID treatment who have had a shot? Also on today's show: * All you questions on COVID-19 treatments answered: we talk molnupiravir and sotrovimab

NSW is only days away from hitting the 70 per cent double dose vaccination figure, which will see the city begin its reopening from early next week.And while Victoria is a few weeks behind, hospitalisation and ICU data there are showing dramatic drop offs in the percentages who are admitted.It's yet another success story for COVID-19 vaccines, and hopefully is a sign of even better things to come.But on today's Coronacast, if vaccines are so successful why are we hearing about more people in hospital for COVID treatment who have had a shot?Also on today's show:* All you questions on COVID-19 treatments answered: we talk molnupiravir and sotrovimab

'Go hard, go early' was the playbook when there was a Delta outbreak in Victoria in early August. But nearly two months later the state is on the same curve as NSW was. So why is Victoria tracking the same way NSW did when it responded more quickly? And does it mean we can expect the curve to bend when vaccination rates rise? Also on today's show: * If I successfully fend of an infection, does that help my immune system? * What's the ideal gap for AstraZeneca vaccination? * Quick Fire Friday returns with: What Would Norman Do?

'Go hard, go early' was the playbook when there was a Delta outbreak in Victoria in early August.But nearly two months later the state is on the same curve as NSW was.So why is Victoria tracking the same way NSW did when it responded more quickly? And does it mean we can expect the curve to bend when vaccination rates rise?Also on today's show:* If I successfully fend of an infection, does that help my immune system?* What's the ideal gap for AstraZeneca vaccination?* Quick Fire Friday returns with: What Would Norman Do?

The outbreaks in NSW and Victoria are now large enough that it's impossible to follow what's happening with the detail that we once used to be able to. But one thing that we should keep an eye on is hospitalisation and deaths coming from the outbreaks. In NSW, it seems as though hospitalisations are falling - as more people come forward for vaccinations. In Victoria, the numbers are still rising. So on today's Coronacast, how are Australia's outbreaks tracking? And what might we expect in coming weeks? Also on today's show: * Hello South Australia * Clarifications about Monday's episode on Pfizer transmission data

The outbreaks in NSW and Victoria are now large enough that it's impossible to follow what's happening with the detail that we once used to be able to.But one thing that we should keep an eye on is hospitalisation and deaths coming from the outbreaks.In NSW, it seems as though hospitalisations are falling - as more people come forward for vaccinations. In Victoria, the numbers are still rising.So on today's Coronacast, how are Australia's outbreaks tracking? And what might we expect in coming weeks?Also on today's show:* Hello South Australia* Clarifications about Monday's episode on Pfizer transmission data

The medicines regulator in Australia has paved the way for home-testing COVID-19 kits to be made available from November 1st. Currently, the most common way people are tested for COVID is via a PCR test, which requires at least a day's wait, a lab and fancy equipment. But soon, people will be able to do a rapid antigen test at home and get a result in 15 minutes. So on today's Coronacast, what is a rapid antigen test? And why might it be more useful as we start to reopen? Also on today's show: * Whatever happened to fully vaccinated meaning 2 doses + 2 weeks? * Norman, when do you think you will feel comfortable boarding an airplane?

The medicines regulator in Australia has paved the way for home-testing COVID-19 kits to be made available from November 1st. Currently, the most common way people are tested for COVID is via a PCR test, which requires at least a day's wait, a lab and fancy equipment. But soon, people will be able to do a rapid antigen test at home and get a result in 15 minutes. So on today's Coronacast, what is a rapid antigen test? And why might it be more useful as we start to reopen? Also on today's show: * Whatever happened to fully vaccinated meaning 2 doses + 2 weeks? * Norman, when do you think you will feel comfortable boarding an airplane?

The medicines regulator in Australia has paved the way for home-testing COVID-19 kits to be made available from November 1st.Currently, the most common way people are tested for COVID is via a PCR test, which requires at least a day's wait, a lab and fancy equipment.But soon, people will be able to do a rapid antigen test at home and get a result in 15 minutes.So on today's Coronacast, what is a rapid antigen test? And why might it be more useful as we start to reopen?Also on today's show:* Whatever happened to fully vaccinated meaning 2 doses + 2 weeks? * Norman, when do you think you will feel comfortable boarding an airplane?

With nearly 52 per cent of Australians over 16 years now fully vaccinated, there is more and more talk about opening up once it's safe. But there are other parts of the world that are a bit ahead of us, opening up and removing all restrictions. The UK removed restrictions in July, Denmark ended COVID restrictions two weeks ago, and Norway removed restrictions over the weekend. So on today's Coronacast, what can we learn from those countries on our own path to eventually reopening? Also on today's show: * You said that Pfizer drops 22 per cent every month in effectiveness. Does this mean that after 5 months if you had Pfizer, you're no longer protected against COVID? * Is there any risk of catching the virus from swimming pool water?

With nearly 52 per cent of Australians over 16 years now fully vaccinated, there is more and more talk about opening up once it's safe.But there are other parts of the world that are a bit ahead of us, opening up and removing all restrictions.The UK removed restrictions in July, Denmark ended COVID restrictions two weeks ago, and Norway removed restrictions over the weekend.So on today's Coronacast, what can we learn from those countries on our own path to eventually reopening?Also on today's show:* You said that Pfizer drops 22 per cent every month in effectiveness. Does this mean that after 5 months if you had Pfizer, you're no longer protected against COVID?* Is there any risk of catching the virus from swimming pool water?

Australia's vaccination rate increasing over the weeks has been a thing of beauty to watch, and hopefully soon will help pay out dividends. But along with helping prevent the hospital system from collapsing, vaccines might be better than we thought at helping you avoid catching COVID-19 at all. A pre-print study out of the UK has recently reported back in a massive study and has been able to slice and dice all sorts of variables when it comes to avoiding COVID. But there are some interesting differences depending on which vaccine you got.

Australia's vaccination rate increasing over the weeks has been a thing of beauty to watch, and hopefully soon will help pay out dividends.But along with helping prevent the hospital system from collapsing, vaccines might be better than we thought at helping you avoid catching COVID-19 at all.A pre-print study out of the UK has recently reported back in a massive study and has been able to slice and dice all sorts of variables when it comes to avoiding COVID.But there are some interesting differences depending on which vaccine you got.

*** AFTER THIS EPISODE, WE'RE TAKING A WEEK OFF! WE'LL BACK ON THE 27TH SEPTEMBER! *** Victorians have hit their first big vaccine milestone of 70 percent first dose coverage, and have been given a slight reprieve in lockdown restrictions. Small outdoor gatherings, increased distances of travel for shopping or exercise and reopening of outdoor exercise equipment are some of the changes. But as Melbourne - and Sydney - take small steps to eventual reopening, what are the chances that they - or other parts of the country - will end up back in lockdown down the line? Also on today's show: * Do NSW data show that our vaccines might be better at preventing infection than we thought? * Peer reviewed data from Israel shows boosters work for the Pfizer vaccine * How long will it be until a person with COVID-19 does not need to isolate for 14 days? * Has any research been conducted to determine a difference in vaccine reactions between males and females? * My son is 15 months old and has never been sick. Is there any research about what COVID-19 might do with an almost completely new immune system?

*** AFTER THIS EPISODE, WE'RE TAKING A WEEK OFF! WE'LL BACK ON THE 27TH SEPTEMBER! ***Victorians have hit their first big vaccine milestone of 70 percent first dose coverage, and have been given a slight reprieve in lockdown restrictions.Small outdoor gatherings, increased distances of travel for shopping or exercise and reopening of outdoor exercise equipment are some of the changes.But as Melbourne - and Sydney - take small steps to eventual reopening, what are the chances that they - or other parts of the country - will end up back in lockdown down the line? Also on today's show:* Do NSW data show that our vaccines might be better at preventing infection than we thought? * Peer reviewed data from Israel shows boosters work for the Pfizer vaccine* How long will it be until a person with COVID-19 does not need to isolate for 14 days?* Has any research been conducted to determine a difference in vaccine reactions between males and females?* My son is 15 months old and has never been sick. Is there any research about what COVID-19 might do with an almost completely new immune system?

NSW yesterday hit a new milestone for vaccination in Australia. More than 80 per cent of the state has now had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and it's still rocketing along. While it's still several more weeks before the 70 per cent double vaccination targets are met, for everyone under lockdown it's a wonderful thing to see. Add to that the hope that the state could be starting to see that the curve in new cases is levelling off. Also on today's show: * Lockdowns see life get worse for many Australians * What are the chances of someone taking the COVID-19 virus to a gym or club, pub or restaurant if only the fully vaccinated are allowed in?

NSW yesterday hit a new milestone for vaccination in Australia.More than 80 per cent of the state has now had their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and it's still rocketing along.While it's still several more weeks before the 70 per cent double vaccination targets are met, for everyone under lockdown it's a wonderful thing to see.Add to that the hope that the state could be starting to see that the curve in new cases is levelling off.Also on today's show:* Lockdowns see life get worse for many Australians* What are the chances of someone taking the COVID-19 virus to a gym or club, pub or restaurant if only the fully vaccinated are allowed in?

Fully vaccinated people in NSW are counting down the days until they can get some additional freedoms when the state reaches the 70 per cent vaccination rate. But some experts are warning that releasing the brake too quickly might see case numbers and then hospitalisations shoot up again So why could cases once again rise when 70 per cent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Dr Swan said he would not go back to the gym at 70 per cent vaccination rates. Why not? As a fully vaccinated person isn't it safe? * Cases dropping in NSW? ACT goes another month for lockdowns and Victoria still struggling * Western Australians over 60 can get Pfizer jab now. Should we redirect the vaccine to NSW and/or Victoria?

Fully vaccinated people in NSW are counting down the days until they can get some additional freedoms when the state reaches the 70 per cent vaccination rate. But some experts are warning that releasing the brake too quickly might see case numbers and then hospitalisations shoot up again So why could cases once again rise when 70 per cent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Dr Swan said he would not go back to the gym at 70 per cent vaccination rates. Why not? As a fully vaccinated person isn't it safe? * Cases dropping in NSW? ACT goes another month for lockdowns and Victoria still struggling * Western Australians over 60 can get Pfizer jab now. Should we redirect the vaccine to NSW and/or Victoria?

Fully vaccinated people in NSW are counting down the days until they can get some additional freedoms when the state reaches the 70 per cent vaccination rate.But some experts are warning that releasing the brake too quickly might see case numbers and then hospitalisations shoot up againSo why could cases once again rise when 70 per cent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated? That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Dr Swan said he would not go back to the gym at 70 per cent vaccination rates. Why not? As a fully vaccinated person isn't it safe?* Cases dropping in NSW? ACT goes another month for lockdowns and Victoria still struggling* Western Australians over 60 can get Pfizer jab now. Should we redirect the vaccine to NSW and/or Victoria?

We keep hearing that vaccination might not be enough to get us out of the grip of COVID - so what will be enough? Well, a new group of Australian experts has taken a stab at the types of interventions that may be required alongside vaccination if we are to successfully live with COVID-19. While high vaccination rates are part of it, it also includes measures like proper ventilation in buildings, vaccinating children when possible, masks and extra vaccine doses. So on today's Coronacast, how might we live with COVID-19 in 2022? Also on today's show: * What was the first year of COVID like in Australia for our health? * Updates on NSW and Victoria.

We keep hearing that vaccination might not be enough to get us out of the grip of COVID - so what will be enough? Well, a new group of Australian experts has taken a stab at the types of interventions that may be required alongside vaccination if we are to successfully live with COVID-19.While high vaccination rates are part of it, it also includes measures like proper ventilation in buildings, vaccinating children when possible, masks and extra vaccine doses.So on today's Coronacast, how might we live with COVID-19 in 2022?Also on today's show:* What was the first year of COVID like in Australia for our health?* Updates on NSW and Victoria.

A new vaccine will be arriving next week in Australia, to help bolster vaccine rates and protect Australians from COVID-19. The Moderna vaccine, known by its brand name Spikevax or by its scientific name mRNA-1273, is the country's third vaccine to be administered to the public. The Federal Government yesterday announced additional supplies of Moderna, in addition to the ten million doses already coming later this year. So on today's Coronacast, who is Moderna? And what can we expect from this vaccine? Also on today's show: * Will Norman go back to the Gym at 70 per cent? * What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccine on pregnancy?

A new vaccine will be arriving next week in Australia, to help bolster vaccine rates and protect Australians from COVID-19. The Moderna vaccine, known by its brand name Spikevax or by its scientific name mRNA-1273, is the country's third vaccine to be administered to the public. The Federal Government yesterday announced additional supplies of Moderna, in addition to the ten million doses already coming later this year. So on today's Coronacast, who is Moderna? And what can we expect from this vaccine? Also on today's show: * Will Norman go back to the Gym at 70 per cent? * What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccine on pregnancy?

A new vaccine will be arriving next week in Australia, to help bolster vaccine rates and protect Australians from COVID-19.The Moderna vaccine, known by its brand name Spikevax or by its scientific name mRNA-1273, is the country's third vaccine to be administered to the public.The Federal Government yesterday announced additional supplies of Moderna, in addition to the ten million doses already coming later this year.So on today's Coronacast, who is Moderna? And what can we expect from this vaccine?Also on today's show:* Will Norman go back to the Gym at 70 per cent?* What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccine on pregnancy?

The NSW Government has released its plan on what will happen once the state passes the 70 per cent double-vaccination target. Changes for fully vaccinated people include abilities to visit more hospitality and retail venues, visit each other at home and head back into stadiums. But the 70 per cent double-vaccination target is only of eligible people, so works out to be roughly 56 per cent of the whole population. So on today's Coronacast, how risky is the plan? Also on today's show: * Vaccine passports! Coming to a place near you. How might they work and how reliable are they?

The NSW Government has released its plan on what will happen once the state passes the 70 per cent double-vaccination target.Changes for fully vaccinated people include abilities to visit more hospitality and retail venues, visit each other at home and head back into stadiums.But the 70 per cent double-vaccination target is only of eligible people, so works out to be roughly 56 per cent of the whole population.So on today's Coronacast, how risky is the plan? Also on today's show:* Vaccine passports! Coming to a place near you. How might they work and how reliable are they?

After a massive few months of outbreaks and lockdowns popping up across the country, things seem to have stabilised a bit lately. While health authorities remain on alert around the nation, serious outbreaks are being managed in three jurisdictions: NSW, Victoria and ACT. Everyone is racing towards high levels of vaccination to either control the outbreak or to avoid the worst of it if another one pops up. So on today's Coronacast, how is everything going and the race to 80 per cent plus. Also on today's show: * If you've been double vaccinated, isn't it better to get exposed to covid to get a good immune response rather than getting a booster shot? * What is the rate of hospitalisation once we reach 70 per cent (16+) and 80 per cent vaccinated?

After a massive few months of outbreaks and lockdowns popping up across the country, things seem to have stabilised a bit lately. While health authorities remain on alert around the nation, serious outbreaks are being managed in three jurisdictions: NSW, Victoria and ACT. Everyone is racing towards high levels of vaccination to either control the outbreak or to avoid the worst of it if another one pops up. So on today's Coronacast, how is everything going and the race to 80 per cent plus. Also on today's show: * If you've been double vaccinated, isn't it better to get exposed to covid to get a good immune response rather than getting a booster shot? * What is the rate of hospitalisation once we reach 70 per cent (16+) and 80 per cent vaccinated?

After a massive few months of outbreaks and lockdowns popping up across the country, things seem to have stabilised a bit lately.While health authorities remain on alert around the nation, serious outbreaks are being managed in three jurisdictions: NSW, Victoria and ACT.Everyone is racing towards high levels of vaccination to either control the outbreak or to avoid the worst of it if another one pops up.So on today's Coronacast, how is everything going and the race to 80 per cent plus.Also on today's show:* If you've been double vaccinated, isn't it better to get exposed to covid to get a good immune response rather than getting a booster shot?* What is the rate of hospitalisation once we reach 70 per cent (16+) and 80 per cent vaccinated?

We keep hearing that the coronavirus vaccine isn't 100 per cent effective in stopping transmission of the virus from one person to another. And so you could be forgiven for thinking, well what's the point of getting vaccinated if it only protects you from severe disease and doesn't help protect others around you. Well, the good news is that it does help protect others because it does lower the risk of transmitting the virus, and we have the evidence to prove it. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Are we getting to the peak of the outbreak in NSW? * Why do you have to inject the COVID-19 vaccine?

We keep hearing that the coronavirus vaccine isn't 100 per cent effective in stopping transmission of the virus from one person to another.And so you could be forgiven for thinking, well what's the point of getting vaccinated if it only protects you from severe disease and doesn't help protect others around you.Well, the good news is that it does help protect others because it does lower the risk of transmitting the virus, and we have the evidence to prove it.That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Are we getting to the peak of the outbreak in NSW? * Why do you have to inject the COVID-19 vaccine?

As we race towards our national COVID-19 vaccination targets, it's sometimes easy to forget that broad averages like 70 and 80 per cent don't always tell the full story. One area in particular to keep an eye on is the vaccination rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Indigenous Australians are well behind non-Indigenous Australians in the vaccination rollout across large parts of the country. So on today's Coronacast, what are the barriers to First Nations' people being vaccinated? Also on today's show: * When will NSW peak? * Duration of peak infectiousness

As we race towards our national COVID-19 vaccination targets, it's sometimes easy to forget that broad averages like 70 and 80 per cent don't always tell the full story.One area in particular to keep an eye on is the vaccination rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.Indigenous Australians are well behind non-Indigenous Australians in the vaccination rollout across large parts of the country.So on today's Coronacast, what are the barriers to First Nations' people being vaccinated? Also on today's show:* When will NSW peak?* Duration of peak infectiousness

As Australia's vaccine rollout continues to grow, and more people get the opportunity to be vaccinated, attention is turning to those who can't. From the 13th September, kids aged 12-15 can get their jab. But many are wondering when - or if - children younger than that may get their chance. And in Queensland, Premier Anna Palaszczuk has suggested delaying opening up until kids under 12 can get a shot - but there are still no vaccines approved anywhere in the world for that age group. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about young children and Delta? And is it fair to wait until they too can be vaccinated? Also on today's show: * Does vaccination reduce your risk of long COVID? * And what do we know about AstraZeneca and booster doses?

As Australia's vaccine rollout continues to grow, and more people get the opportunity to be vaccinated, attention is turning to those who can't. From the 13th September, kids aged 12-15 can get their jab. But many are wondering when - or if - children younger than that may get their chance. And in Queensland, Premier Anna Palaszczuk has suggested delaying opening up until kids under 12 can get a shot - but there are still no vaccines approved anywhere in the world for that age group. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about young children and Delta? And is it fair to wait until they too can be vaccinated? Also on today's show: * Does vaccination reduce your risk of long COVID? * And what do we know about AstraZeneca and booster doses?

As Australia's vaccine rollout continues to grow, and more people get the opportunity to be vaccinated, attention is turning to those who can't.From the 13th September, kids aged 12-15 can get their jab. But many are wondering when - or if - children younger than that may get their chance.And in Queensland, Premier Anna Palaszczuk has suggested delaying opening up until kids under 12 can get a shot - but there are still no vaccines approved anywhere in the world for that age group.So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about young children and Delta? And is it fair to wait until they too can be vaccinated?Also on today's show:* Does vaccination reduce your risk of long COVID? * And what do we know about AstraZeneca and booster doses?

It's well known by now that you need to have both doses of whatever vaccine you have for the best possible protection against coronavirus. But what if it actually takes three shots to get there? We are learning more and more about immunity against COVID-19 from overseas experiences, including a successful booster program in Israel. So might the ol' two dose vaccine regime actually take three? That's on today's Coronacast.

It's well known by now that you need to have both doses of whatever vaccine you have for the best possible protection against coronavirus.But what if it actually takes three shots to get there?We are learning more and more about immunity against COVID-19 from overseas experiences, including a successful booster program in Israel.So might the ol' two dose vaccine regime actually take three? That's on today's Coronacast.

There are to be no large changes to Victoria's lockdown restrictions, after a large jump in cases overnight and Government acceptance that the Delta outbreak can't be brought back to zero. Apart from some small changes, such as reopening playgrounds, people in Melbourne will remain in lockdown until vaccine levels get high enough. But that's not to say the lockdown in both Victoria and NSW has been without success. Modelling has shown many tens of thousands of cases have been prevented with the extreme social distancing. So on today's Coronacast, what happened in Victoria and what could it mean for other states? Also on today's show: * An interesting study from Hong Kong on eye sight and lockdowns. * My kid's best friends come from a family that's vehemently opposed to the vaccine. We hang out all the time. I'm not going to convince them and I don't want to stop being with them but I'm concerned there is additional risk there for us. What should I do?

There are to be no large changes to Victoria's lockdown restrictions, after a large jump in cases overnight and Government acceptance that the Delta outbreak can't be brought back to zero.Apart from some small changes, such as reopening playgrounds, people in Melbourne will remain in lockdown until vaccine levels get high enough.But that's not to say the lockdown in both Victoria and NSW has been without success. Modelling has shown many tens of thousands of cases have been prevented with the extreme social distancing.So on today's Coronacast, what happened in Victoria and what could it mean for other states?Also on today's show:* An interesting study from Hong Kong on eye sight and lockdowns. * My kid's best friends come from a family that's vehemently opposed to the vaccine. We hang out all the time. I'm not going to convince them and I don't want to stop being with them but I'm concerned there is additional risk there for us. What should I do?

The Victorian Government will today announce details around how it plans to manage COVID-19 cases as it rushes to vaccinate as many people as possible. Yesterday, Premier Daniel Andrews said he'd be meeting with health officials to develop thresholds for the easing of the lockdown, where possible. It's a move away from the COVID-zero goal of the past, as it appears unlikely that the state will manage to eliminate the spread of the Delta variant. So on today's Coronacast, is this a new medium term strategy of balancing caseloads with the hope enough people will be vaccinated before the health system crumbles? Also on today's show: * Is there any research on having a mRNA shot first followed by Astra in terms of efficacy and safety? * An interesting study on COVID-19 and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

The Victorian Government will today announce details around how it plans to manage COVID-19 cases as it rushes to vaccinate as many people as possible. Yesterday, Premier Daniel Andrews said he'd be meeting with health officials to develop thresholds for the easing of the lockdown, where possible. It's a move away from the COVID-zero goal of the past, as it appears unlikely that the state will manage to eliminate the spread of the Delta variant. So on today's Coronacast, is this a new medium term strategy of balancing caseloads with the hope enough people will be vaccinated before the health system crumbles? Also on today's show: * Is there any research on having a mRNA shot first followed by Astra in terms of efficacy and safety? * An interesting study on COVID-19 and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

The Victorian Government will today announce details around how it plans to manage COVID-19 cases as it rushes to vaccinate as many people as possible.Yesterday, Premier Daniel Andrews said he'd be meeting with health officials to develop thresholds for the easing of the lockdown, where possible.It's a move away from the COVID-zero goal of the past, as it appears unlikely that the state will manage to eliminate the spread of the Delta variant.So on today's Coronacast, is this a new medium term strategy of balancing caseloads with the hope enough people will be vaccinated before the health system crumbles?Also on today's show:* Is there any research on having a mRNA shot first followed by Astra in terms of efficacy and safety? * An interesting study on COVID-19 and immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

It was another record day yesterday for NSW in COVID-19 cases, and the wave is showing no signs of slowing down. And yesterday in even more grim news, the Premier Gladys Berejiklian flagged that October would be the worst month for hospitals and ICU units. That's despite the vaccination rate in NSW charging ahead thanks to a population rushing forward to be vaccinated and additional supply helping things out. So on today's Coronacast, why is October being tipped to be bad when the vaccine rate is growing so quickly? Also on today's show: * What can we learn about long-COVID from the people who've lived with it longest? * I am confused by the target of 70 to 80 per cent immunisation before opening up. There is a very big difference between 70 and 80. Can you explain please? * What's the likelihood that our third doses of mRNA vaccine will have been changed to specifically target the Delta variant?

It was another record day yesterday for NSW in COVID-19 cases, and the wave is showing no signs of slowing down.And yesterday in even more grim news, the Premier Gladys Berejiklian flagged that October would be the worst month for hospitals and ICU units.That's despite the vaccination rate in NSW charging ahead thanks to a population rushing forward to be vaccinated and additional supply helping things out. So on today's Coronacast, why is October being tipped to be bad when the vaccine rate is growing so quickly?Also on today's show:* What can we learn about long-COVID from the people who've lived with it longest?* I am confused by the target of 70 to 80 per cent immunisation before opening up. There is a very big difference between 70 and 80. Can you explain please?* What's the likelihood that our third doses of mRNA vaccine will have been changed to specifically target the Delta variant?

Case numbers in both Victoria and NSW continue to climb, with both states yesterday posting new daily records for this year. While Victoria's daily cases are far behind NSW, Victoria is on a similar trajectory as NSW was - despite locking down hard and early. So what's going on? Why are cases continuing to rise? Also on today's show: * ATAGI recommends vaccinations for 12-15 year olds * With kids getting the vaccines, what will that mean for the 70/80 per cent targets (as more people are now getting vaccinated) * What is the likelihood of an even more transmissible or deadly strain emerging and what should we be doing to be ready for it?

Case numbers in both Victoria and NSW continue to climb, with both states yesterday posting new daily records for this year.While Victoria's daily cases are far behind NSW, Victoria is on a similar trajectory as NSW was - despite locking down hard and early.So what's going on? Why are cases continuing to rise? Also on today's show:* ATAGI recommends vaccinations for 12-15 year olds* With kids getting the vaccines, what will that mean for the 70/80 per cent targets (as more people are now getting vaccinated)* What is the likelihood of an even more transmissible or deadly strain emerging and what should we be doing to be ready for it?

Fully vaccinated NSW residents will be given a very small increase in freedoms, after the state reached more than 6 million vaccination doses earlier this week. The state's Premier Gladys Berejiklian yesterday revealed that from mid-September, people who are fully vaccinated will be able to meet more people or spend more time outdoors - depending on where they live. But it wasn't all good news, with the state revealing more than 1000 new COVID-19 cases - the highest it's been in Australia at any point of the pandemic. So on today's Coronacast, is this a turning point in how lockdowns operate as we move on from trying to eliminate COVID spread? Also on today's show: * How are we supposed to keep following the rules when we get nothing in return? * Please tell us about Lambda and AY3. Should we be concerned?

Fully vaccinated NSW residents will be given a very small increase in freedoms, after the state reached more than 6 million vaccination doses earlier this week. The state's Premier Gladys Berejiklian yesterday revealed that from mid-September, people who are fully vaccinated will be able to meet more people or spend more time outdoors - depending on where they live. But it wasn't all good news, with the state revealing more than 1000 new COVID-19 cases - the highest it's been in Australia at any point of the pandemic. So on today's Coronacast, is this a turning point in how lockdowns operate as we move on from trying to eliminate COVID spread? Also on today's show: * How are we supposed to keep following the rules when we get nothing in return? * Please tell us about Lambda and AY3. Should we be concerned?

Fully vaccinated NSW residents will be given a very small increase in freedoms, after the state reached more than 6 million vaccination doses earlier this week.The state's Premier Gladys Berejiklian yesterday revealed that from mid-September, people who are fully vaccinated will be able to meet more people or spend more time outdoors - depending on where they live.But it wasn't all good news, with the state revealing more than 1000 new COVID-19 cases - the highest it's been in Australia at any point of the pandemic.So on today's Coronacast, is this a turning point in how lockdowns operate as we move on from trying to eliminate COVID spread?Also on today's show:* How are we supposed to keep following the rules when we get nothing in return?* Please tell us about Lambda and AY3. Should we be concerned?

You might have heard a friend or family member say 'I'm waiting for Pfizer', on the assumption that the mRNA vaccine works better than others. But according to a recent study from the University of Oxford, immunity from the Pfizer vaccine may actually start to wane faster than AstraZeneca. A month ago, Israel began a program of booster shots, giving older people a third shot of the vaccine to try and help tame a growing outbreak of the Delta variant. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about how long immunity may last? Also on today's show: * What effect would it have on our community if those who are fully vaccinated were given some benefits, such as reduced restrictions? * When do we stop contact tracing altogether?

You might have heard a friend or family member say 'I'm waiting for Pfizer', on the assumption that the mRNA vaccine works better than others.But according to a recent study from the University of Oxford, immunity from the Pfizer vaccine may actually start to wane faster than AstraZeneca.A month ago, Israel began a program of booster shots, giving older people a third shot of the vaccine to try and help tame a growing outbreak of the Delta variant.So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about how long immunity may last?Also on today's show:* What effect would it have on our community if those who are fully vaccinated were given some benefits, such as reduced restrictions?* When do we stop contact tracing altogether?

The Doherty Institute Model is the hottest ticket in town, with everyone from politicians to punters talking about what happens when we reach 70 and 80 per cent vaccination levels. But there are a lot of assumptions that have to be made to come up with a model, and Doherty Institute's plan is no different. Among other things, it assumes a certain level of cases, a functioning contact tracing system even at high numbers and vaccines that keep us immune to COVID-19. But on today's Coronacast, how valid are those assumptions in the real world?

The Doherty Institute Model is the hottest ticket in town, with everyone from politicians to punters talking about what happens when we reach 70 and 80 per cent vaccination levels.But there are a lot of assumptions that have to be made to come up with a model, and Doherty Institute's plan is no different.Among other things, it assumes a certain level of cases, a functioning contact tracing system even at high numbers and vaccines that keep us immune to COVID-19.But on today's Coronacast, how valid are those assumptions in the real world?

A glance at the headlines reveals some worrying news: it seems the Delta coronavirus variant is affecting young people and kids far more than previous strains. And it's true, but while more kids are getting Delta, they're not getting more sick. Data from NSW shows that the infection rate is around 10 to 15 times higher, but the rate of hospitalisation is about the same at roughly 2 per cent. So what could be going on? And what does should we aim for in regards to vaccinating kids? Also on today's show: * From hard lockdowns to softer ones? * Do old strains of coronavirus disappear after it has mutated into the new strain? Is there only the Delta strain now?

A glance at the headlines reveals some worrying news: it seems the Delta coronavirus variant is affecting young people and kids far more than previous strains.And it's true, but while more kids are getting Delta, they're not getting more sick.Data from NSW shows that the infection rate is around 10 to 15 times higher, but the rate of hospitalisation is about the same at roughly 2 per cent.So what could be going on? And what does should we aim for in regards to vaccinating kids?Also on today's show:* From hard lockdowns to softer ones?* Do old strains of coronavirus disappear after it has mutated into the new strain? Is there only the Delta strain now?

Australia's vaccine rollout got off to a rough start. It slow to begin and was plagued with problems regarding patchy supply and shifting eligibility. But in the last few weeks, we've really hit our stride with data from the ABC showing that NSW is now vaccinating more people per million each week than the UK and the USA at their peak. So on today's Coronacast, with increased supply of Pfizer and Moderna due next month and young people running out to get AstraZeneca, can we maintain the pace and will it help us end lockdowns forever? Also on today's show: * Can you do an update on exactly what vaccination does and doesn't do in terms of protecting individuals and society? * I have had one dose of Pfizer. Do I have any protection against the virus yet? * I'm in Tasmania and over 60 years old but worried about AstraZeneca. Is there any possible alternative? * Norman always says lockdown early. Can you please explain how Melbourne numbers are going up so quickly despite locking down at the first case?

Australia's vaccine rollout got off to a rough start. It slow to begin and was plagued with problems regarding patchy supply and shifting eligibility.But in the last few weeks, we've really hit our stride with data from the ABC showing that NSW is now vaccinating more people per million each week than the UK and the USA at their peak.So on today's Coronacast, with increased supply of Pfizer and Moderna due next month and young people running out to get AstraZeneca, can we maintain the pace and will it help us end lockdowns forever?Also on today's show:* Can you do an update on exactly what vaccination does and doesn't do in terms of protecting individuals and society?* I have had one dose of Pfizer. Do I have any protection against the virus yet?* I'm in Tasmania and over 60 years old but worried about AstraZeneca. Is there any possible alternative?* Norman always says lockdown early. Can you please explain how Melbourne numbers are going up so quickly despite locking down at the first case?

If there's one thing that's become a feature of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's that it has seemed to drag on and on. While it seems like a long time ago, it was only early last year when the SARS-CoV-2 virus popped into our lives. But how far left have we got to go? If it was a play, what act are we in? And can we take an interval break? Also on today's show: * Doherty Institute modelling said we can start opening up at 70 per cent and 80 per cent vaccination rate. This was based on small numbers in the community. What would be the effect of opening with large numbers? * Since NSW is headed for thousands more cases, could people living there be travelling internationally before everyone else? * Has anyone caught COVID-19 twice? If so, was it worse the second time?

If there's one thing that's become a feature of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's that it has seemed to drag on and on.While it seems like a long time ago, it was only early last year when the SARS-CoV-2 virus popped into our lives.But how far left have we got to go? If it was a play, what act are we in? And can we take an interval break?Also on today's show:* Doherty Institute modelling said we can start opening up at 70 per cent and 80 per cent vaccination rate. This was based on small numbers in the community. What would be the effect of opening with large numbers?* Since NSW is headed for thousands more cases, could people living there be travelling internationally before everyone else?* Has anyone caught COVID-19 twice? If so, was it worse the second time?

As the COVID-19 case numbers in Sydney continue to rise exponentially, regional NSW is also busy battling the spread of the virus. Of the 633 cases yesterday, there were 23 cases from western NSW, 16 from the Hunter region and 4 in far western NSW. The continued spread in regional areas is a massive worry, as regional areas have both vulnerable populations and unique challenges not found in metropolitan areas. Also on today's show: * Big jump in NSW's testing positivity rate * Victoria, ACT and New Zealand continue to battle their own outbreaks * If zero cases in NSW is no longer an option, but it is still possible elsewhere, what do we do? * What does Norman mean when he refers to getting the NSW second wave "under control". He often says this after quoting experts who think COVID zero is out of reach. What are we aiming for in NSW?

As the COVID-19 case numbers in Sydney continue to rise exponentially, regional NSW is also busy battling the spread of the virus.Of the 633 cases yesterday, there were 23 cases from western NSW, 16 from the Hunter region and 4 in far western NSW.The continued spread in regional areas is a massive worry, as regional areas have both vulnerable populations and unique challenges not found in metropolitan areas.Also on today's show:* Big jump in NSW's testing positivity rate* Victoria, ACT and New Zealand continue to battle their own outbreaks* If zero cases in NSW is no longer an option, but it is still possible elsewhere, what do we do? * What does Norman mean when he refers to getting the NSW second wave "under control". He often says this after quoting experts who think COVID zero is out of reach. What are we aiming for in NSW?

As we can see from what's happening around the country, the Delta variant has changed the game when it comes to controlling the spread of coronavirus. It seems unlikely Sydney will ever regain control, and there are major battles in ACT and Melbourne. The Delta variant has surprised virologists with how it popped into existence and how it has so rapidly taken over. But not all is lost. On today's Coronacast, the three scenarios of where we could be headed next. Also on today's show: * A worrying risk of double infections in children * What's going on with NSW contact tracing?

As we can see from what's happening around the country, the Delta variant has changed the game when it comes to controlling the spread of coronavirus.It seems unlikely Sydney will ever regain control, and there are major battles in ACT and Melbourne.The Delta variant has surprised virologists with how it popped into existence and how it has so rapidly taken over.But not all is lost. On today's Coronacast, the three scenarios of where we could be headed next.Also on today's show:* A worrying risk of double infections in children* What's going on with NSW contact tracing?

The ACT is in a week-long lockdown, joining many other regional NSW local government areas and Melbourne on their journey to stopping Delta. The ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman says as yet there's no known link back to known Sydney cases, and genomic information will be available today. And Victoria yesterday recorded two cases in hotel quarantine who had arrived on a plane from Sydney. So on today's Coronacast, with the virus continuing to push outwards, can anything be done to stop it? Coronacast is taking a small break. We'll be back on Wednesday 18th August!

The ACT is in a week-long lockdown, joining many other regional NSW local government areas and Melbourne on their journey to stopping Delta. The ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman says as yet there's no known link back to known Sydney cases, and genomic information will be available today. And Victoria yesterday recorded two cases in hotel quarantine who had arrived on a plane from Sydney. So on today's Coronacast, with the virus continuing to push outwards, can anything be done to stop it? Coronacast is taking a small break. We'll be back on Wednesday 18th August!

The ACT is in a week-long lockdown, joining many other regional NSW local government areas and Melbourne on their journey to stopping Delta.The ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman says as yet there's no known link back to known Sydney cases, and genomic information will be available today.And Victoria yesterday recorded two cases in hotel quarantine who had arrived on a plane from Sydney.So on today's Coronacast, with the virus continuing to push outwards, can anything be done to stop it?Coronacast is taking a small break. We'll be back on Wednesday 18th August!

It sounds impossible: the complete and utter annihilation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, worldwide. Almost too silly to even mention. Well, according to a research paper published in the British Medical Journal's Global Health it's something that - while very difficult - may be possible. The article says that COVID-19 eradication might be slightly more feasible than for polio, which was almost eradicated from the world. So on today's Coronacast, is it possible? And what else is the research telling us about COVID-19?

It sounds impossible: the complete and utter annihilation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, worldwide. Almost too silly to even mention.Well, according to a research paper published in the British Medical Journal's Global Health it's something that - while very difficult - may be possible.The article says that COVID-19 eradication might be slightly more feasible than for polio, which was almost eradicated from the world.So on today's Coronacast, is it possible? And what else is the research telling us about COVID-19?

If you've been following the daily COVID-19 case numbers in Sydney, you'll know the numbers are steadily increasing. So far, despite a lockdown lasting weeks and weeks, the NSW Government's restrictions have not yet managed to bend the curve. The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian says the fight against Delta means the old way of doing things needs to be revisited and it needs a different approach. So on today's Coronacast, does Delta change things? And if so, how? Also on today's show: * Research finds infections were three times lower in people who were fully vaccinated

If you've been following the daily COVID-19 case numbers in Sydney, you'll know the numbers are steadily increasing.So far, despite a lockdown lasting weeks and weeks, the NSW Government's restrictions have not yet managed to bend the curve.The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian says the fight against Delta means the old way of doing things needs to be revisited and it needs a different approach.So on today's Coronacast, does Delta change things? And if so, how?Also on today's show:* Research finds infections were three times lower in people who were fully vaccinated

The nation's vaccine goals are all about getting 70 to 80 per cent of people aged 16 or more vaccinated. But that still leaves large numbers of people who aren't vaccinated, and the vast majority of them are kids. So what's the plan for kids when the country starts opening up and what do we know about when vaccines might be trialled and approved for children? Also on today's show: * If two doses of either COVID-19 vaccines offer around 90 per cent protection against hospitalisation and death from the virus, that is still a 1 in 10 chance of being hospitalised if I get the virus. I thought that without being vaccinated the hospitalisation rate was around 1 in 10. I must be missing something here. Can you please explain? * More on the time gap between AstraZeneca shots in different states.

The nation's vaccine goals are all about getting 70 to 80 per cent of people aged 16 or more vaccinated.But that still leaves large numbers of people who aren't vaccinated, and the vast majority of them are kids.So what's the plan for kids when the country starts opening up and what do we know about when vaccines might be trialled and approved for children?Also on today's show:* If two doses of either COVID-19 vaccines offer around 90 per cent protection against hospitalisation and death from the virus, that is still a 1 in 10 chance of being hospitalised if I get the virus. I thought that without being vaccinated the hospitalisation rate was around 1 in 10. I must be missing something here. Can you please explain?* More on the time gap between AstraZeneca shots in different states.

It seems short, sharp lockdowns are the new black, and are now being used regularly down the east coast of mainland Australia. Brisbane's short, sharp lockdown lifted yesterday, but Victoria, Cairns and parts of regional NSW have all entered one since last week. So are we going to see large parts of Australia enter and exit lockdown until enough of us are vaccinated? Also on today's show: * Why you may be better covered by getting AstraZeneca today, rather than waiting for another option * You spoke about a study that indicated that Pfizer is 88 per cent effective at preventing symptomatic disease. Does that also mean that the remaining 12 per cent means that even if you do get symptoms they are likely to be far less severe?

It seems short, sharp lockdowns are the new black, and are now being used regularly down the east coast of mainland Australia.Brisbane's short, sharp lockdown lifted yesterday, but Victoria, Cairns and parts of regional NSW have all entered one since last week.So are we going to see large parts of Australia enter and exit lockdown until enough of us are vaccinated?Also on today's show:* Why you may be better covered by getting AstraZeneca today, rather than waiting for another option * You spoke about a study that indicated that Pfizer is 88 per cent effective at preventing symptomatic disease. Does that also mean that the remaining 12 per cent means that even if you do get symptoms they are likely to be far less severe?

As Australia's march towards higher and higher rates of vaccination rolls on, more and more ideas are being thrown around to try and convince eligible people to get the jab. Yesterday, fruit and vegetable processor SPC became the first Australian company to mandate vaccines for all onsite staff and visitors. It raises the question: if SPC can do it, why aren't we seeing similar mandates for healthcare, aged care and child care workers? At the moment, the answer is ... complicated, as you'll hear on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Kids and long COVID. Good news! * How effective are masks? I've read 80 per cent, then heard someone say 40 per cent. What's the latest research? * Norman has often said that 80 to 90 per cent of people don't pass on the virus. I don't have any special data on this but that *feels* way too high. Is it?

As Australia's march towards higher and higher rates of vaccination rolls on, more and more ideas are being thrown around to try and convince eligible people to get the jab.Yesterday, fruit and vegetable processor SPC became the first Australian company to mandate vaccines for all onsite staff and visitors.It raises the question: if SPC can do it, why aren't we seeing similar mandates for healthcare, aged care and child care workers? At the moment, the answer is ... complicated, as you'll hear on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Kids and long COVID. Good news!* How effective are masks? I've read 80 per cent, then heard someone say 40 per cent. What's the latest research?* Norman has often said that 80 to 90 per cent of people don't pass on the virus. I don't have any special data on this but that *feels* way too high. Is it?

With the coronavirus outbreak in NSW not yet showing many signs of getting better, and another outbreak in Queensland growing by the day - it's all a bit depressing But there is good news: the vaccine program is finally speeding up and with every passing day thousands more people are vaccinated against COVID-19. So on today's Coronacast, if very high vaccination rates can continue in NSW, a turn around might not be as far away as we fear. Also on today's show: * The end of winter will coincide with predicted population vaccination goals. How do we distinguish between the seasonal aspect of COVID and vaccine effect? * Why is forcing over 60s to have AstraZeneca not being recognised as discrimination and agism? * I am 61, when will I be eligible for the Pfizer jab? * Can we get more Pfizer doses by using the remaining amount at the end of each vial?

With the coronavirus outbreak in NSW not yet showing many signs of getting better, and another outbreak in Queensland growing by the day - it's all a bit depressing But there is good news: the vaccine program is finally speeding up and with every passing day thousands more people are vaccinated against COVID-19. So on today's Coronacast, if very high vaccination rates can continue in NSW, a turn around might not be as far away as we fear. Also on today's show: * The end of winter will coincide with predicted population vaccination goals. How do we distinguish between the seasonal aspect of COVID and vaccine effect? * Why is forcing over 60s to have AstraZeneca not being recognised as discrimination and agism? * I am 61, when will I be eligible for the Pfizer jab? * Can we get more Pfizer doses by using the remaining amount at the end of each vial?

With the coronavirus outbreak in NSW not yet showing many signs of getting better, and another outbreak in Queensland growing by the day - it's all a bit depressingBut there is good news: the vaccine program is finally speeding up and with every passing day thousands more people are vaccinated against COVID-19.So on today's Coronacast, if very high vaccination rates can continue in NSW, a turn around might not be as far away as we fear.Also on today's show:* The end of winter will coincide with predicted population vaccination goals. How do we distinguish between the seasonal aspect of COVID and vaccine effect? * Why is forcing over 60s to have AstraZeneca not being recognised as discrimination and agism?* I am 61, when will I be eligible for the Pfizer jab?* Can we get more Pfizer doses by using the remaining amount at the end of each vial?

If you thought we’ve suddenly been awash with modelling on the best way forward for Australia's response to coronavirus and how to reach so-called herd immunity you’d be right. But yesterday we got the report we’ve all been waiting for: the assumptions and details behind the Doherty Institute’s modelling. The Doherty Institute is one of the best in the country and it's the organisation that’s been advising the Commonwealth on how to get a soft landing in this pandemic when we eventually reopen to the world. So on today’s Coronacast, what can we take away from the report and might we soon see a vaccine rollout shakeup?

If you thought we’ve suddenly been awash with modelling on the best way forward for Australia's response to coronavirus and how to reach so-called herd immunity you’d be right.But yesterday we got the report we’ve all been waiting for: the assumptions and details behind the Doherty Institute’s modelling.The Doherty Institute is one of the best in the country and it's the organisation that’s been advising the Commonwealth on how to get a soft landing in this pandemic when we eventually reopen to the world.So on today’s Coronacast, what can we take away from the report and might we soon see a vaccine rollout shakeup?

As the number of COVID-19 cases in Sydney continues to grow, so do the numbers of people in hospital and intensive care. Currently, there are 232 COVID-19 cases in hospital in NSW. 54 of them are in intensive care and 25 require ventilation. So what's it like inside Sydney's ICU wards? And how does it differ from last year? Also on today's show: * Why are kids under 16 left out of the national roadmap? * Are we throwing under 16's or under 12's under a bus by not including them in the roll out for the vaccine? * Why do we still have vaccine eligibility? Wouldn't it be better to set up a hub and let anyone who wants it come and get it?

As the number of COVID-19 cases in Sydney continues to grow, so do the numbers of people in hospital and intensive care.Currently, there are 232 COVID-19 cases in hospital in NSW. 54 of them are in intensive care and 25 require ventilation.So what's it like inside Sydney's ICU wards? And how does it differ from last year? Also on today's show:* Why are kids under 16 left out of the national roadmap?* Are we throwing under 16's or under 12's under a bus by not including them in the roll out for the vaccine? * Why do we still have vaccine eligibility? Wouldn't it be better to set up a hub and let anyone who wants it come and get it?

Australia is planning on taking the next big steps in its response to the global coronavirus pandemic. The Federal Government last week released a four-stage plan on how we'll manage virus outbreaks as more and more of us are vaccinated. In it, the first trigger point comes when 70 per cent of the eligible population - that's 16 years or older - are fully vaccinated. On today's Coronacast, why that number might be a bit easier to reach than you'd think and why it might not be enough to see the end of restrictions. Also on today's show: * What is the reasoning behind NSW Government's decision to prioritise vaccinating year 12 students?

Australia is planning on taking the next big steps in its response to the global coronavirus pandemic.The Federal Government last week released a four-stage plan on how we'll manage virus outbreaks as more and more of us are vaccinated.In it, the first trigger point comes when 70 per cent of the eligible population - that's 16 years or older - are fully vaccinated.On today's Coronacast, why that number might be a bit easier to reach than you'd think and why it might not be enough to see the end of restrictions.Also on today's show:* What is the reasoning behind NSW Government's decision to prioritise vaccinating year 12 students?

Do you like the sound of no more lockdowns? What about minimal to no restrictions on day-to-day life? We constantly hear vaccination is our way out of this bloody pandemic, but just how many of us need to get vaccinated before it can end? Well, the experts over at the Grattan Institute have tackled this very problem and say the figure is 80 per cent of Australians. So on today's Coronacast, since only 32 per cent of us have at least one dose, it seems like there's a road to travel. But how long might it take? GUEST: Professor Stephen Duckett, Director, Health Program at Grattan Institute

Do you like the sound of no more lockdowns? What about minimal to no restrictions on day-to-day life?We constantly hear vaccination is our way out of this bloody pandemic, but just how many of us need to get vaccinated before it can end?Well, the experts over at the Grattan Institute have tackled this very problem and say the figure is 80 per cent of Australians. So on today's Coronacast, since only 32 per cent of us have at least one dose, it seems like there's a road to travel. But how long might it take?GUEST:Professor Stephen Duckett, Director, Health Program at Grattan Institute

Sydneysiders face another four weeks in lockdown, as health authorities desperately try to bend the curve of coronavirus infections. While there has been some tightening of restrictions, epidemiologists remain skeptical it'll achieve a decline in caseloads anytime soon. Restrictions are tighter in eight of Sydney's local government areas, which were expanded to include Parramatta, Campbelltown and Georges River where people can't leave unless for very specific work. So on today's Coronacast, will four more weeks be enough? Or in a month, could we be in the same place we are now?

Sydneysiders face another four weeks in lockdown, as health authorities desperately try to bend the curve of coronavirus infections.While there has been some tightening of restrictions, epidemiologists remain skeptical it'll achieve a decline in caseloads anytime soon.Restrictions are tighter in eight of Sydney's local government areas, which were expanded to include Parramatta, Campbelltown and Georges River where people can't leave unless for very specific work.So on today's Coronacast, will four more weeks be enough? Or in a month, could we be in the same place we are now?

As lockdowns lift in Victoria and South Australia overnight, big problems remain in New South Wales. A week ago, NSW had posted 110 locally acquired cases. Yesterday, it recorded 172 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases, the highest daily number since the outbreak began in June. So on today's Coronacast, as Sydneysiders wait to hear about the future of the lockdown, what might the NSW Government be considering? Also on today's show: * What is the latest on natural immunity? How long does it last? * There was talk in Victoria with some cases testing positive on day 13 in isolation. Doesn't Delta have a quicker onset than other strains?

As lockdowns lift in Victoria and South Australia overnight, big problems remain in New South Wales.A week ago, NSW had posted 110 locally acquired cases. Yesterday, it recorded 172 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases, the highest daily number since the outbreak began in June.So on today's Coronacast, as Sydneysiders wait to hear about the future of the lockdown, what might the NSW Government be considering?Also on today's show:* What is the latest on natural immunity? How long does it last?* There was talk in Victoria with some cases testing positive on day 13 in isolation. Doesn't Delta have a quicker onset than other strains?

As new coronavirus variants come onto the scene, it forces us to revisit what we know about COVID-19 and how to deal with it. We already know the Delta variant is more infectious, but is it more deadly? Early data from overseas, and from Australia on ICU admissions imply that it is - but knowing for sure may take a bit longer to know. Also on today's show: * Say you got the vaccine and then 30 seconds later, a shark bit off your arm. Would the vaccine still be effective, or does enough of the vaccine stuff happen in your arm itself that you'd need another dose?

As new coronavirus variants come onto the scene, it forces us to revisit what we know about COVID-19 and how to deal with it. We already know the Delta variant is more infectious, but is it more deadly? Early data from overseas, and from Australia on ICU admissions imply that it is - but knowing for sure may take a bit longer to know. Also on today's show: * Say you got the vaccine and then 30 seconds later, a shark bit off your arm. Would the vaccine still be effective, or does enough of the vaccine stuff happen in your arm itself that you'd need another dose?

As new coronavirus variants come onto the scene, it forces us to revisit what we know about COVID-19 and how to deal with it.We already know the Delta variant is more infectious, but is it more deadly?Early data from overseas, and from Australia on ICU admissions imply that it is - but knowing for sure may take a bit longer to know.Also on today's show:* Say you got the vaccine and then 30 seconds later, a shark bit off your arm. Would the vaccine still be effective, or does enough of the vaccine stuff happen in your arm itself that you'd need another dose?

While millions of young people wait for enough vaccine to arrive in the country, there are still large numbers of people who are eligible today that haven't yet gotten a shot. According to Commonwealth data, roughly 40 per cent of Australians in their 60s have not yet been vaccinated. It's vital that as many people are vaccinated as possible, and for the Delta variant currently circulating in the country's largest states, a person needs two shots for the best protection. On today's Coronacast, if people in their 60s are waiting for Pfizer, they might be waiting for a while. Also on today's show: * If Delta is more contagious, are masks less effective?

While millions of young people wait for enough vaccine to arrive in the country, there are still large numbers of people who are eligible today that haven't yet gotten a shot.According to Commonwealth data, roughly 40 per cent of Australians in their 60s have not yet been vaccinated. It's vital that as many people are vaccinated as possible, and for the Delta variant currently circulating in the country's largest states, a person needs two shots for the best protection.On today's Coronacast, if people in their 60s are waiting for Pfizer, they might be waiting for a while.Also on today's show:* If Delta is more contagious, are masks less effective?

A lot is riding on NSW being able to get its hand around its COVID-19 outbreak and bring it all back under control, but there's no guarantee that it'll be able to do it. And there are huge implications for the rest of the country. What will happen to hotel quarantine? Will other states give up vaccine allocations to the state most in need? And how will people travel in and out of NSW? Also on today's show: * Comparative effectiveness of COVID vaccines against Delta * Aaaaand Quick Fire Friday References: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2108891

A lot is riding on NSW being able to get its hand around its COVID-19 outbreak and bring it all back under control, but there's no guarantee that it'll be able to do it. And there are huge implications for the rest of the country. What will happen to hotel quarantine? Will other states give up vaccine allocations to the state most in need? And how will people travel in and out of NSW? Also on today's show: * Comparative effectiveness of COVID vaccines against Delta * Aaaaand Quick Fire Friday References: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2108891

A lot is riding on NSW being able to get its hand around its COVID-19 outbreak and bring it all back under control, but there's no guarantee that it'll be able to do it.And there are huge implications for the rest of the country.What will happen to hotel quarantine? Will other states give up vaccine allocations to the state most in need? And how will people travel in and out of NSW?Also on today's show:* Comparative effectiveness of COVID vaccines against Delta * Aaaaand Quick Fire FridayReferences:https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2108891

Ever since the pandemic begun, we've all be looking forward to the day it's finally over. As Australia grapples with Delta outbreaks in three capital cities, other places in the world - like the UK - are throwing the doors open and hoping for the best. The UK's experience can give a guide on how many people need to be fully vaccinated before big moves are made, but with surging infections it also may provide a warning. So on today's Coronacast, what can we learn from the UK's Freedom Day? Also on today's show: * What does Delta mean for 1.5 meter separation and 15 minute exposure windows? * What if NSW can't get on top of the Delta outbreak? * More stories on testing times

Ever since the pandemic begun, we've all be looking forward to the day it's finally over.As Australia grapples with Delta outbreaks in three capital cities, other places in the world - like the UK - are throwing the doors open and hoping for the best.The UK's experience can give a guide on how many people need to be fully vaccinated before big moves are made, but with surging infections it also may provide a warning.So on today's Coronacast, what can we learn from the UK's Freedom Day?Also on today's show:* What does Delta mean for 1.5 meter separation and 15 minute exposure windows?* What if NSW can't get on top of the Delta outbreak?* More stories on testing times

South Australia has spent the first night of a week long lockdown after discovering a bunch of community cases of the highly infectious Delta variant. It's a different way of handling an outbreak, especially when compared to NSW which waited much longer before declaring a lockdown. So why do we still see some states act faster than others? And has the Delta variant changed the way contact tracing can help avoid locking down. Also on today's show: * More concerns about testing times in NSW and a possible way to reduce the stress on the system * Whatever happened to deep cleaning? * How can you consult your GP about vaccines if you don't have one?

South Australia has spent the first night of a week long lockdown after discovering a bunch of community cases of the highly infectious Delta variant. It's a different way of handling an outbreak, especially when compared to NSW which waited much longer before declaring a lockdown. So why do we still see some states act faster than others? And has the Delta variant changed the way contact tracing can help avoid locking down. Also on today's show: * More concerns about testing times in NSW and a possible way to reduce the stress on the system * Whatever happened to deep cleaning? * How can you consult your GP about vaccines if you don't have one?

South Australia has spent the first night of a week long lockdown after discovering a bunch of community cases of the highly infectious Delta variant.It's a different way of handling an outbreak, especially when compared to NSW which waited much longer before declaring a lockdown.So why do we still see some states act faster than others? And has the Delta variant changed the way contact tracing can help avoid locking down.Also on today's show:* More concerns about testing times in NSW and a possible way to reduce the stress on the system* Whatever happened to deep cleaning?* How can you consult your GP about vaccines if you don't have one?

The standard way of testing for coronavirus is to shove a swab up your nose, and then run the sample through sensitive equipment in a pathology lab. But while its the gold standard way of working out if someone is positive or not for COVID-19, it can take a while to get the result back. So it is time to consider a different way of testing people where you need lots of tests done quickly - like sporting games, for example? Also on today's show: * NSW and VIC record slightly lower numbers * How much Pfizer vaccine is going to waste (your comments/responses)

The standard way of testing for coronavirus is to shove a swab up your nose, and then run the sample through sensitive equipment in a pathology lab.But while its the gold standard way of working out if someone is positive or not for COVID-19, it can take a while to get the result back.So it is time to consider a different way of testing people where you need lots of tests done quickly - like sporting games, for example?Also on today's show:* NSW and VIC record slightly lower numbers* How much Pfizer vaccine is going to waste (your comments/responses)

COVID-19 is in a bit of a holding pattern at the moment. It's not getting worse in Sydney, but then again despite lockdowns now going for several weeks it's not getting better yet either. In Melbourne, it's still too early to know how the outbreak is trending, but case numbers have remained in the high teens over the weekend. But we are learning more by the day about the Delta variant, and how it works in a low vaccination environment and under lockdowns. So on today's Coronacast, the one number that helps contact tracers get cities out of lockdown. Also on today's show: * A clarification on the average number of contacts per COVID-19 case, and what happens under lockdowns * Average ages of the Victorian outbreak * What is happening to unused doses? Are they out there? We want to hear from you!

COVID-19 is in a bit of a holding pattern at the moment.It's not getting worse in Sydney, but then again despite lockdowns now going for several weeks it's not getting better yet either.In Melbourne, it's still too early to know how the outbreak is trending, but case numbers have remained in the high teens over the weekend.But we are learning more by the day about the Delta variant, and how it works in a low vaccination environment and under lockdowns.So on today's Coronacast, the one number that helps contact tracers get cities out of lockdown. Also on today's show:* A clarification on the average number of contacts per COVID-19 case, and what happens under lockdowns* Average ages of the Victorian outbreak* What is happening to unused doses? Are they out there? We want to hear from you!

With Australia's two biggest cities now in lockdown, you'd be forgiven for wondering when is this all going to end. Lockdowns are an incredibly blunt tool to control pandemics, but in many cases - if you want to keep control over spread - they're one of the only options available. Yesterday, Melbourne joined Sydney in locking down thanks to the highly infectious Delta variant, which continues to put pressure on Australia's pandemic response. So on today's Coronacast, what is the point of a lockdown? And are they worth it? Also on today's show: * University of Sydney modelling looks at Sydney's response * Symptoms to keep an eye out for after AstraZeneca vaccination And it's time for Quick Fire Friday! (Because it's Friday)

With Australia's two biggest cities now in lockdown, you'd be forgiven for wondering when is this all going to end.Lockdowns are an incredibly blunt tool to control pandemics, but in many cases - if you want to keep control over spread - they're one of the only options available.Yesterday, Melbourne joined Sydney in locking down thanks to the highly infectious Delta variant, which continues to put pressure on Australia's pandemic response.So on today's Coronacast, what is the point of a lockdown? And are they worth it?Also on today's show:* University of Sydney modelling looks at Sydney's response* Symptoms to keep an eye out for after AstraZeneca vaccinationAnd it's time for Quick Fire Friday! (Because it's Friday)

It should be clear by now that coronavirus, especially the Delta variant, is incredibly infectious. Victoria is the latest state to get hit, after the Delta variant found its way in two different ways: a family returning from Sydney and a removalist crew. In Sydney, it's proving hard to get under control - with the NSW Government extending the lockdown in Greater Sydney by at least two weeks. Also on today's show: * ATAGI's updated advice on AstraZeneca * An idea to make Pfizer go further * Norman is accosted in a park * Please get vaccinated (if you can) with an actual vaccination

It should be clear by now that coronavirus, especially the Delta variant, is incredibly infectious.Victoria is the latest state to get hit, after the Delta variant found its way in two different ways: a family returning from Sydney and a removalist crew.In Sydney, it's proving hard to get under control - with the NSW Government extending the lockdown in Greater Sydney by at least two weeks.Also on today's show:* ATAGI's updated advice on AstraZeneca* An idea to make Pfizer go further* Norman is accosted in a park* Please get vaccinated (if you can) with an actual vaccination

Every day when cases fall is a good day, and in NSW yesterday the numbers reduced in two key areas. The first was the total number of new cases, and the second was the number of people out in the community while infectious. However a single day does not make a trend, but the entire country is no doubt hoping that Sydney's outbreak has peaked. Also on today's show: * Origins of the coronavirus * Warning for rare syndrome added to Johnson & Johnson label

Every day when cases fall is a good day, and in NSW yesterday the numbers reduced in two key areas.The first was the total number of new cases, and the second was the number of people out in the community while infectious.However a single day does not make a trend, but the entire country is no doubt hoping that Sydney's outbreak has peaked. Also on today's show:* Origins of the coronavirus * Warning for rare syndrome added to Johnson & Johnson label

Knowing for sure how long a lockdown will last is almost impossible, but scientific modelling might help us at least get a ballpark idea. NSW yesterday recorded 112 new COVID-19 cases, despite being in lockdown for the last few weeks. Modelling from the Burnet Institute has shown that while the current lockdown settings will work, it'll take months for caseloads to drop significantly. So on today's Coronacast, what could help reduce the amount of time?

Knowing for sure how long a lockdown will last is almost impossible, but scientific modelling might help us at least get a ballpark idea.NSW yesterday recorded 112 new COVID-19 cases, despite being in lockdown for the last few weeks.Modelling from the Burnet Institute has shown that while the current lockdown settings will work, it'll take months for caseloads to drop significantly.So on today's Coronacast, what could help reduce the amount of time?

It's certainly taken a turn for the worse in Sydney, with the number of COVID-19 cases per day doubling over the last four to five days. We've heard that it's going to get worse before it gets better, and there are forecasts of more than a hundred cases today. So how much longer are we in the upward trajectory of this curve? When will numbers finally start to come back down? And how long, realistically, are we looking at with this lockdown? Also on today's show: * Norman brings his 2nd AstraZeneca dose forward (that's his personal choice, talk to your doctor before making yours) * How do we know if the vaccines will have long term effects or not? * Will COVID-19 become a disease of the young?

It's certainly taken a turn for the worse in Sydney, with the number of COVID-19 cases per day doubling over the last four to five days. We've heard that it's going to get worse before it gets better, and there are forecasts of more than a hundred cases today. So how much longer are we in the upward trajectory of this curve? When will numbers finally start to come back down? And how long, realistically, are we looking at with this lockdown? Also on today's show: * Norman brings his 2nd AstraZeneca dose forward (that's his personal choice, talk to your doctor before making yours) * How do we know if the vaccines will have long term effects or not? * Will COVID-19 become a disease of the young?

It's certainly taken a turn for the worse in Sydney, with the number of COVID-19 cases per day doubling over the last four to five days.We've heard that it's going to get worse before it gets better, and there are forecasts of more than a hundred cases today.So how much longer are we in the upward trajectory of this curve? When will numbers finally start to come back down? And how long, realistically, are we looking at with this lockdown?Also on today's show:* Norman brings his 2nd AstraZeneca dose forward (that's his personal choice, talk to your doctor before making yours)* How do we know if the vaccines will have long term effects or not?* Will COVID-19 become a disease of the young?

Nearly two weeks into Sydney's lockdown, and yesterday the state has recorded its highest daily number of COVID-19 cases in the outbreak so far. It's not good news for residents, as many of the cases were in public while infectious - which may lead to further chains of transmission. It's also becoming clearer that this outbreak is dragging on longer than hoped, and it seems the epidemiological figures back that up. So on today's Coronacast, if something doesn't change in Sydney, the lockdown may last for quite a while yet. GUEST: Adrian Esterman, Professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Adelaide NOTE: The episode's audio incorrectly refers to Professor Esterman as being from the University of Adelaide. He is from the University of South Australia. The transcript has been amended to reflect this.

Nearly two weeks into Sydney's lockdown, and yesterday the state has recorded its highest daily number of COVID-19 cases in the outbreak so far. It's not good news for residents, as many of the cases were in public while infectious - which may lead to further chains of transmission. It's also becoming clearer that this outbreak is dragging on longer than hoped, and it seems the epidemiological figures back that up. So on today's Coronacast, if something doesn't change in Sydney, the lockdown may last for quite a while yet. GUEST: Adrian Esterman, Professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Adelaide NOTE: The episode's audio incorrectly refers to Professor Esterman as being from the University of Adelaide. He is from the University of South Australia. The transcript has been amended to reflect this.

Nearly two weeks into Sydney's lockdown, and yesterday the state has recorded its highest daily number of COVID-19 cases in the outbreak so far.It's not good news for residents, as many of the cases were in public while infectious - which may lead to further chains of transmission.It's also becoming clearer that this outbreak is dragging on longer than hoped, and it seems the epidemiological figures back that up.So on today's Coronacast, if something doesn't change in Sydney, the lockdown may last for quite a while yet.GUEST:Adrian Esterman, Professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of AdelaideNOTE: The episode's audio incorrectly refers to Professor Esterman as being from the University of Adelaide. He is from the University of South Australia. The transcript has been amended to reflect this.

Sadly, greater Sydney and surrounding areas are to spend another week in lockdown after COVID-19 cases have refused to come down to more comfortable levels. The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has warned cases today will likely also be high, and that additional restrictions may need to be imposed. So on today's Coronacast, why do authorities need more time? And what can we tell about the Delta variant from the cases so far? Also on today's show: * Is the number of people in ICU in the Sydney outbreak unusually high? * Why isn't Dr Norman Swan having a second AstraZeneca shot now that it's 8 weeks after his very public first shot? * We hear a lot about the Delta variant and now Kappa and Lambda variants. Were there variants in between that got named?

Sadly, greater Sydney and surrounding areas are to spend another week in lockdown after COVID-19 cases have refused to come down to more comfortable levels.The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has warned cases today will likely also be high, and that additional restrictions may need to be imposed.So on today's Coronacast, why do authorities need more time? And what can we tell about the Delta variant from the cases so far? Also on today's show:* Is the number of people in ICU in the Sydney outbreak unusually high?* Why isn't Dr Norman Swan having a second AstraZeneca shot now that it's 8 weeks after his very public first shot?* We hear a lot about the Delta variant and now Kappa and Lambda variants. Were there variants in between that got named?

It's been over a week and a bit since greater Sydney and surrounds were put into lockdown to battle the Delta outbreak which started three weeks ago. While case numbers haven't soared over the last two weeks, they haven't dramatically reduced either. And there are still people testing positive without being in isolation. Today, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is expected to provide more information as to what happens next in the city. Will lockdowns be lifted, or will it continue? So on today's Coronacast, what might happen? Also on today's show: * A new variant to keep an eye on: Lambda. * I have an 11 year old child who may be eligible for vaccine next year. How safe are the vaccines for children aged 12?

It's been over a week and a bit since greater Sydney and surrounds were put into lockdown to battle the Delta outbreak which started three weeks ago. While case numbers haven't soared over the last two weeks, they haven't dramatically reduced either. And there are still people testing positive without being in isolation. Today, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is expected to provide more information as to what happens next in the city. Will lockdowns be lifted, or will it continue? So on today's Coronacast, what might happen? Also on today's show: * A new variant to keep an eye on: Lambda. * I have an 11 year old child who may be eligible for vaccine next year. How safe are the vaccines for children aged 12?

It's been over a week and a bit since greater Sydney and surrounds were put into lockdown to battle the Delta outbreak which started three weeks ago.While case numbers haven't soared over the last two weeks, they haven't dramatically reduced either. And there are still people testing positive without being in isolation.Today, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is expected to provide more information as to what happens next in the city. Will lockdowns be lifted, or will it continue?So on today's Coronacast, what might happen?Also on today's show:* A new variant to keep an eye on: Lambda.* I have an 11 year old child who may be eligible for vaccine next year. How safe are the vaccines for children aged 12?

With all the uncertainties a pandemic brings, it's sometimes worth remembering that it will one day be over. It might not be tomorrow, but it will eventually end - and one of the main ways we'll manage that is by mass vaccination of the global population. Currently, countries are at various stages of the rollout, and one much further ahead than Australia is Singapore. So on today's Coroncast, what can we learn from them and what might life look like this time next year? Also on today's show: * Once our vaccination rate is sufficient for us to treat COVID-19 like flu, will the 'test, trace and isolate' strategies nonetheless still be required? * Is the AstraZeneca vaccine safe for breastfeeding?

With all the uncertainties a pandemic brings, it's sometimes worth remembering that it will one day be over.It might not be tomorrow, but it will eventually end - and one of the main ways we'll manage that is by mass vaccination of the global population.Currently, countries are at various stages of the rollout, and one much further ahead than Australia is Singapore.So on today's Coroncast, what can we learn from them and what might life look like this time next year?Also on today's show:* Once our vaccination rate is sufficient for us to treat COVID-19 like flu, will the 'test, trace and isolate' strategies nonetheless still be required?* Is the AstraZeneca vaccine safe for breastfeeding?

Over the weekend, lockdowns ended in WA, NT and Queensland - leaving only Greater Sydney and surrounding areas with heavy restrictions. New South Wales' health authorities have been battling a much bigger outbreak, but there's hope that it might finally being brought under control. But many challenges remain, such as an outbreak in an aged-care home and still several mystery cases. So on today's Coronacast, what's the chance Sydney's lockdown will end this week? Also on today's show: * When do you think research will tell us whether or not we should have another COVID-19 shot next year? * The US, UK, Canada and some European countries are mixing and matching vaccines. When do you Australia will follow suit?

Over the weekend, lockdowns ended in WA, NT and Queensland - leaving only Greater Sydney and surrounding areas with heavy restrictions.New South Wales' health authorities have been battling a much bigger outbreak, but there's hope that it might finally being brought under control.But many challenges remain, such as an outbreak in an aged-care home and still several mystery cases.So on today's Coronacast, what's the chance Sydney's lockdown will end this week?Also on today's show:* When do you think research will tell us whether or not we should have another COVID-19 shot next year?* The US, UK, Canada and some European countries are mixing and matching vaccines. When do you Australia will follow suit?

As we well know with coronavirus by now, sometimes you just have wait to see if things will get better - or worse. We're nearly a week in since COVID-19 exploded across the country, with outbreaks and lockdowns in NSW, Queensland, NT and WA. So as we head into the weekend, how's it looking in the hotspots of Sydney and Brisbane? And what - if any - lockdowns may need to be extended? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * There's a study which says the reason the the rare blood clotting disorder after AstraZeneca might be down to the way the vaccines are delivered. How likely is that? * And Quick Fire Friday is here (finally!)

As we well know with coronavirus by now, sometimes you just have wait to see if things will get better - or worse. We're nearly a week in since COVID-19 exploded across the country, with outbreaks and lockdowns in NSW, Queensland, NT and WA. So as we head into the weekend, how's it looking in the hotspots of Sydney and Brisbane? And what - if any - lockdowns may need to be extended? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * There's a study which says the reason the the rare blood clotting disorder after AstraZeneca might be down to the way the vaccines are delivered. How likely is that? * And Quick Fire Friday is here (finally!)

As we well know with coronavirus by now, sometimes you just have wait to see if things will get better - or worse.We're nearly a week in since COVID-19 exploded across the country, with outbreaks and lockdowns in NSW, Queensland, NT and WA. So as we head into the weekend, how's it looking in the hotspots of Sydney and Brisbane? And what - if any - lockdowns may need to be extended?That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* There's a study which says the reason the the rare blood clotting disorder after AstraZeneca might be down to the way the vaccines are delivered. How likely is that?* And Quick Fire Friday is here (finally!)

If there's one thing everyone can agree on regarding Australia's vaccine rollout it's that it's a bit of a mess. As politicians, health authorities and health experts seem to give conflicting advice - it might be worth looking back to see how we go here in the first place. What exactly changed on Monday with the Prime Minister announcing that under 40s can now access the AstraZeneca vaccine and what do we know about the risk versus the reward? That's on today's Coronacast.

If there's one thing everyone can agree on regarding Australia's vaccine rollout it's that it's a bit of a mess. As politicians, health authorities and health experts seem to give conflicting advice - it might be worth looking back to see how we go here in the first place.What exactly changed on Monday with the Prime Minister announcing that under 40s can now access the AstraZeneca vaccine and what do we know about the risk versus the reward?That's on today's Coronacast.

Much has been said about the AstraZeneca vaccine over the past year. We've discussed its production, distribution, efficacy, link to rare blood clots, availability and everything else in between. On Monday night, the Prime Minister said that anyone under the age of 40 can go to their GP and request the AstraZeneca vaccine. But on today's Coronacast, if you're under 40, should you? Also on today's show: * What's all this talk about reducing the time between Astra shots from 12 to 8 weeks?

Much has been said about the AstraZeneca vaccine over the past year.We've discussed its production, distribution, efficacy, link to rare blood clots, availability and everything else in between.On Monday night, the Prime Minister said that anyone under the age of 40 can go to their GP and request the AstraZeneca vaccine.But on today's Coronacast, if you're under 40, should you? Also on today's show:* What's all this talk about reducing the time between Astra shots from 12 to 8 weeks?

Sydneysiders are being warned to expect daily case numbers to jump around over the next few days, as the scale of the outbreak becomes clearer. In other states and territories, the outbreaks are smaller - but it's still too early to know where this might head next. One thing is for sure: the Delta variant is far more infectious than previous strains - and according to modelling, that means we can expect to see more cases than we otherwise would have. So on today's Coronacast, when might the outbreaks peak and can we stay ahead of this virus? Also on today's show: * NSW Health Minister reveals an interesting story about vaccination and the superspreading birthday party * You said in a podcast recently that the government should focus on just getting as many first doses out there, but then it was mentioned that a first shot of AstraZeneca or Pfizer isn't that effective and you need that second dose. These statements seem to conflict.

Sydneysiders are being warned to expect daily case numbers to jump around over the next few days, as the scale of the outbreak becomes clearer. In other states and territories, the outbreaks are smaller - but it's still too early to know where this might head next. One thing is for sure: the Delta variant is far more infectious than previous strains - and according to modelling, that means we can expect to see more cases than we otherwise would have. So on today's Coronacast, when might the outbreaks peak and can we stay ahead of this virus? Also on today's show: * NSW Health Minister reveals an interesting story about vaccination and the superspreading birthday party * You said in a podcast recently that the government should focus on just getting as many first doses out there, but then it was mentioned that a first shot of AstraZeneca or Pfizer isn't that effective and you need that second dose. These statements seem to conflict.

Sydneysiders are being warned to expect daily case numbers to jump around over the next few days, as the scale of the outbreak becomes clearer.In other states and territories, the outbreaks are smaller - but it's still too early to know where this might head next.One thing is for sure: the Delta variant is far more infectious than previous strains - and according to modelling, that means we can expect to see more cases than we otherwise would have.So on today's Coronacast, when might the outbreaks peak and can we stay ahead of this virus?Also on today's show:* NSW Health Minister reveals an interesting story about vaccination and the superspreading birthday party* You said in a podcast recently that the government should focus on just getting as many first doses out there, but then it was mentioned that a first shot of AstraZeneca or Pfizer isn't that effective and you need that second dose. These statements seem to conflict.

If you haven't been paying attention to the news over the weekend, there's some bad news. Sydney is in lockdown. Darwin is too. And there's new restrictions for Perth. Rather quickly, coronavirus has found its way around the country from the east to the west and to the top end. So on today's Coronacast, what has happened and how did it all go so badly so quickly? Also on today's show: * Re-examining symptoms: what are the most common if you're unvaccinated, if you've had one dose and if you've been fully vaccinated.

If you haven't been paying attention to the news over the weekend, there's some bad news.Sydney is in lockdown. Darwin is too. And there's new restrictions for Perth.Rather quickly, coronavirus has found its way around the country from the east to the west and to the top end. So on today's Coronacast, what has happened and how did it all go so badly so quickly? Also on today's show:* Re-examining symptoms: what are the most common if you're unvaccinated, if you've had one dose and if you've been fully vaccinated.

As Sydney's outbreak continues to grow, so do the number of people who have been fully vaccinated. But, as more people are vaccinated - many are wondering, since they're fully vaccinated, why do they have to be subject to lockdowns and restrictions? Well, it's because of several reasons, as today's Coronacast explains. Also on today's show: * Quick Fire Friday with all your quick fire questions!

As Sydney's outbreak continues to grow, so do the number of people who have been fully vaccinated.But, as more people are vaccinated - many are wondering, since they're fully vaccinated, why do they have to be subject to lockdowns and restrictions?Well, it's because of several reasons, as today's Coronacast explains.Also on today's show:* Quick Fire Friday with all your quick fire questions!

People living in Sydney and surrounding cities are living under much heavier restrictions today, after the COVID-19 outbreak significantly worsened yesterday. There are now serious limits on the number of people who can visit at home, capacity limits on businesses and masks are essential in public spaces. Part of the increased concern was a superspreading event at a birthday party, where at least 30 percent of attendees have now tested positive - with more cases expected. So on today's Coronacast, as the number of exposure sites in Sydney also continues to grow, what could the city be facing in the days ahead? Also on today's show: * I've been fully vaccinated, why am I subject to all state travel restrictions, regardless of my vaccination status? * Another leak within hotel quarantine, this time in Brisbane

People living in Sydney and surrounding cities are living under much heavier restrictions today, after the COVID-19 outbreak significantly worsened yesterday.There are now serious limits on the number of people who can visit at home, capacity limits on businesses and masks are essential in public spaces.Part of the increased concern was a superspreading event at a birthday party, where at least 30 percent of attendees have now tested positive - with more cases expected.So on today's Coronacast, as the number of exposure sites in Sydney also continues to grow, what could the city be facing in the days ahead?Also on today's show:* I've been fully vaccinated, why am I subject to all state travel restrictions, regardless of my vaccination status?* Another leak within hotel quarantine, this time in Brisbane

There's been a rather large jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in Sydney, with the cluster growing beyond 20 people. While the majority of the cases reported yesterday were already in isolation, there was at least one mystery case in which contract tracers have had to hunt down the source. The NSW Government has mandated the use of masks on public transport and in all public indoor venues Sydney wide. So on today's Coronacast, why there hasn't been a lockdown in Sydney so far. Also on today's show: * Living with lockdowns over the next several months * Possible surface transmission in Queensland * What effect does vaccination have on pregnancy? * Should I breastfeed after I've been vaccinated?

There's been a rather large jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in Sydney, with the cluster growing beyond 20 people. While the majority of the cases reported yesterday were already in isolation, there was at least one mystery case in which contract tracers have had to hunt down the source. The NSW Government has mandated the use of masks on public transport and in all public indoor venues Sydney wide. So on today's Coronacast, why there hasn't been a lockdown in Sydney so far. Also on today's show: * Living with lockdowns over the next several months * Possible surface transmission in Queensland * What effect does vaccination have on pregnancy? * Should I breastfeed after I've been vaccinated?

There's been a rather large jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in Sydney, with the cluster growing beyond 20 people.While the majority of the cases reported yesterday were already in isolation, there was at least one mystery case in which contract tracers have had to hunt down the source.The NSW Government has mandated the use of masks on public transport and in all public indoor venues Sydney wide.So on today's Coronacast, why there hasn't been a lockdown in Sydney so far.Also on today's show:* Living with lockdowns over the next several months* Possible surface transmission in Queensland* What effect does vaccination have on pregnancy? * Should I breastfeed after I've been vaccinated?

While it's still too early to know how many people have cancelled their second Astra dose, doctors are urging people to make sure they receive both doses of the same vaccine. The risk of serious side effects from the second dose are reported to be significantly lower, and on the plus side - a second dose gives you even better protection against COVID-19. Currently, there's no approval from medicine regulators to mix doses. On today's Coronacast, if you've had your first Astra shot, why getting your second is important. Also on today's show: * Is there any news on research for a cure or at least treatments for those with COVID-19? * What more to we know regarding menstrual problem after Pfizer vaccination?

While it's still too early to know how many people have cancelled their second Astra dose, doctors are urging people to make sure they receive both doses of the same vaccine.The risk of serious side effects from the second dose are reported to be significantly lower, and on the plus side - a second dose gives you even better protection against COVID-19.Currently, there's no approval from medicine regulators to mix doses.On today's Coronacast, if you've had your first Astra shot, why getting your second is important.Also on today's show:* Is there any news on research for a cure or at least treatments for those with COVID-19?* What more to we know regarding menstrual problem after Pfizer vaccination?

There's been a lot of talk over the last several weeks about how the coronavirus variants in Melbourne and Sydney is transmitting in more "fleeting" contact than we've previously seen. The outbreak in Sydney is the Delta variant and Melbourne's main outbreak was Kappa - and in both cities politicians or health officials say they're seeing people infected in very short periods of time. So is the virus actually more fleeting - or infectious? Or is it just better contact tracing? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Victoria announces mRNA funding * It's not looking so good for the next mRNA vaccine candidate * But it's not all bad - an outbreak in German aged care facility shows us why

There's been a lot of talk over the last several weeks about how the coronavirus variants in Melbourne and Sydney is transmitting in more "fleeting" contact than we've previously seen.The outbreak in Sydney is the Delta variant and Melbourne's main outbreak was Kappa - and in both cities politicians or health officials say they're seeing people infected in very short periods of time.So is the virus actually more fleeting - or infectious? Or is it just better contact tracing?That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* Victoria announces mRNA funding* It's not looking so good for the next mRNA vaccine candidate* But it's not all bad - an outbreak in German aged care facility shows us why

The national vaccine rollout has suffered another setback, with the federal government now saying that only people over 60 years should get the AstraZeneca vaccine. It's likely to set the date to full vaccination back even further as Pfizer vaccine supplies are limited and it'll be months before Novavax and Moderna vaccines arrive. It's also left many wondering what they should do if they've had their first AstraZeneca dose, and what are the new levels of risk for their age group? On today's Coronacast, with Australia's two largest cities fighting COVID-19 - how vulnerable are we? Also on today's show: * The latest on the Sydney outbreak * No Quick Fire Friday today sorry :( What do you think we are? Timelords?!

The national vaccine rollout has suffered another setback, with the federal government now saying that only people over 60 years should get the AstraZeneca vaccine.It's likely to set the date to full vaccination back even further as Pfizer vaccine supplies are limited and it'll be months before Novavax and Moderna vaccines arrive.It's also left many wondering what they should do if they've had their first AstraZeneca dose, and what are the new levels of risk for their age group?On today's Coronacast, with Australia's two largest cities fighting COVID-19 - how vulnerable are we?Also on today's show:* The latest on the Sydney outbreak* No Quick Fire Friday today sorry :( What do you think we are? Timelords?!

NSW Health authorities are dealing with a new COVID-19 outbreak that appears to have slipped through our borders via a driver who transports international flight crew. And late on Tuesday, NSW Health said two people staying in a quarantine hotel may have been infected from people staying in a room next door. Further south in Melbourne, contact tracers are also trying to work out how many people in a Southbank apartment are infected. So on today's Coronacast, how might this sneaky leaky virus be circulating? Also on today's show: * What we know about myocarditis and mRNA vaccines in young people * I'm under 50 and had AstraZenca as my first shot. If I get the chance of a Pfizer shot before my 2nd, should I take it or get my 2nd AstraZenca?

NSW Health authorities are dealing with a new COVID-19 outbreak that appears to have slipped through our borders via a driver who transports international flight crew.And late on Tuesday, NSW Health said two people staying in a quarantine hotel may have been infected from people staying in a room next door.Further south in Melbourne, contact tracers are also trying to work out how many people in a Southbank apartment are infected.So on today's Coronacast, how might this sneaky leaky virus be circulating?Also on today's show:* What we know about myocarditis and mRNA vaccines in young people* I'm under 50 and had AstraZenca as my first shot. If I get the chance of a Pfizer shot before my 2nd, should I take it or get my 2nd AstraZenca?

The clinical trial results are in for another coronavirus vaccine, this one made by the company Novavax, and at first glance they look really good. We say first glance because the results have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, and are from the company's press release. They show the shot is very effective against COVID-19 and also shows promise for some of the more concerning variants we're up against. So on today's Coronacast, what could this mean for Australia's vaccine rollout and might Novavax be able to give the campaign a much needed shot in the arm. Also on today's show: * What has the medical community's reaction been to last week's death of a 52-year-old woman who'd received the AstraZeneca vaccine? * Worries about the spread of the Delta variant in the UK delay complete reopening * Canada's vaccine rollout surges ahead

The clinical trial results are in for another coronavirus vaccine, this one made by the company Novavax, and at first glance they look really good.We say first glance because the results have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, and are from the company's press release.They show the shot is very effective against COVID-19 and also shows promise for some of the more concerning variants we're up against.So on today's Coronacast, what could this mean for Australia's vaccine rollout and might Novavax be able to give the campaign a much needed shot in the arm.Also on today's show:* What has the medical community's reaction been to last week's death of a 52-year-old woman who'd received the AstraZeneca vaccine?* Worries about the spread of the Delta variant in the UK delay complete reopening* Canada's vaccine rollout surges ahead

We know that vaccination is the fastest way out of this pandemic, and the sooner we can get the jab the sooner we're protected. But according to modelling from the Burnet Institute, even with high levels of vaccination, it might be a while yet before we can say goodbye to restrictions and other impositions on our lives. That's partly because of unknowns like how variants will continue to evolve, and because the vaccines don't work 100 per cent of the time in some people. So on today's Coronacast, looking ahead - what can we expect, even if we get to very high levels of vaccination? Guest: Burnet Institute Deputy Director and infectious diseases and public health specialist, Professor Margaret Hellard

We know that vaccination is the fastest way out of this pandemic, and the sooner we can get the jab the sooner we're protected.But according to modelling from the Burnet Institute, even with high levels of vaccination, it might be a while yet before we can say goodbye to restrictions and other impositions on our lives.That's partly because of unknowns like how variants will continue to evolve, and because the vaccines don't work 100 per cent of the time in some people.So on today's Coronacast, looking ahead - what can we expect, even if we get to very high levels of vaccination?Guest:Burnet Institute Deputy Director and infectious diseases and public health specialist, Professor Margaret Hellard

There are lots of words that are used to describe the Delta coronavirus variant: highly contagious, very infectious, fast moving. But maybe it's time to add the word successful. The Delta variant has now overtaken the homegrown Alpha variant in the UK as the most dominant strain, and numbers are rising in the United States as well. So on today's Coronacast, we look ahead as to what the rise of Delta might mean for the world. Also on today's show: * Why is there a variation state to state on vaccination rollouts? * Evidence from Germany shows earlier detection and better treatment is lowering AstraZeneca clot mortality

There are lots of words that are used to describe the Delta coronavirus variant: highly contagious, very infectious, fast moving.But maybe it's time to add the word successful.The Delta variant has now overtaken the homegrown Alpha variant in the UK as the most dominant strain, and numbers are rising in the United States as well.So on today's Coronacast, we look ahead as to what the rise of Delta might mean for the world.Also on today's show:* Why is there a variation state to state on vaccination rollouts?* Evidence from Germany shows earlier detection and better treatment is lowering AstraZeneca clot mortality

It sounds like a lovely holiday: a week or two in Melbourne, see the sights before travelling north to the picturesque sandy beaches of Jervis Bay. Well, it's nice if you're a person. If it's the coronavirus variant of concern known as Delta, it's not not really a getaway you want to be part of. According to Victorian health authorities, the Delta cluster they're battling has been traced back to a guest from early May who came through hotel quarantine. On today's Coroncast, why that discovery will hopefully help them end the lockdown on time. Also on today's show: * More about getting your 2nd Pfizer dose in Victoria * Is there any evidence that vaccinated people are shedding the virus post vaccine? * Do mRNA vaccines change your DNA? * What happens if you don't get vaccinated by the time Australia reopens to the world?

It sounds like a lovely holiday: a week or two in Melbourne, see the sights before travelling north to the picturesque sandy beaches of Jervis Bay.Well, it's nice if you're a person. If it's the coronavirus variant of concern known as Delta, it's not not really a getaway you want to be part of.According to Victorian health authorities, the Delta cluster they're battling has been traced back to a guest from early May who came through hotel quarantine.On today's Coroncast, why that discovery will hopefully help them end the lockdown on time.Also on today's show:* More about getting your 2nd Pfizer dose in Victoria* Is there any evidence that vaccinated people are shedding the virus post vaccine?* Do mRNA vaccines change your DNA?* What happens if you don't get vaccinated by the time Australia reopens to the world?

As the days count down to Thursday, the question on everyone's mind is: will Victoria come out of lockdown or do they need a bit longer? Every day, health authorities say they're taking it one day at a time as more and more information is gathered. So what does it mean that Victoria has posted 11 new cases yesterday, when it was low single figures the day before? Thankfully, all the cases have been linked to existing cases and many were already in quarantine. But as today's Coronacast explains, issues still remain. Also on today's show: * Lockdown hard and fast or keep everything open? * Many Victorian Coronacasters are reporting issues with getting their second Pfizer booking. What's going on?

As the days count down to Thursday, the question on everyone's mind is: will Victoria come out of lockdown or do they need a bit longer?Every day, health authorities say they're taking it one day at a time as more and more information is gathered.So what does it mean that Victoria has posted 11 new cases yesterday, when it was low single figures the day before?Thankfully, all the cases have been linked to existing cases and many were already in quarantine. But as today's Coronacast explains, issues still remain.Also on today's show:* Lockdown hard and fast or keep everything open?* Many Victorian Coronacasters are reporting issues with getting their second Pfizer booking. What's going on?

Over the last few days in Victoria, there have been low numbers of new COVID cases - but every new case is not the same. Recently, many of them are people already in quarantine, which shows that contact tracers have successfully found and isolated people before they can infect more people in the community. But others, like two cases to be announced today, are slightly more problematic: they're another health care worker and aged-care resident. And then there's the cluster that no one saw coming: the discovery of a different variant not known to be circulating in the community. So on today's Coronacast, how's it looking for Victoria's hopeful reopening this Thursday? Also on today's show: * If the vaccines only stop severe illness and do not stop spread, how is herd immunity possible? * Are the Delta and Kappa variants covered by the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines? * I've been donating plasma, but now that I'm vaccinated I'm feeling a bit selfish about giving away my newly made antibodies. Should I be concerned?

Over the last few days in Victoria, there have been low numbers of new COVID cases - but every new case is not the same. Recently, many of them are people already in quarantine, which shows that contact tracers have successfully found and isolated people before they can infect more people in the community. But others, like two cases to be announced today, are slightly more problematic: they're another health care worker and aged-care resident. And then there's the cluster that no one saw coming: the discovery of a different variant not known to be circulating in the community. So on today's Coronacast, how's it looking for Victoria's hopeful reopening this Thursday? Also on today's show: * If the vaccines only stop severe illness and do not stop spread, how is herd immunity possible? * Are the Delta and Kappa variants covered by the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines? * I've been donating plasma, but now that I'm vaccinated I'm feeling a bit selfish about giving away my newly made antibodies. Should I be concerned?

Over the last few days in Victoria, there have been low numbers of new COVID cases - but every new case is not the same.Recently, many of them are people already in quarantine, which shows that contact tracers have successfully found and isolated people before they can infect more people in the community.But others, like two cases to be announced today, are slightly more problematic: they're another health care worker and aged-care resident.And then there's the cluster that no one saw coming: the discovery of a different variant not known to be circulating in the community.So on today's Coronacast, how's it looking for Victoria's hopeful reopening this Thursday?Also on today's show:* If the vaccines only stop severe illness and do not stop spread, how is herd immunity possible?* Are the Delta and Kappa variants covered by the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines?* I've been donating plasma, but now that I'm vaccinated I'm feeling a bit selfish about giving away my newly made antibodies. Should I be concerned?

The situation in Victoria improved slightly yesterday, with only a few cases and all being linked to people already in quarantine. Residents of Melbourne and health authorities will be hoping that the worst is behind them, and it'll be smooth sailing from here. But as we know by now, you should never underestimate a virus that'll exploit every weakness it can. So on today's Coronacast, is the variant currently in Melbourne better at exploiting weaknesses than what we've seen before? Also on today's show: * Why Melbourne? * How should I try to convince people that are willing to get the Pfizer vaccine to be also ok with the AstraZeneca vaccine? * If I'm vaccinated and get COVID, because I may have no symptoms, will I be able to give it to people without me knowing? And it's Friday, which means it's time for Quick Fire Friday (Friday edition!)

The situation in Victoria improved slightly yesterday, with only a few cases and all being linked to people already in quarantine.Residents of Melbourne and health authorities will be hoping that the worst is behind them, and it'll be smooth sailing from here. But as we know by now, you should never underestimate a virus that'll exploit every weakness it can.So on today's Coronacast, is the variant currently in Melbourne better at exploiting weaknesses than what we've seen before? Also on today's show:* Why Melbourne?* How should I try to convince people that are willing to get the Pfizer vaccine to be also ok with the AstraZeneca vaccine?* If I'm vaccinated and get COVID, because I may have no symptoms, will I be able to give it to people without me knowing?And it's Friday, which means it's time for Quick Fire Friday (Friday edition!)

The initial seven day lockdown in Melbourne has not been enough to get control of the outbreak in the city. As a result, Melbournians will need to do at least another seven days to give health authorities more time. They've also revealed that the plan is to get the state back to zero spread - or eradication of community spread. So on today's Coronacast, what'll they have to do to get there? Also on today's show: * We've had heaps of questions over the past several weeks on blood clotting from the AstraZeneca vaccine, so we've got Dr Tim Brighton, a haematologist in Sydney and member of Thrombosis and Haemostasis society of Australia and New Zealand in to answer your questions. GUEST: Dr Tim Brighton, haematologist in Sydney, member of THANZ (Thrombosis and Haemostasis society of Australia and New Zealand)

The initial seven day lockdown in Melbourne has not been enough to get control of the outbreak in the city.As a result, Melbournians will need to do at least another seven days to give health authorities more time.They've also revealed that the plan is to get the state back to zero spread - or eradication of community spread.So on today's Coronacast, what'll they have to do to get there?Also on today's show:* We've had heaps of questions over the past several weeks on blood clotting from the AstraZeneca vaccine, so we've got Dr Tim Brighton, a haematologist in Sydney and member of Thrombosis and Haemostasis society of Australia and New Zealand in to answer your questions.GUEST:Dr Tim Brighton, haematologist in Sydney, member of THANZ (Thrombosis and Haemostasis society of Australia and New Zealand)

Health authorities in Victoria sounded slightly more upbeat yesterday, thanks to no new cases being posted from the aged care sector. But worryingly, there are still mystery cases to sort out and what's even more concerning is said to be acting differently than it has with previous outbreaks. Authorities have described the behaviour as "fleeting", saying it is showing remarkable ability to infect people in settings with only very brief contact. So on today's Coronacast, with at least four transmissions occurring this way so far, how casual can a contact be? Also on today's show: * And it's Wednesday, so it's time for Quick Fire... Friday?

Health authorities in Victoria sounded slightly more upbeat yesterday, thanks to no new cases being posted from the aged care sector.But worryingly, there are still mystery cases to sort out and what's even more concerning is said to be acting differently than it has with previous outbreaks.Authorities have described the behaviour as "fleeting", saying it is showing remarkable ability to infect people in settings with only very brief contact.So on today's Coronacast, with at least four transmissions occurring this way so far, how casual can a contact be?Also on today's show:* And it's Wednesday, so it's time for Quick Fire... Friday?

The second wave in Victoria in 2020 revealed aged care to be a major vulnerability in Australia's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Of the many hundreds of deaths from the second wave, the majority were in private aged care homes. And, sadly, COVID-19 has once again made it back into aged care - with coronavirus currently in two facilities in Melbourne. So on today's Coronacast, wasn't aged care supposed to be protected by now? Also on today's show: * When does a cluster become a wave? * What research has been done on shortening the gap between 1st and 2nd doses? * Why can't we just vaccinate people on day 1 of hotel quarantine?

The second wave in Victoria in 2020 revealed aged care to be a major vulnerability in Australia's handling of the coronavirus pandemic.Of the many hundreds of deaths from the second wave, the majority were in private aged care homes.And, sadly, COVID-19 has once again made it back into aged care - with coronavirus currently in two facilities in Melbourne.So on today's Coronacast, wasn't aged care supposed to be protected by now?Also on today's show:* When does a cluster become a wave?* What research has been done on shortening the gap between 1st and 2nd doses?* Why can't we just vaccinate people on day 1 of hotel quarantine?

As Melbourne entered its third day of lockdown, the news came that many were dreading: coronavirus had made it back into an aged care facility and it was a mystery case. The health care worker and roughly 70 percent of residents had been vaccinated with their first shot. It came as senior Federal Government ministers insisted that the vaccine rollout is not a race, saying it needs to be systematic. But on today's Coronacast, the systematic approach had aged care residents to be vaccinated within a month and a half as part 1a - so what happened? Also on today's show: * Weren't all aged care residents supposed to be vaccinated by now? * What's going on in the UK? Why are numbers rising again? * What are the known risk factors to AstraZeneca blood clots?

As Melbourne entered its third day of lockdown, the news came that many were dreading: coronavirus had made it back into an aged care facility and it was a mystery case.The health care worker and roughly 70 percent of residents had been vaccinated with their first shot.It came as senior Federal Government ministers insisted that the vaccine rollout is not a race, saying it needs to be systematic. But on today's Coronacast, the systematic approach had aged care residents to be vaccinated within a month and a half as part 1a - so what happened?Also on today's show:* Weren't all aged care residents supposed to be vaccinated by now? * What's going on in the UK? Why are numbers rising again?* What are the known risk factors to AstraZeneca blood clots?

Victoria is back where it least wanted to be: in lockdown. And this time it'll last for seven days. Perhaps a bit lost among the debate over vaccinations and contact tracing is the fact that an entire state is in lockdown because of another failure of hotel quarantine. A recent pre-print study on Australia's hotel quarantine system has found that for every 172 COVID positive returned travellers, there's a leak and 57% of the time, it results in a lockdown. So on today's Coronacast, a look into the last quarantine leak, which could have happened in just 18 seconds. Also on today's show: * Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation updates the risk of clotting post AstraZeneca vaccination * If I am unlucky and do get blood clots from the AstraZeneca immunisation what is the treatment? Can this be treated in country areas? * Why do some people after a COVID-19 vaccination get symptoms like shivers, aches and pains, headache, sore arm, etc and others don't?

Victoria is back where it least wanted to be: in lockdown. And this time it'll last for seven days.Perhaps a bit lost among the debate over vaccinations and contact tracing is the fact that an entire state is in lockdown because of another failure of hotel quarantine.A recent pre-print study on Australia's hotel quarantine system has found that for every 172 COVID positive returned travellers, there's a leak and 57% of the time, it results in a lockdown.So on today's Coronacast, a look into the last quarantine leak, which could have happened in just 18 seconds.Also on today's show:* Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation updates the risk of clotting post AstraZeneca vaccination* If I am unlucky and do get blood clots from the AstraZeneca immunisation what is the treatment? Can this be treated in country areas?* Why do some people after a COVID-19 vaccination get symptoms like shivers, aches and pains, headache, sore arm, etc and others don't?

It often takes a crisis to expose all the weak points in a system, and this week's coronavirus outbreak in Melbourne has done just that. The whole thing started with yet another breach of hotel quarantine. Then there's the slowness of the vaccine rollout, which has left millions of eligible people exposed. Add to that the state issues of lacklustre QR code usage, and a testing system that is groaning under huge demand. With herculean efforts by contact tracers and a bit of luck, Victoria mightn't suffer too much damage. Or maybe the virus will get away. It's still too early to know. But on today's Coronacast, did it have to be like this? Also on today's show: * We had our 1st AstraZeneca shot a month ago. We have decided to have the 2nd dose in 8 weeks, rather than 12. What do you think? Also, is clotting risk present with the 2nd shot? * If I have AstraZeneca for doses 1 and 2, with both shots completed by August, could I have a Pfizer shot in December? Would this provide better protection or could it be harmful? * I received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine 10 days ago. Can you tell me if I'm less likely to catch COVID-19?

It often takes a crisis to expose all the weak points in a system, and this week's coronavirus outbreak in Melbourne has done just that. The whole thing started with yet another breach of hotel quarantine. Then there's the slowness of the vaccine rollout, which has left millions of eligible people exposed. Add to that the state issues of lacklustre QR code usage, and a testing system that is groaning under huge demand. With herculean efforts by contact tracers and a bit of luck, Victoria mightn't suffer too much damage. Or maybe the virus will get away. It's still too early to know. But on today's Coronacast, did it have to be like this? Also on today's show: * We had our 1st AstraZeneca shot a month ago. We have decided to have the 2nd dose in 8 weeks, rather than 12. What do you think? Also, is clotting risk present with the 2nd shot? * If I have AstraZeneca for doses 1 and 2, with both shots completed by August, could I have a Pfizer shot in December? Would this provide better protection or could it be harmful? * I received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine 10 days ago. Can you tell me if I'm less likely to catch COVID-19?

It often takes a crisis to expose all the weak points in a system, and this week's coronavirus outbreak in Melbourne has done just that.The whole thing started with yet another breach of hotel quarantine. Then there's the slowness of the vaccine rollout, which has left millions of eligible people exposed.Add to that the state issues of lacklustre QR code usage, and a testing system that is groaning under huge demand. With herculean efforts by contact tracers and a bit of luck, Victoria mightn't suffer too much damage. Or maybe the virus will get away. It's still too early to know.But on today's Coronacast, did it have to be like this?Also on today's show:* We had our 1st AstraZeneca shot a month ago. We have decided to have the 2nd dose in 8 weeks, rather than 12. What do you think? Also, is clotting risk present with the 2nd shot?* If I have AstraZeneca for doses 1 and 2, with both shots completed by August, could I have a Pfizer shot in December? Would this provide better protection or could it be harmful?* I received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine 10 days ago. Can you tell me if I'm less likely to catch COVID-19?

What started with just four coronavirus cases in Melbourne a few days ago has now more than doubled, as close contacts are tracked down, isolated and tested. While cases are being linked to each other, how they relate back to a hotel quarantine breach in South Australia is still unclear. The other big challenge facing health authorities will be making sure every case is tracked down, but that's a job that gets harder with every new positive case. So on today's Coronacast, what are we hoping for in the days ahead? Also on today's show: * The TGA allows more flexibility for storing Pfizer vaccine * What information is there on how the vaccine works for people with blood disorders? * A few of your vaccination stories

What started with just four coronavirus cases in Melbourne a few days ago has now more than doubled, as close contacts are tracked down, isolated and tested.While cases are being linked to each other, how they relate back to a hotel quarantine breach in South Australia is still unclear.The other big challenge facing health authorities will be making sure every case is tracked down, but that's a job that gets harder with every new positive case.So on today's Coronacast, what are we hoping for in the days ahead?Also on today's show:* The TGA allows more flexibility for storing Pfizer vaccine* What information is there on how the vaccine works for people with blood disorders?* A few of your vaccination stories

Several cases of community transmission of coronavirus have been detected in Melbourne, as authorities rush to identify exposure sites and close contacts. While we brace for more cases, much is still unknown, such as where the virus came, its genomic information and how many missing links there might be. Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says it's a concern as we head into the winter months, as people are more indoors where we know the virus is far more likely to spread. Also on today's show: * More on the British vaccine and data that were discussed yesterday. It seems Astra might not be as effective as hoped, but could mixing it with a Pfizer booster shot make it better?

Several cases of community transmission of coronavirus have been detected in Melbourne, as authorities rush to identify exposure sites and close contacts. While we brace for more cases, much is still unknown, such as where the virus came, its genomic information and how many missing links there might be. Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says it's a concern as we head into the winter months, as people are more indoors where we know the virus is far more likely to spread. Also on today's show: * More on the British vaccine and data that were discussed yesterday. It seems Astra might not be as effective as hoped, but could mixing it with a Pfizer booster shot make it better?

Several cases of community transmission of coronavirus have been detected in Melbourne, as authorities rush to identify exposure sites and close contacts.While we brace for more cases, much is still unknown, such as where the virus came, its genomic information and how many missing links there might be.Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says it's a concern as we head into the winter months, as people are more indoors where we know the virus is far more likely to spread.Also on today's show:* More on the British vaccine and data that were discussed yesterday. It seems Astra might not be as effective as hoped, but could mixing it with a Pfizer booster shot make it better?

The so-called Indian coronavirus variant B617 is on a mission to take over the world, and it appears that it's slowly achieving that goal. According to recent data from the UK, it's edging out the local version B117 to become the dominant variant. So what does this all mean? Well, it means that it's probably more infectious and that might be what is giving it the edge. But is it more deadly or more resistant to vaccines? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * My parents have both been fully vaccinated with Pfizer in the UK. Why can't Australia allow fully vaccinated people to visit? * How true is the 0 to 10 per cent effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine against the South African strain of coronavirus?

The so-called Indian coronavirus variant B617 is on a mission to take over the world, and it appears that it's slowly achieving that goal. According to recent data from the UK, it's edging out the local version B117 to become the dominant variant. So what does this all mean? Well, it means that it's probably more infectious and that might be what is giving it the edge. But is it more deadly or more resistant to vaccines? That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * My parents have both been fully vaccinated with Pfizer in the UK. Why can't Australia allow fully vaccinated people to visit? * How true is the 0 to 10 per cent effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine against the South African strain of coronavirus?

The so-called Indian coronavirus variant B617 is on a mission to take over the world, and it appears that it's slowly achieving that goal.According to recent data from the UK, it's edging out the local version B117 to become the dominant variant.So what does this all mean? Well, it means that it's probably more infectious and that might be what is giving it the edge. But is it more deadly or more resistant to vaccines? That's on today's Coronacast.Also on today's show:* My parents have both been fully vaccinated with Pfizer in the UK. Why can't Australia allow fully vaccinated people to visit?* How true is the 0 to 10 per cent effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine against the South African strain of coronavirus?

Congratulations, you're eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine! Since you're over 50, that means you're going to be offered AstraZeneca. But as many Australians are asking, why aren't you being given a choice? How worried should you be about these blood clots we keep hearing about? Are you being treated as a second-class citizen? And if there's no COVID-19 in Australia and the borders are still closed indefinitely, what's the rush anyway? Also on today's show: * Could a second dose of Pfizer rather than a second dose of AstraZeneca provide better protection against variants? * If it's possible for fully vaccinated people to still be infected with the virus, will they still get long COVID?

Congratulations, you're eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine! Since you're over 50, that means you're going to be offered AstraZeneca.But as many Australians are asking, why aren't you being given a choice?How worried should you be about these blood clots we keep hearing about? Are you being treated as a second-class citizen?And if there's no COVID-19 in Australia and the borders are still closed indefinitely, what's the rush anyway?Also on today's show:* Could a second dose of Pfizer rather than a second dose of AstraZeneca provide better protection against variants?* If it's possible for fully vaccinated people to still be infected with the virus, will they still get long COVID?

When we asked for your advertising campaign ideas to get Australia vaccinated, we never expected such an amazing response. Coronacast listeners from across Australia and the world have written in with very clever ideas to try and convince the nation to go out and get vaccinated. Ideas include using messages of hope from Australian celebrities to scaring the pants off people by asking them if they'd prefer to be vaccinated or on a ventilator. So on today's Coronacast, your ideas for the country's next big Government messaging campaign. Also on today's show: * Who needs a third dose of vaccine? * TGA makes a "provisional" approval for the Pfizer to be used for adults 12 years of age or older

When we asked for your advertising campaign ideas to get Australia vaccinated, we never expected such an amazing response. Coronacast listeners from across Australia and the world have written in with very clever ideas to try and convince the nation to go out and get vaccinated. Ideas include using messages of hope from Australian celebrities to scaring the pants off people by asking them if they'd prefer to be vaccinated or on a ventilator. So on today's Coronacast, your ideas for the country's next big Government messaging campaign. Also on today's show: * Who needs a third dose of vaccine? * TGA makes a "provisional" approval for the Pfizer to be used for adults 12 years of age or older

When we asked for your advertising campaign ideas to get Australia vaccinated, we never expected such an amazing response.Coronacast listeners from across Australia and the world have written in with very clever ideas to try and convince the nation to go out and get vaccinated.Ideas include using messages of hope from Australian celebrities to scaring the pants off people by asking them if they'd prefer to be vaccinated or on a ventilator.So on today's Coronacast, your ideas for the country's next big Government messaging campaign.Also on today's show:* Who needs a third dose of vaccine?* TGA makes a "provisional" approval for the Pfizer to be used for adults 12 years of age or older

While it's great to see that the number of Australians vaccinated against COVID-19 rises by the day, it's still far from the numbers needed to get it done by the end of the year. So perhaps a national advertising campaign selling the benefits, or maybe pointing out what could happen if we're not vaccinated is needed. Other countries have tried campaigns so far, including Singapore and New Zealand - is it time Australia joined them? So on today's Coronacast, a few ideas on what might work and why it's time for people to get the jab. We're after your ideas too! So send us your pitch for a national ad campaign that'll get Australians out and vaccinated!

While it's great to see that the number of Australians vaccinated against COVID-19 rises by the day, it's still far from the numbers needed to get it done by the end of the year. So perhaps a national advertising campaign selling the benefits, or maybe pointing out what could happen if we're not vaccinated is needed. Other countries have tried campaigns so far, including Singapore and New Zealand - is it time Australia joined them? So on today's Coronacast, a few ideas on what might work and why it's time for people to get the jab. We're after your ideas too! So send us your pitch for a national ad campaign that'll get Australians out and vaccinated!

While it's great to see that the number of Australians vaccinated against COVID-19 rises by the day, it's still far from the numbers needed to get it done by the end of the year.So perhaps a national advertising campaign selling the benefits, or maybe pointing out what could happen if we're not vaccinated is needed.Other countries have tried campaigns so far, including Singapore and New Zealand - is it time Australia joined them?So on today's Coronacast, a few ideas on what might work and why it's time for people to get the jab.We're after your ideas too! So send us your pitch for a national ad campaign that'll get Australians out and vaccinated!

When you're scheduled in for your COVID vaccine, depending on your age you'll get two doses of either AstraZeneca or Pfizer. But what if you had one brand, and for your secord shot you had the other? Well, researchers have been looking at this for a whole bunch of reasons - a main one being it makes rolling out the vaccines simpler. And on today's Coronacast, early results suggest that mixing brands might also make the vaccines work better too. Also on today's show: * Do blood clots only happen after the first dose of the vaccine, or are they also happening after the second? * When people talk of a booster vaccination does it simply mean another jab of exactly the same ingredients as in the first injection? And we are joined by special guest Professor Paul Monagle from the University of Melbourne, to talk about the possibility of using the common drug heparin as a short term protective shield to stop you getting COVID-19.

When you're scheduled in for your COVID vaccine, depending on your age you'll get two doses of either AstraZeneca or Pfizer. But what if you had one brand, and for your secord shot you had the other? Well, researchers have been looking at this for a whole bunch of reasons - a main one being it makes rolling out the vaccines simpler. And on today's Coronacast, early results suggest that mixing brands might also make the vaccines work better too. Also on today's show: * Do blood clots only happen after the first dose of the vaccine, or are they also happening after the second? * When people talk of a booster vaccination does it simply mean another jab of exactly the same ingredients as in the first injection? And we are joined by special guest Professor Paul Monagle from the University of Melbourne, to talk about the possibility of using the common drug heparin as a short term protective shield to stop you getting COVID-19.

When you're scheduled in for your COVID vaccine, depending on your age you'll get two doses of either AstraZeneca or Pfizer.But what if you had one brand, and for your secord shot you had the other?Well, researchers have been looking at this for a whole bunch of reasons - a main one being it makes rolling out the vaccines simpler. And on today's Coronacast, early results suggest that mixing brands might also make the vaccines work better too.Also on today's show:* Do blood clots only happen after the first dose of the vaccine, or are they also happening after the second?* When people talk of a booster vaccination does it simply mean another jab of exactly the same ingredients as in the first injection?And we are joined by special guest Professor Paul Monagle from the University of Melbourne, to talk about the possibility of using the common drug heparin as a short term protective shield to stop you getting COVID-19.

The transition from Australia being pretty much free of COVID to reopening the border and allowing it in, is a complicated and fraught issue. The country will eventually have to rejoin the world so people can see family, travel for pleasure or business and go overseas again - but according to experts, there's a list of things that have to happen before then. The most obvious is a very high level of vaccination, so that when coronavirus does arrive again, it won't result in an overburdened hospital system And on today's Coronacast, there's also the big issue of possible vaccine resistant variants. Also on today's show: * More cases of blood clots and low blood platelets * A clarification and refinement of the R0 value discussion from last week

The transition from Australia being pretty much free of COVID to reopening the border and allowing it in, is a complicated and fraught issue.The country will eventually have to rejoin the world so people can see family, travel for pleasure or business and go overseas again - but according to experts, there's a list of things that have to happen before then.The most obvious is a very high level of vaccination, so that when coronavirus does arrive again, it won't result in an overburdened hospital systemAnd on today's Coronacast, there's also the big issue of possible vaccine resistant variants.Also on today's show:* More cases of blood clots and low blood platelets* A clarification and refinement of the R0 value discussion from last week

The coronavirus variant sweeping through India appears to be a stronger more contagious version than we've previously seen. While there is still little peer-reviewed scientific information on B.1.617 variants, health authorities are increasingly becoming worried about the threats the strains present. Australia has had two close calls with 617 over the past few weeks: firstly in Sydney then again in Melbourne after it escaped from a South Australian quarantine hotel. So on today's Coronacast, does the 617 variant change everything and will we have to revisit our base assumptions? Also on today's show: * Moderna coming to Australia later this year (pending TGA approvals)

The coronavirus variant sweeping through India appears to be a stronger more contagious version than we've previously seen.While there is still little peer-reviewed scientific information on B.1.617 variants, health authorities are increasingly becoming worried about the threats the strains present.Australia has had two close calls with 617 over the past few weeks: firstly in Sydney then again in Melbourne after it escaped from a South Australian quarantine hotel.So on today's Coronacast, does the 617 variant change everything and will we have to revisit our base assumptions?Also on today's show:* Moderna coming to Australia later this year (pending TGA approvals)

It seems that every time we talk about the timeframe of Australia's borders reopening to the world, the estimated date slips further into the future. In this week's budget, the government indicated that borders will probably remain shut until 2022 at least. And Qantas has also pushed back its plans to restart international flights by at least two months. So on today's Coronacast, what could be behind the reason for the slippages of border reopenings? Also on today's show: * Will we really need to get a vaccine every year for covid 19 for the foreseeable future? * Children don't usually get severe COVID-19, why am I seeing reports of kids dying in India? * If a combined coronavirus and flu vaccine is being developed, why can't existing coronavirus and flu vaccines be given at the same time? * I'm due for the second shot of Pfizer next week and am feeling a bit under the weather. What do I do? References A Misleading C.D.C. Number https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/11/briefing/outdoor-covid-transmission-cdc-number.html

It seems that every time we talk about the timeframe of Australia's borders reopening to the world, the estimated date slips further into the future.In this week's budget, the government indicated that borders will probably remain shut until 2022 at least. And Qantas has also pushed back its plans to restart international flights by at least two months.So on today's Coronacast, what could be behind the reason for the slippages of border reopenings?Also on today's show:* Will we really need to get a vaccine every year for covid 19 for the foreseeable future?* Children don't usually get severe COVID-19, why am I seeing reports of kids dying in India?* If a combined coronavirus and flu vaccine is being developed, why can't existing coronavirus and flu vaccines be given at the same time?* I'm due for the second shot of Pfizer next week and am feeling a bit under the weather. What do I do?ReferencesA Misleading C.D.C. Numberhttps://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/11/briefing/outdoor-covid-transmission-cdc-number.html

It's Victoria's turn to hunt down coronavirus, after Victorian health authorities revealed a man tested positive to the virus yesterday morning. The man was a recent arrival from overseas, who completed his 14 days quarantine in South Australia before heading home to Victoria earlier this month. Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says he believes the man contracted the virus in hotel quarantine in South Australia. So on today's Coronacast, how could you spend two weeks in quarantine only to catch the virus just as you're leaving? Also on today's show: * I'm seeing testing fatigue. Once we're all vaccinated can we stop being tested? * I had my first shot of AstraZeneca and suffered no side effects except for maybe feeling a bit tired. Does this mean the vaccine did not work? * FDA approves Pfizer for older kids * Norman talks a bit about the Novavax vaccine which mixes a COVID shot with a flu shot

It's Victoria's turn to hunt down coronavirus, after Victorian health authorities revealed a man tested positive to the virus yesterday morning. The man was a recent arrival from overseas, who completed his 14 days quarantine in South Australia before heading home to Victoria earlier this month. Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says he believes the man contracted the virus in hotel quarantine in South Australia. So on today's Coronacast, how could you spend two weeks in quarantine only to catch the virus just as you're leaving? Also on today's show: * I'm seeing testing fatigue. Once we're all vaccinated can we stop being tested? * I had my first shot of AstraZeneca and suffered no side effects except for maybe feeling a bit tired. Does this mean the vaccine did not work? * FDA approves Pfizer for older kids * Norman talks a bit about the Novavax vaccine which mixes a COVID shot with a flu shot

It's Victoria's turn to hunt down coronavirus, after Victorian health authorities revealed a man tested positive to the virus yesterday morning.The man was a recent arrival from overseas, who completed his 14 days quarantine in South Australia before heading home to Victoria earlier this month.Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton says he believes the man contracted the virus in hotel quarantine in South Australia.So on today's Coronacast, how could you spend two weeks in quarantine only to catch the virus just as you're leaving?Also on today's show:* I'm seeing testing fatigue. Once we're all vaccinated can we stop being tested?* I had my first shot of AstraZeneca and suffered no side effects except for maybe feeling a bit tired. Does this mean the vaccine did not work?* FDA approves Pfizer for older kids* Norman talks a bit about the Novavax vaccine which mixes a COVID shot with a flu shot

We've spoken a lot over the last year or so about coronavirus, and for good reason. But there are plenty of other viruses out there that can make us seriously sick or kill us. One is the flu, or influenza, and usually at this time of the year, we'd be seeing a solid rise in the number of reported cases. But not this year. In fact, there's so little flu around that there's actually been more COVID detected than influenza. So on today's Coronacast, what could be going on? Also on today's show: * Is there any information on how long should someone with a flu wait before I get the Pfizer vaccine? * Is there a correlation between the degree of side effects experienced immediately after your first dose of AstraZeneca and the possibility of developing clots?

We've spoken a lot over the last year or so about coronavirus, and for good reason. But there are plenty of other viruses out there that can make us seriously sick or kill us.One is the flu, or influenza, and usually at this time of the year, we'd be seeing a solid rise in the number of reported cases.But not this year. In fact, there's so little flu around that there's actually been more COVID detected than influenza.So on today's Coronacast, what could be going on?Also on today's show:* Is there any information on how long should someone with a flu wait before I get the Pfizer vaccine?* Is there a correlation between the degree of side effects experienced immediately after your first dose of AstraZeneca and the possibility of developing clots?

A string of community transmission donut days in NSW has been a nice to see since a mystery COVID-19 case popped up in Sydney late last week. However, despite its best efforts, NSW Health has not been able to find out how the case jumped from hotel quarantine into the community. The man has clearly picked up the virus from a mystery person in the community, who could well have spread it to others. So on today's Coronacast, how worrying it is that the link hasn't been found? Also on today's show: * The virus found in Sydney - B.1.617.2 - is declared a variant of concern by the UK Government * Why don't these supposed very contagious variants seem to spread in Australia? And don't forget to check out the new season of Patient Zero! * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/rn-presents-patient-zero/id1370255107 * ABC Listen app: https://abclisten.page.link/UgUg8Z4JtCaEh71p6

A string of community transmission donut days in NSW has been a nice to see since a mystery COVID-19 case popped up in Sydney late last week.However, despite its best efforts, NSW Health has not been able to find out how the case jumped from hotel quarantine into the community.The man has clearly picked up the virus from a mystery person in the community, who could well have spread it to others.So on today's Coronacast, how worrying it is that the link hasn't been found?Also on today's show:* The virus found in Sydney - B.1.617.2 - is declared a variant of concern by the UK Government* Why don't these supposed very contagious variants seem to spread in Australia?And don't forget to check out the new season of Patient Zero!* Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/rn-presents-patient-zero/id1370255107* ABC Listen app: https://abclisten.page.link/UgUg8Z4JtCaEh71p6

Just when you think it's getting boring in coronavirus land, you're hit with an avalanche of news. Sydney is continuing to battle an outbreak of COVID-19, as health detectives narrow in on where it might have come from. And Australia's medicines regulator has revealed five more people have developed blood clots after receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine, bringing the total to 11 from around 1.4 million doses since the rollout began. So what have we learned about the variant circulating in Sydney? And what's the current likelihood of developing a clot?

Just when you think it's getting boring in coronavirus land, you're hit with an avalanche of news.Sydney is continuing to battle an outbreak of COVID-19, as health detectives narrow in on where it might have come from.And Australia's medicines regulator has revealed five more people have developed blood clots after receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine, bringing the total to 11 from around 1.4 million doses since the rollout began.So what have we learned about the variant circulating in Sydney? And what's the current likelihood of developing a clot?

When NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian started her press conference yesterday, she got straight to the point: NSW had detected a case of COVID in the community. And as yet, there’s no known source. The patient has not been overseas or interstate and has no known links to hotel quarantine. He's also been infectious in the community for the last several days. So as NSW Health tries to pin down where he might have got it, Coronacast asks how this mysterious case compares to other recent outbreaks. Also on today's show: * A study shows digital contact tracing apps can work * Norman gets vaccinated * If a person isn't vaccinated and contracts COVID, is the vaccine then administered to aid in recovery? * Can I get the AstraZeneca vaccine now and Pfizer later to be even more protected? * Can you advise me please on the recommended timing between a flu shot and the AstraZeneca shot?

When NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian started her press conference yesterday, she got straight to the point: NSW had detected a case of COVID in the community. And as yet, there’s no known source. The patient has not been overseas or interstate and has no known links to hotel quarantine. He's also been infectious in the community for the last several days. So as NSW Health tries to pin down where he might have got it, Coronacast asks how this mysterious case compares to other recent outbreaks. Also on today's show: * A study shows digital contact tracing apps can work * Norman gets vaccinated * If a person isn't vaccinated and contracts COVID, is the vaccine then administered to aid in recovery? * Can I get the AstraZeneca vaccine now and Pfizer later to be even more protected? * Can you advise me please on the recommended timing between a flu shot and the AstraZeneca shot?

When NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian started her press conference yesterday, she got straight to the point: NSW had detected a case of COVID in the community.And as yet, there’s no known source. The patient has not been overseas or interstate and has no known links to hotel quarantine.He's also been infectious in the community for the last several days.So as NSW Health tries to pin down where he might have got it, Coronacast asks how this mysterious case compares to other recent outbreaks.Also on today's show:* A study shows digital contact tracing apps can work* Norman gets vaccinated* If a person isn't vaccinated and contracts COVID, is the vaccine then administered to aid in recovery?* Can I get the AstraZeneca vaccine now and Pfizer later to be even more protected?* Can you advise me please on the recommended timing between a flu shot and the AstraZeneca shot?

In a global pandemic, you have to take your successes where you can find them. Among the doom and gloom of three-quarters of a million new cases a day worldwide, it's important to look at how much progress we've made in fighting back against COVID-19. To date, more than a billion vaccines doses have been given out globally - a number that will hopefully continue to rapidly increase as more supply becomes available and distributed to those who need it most. Because - as explained on today's Coronacast - the faster we can vaccinate, the less chance we'll have of even worse variants popping into existence. Also on today's show: * Why is the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines constantly referred to as complex when the flu vaccine is rolled out every year to millions of people in Australia? * Your feedback and experiences on tracking down and getting a vaccine under the next phase of the rollout * The trouble with organ transplants and COVID-19

In a global pandemic, you have to take your successes where you can find them.Among the doom and gloom of three-quarters of a million new cases a day worldwide, it's important to look at how much progress we've made in fighting back against COVID-19.To date, more than a billion vaccines doses have been given out globally - a number that will hopefully continue to rapidly increase as more supply becomes available and distributed to those who need it most.Because - as explained on today's Coronacast - the faster we can vaccinate, the less chance we'll have of even worse variants popping into existence.Also on today's show:* Why is the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines constantly referred to as complex when the flu vaccine is rolled out every year to millions of people in Australia?* Your feedback and experiences on tracking down and getting a vaccine under the next phase of the rollout* The trouble with organ transplants and COVID-19

The next phase of Australia's vaccination program began yesterday, and millions of people aged over 50 are now eligible to receive a vaccine. But many are still finding the booking process difficult and confusing, and while vaccines are available it can take a bit of work to find one. Before now, only the vulnerable and front line workers have been eligible, so health officials and experts will be hoping that finally we'll see a dramatic increase in the COVID-19 vaccination rate. So will we finally see a jump in vaccinations? Also on today's show: * I've heard that the vaccine immunity lasts only for 6 months. So does that mean that I'll need another 2 shots of the vaccine when Australia finally opens up, and I want to travel? * I am a First Nations person who is 36 with no other comorbidities. Is it clear yet when Pfizer will be available to me?

The next phase of Australia's vaccination program began yesterday, and millions of people aged over 50 are now eligible to receive a vaccine. But many are still finding the booking process difficult and confusing, and while vaccines are available it can take a bit of work to find one. Before now, only the vulnerable and front line workers have been eligible, so health officials and experts will be hoping that finally we'll see a dramatic increase in the COVID-19 vaccination rate. So will we finally see a jump in vaccinations? Also on today's show: * I've heard that the vaccine immunity lasts only for 6 months. So does that mean that I'll need another 2 shots of the vaccine when Australia finally opens up, and I want to travel? * I am a First Nations person who is 36 with no other comorbidities. Is it clear yet when Pfizer will be available to me?

The next phase of Australia's vaccination program began yesterday, and millions of people aged over 50 are now eligible to receive a vaccine.But many are still finding the booking process difficult and confusing, and while vaccines are available it can take a bit of work to find one.Before now, only the vulnerable and front line workers have been eligible, so health officials and experts will be hoping that finally we'll see a dramatic increase in the COVID-19 vaccination rate.So will we finally see a jump in vaccinations?Also on today's show:* I've heard that the vaccine immunity lasts only for 6 months. So does that mean that I'll need another 2 shots of the vaccine when Australia finally opens up, and I want to travel?* I am a First Nations person who is 36 with no other comorbidities. Is it clear yet when Pfizer will be available to me?

For the second time in a fortnight, residents of Perth are facing lockdowns or increased restrictions due to a coronavirus outbreak from hotel quarantine. Last week, a security guard contracted the virus in a WA quarantine hotel. From there, it's broken into the community with at least two close contacts testing positive. It's again put a spotlight on hotels being used for quarantine and has disrupted the lives of millions of West Australians. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about the latest outbreak and are more lockdowns coming? Also on today's show: * Does the AstraZeneca vaccine protect against serious illness from the serious variants? * Will Australia be getting the Moderna vaccine. If so can it approved and be released this year? * And a study about a man who suffered from COVID-19 for 8 months!

There's been a lot of talk over the last few months about coronavirus vaccines and how they'll hopefully end the pandemic sooner rather than later. But it'll be years before the world's entire population is vaccinated, and variants will also continue to provide a threat. So the world needs COVID treatments - drugs to help manage a patient's illness and stop them dying if they contract the virus. On today's Coronacast, what can we make of an-anti COVID pill from Pfizer which is now in early clinical trials? Also on today's show: * A study on why you don't want to be COVID positive and pregnant and another on pregnancy and vaccines And it's Friday. So you know what that means.

There's been a lot of talk over the last few months about coronavirus vaccines and how they'll hopefully end the pandemic sooner rather than later. But it'll be years before the world's entire population is vaccinated, and variants will also continue to provide a threat. So the world needs COVID treatments - drugs to help manage a patient's illness and stop them dying if they contract the virus. On today's Coronacast, what can we make of an-anti COVID pill from Pfizer which is now in early clinical trials? Also on today's show: * A study on why you don't want to be COVID positive and pregnant and another on pregnancy and vaccines And it's Friday. So you know what that means.

One of the biggest unknowns in the pandemic was whether or not vaccination would stop you getting infected with coronavirus, or just stop you getting sick. It sounds like much the same thing, but the difference is actually huge. Stopping infection means you don't have the virus at all, and thus won't go on to infect others. A study in the journal The Lancet has looked at both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines and found that they do indeed stop infection, which is great news - but sadly not all the time. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * If you are a blood donor and have been vaccinated, will the antibodies you have developed help the recipient of your blood? * I've already received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Is it safe for me to swap over and get Pfizer if it is available to me? I'm in category 1B as I'm a health worker.

One of the biggest unknowns in the pandemic was whether or not vaccination would stop you getting infected with coronavirus, or just stop you getting sick. It sounds like much the same thing, but the difference is actually huge. Stopping infection means you don't have the virus at all, and thus won't go on to infect others. A study in the journal The Lancet has looked at both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines and found that they do indeed stop infection, which is great news - but sadly not all the time. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * If you are a blood donor and have been vaccinated, will the antibodies you have developed help the recipient of your blood? * I've already received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Is it safe for me to swap over and get Pfizer if it is available to me? I'm in category 1B as I'm a health worker.

The UK variant, or as it's known the Kent variant or B117, is taking over the United Kingdom and other countries it's spread to. It's dominance is due to it to being far more transmissible than other variants, but according to new research just being more contagious doesn't mean it's more deadly. In fact, the study has found that it might be less deadly in people with severe COVID-19. But as with all things coronavirus, conditions apply. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on today's show: * Is relative youth a proven causal link for the blood clotting problem or is it merely a correlation? * Is 14 days still the incubation period? * Is the 50 year old cut off an immune phenomenon related to menopause status? * What is the current advice regarding vaccination and pregnancy?

Residents of Perth are out of a snap three day lockdown, with many hoping life will again return to normal over the coming days. The lockdown orders were lifted at midnight, after zero new cases were found yesterday, and testing numbers over the last three days have been high. However the debate about hotel quarantine is on-going. So on today's Coronacast, what could be a good way to allow Australians to return from overseas, but reduce the risk for people already at home? Also on today's show: * Which countries have banned travel from India? * What magic occurs when you turn 50 that makes AstraZeneca ok? * How do you know you have a blood clot?

Residents of Perth and the Peel region were given a boost of hope yesterday, when no new cases of coronavirus were discovered. The areas are in a lockdown until at least midnight tonight, after coronavirus escaped hotel quarantine late last week and has spread into the community. WA Premier Mark McGowan says it's too early to predict what will happen with the lockdown after Monday And it's also promoted another debate about who should run hotel quarantine: the states or the federal government. Also on today's show: * We get some better numbers from ATAGI on the chance of blood clots from the AstraZeneca vaccine, depending on how old you are.

Residents of Perth and the Peel region were given a boost of hope yesterday, when no new cases of coronavirus were discovered. The areas are in a lockdown until at least midnight tonight, after coronavirus escaped hotel quarantine late last week and has spread into the community. WA Premier Mark McGowan says it's too early to predict what will happen with the lockdown after Monday And it's also promoted another debate about who should run hotel quarantine: the states or the federal government. Also on today's show: * We get some better numbers from ATAGI on the chance of blood clots from the AstraZeneca vaccine, depending on how old you are.

At the start of the year when vaccines were starting to roll out, there was much hope that maybe, just maybe, the worst was behind us. But oh no. Not in this global pandemic. Suddenly we had several variants of concern to worry about, vaccines remained in very short supply and countries argued with each other for who needed it more. So today, Coronacast is doing a bit of a stocktake - taking a step back to have a look at we are and what might come next. Also on today's show: * Quick Fire Friday and today the answers are quick. We promise.

The European Medicines Agency has reported that it's aware of 25 cases of rare blood clots from people who have had the Pfizer mRNA vaccine, and 5 cases from people who have had the Moderna vaccine. The numbers were revealed during a press briefing into blood clotting issues related to the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. It's the first time such a number has been reported by a medical regulator, and may suggest very rare clotting events may not be confined only to AstraZeneca and Johnson and Johnson. The co-chair of Australia's vaccination advisory group Professor Allen Cheng has told Coronacast that there is still a lot of uncertainty, especially if reported cases have been fully investigated. So on today's Coronacast, what has the EMA said and is it real? References: EMA press conference

The number of daily COVID-19 cases in India has been surging in recent weeks, and some are putting it down to a so-called double mutant COVID variant. New case records are being set nearly daily, and the number of people dying from COVID is also growing fast. The huge surge in cases is also being felt here, with the most recent NSW data showing people arriving from India are making up 20 percent of all cases in hotel quarantine. So on today's Coronacast, what could be behind the surge in India? Also on today's show: * NZ vaccinated border worker tests positive for COVID-19 * What is the treatment for those who get the blood clots from the AstraZeneca vaccine? * What do we know about mixing vaccines?

The Federal Government is hoping for a vaccine rollout reset, and it may come later this week with National Cabinet agreeing 'in principle' to bring forward vaccinations for those over 50 Currently, people in phase 1a and 1b can get access to vaccinations - which is mostly the AstraZeneca vaccine. As local production of the AstraZeneca vaccine ramps, it may be very soon when the doors are opened to everyone who's over 50. So on today's Coronacast, the washup from yesterday's National Cabinet. Also on today's show: * ATAGI releases some slides * Is there any data on the blood groups of the people who have experienced clotting? * What about for people who have had blood clots in the past?

With every vaccination, we are a step closer to returning back to something that resembles the normal life we had before the coronavirus pandemic. And one of the big hopes is that people will once again be able to travel overseas to visit family, for work or for holidays. Airlines are taking bookings for later in the year, and report strong bookings so far. The Prime Minister was also yesterday talking about international travel opening up, albeit slowly and for essential travel. So on today's Coronacast, how likely is it we'll be travelling internationally again by October? Also on today's show: * Why variants are again the unknown when it comes to a normal life * Coronavirus slips out of one hotel quarantine room and into another in Sydney * Is the University of Queensland vaccine is still being developed? * A GP says roughly 10 percent of patients are pulling out from receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine

During the COVID-19 pandemic, so much information has been flying around - some of it good and some not so good. Official information from Government and health authorities would be solidly in the good camp, but sometimes there's been a reluctance to provide us with all the information. Take blood clotting for example. In the USA, information has been made widely available and their vaccine advisory panel meets in public. On today's Coronacast, why being transparent in medical decision making processes can help ease the public's concerns. Also on today's show: * Some good news out of Israel and good news about vaccination numbers in Australia * Quick Fire Friday returns!

American health regulators have paused the use of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine, following reports of rare blood clotting in six recipients. Like the AstraZeneca vaccine, Johnson & Johnson is what's known as a viral vector vaccine - where another virus is used like a taxi to deliver a bit of coronavirus to help teach the immune system. So on today's Coronacast, what are viral vector vaccines and could the rare blood-clots be a problem with them more broadly? Also on today's show: * What do the data show regarding the risks of clotting for people over the age of 50? * What can we learn from the US vaccine rollout? (We hear from special guest Anthony Fauci, who Tegan interviewed as part of an event presented by UNSW)

With all the talk of blood clots, various levels of risk and worries about possible coronavirus outbreaks over winter, it's important to remember that vaccines do save lives. And they especially help older people because they are at the most at risk of dying from COVID-19. Scientists have recently revisited the chances of dying if you're infected with coronavirus, and found an exponential growth in the death rate the older you get. So on today's Coronacast, we revisit a question from the beginning: without vaccination, how deadly can coronavirus be? Also on today's show: * A second Australian has the blood clotting syndrome post AstraZeneca vaccine * Informed consent. What are you actually agreeing to? * Why is everyone talking about "no fault compensation" in relation to vaccines?

The Federal Government has jettisoned vaccine rollout targets and the Prime Minister says there's no point creating them anyway because COVID-19 "writes its own rules". Instead, the government is "just getting on with it" in rolling out the coronavirus vaccine to the Australian population. But with few details and limited vaccine supply, it's hard to tell at the moment how the Federal Government plans to do it. However we do have AstraZeneca vaccines available and Pfizer is due to deliver many millions more eventually, so on today's Coronacast, a guess on how Australia's rocky rollout might be achieved by year's end.

The Federal Government has jettisoned vaccine rollout targets and the Prime Minister says there's no point creating them anyway because COVID-19 "writes its own rules". Instead, the government is "just getting on with it" in rolling out the coronavirus vaccine to the Australian population. But with few details and limited vaccine supply, it's hard to tell at the moment how the Federal Government plans to do it. However we do have AstraZeneca vaccines available and Pfizer is due to deliver many millions more eventually, so on today's Coronacast, a guess on how Australia's rocky rollout might be achieved by year's end.

A lot has happened with the coronavirus vaccine rollout over the last week. Firstly, it's been recommended that the AstraZeneca vaccine not be given to under 50 year-old due to concerns about rare blood clotting. And secondly, there's been significant debate about why the rollout has been taking longer than anyone expected. So on today's Coronacast, it's time to take a rollout reset. Let's look through exactly what's happened over the last week and find out what it all means.

After two coronavirus clusters sparked a sharp, three-day lockdown, greater Brisbane has opened back up just in time for Easter weekend. But the outbreak hasn't been without its fallout, with Byron Bay having to cancel a major music festival for the second year in a row and some restrictions remaining in place in Queensland and northern New South Wales. Meanwhile, Australia's vaccine rollout has had a slow start, and some of the reasons why are becoming clearer. So where do we rank internationally, and what's the end goal for global vaccine coverage? Also on today's Coronacast: * What's the latest with the vaccine rollout pace? * How does Australia rank internationally in terms of vaccine coverage? * New results on how the Pfizer vaccine performs in kids aged 12-15 years And we're taking a break! Coronacast will be back in your pod feed on Monday 12 April.

After two coronavirus clusters sparked a sharp, three-day lockdown, greater Brisbane has opened back up just in time for Easter weekend. But the outbreak hasn't been without its fallout, with Byron Bay having to cancel a major music festival for the second year in a row and some restrictions remaining in place in Queensland and northern New South Wales. Meanwhile, Australia's vaccine rollout has had a slow start, and some of the reasons why are becoming clearer. So where do we rank internationally, and what's the end goal for global vaccine coverage? Also on today's Coronacast: * What's the latest with the vaccine rollout pace? * How does Australia rank internationally in terms of vaccine coverage? * New results on how the Pfizer vaccine performs in kids aged 12-15 years And we're taking a break! Coronacast will be back in your pod feed on Monday 12 April.

After two coronavirus clusters sparked a sharp, three-day lockdown, greater Brisbane has opened back up just in time for Easter weekend. But the outbreak hasn't been without its fallout, with Byron Bay having to cancel a major music festival for the second year in a row and some restrictions remaining in place in Queensland and northern New South Wales.  Meanwhile, Australia's vaccine rollout has had a slow start, and some of the reasons why are becoming clearer. So where do we rank internationally, and what's the end goal for global vaccine coverage? That's on today's Coronacast.  Also on today's Coronacast:  - What's the latest with the vaccine rollout pace?  - How does Australia rank internationally in terms of vaccine coverage?  - New results on how the Pfizer vaccine performs in kids aged 12-15 years And we're taking a break! Coronacast will be back in your pod feed on Monday 12 April. Happy Easter -- wear a mask and wash your hands!

Millions of Queenslanders will be hoping for good news today when announcements are made whether Brisbane's lockdown will end or continue in some way. Yesterday saw two community cases of transmission in Queensland, and one popping up in northern New South Wales. While it's hoped that health authorities are getting on top of things, it will still be a few days before we know for sure. That's on today's Coronacast. Also on the show: * Federal-State relations getting a touch tetchy * More worries about AstraZeneca and reports of blood clots * The DL on making mRNA vaccines in Australia. Is it really that hard? GUEST: Colin Pouton, Professor of Pharmaceutical Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences

The extent of the outbreak in Brisbane has become clearer, after authorities revealed that they were dealing with two separate coronavirus clusters. And at the heart of both outbreaks are health care workers who have somehow contracted it from COVID positive patients in hospital. As they work closely with patients, healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable to contracting the virus. But on today's Coronacast, with vaccines now available and a year's worth of knowledge about the virus why are health workers still getting COVID at work? Also on today's show: * Is there a case for vaccinating younger populations first considering they tend to be more active within the community? * Should I cancel my travel for the holidays? * You mentioned that the AstraZeneca vaccine 'escapes the South African variant to some extent'. Can you talk about that some more?

Until yesterday, the outbreak in Brisbane looked small and manageable, but it just shows how fast things can change in a pandemic. Today is the first day greater Brisbane will spend in at least a three day snap lockdown, after a rise in community transmission cases. So on today's Coronacast what changed so quickly? And why do we need lockdowns now when we have vaccines? Also on today's show: * My parents have just had the COVID vaccine and are flying to Melbourne from Queensland. Will the vaccine cause them to test positive? * When will I receive my vaccine? I'm of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander descent. Will the vaccine stop me from getting COVID-19 and or spreading it?

It's been a while, but an Australian state is again dealing with an outbreak of COVID-19. Queensland detected a positive case of the so-called UK variant - B117 - on Thursday. A second case was detected over the weekend that may be the link to the existing cluster. In a positive sign, the number of tests in Queensland jumped over the weekend - but considering how long the person was infectious out in the community, it'll be a few more days before we can see how far it might have spread. So on today's Coronacast, last time this happened the city was plunged into a three day lockdown. What's different this time? Also on today's show: * Clinical advice from Victorial about AstraZeneca and thrombosis * I had my jab of AstraZeneca and I had a fever and headaches. I gather this is normal. Why do we get these symptoms? * Does taking paracetamol after vaccination reduce the efficacy of the vaccine?

Australia's expert advisory group on vaccines has recommended the COVID-19 vaccine be deferred for people who have a history of specific rare blood clotting disorders. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation says for the time being it recommends that vaccination with any COVID-19 vaccine should be deferred for people who have a history of two very rare and specific conditions. This is the first time a warning has been given for COVID-19 vaccines in Australia, and the recommendation applies to both Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines, although the current concerns have been focussed on the latter. So on today's Coronacast, why has the expert panel decided to make this move now? And for the very small number of people affected, what should they keep an eye out for if receiving a vaccine? Also on today's show: * AstraZeneca releases more figures regarding its vaccine's effectiveness And the return of Quick Fire Friday!

There are still so many things we don't fully understand about COVID, but one of the big mysteries is long COVID. Experienced by up to 30 per cent of people who get the virus, long COVID can be debilitating and incredibly frustrating and scary for people who have it because it's so hard to provide solid answers to questions. But in a large survey a new study reports the most common symptoms, saying it's a "critical first step" to ensure medical treatments can be developed. So on today's Coronacast, what can the survey reveal about the mysterious long COVID? Also on today's show: * What is going on with Astra's US trial results? * And Norman clarifies comments around the pill

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has signed off on the release of 800,000 locally manufactured AstraZeneca vaccines, which might soon help boost the total number of shots delivered in Australia. So far, Australia's rollout of the vaccine has been slow - due in part to limited supply but also due to the way the system has been set up to deliver vaccines. But the reality is that to vaccinate the entire population by the target date of October, there'll have to be a serious ramping up soon. So as today's Coronacast explains, with every passing day, the harder it'll be to reach those targets. Also on today's show: * We have a TGA response to (some) questions regarding German research into reports of blood clotting issues surrounding AstraZeneca vaccines * What we know and what we don't about blood clotting reports

Researchers in Germany say they've identified what could be behind the reports of blood clotting in people who have had the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. The German team - in yet to be released pre-print research - say that the vaccine could in rare circumstances cause an autoimmune reaction that leads to clots. The findings have yet to be peer reviewed, but the team says people who are likely to be affected could be identified if they are at higher risk by a screening test. So on today's Coronacast, a rundown of the findings that could offer a reason for the reported blood clotting issues.

The UK and Europe are vaccinating people in their millions but the scale of the pandemic there means they're still in catch up mode. Experts have warned that variants that may not be fully covered by our current vaccines are continuing to emerge and spread. So on today's Coronacast, while here in Australia we're still sitting relatively pretty with very few cases, what does this mean for our ability to reopen borders anytime in the foreseeable future?

For those with symptoms of COVID months after being infected, there could be good news on the horizon. People with long COVID report being fatigued and unable to concentrate after contracting the virus. Now a study - which has not yet been peer-reviewed - has found that some long COVID sufferers report feeling significantly better in the days after receiving a coronavirus vaccine. On today's Coronacast, what could this study mean for people suffering from long COVID and what does it tell us about COVID-19? Also on today's show: * What could Europe's Astra pause mean for the global rollout? * What do reports of blood clotting mean for people who've had strokes or clots in the past? * A baby of vaccinated mother born with antibodies

The government has been urging Australians to embrace covid vaccines but now that phase 1b is just days away, the infrastructure underpinning this is being put to the test. About 6 million Aussies fall into the coming phase, and about 1000 GP clinics are part of the rollout plan. But many people, keen to get the vaccine and trying to book appointments, are being told clinics listed on the government website aren't part of the rollout, or that they haven't yet received vaccines and don't know when they will. On today's Coronacast, why is it so hard for Australia to scale up its vaccination rollout? And do these early delays risk putting people off getting their shots? Also on today's show: * A look at why Germany may have halted the AstraZeneca rollout

Australian health authorities and regulators have assured the public that there is currently no evidence to suggest the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is not safe or is causing blood clots. It's come in response to several European countries pausing the AstraZeneca vaccine rollout amid blood clot concerns. The European Medicines Agency is currently investigating reports, and is due to report back on Thursday, and as such the Australian rollout will continue. So on today's Coronacast, what we know and what we don't about this whole story about blood clots.

It's now several weeks into Australia's vaccine rollout, and while people are being immunised daily, there hasn't exactly been a massive ramp up. 165,000 people have been immunised so far, which is behind what the Federal Government had hoped to achieve. The target was 4 million people initially set for early April, which is only a few weeks away. So on today's Coronacast, what's the hold up with the vaccine rollout? Supply or delivery? Also on today's show: * Astra effective against 1.351 and B117 (in Syrian hamsters) * Queensland worried about coronavirus wave in PNG * A bit more on the NSW security guard who tested positive for COVID-19, despite being vaccinated

Coronavirus has slipped past our infection control systems once again, with health authorities in two states again chasing down the virus. In NSW, the hotel quarantine system seems to have been breached with a vaccinated security guard testing positive over the weekend. And in Queensland, a doctor has been infected after assessing a known COVID positive patient in hospital. So on today's Coronacast, can we expect this to happen less once the vaccine is further rolled out to frontline workers or is something we have to keep living with? Also on today's show: * Please tell us about the stories saying that the Astra-Zeneca vaccine is causing blood clots * A survey shows more people want to get vaccinated than in December 2020

Coronavirus has slipped past our infection control systems once again, with health authorities in two states again chasing down the virus. In NSW, the hotel quarantine system seems to have been breached with a vaccinated security guard testing positive over the weekend. And in Queensland, a doctor has been infected after assessing a known COVID positive patient in hospital. So on today's Coronacast, can we expect this to happen less once the vaccine is further rolled out to frontline workers or is something we have to keep living with? Also on today's show: * Please tell us about the stories saying that the Astra-Zeneca vaccine is causing blood clots * A survey shows more people want to get vaccinated than in December 2020

When public figures talk about the coronavirus vaccine, you might hear that it's amazing that it was developed so quickly. While many are keen to talk up the amazing efforts of scientists, the statement that the vaccine was developed quickly can actually cause many people to worry. And in reality, the coronavirus vaccines being rolled out in Australia were NOT developed all that quickly, and were approved via exactly the same process as every other drug you've ever taken. So on today's Coronacast, the story behind the development of COVID vaccines and why it seems they popped up so fast. Also on today's show: * What does 100 percent more deadly even mean? * And it's time for Quick Fire Friday and we actually get through quite a few today.

When public figures talk about the coronavirus vaccine, you might hear that it's amazing that it was developed so quickly. While many are keen to talk up the amazing efforts of scientists, the statement that the vaccine was developed quickly can actually cause many people to worry. And in reality, the coronavirus vaccines being rolled out in Australia were NOT developed all that quickly, and were approved via exactly the same process as every other drug you've ever taken. So on today's Coronacast, the story behind the development of COVID vaccines and why it seems they popped up so fast. Also on today's show: * What does 100 percent more deadly even mean? * And it's time for Quick Fire Friday and we actually get through quite a few today.

A year ago today, the World Health Organisation officially declared the coronavirus outbreak a "pandemic". In reality, it'd been clear for some time that the SARS-CoV-2 virus wasn't going to go away anytime soon. Cases outside China had been growing fast and Italy was going into its first big lockdown. So on today's Coronacast, a look back to what we've learnt and how far we've come. Also on today's show: * Adelaide's water keeps throwing up coronavirus alerts * Getting local vaccine into bottles * What if the vaccines don't work on the new variants?

A year ago today, the World Health Organisation officially declared the coronavirus outbreak a "pandemic". In reality, it'd been clear for some time that the SARS-CoV-2 virus wasn't going to go away anytime soon. Cases outside China had been growing fast and Italy was going into its first big lockdown. So on today's Coronacast, a look back to what we've learnt and how far we've come. Also on today's show: * Adelaide's water keeps throwing up coronavirus alerts * Getting local vaccine into bottles * What if the vaccines don't work on the new variants?

In the scramble to get the coronavirus vaccines through rigorous safety and dosage clinical trials, many types of people weren't included in the studies. One massive group are people who are affected - or have been affected - by cancer. People with cancer are more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and have a higher risk of suffering severe disease, so a vaccine is a vital part of their health care. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about how the vaccine works with people who have cancer? Also on today's show: * Norman and Tegan discuss a new study looking at how the Pfizer vaccine responds to the so-called Brazilian variant * More on convergent evolution and swimming kangaroos

In the scramble to get the coronavirus vaccines through rigorous safety and dosage clinical trials, many types of people weren't included in the studies. One massive group are people who are affected - or have been affected - by cancer. People with cancer are more vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and have a higher risk of suffering severe disease, so a vaccine is a vital part of their health care. So on today's Coronacast, what do we know about how the vaccine works with people who have cancer? Also on today's show: * Norman and Tegan discuss a new study looking at how the Pfizer vaccine responds to the so-called Brazilian variant * More on convergent evolution and swimming kangaroos

The global effort to vaccinate as many people as possible, as quickly as possible is gathering pace, but new variants have thrown a few curve balls. Australia has secured enough vaccines to immunise everyone several times over, but would a better long-term public health strategy be to vaccinate those in surrounding poorer countries first? The idea behind this is that large COVID-19 affected populations are more likely to throw off new variants, which might be worse than what we're currently dealing with. So on today's Coronacast, since Australia has very little virus, why not send what we've got overseas? Also on today's show: * Is there a limit to the number of variants that usually arise from a virus like coronavirus? * We've heard a lot about the so-called South African and UK variants, but what do we know about the Brazil variant?

In a worrying turn, Europe has had an uptick in new coronavirus infections last week ending six weeks straight of declines. More than a million cases were recorded last week, with The World Health Organisation saying variants first identified in South Africa, the United Kingdom and Brazil are behind the rise. Closer to home, two people have tested positive to the so-called South African variant while in hotel quarantine in Canberra. So on today's Coronacast, will we be able to vaccinate enough people in time before the new variants become dominant around the world? Also on today's show: * The nation's GPs are to play a huge role in the rollout of the vaccine. How much will it cost you to visit?

In a worrying turn, Europe has had an uptick in new coronavirus infections last week ending six weeks straight of declines. More than a million cases were recorded last week, with The World Health Organisation saying variants first identified in South Africa, the United Kingdom and Brazil are behind the rise. Closer to home, two people have tested positive to the so-called South African variant while in hotel quarantine in Canberra. So on today's Coronacast, will we be able to vaccinate enough people in time before the new variants become dominant around the world? Also on today's show: * The nation's GPs are to play a huge role in the rollout of the vaccine. How much will it cost you to visit?

It seems we can't go a day without some new coronavirus variant popping up somewhere in the world. There's the so-called UK variant, the Brazil variant, the Californian variant and now the Russian variant. And to make it even more confusing, the name of the variant doesn't necessarily mean that's where the variant actually came from. So on today's Coronacast, what are the variants? What is with their names and why are some concerning and others a bit boring? Also on today's show: * What is the likelihood of simultaneous infection of two different variants of COVID-19? * Can you suggest or recommend any strategies for those who suffer from needle phobia but would still like to get vaccinated? * A clarification on our use of the word "average" And it's time for some more Quick Fire Friday!

With the passing of another day, more Australians have been vaccinated against COVID. But as more and more of us get either the Pfizer vaccine or the Astra vaccine, proving it may become important as we take steps to reopen borders and the economy. One strategy that's been tried overseas in countries like Israel are what's known as vaccine passports - the idea being that to get into a movie or a gym, you need to prove you've been fully vaccinated. But on today's Coronacast, that raises both ethical and practical concerns. Also on today's show: * Can you have the injection in the bum, instead of the arm? * NSW to vaccinate border workers and families

The first week of coronavirus vaccinations has now rolled out across Australia, and the data show that already we've missed our goals. According to analysis by the ABC, the country has fallen short of its target, delivering half the expected number of shots. Health Minister Greg Hunt says the Federal Government remains committed to meeting the end of October target. So on today's Coronacast, what have been some of the early hold ups and are they anything to worry about? Also on today's show: * I work in hotel quarantine and actively trying to get pregnant. Should I get the vaccine? * Can we get an update on the Johnson and Johnson vaccine? Is it coming to Australia? * Why do you keep talking about the next pandemic?

With limited amounts of coronavirus vaccines available, health care organisations are taking extreme steps to ensure not a drop is wasted. Rollout plans that would normally take many months to develop have been done in mere weeks to ensure essential workers at the nation's borders are as protected as possible. On today's Coronacast, how is the rollout going on the front line of the vaccine rollout? And how are organisations handling training to make sure the correct doses are given? Also on the show: * Why does Dr Swan keep talking down the Astra vaccine when it is just as effective against serious illness and death as the Pfizer vaccine

The AstraZeneca vaccine has arrived in Australia, and the Federal Government says it will start rolling out to people in the priority phase 1a group within the next few weeks. But the evidence suggests it's not as effective as the Pfizer shot at protecting people against new variants and preventing transmission. Australia's main risk from another coronavirus outbreak is a hotel quarantine leak, so is the Astra vaccine the right shot for people working on our borders? On today's Coronacast, a look at Australia's vaccine strategy. Also: Auckland goes into a week long lockdown, but this time New Zealand is facing something it hasn't had to worry about before.

At the moment life has returned to a COVID-normal in Australia with state borders gradually reopening after the outbreak in Melbourne. It comes as vaccines continue to rollout across the country, and a small but regular supply of the Pfizer shot arrives. So now we have access to a vaccine, how will that change how we respond to any outbreak that happens from now on? On today's Coronacast, will it be business as usual - ie lockdowns and restrictions - or could a new strategy be introduced? Also on today's show: * How old is Norman again? He's so old. What vaccine does he qualify for? And it's Quick Fire Friday time, where we explain why doctors need immunisation training, what Pfizer is diluted with and why there are lots of doses in one vial.

An 88-year-old man and a 94-year-old woman in Queensland were given the incorrect doses of the Pfizer vaccine on Tuesday. It's still under investigation how much extra they were given, and the doctor who administered the drug has been stood down from the vaccine program. It was revealed yesterday that the doctor had not completed the required vaccination training. So on today's Coronacast what happens if you receive too much of the Pfizer vaccine, and how did the health system react to the mistake? Also: * We're also joined by Professor John Skerritt, who heads up the Therapeutic Goods Administration which has approved the use of the Pfizer and Astra vaccine for use in Australia. So what's he got to say about the timelines for reopening Australia to the rest of the world? And what are his thoughts on the efficacy of the Astra vaccine especially in regards to the so-called South African variant?

If you don't have an auto-immune disease, you probably know and love someone who does. These are diseases where the body's immune system attacks healthy cells, and they include conditions like type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. And plenty of people with these conditions have been asking the ABC: what happens if you have an auto-immune disease and get coronavirus? And is it safe for me to have a COVID vaccine? Today on Coronacast, why it's extra important for the 1 in 14 people with an auto-immune disease to get vaccinated against COVID, and what the research is telling us about these people's concerns. Also on today's show: * Should I just wait to get the Novavax vaccine? * Norman says that vaccines have the potential to make SARS-CoV-2 "like the common cold". But don't people who have mild or even no symptoms of a COVID-19 infection often wind up with lasting organ damage? * What's the difference between the words inoculation, immunisation and vaccination?

If you don't have an auto-immune disease, you probably know and love someone who does. These are diseases where the body's immune system attacks healthy cells, and they include conditions like type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. And plenty of people with these conditions have been asking the ABC: what happens if you have an auto-immune disease and get coronavirus? And is it safe for me to have a COVID vaccine? Today on Coronacast, why it's extra important for the 1 in 14 people with an auto-immune disease to get vaccinated against COVID, and what the research is telling us about these people's concerns. Also on today's show: * Should I just wait to get the Novavax vaccine? * Norman says that vaccines have the potential to make SARS-CoV-2 "like the common cold". But don't people who have mild or even no symptoms of a COVID-19 infection often wind up with lasting organ damage? * What's the difference between the words inoculation, immunisation and vaccination?

As the coronavirus vaccine rollout continues across the country, it's left many wondering when it'll be their chance to go and get a shot. So far, there hasn't been a huge amount of specific information released as to when larger groups of Australians will be vaccinated. So on today's Coronacast, what we know about when the vaccine is coming for large groups of Australia and what we don't yet know. Also on today's show: * My work colleague says she doesn't want to get a COVID vaccine because, according to her brother who is a doctor, the vaccine is 'DNA altering'. Please can you set the record straight? * Aside from hotel quarantine, when do you see us relaxing the other restrictions we are still living with? And Norman has the results from a study on Vitamin D. Does it help protect against COVID or not? GUEST: Lauren Roberts, ABC health reporter The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine rollout is underway in Australia. Here are your questions answered: https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2021-02-22/covid-19-vaccines-pfizer-astrazeneca-australia-coronavirus/13158870

Australia's coronavirus vaccination campaign started a day earlier than expected yesterday, with an 85 year-old World War Two survivor being the first in the country to receive a COVID vaccine. Ever since the pandemic began last year, vaccinations have been keenly anticipated as a way of hopefully returning to a more normal life. But if international modelling is anything to go by, it could be a while longer before things like overseas travel are back. On today's Coronacast, why vaccination is only the end of the beginning.

Scientists are slowly discovering more about the so-called UK strain, or more precisely the variant of coronavirus known as B.117. The variant of concern is often said to be more infectious and faster moving, and now scientists think it might keep its human host infectious for longer. It could have ramifications for the way our hotel quarantine system is run. So on today's Coronacast, what else have scientists worked out about the UK strain that is becoming more and more common around the world? Also on today's show: * I've heard multiple doses of the vaccine are coming from the same bottle. What's the deal? * How protected am I after my first vaccine shot? How long do I need to wait for full protection after my second shot?

The World Health Organisation has reported that the number of new coronavirus cases around the world has fallen 16 per cent compared to the week before. In more good news, the number of deaths has also fallen 10 per cent. It comes as the global vaccine rollout continues, with millions of doses being administered. So on today's Coronacast are vaccines finally starting to see off the worst of the pandemic? Or could the fall be down to something else? Also on today's show: * NSW announces it'll vaccinate 35,000 frontline workers over the next three weeks * Victoria comes out of lockdown after five days * A clarification on yesterday's comments regarding the Astra vaccine and efficacy rates * If a person takes the AstraZeneca vaccine would it be medically safe for the same person to also get another COVID vaccine?

The Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine has been approved for use in Australia, but it comes with fine print around who should get it. In its approval, the Therapeutic Goods Administration noted that the "decision to immunise an elderly patient should be decided on a case-by-case basis with consideration of age, co-morbidities and their environment". While there are no safety concerns for people who are aged over 65, there weren't enough people infected with COVID-19 in the clinical trials to determine efficacy in that age group. So on today's Coronacast, why didn't the TGA give the Astra vaccine carte blanche for everyone over 18?

142,000 doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine have arrived in Australia, and will soon be divvied up and given to people next week. While it's a great start, it's only the beginning of a very long process to get as many as people across Australia vaccinated by the end of the year. It's a huge challenge, and obstacles include keeping the Pfizer vaccine cold enough, making sure the right people receive it first and keeping records to ensure it's working as hoped. So on today's Coronacast, what's next for the rollout of the coronavirus vaccine? Also on today's show: * Study finds anaphylaxis to be rare after mRNA vaccinations * An update on Melbourne's case numbers * What can infection, age and obesity tell us about super-spreading? * Why COVID-19 is not like the flu

The Holiday Inn outbreak in Melbourne has continued to grow, despite the city being in hard lockdown now for two days. Additional exposure sites have been identified, with the popular Queen Victoria Market being added to the ever-growing list. The five-day lockdown was sold as a 'circuit breaker' to put a stop to the so-called UK coronavirus variant before it could spread too far. So on today's Coronacast with all the cases so far being linked back to the original outbreak and no mystery cases, what's the chance Victoria can come out of lockdown on Wednesday? Also on today's show: * A special guest interview with Dominic Dwyer, who has just returned from a WHO mission to China to try and track down the origins of coronavirus. How did he go?

The Holiday Inn cluster in Melbourne has continued to grow, with close contacts yesterday testing positive to COVID and more exposure sites being added to the growing list. So far, 11 people are connected to the outbreak which started in a Melbourne hotel quarantine facility before being spread to workers and another resident. Other states are keenly looking on - deciding if they should once again throw up border closures and restrictions. But the next moves will all depend on how hot the hotspot in Melbourne is. So on today's Coronacast, what makes an outbreak hot or not? Also on today's show: * How big of a pinch of salt should we be taking the WHO investigation in China? * Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly says the Astra vaccine will very shortly receive TGA approval * Why didn't SARS-CoV-1 not blow out to the proportion like the current SARS-CoV-2? GUEST: Hassan Vally, epidemiologist, Associate Professor at La Trobe University

Melbourne has temporarily shut down one of its quarantine hotels for deep cleaning after several different people seemed to catch it from within the facility. The 'working theory', according to Victorian chief health officer Brett Sutton, is that the virus may have spread further than expected because someone with COVID in the hotel had to use a nebuliser for medical reasons. It's one of a couple of times in the past week or so that someone's caught the virus in a quarantine hotel, apparently without any close contact with an active case. So on today's Coronacast, what does this mean for our understanding of how the coronavirus spreads through the air? Also on today's show: * Do quarantine hotels have an airflow problem? * How did a NSW returning traveller test negative twice, then positive after their 14-day quarantine? * What did the WHO fact-finding team discover about the origins of the virus on their trip to China? Is there any chance it escaped from a lab? * Do vaccines for other diseases only prevent severe illness and not infection, like we keep hearing about coronavirus vaccines? (NOTE: This episode was recorded before two additional cases were announced by the Victorian Government)

Never before have we watched vaccines being developed in real time, and so rapidly. There's elation one day as a vaccine is announced to be safe and highly effective; disappointment another day when it's revealed it doesn’t work as well against new variants. And the backdrop to this is wonder and sometimes suspicion that these vaccines are able to have been developed so quickly. So today on Coronacast, how you can make sense of the rollercoaster that is waiting for a vaccine rollout, what sources to trust and should you try to convince your vaccine hesitant friend to get vaccinated? GUEST: Julie Leask, Professor at University of Sydney in the Faculty of Medicine and Health