South African researchers say people who recovered and were vaccinated are largely protected against the new variant, vaccination alone still likely to prevent severe disease

Positive test rate at 0.75%, highest in over two weeks; majority of 5,981 active patients are schoolchildren

First research from South Africa indicates drop in effectiveness of Pfizer vaccine, but Omicron does not completely evade shot; boosters are beneficial

Health Ministry allows family of expectant mothers into Israel to assist with birth, after complaints over Miss Universe contests coming in while parents forced to stay away

But top US medical adviser warns that the new COVID mutation is probably more contagious, and that it 'might take longer to see' its true severity

Health Ministry says 5 of those infected weren't recently abroad and contracted variant after contact with travelers from South Africa, US

Government adviser says ‘significant chance’ new coronavirus strain means a phase of high infection, but top doctor thinks it may prove milder, making it ‘the variant we wish for’

Science and health writer Nathan Jeffay looks at how variant is making itself felt in Israel, while environmental reporter Sue Surkes discusses fruit bats and underground mapping

Chief US medical adviser says more studies needed, but it does not appear to be driving up hospitalizations despite rapid spread, hopeful US will lift Africa flight bans soon

Preschoolers, students in grades 1-6 will have to show signed declaration when classes resume Tuesday; health officials said considering 4th vaccine for immunocompromised