Coronavirus Outbreak

Israel's reproduction rate continues to decline and now stands at 0.74. EU drug regulator authorizes Pfizer vaccine booster for individuals aged 18 and older.

With no more "red" countries to look out for, Israelis are free to travel to any destination with minimal restrictions upon return. Health Ministry reports 2,653 news cases.

Health officials hope data on Israeli military personnel will help clarify the risk of heart muscle inflammation in younger people who have received Pfizer coronavirus booster shots.

An average of 8,000 deaths were reported daily across the world over the last week, or around five deaths every minute. However, the global death rate has been slowing in recent weeks.

Nachman Ash, Health Ministry director-general, says Israel may not see fifth wave. "It all depends on vaccination rates and how long vaccines remain effective," he says.

Ninety-one percent of those connected to ECMO machines unvaccinated. Mass gatherings, lack of access to vaccines reportedly behind infection spike in Arab sector.

Drugmaker says it expects to request emergency use authorization of vaccine in children ages 5 to 11 “in the coming weeks.” Israel poised for additional outbreaks following Sukkot holiday.

Confirmed Uman carriers mostly uncooperative with contact tracing, with 25% hospitalized and 19 listed in serious condition. Meanwhile, Home Front Command warns of crowds at testing sites as children return to school and vacationers return from abroad, and Coronavirus Cabinet is due to meet for the first time in a month.

Global study finds flu shot is effective in curbing coronavirus infection as well, including developing serious illness and hospitalization. Health Ministry reports 2,616 new cases and introduces new "green pass" criteria.