It accounted for 60% of COVID cases in the UK by March and is expected to fuel a significant rise in Australian infections this winter.
Although the variant doesn’t appear to cause more severe symptoms, experts say it’s highly contagious — and Australia’s waning immunity could make it more dangerous.
“As we go into winter, more people will be gathering indoors together, which helps the virus spread,” said Professor Catherine Bennett, epidemiologist at Deakin University.
“It’s been a while since most people had a COVID infection or booster, and that means our protection is declining.”
Vaccination: Your Best Line of Defense
Health officials are urging everyone, especially those over 65 and people with chronic conditions, to get vaccinated before the end of May to stay protected during the anticipated surge.
