Tue, 21-Oct-2025

South Africa sees fewer in hospital as Omicron surges

South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, Dec 17, 2021 (AFP) – Infection rates are soaring across South Africa as a result of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, but fewer people have died or required hospital treatment compared to previous waves of Covid, health officials said Friday. On Wednesday, South Africa recorded the highest number of infections the nation has ever seen in … Read more

Amid Omicron fears, Rio cancels huge New Year’s celebration

Amid Omicron fears, Rio cancels huge New Year's celebration

RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec 4, 2021 (AFP) – Rio de Janeiro has decided “with sadness” to cancel its huge New Year’s celebration amid rising concerns over the spread of the new Covid-19 variant known as Omicron. The move also raises doubts about the city’s iconic Carnival in February. “We are going to cancel the official celebration … Read more