Newborn pygmy hippo calf makes its world debut at Australian zoo
A newborn pygmy hippo calf makes its world debut at an Australian zoo.
Study suggests past COVID-19 infection may not fend off omicron variant
A research group has been tracking reinfections in South Africa and reported a jump with the arrival of omicron that they hadn't seen when two previous variants, including the extra-contagious delta variant, moved through the country.
Omicron: WHO says measures used against delta should work for new variant
The WHO says measures like higher vaccination rates, social-distancing guidelines and wearing masks should remain the foundation for fighting the pandemic.
Pfizer asks FDA to expand emergency use of COVID-19 booster to include 16, 17-year-olds
The request comes as the world rushes to learn more about the new and highly transmissible omicron variant first discovered by South Africa.
Germany bans unvaccinated from nonessential stores, recreational venues
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said people who aren't vaccinated against COVID-19 will be excluded from nonessential stores, cultural and recreational venues.
Greece to impose monthly fine on unvaccinated residents over 60
Greek residents have until Jan. 16 to get their first jabs, or will be fined 100 euros ($113) for every month they remain unvaccinated.
Barbados cuts ties with Queen Elizabeth II, becomes republic for 1st time
Barbados has stopped pledging allegiance to Queen Elizabeth II and officially became a republic. A ceremony was attended by Prince Charles and Rihanna.
Spain's La Palma volcano spewing new lava, posing more threats to evacuees
The eruption on the island, which lies on the western end of the Canary Islands archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, began on Sept. 19.
WHO says omicron variant poses 'very high risk'
The U.N. health agency, in a technical paper issued to member states, said "considerable uncertainties” remain about the variant that was first detected days ago in southern Africa.
Omicron shows need for global accord on pandemics, WHO chief says
The WHO is pushing for an international accord to help prevent future pandemics amid the emergence of the new omicron COVID-19 variant.
‘Chanukah Sameach’ : Biden recognizes Hanukkah 2021 with well wishes
“From our family to yours, and from the People’s House to your own homes, Jill and I wish you and your loved ones a Chanukah Sameach, a Happy Hanukkah!” President Joe Biden said in a statement.
WHO disagrees with flight bans over omicron variant
WHO's regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, called on countries to follow science and international health regulations in order to avoid using travel restrictions.
Canada is latest country to confirm cases of omicron variant
Canada is among several countries Sunday to report omicron cases. Canada said its two known cases are linked to travel from Nigeria.
Peru struck by magnitude-7.5 earthquake, USGS says
The quake occurred at 5:52 a.m. (1052 GMT) and its epicenter was in the Amazon region, 42 kilometers (26 miles) north northwest of the city of Barranca. It had a magnitude of 7.5, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Avenue of the Sphinxes: Egypt unveils renovated ancient promenade
After spending the last 50 years excavating the Avenue of the Sphinxes, Egypt put it on display Thursday in a made-for-tv event few cultures could rival.
State Department issues 'do not travel' warnings to 8 countries amid omicron variant concerns
South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana were all put under a level 4 “do not travel” advisory by the U.S. State Department on Saturday.
Omicron variant emerges in more countries as world on high alert
In the U.S., Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government’s top infectious diseases expert, said he would not be surprised if the omicron variant was already in the United States, too.
Omicron: Why WHO skipped 'nu' and 'xi' in Greek alphabet when naming latest variant
The WHO skipped the Greek letters nu and xi when naming the omicron variant. A spokesperson told FOX News Saturday the reason for that.
Omicron: South African scientists brace for wave propelled by variant
The country’s numbers are still relatively low, but omicron’s speed in infecting young South Africans alarms experts.
Fauci says omicron variant could be ‘red flag,’ urges COVID-19 boosters for all
“I keep saying it over and over, the next couple of months are going to be up to us. I mean, we, right now, have a tool, a very effective tool,” Dr. Anthony Fauci said, urging vaccination amid news of the worrying new omicron variant.