Troubling new variant also detected in Britain, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. Lawmakers concerned as Health Ministry backs using Shin Bet technology to track confirmed carriers. Hopes high as Merck anti-coronavirus drug proves effective in treating the disease.
Prime Minister Naftali Bennett schedules emergency meeting with health experts to discuss ways to prevent the spread of B.1.1529 in the country. In three days, 15,750 children have been vaccinated against the virus.
Prominent ultra-Orthodox Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky rules in favor of inoculating children following meeting with senior health experts.
Israeli company reports promising results of coronavirus drug trial. Over 12,000 children ages 5-11 get vaccinated with first dose since launch of campaign on Tuesday.
Despite the rise, government decides not to reimpose restrictions on public life.
COVID-19 now the region's leading cause of death, World Health Organization warns as 49 out of 53 countries face "high or extreme stress" on intensive care units.
Health officials express concern as reproduction rate continues to rise. Pfizer study shows vaccine remains 100% effective four months after the second dose in children ages 12-15.
In an official call for proposals, the government said it was crucial that Israel have an "independent capability to take counter-measures to any new pathogens."
With Israeli children eligible for COVID shot starting Tuesday, Israel Hayom speaks to the head of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center's Infectious Diseases Unit about concerns many parents may have about inoculation.
Those not considered to be fully vaccinated need only provide a positive serological test to be exempted from quarantine in violation of ministry guidelines, passengers say.
