Illustration by Afra Almazrouei
The Brief: Corona at Your Door
From updated travel guidelines to clinical trials for a Russian vaccine candidate, The Gazelle brings you the latest Covid-19 news.
Dec 13, 2020
By the Numbers: Cases and Deaths
Note: North America Cases and Deaths now includes the United States. All case and death statistics are derived from WHO and ECDC.
For more information about coronavirus cases around the world and interactive maps, visit Our World in Data.
Let’s Get Away From It All
As travel resumes and students prepare to return to campus, it is important to follow the guidelines to travel safely. Although health authorities maintain that cabin air is not a vital concern, passengers flying on most major airlines are still required to wear a mask. It is also recommended to carry hand sanitizer and extra masks while flying and to constantly practice hand hygiene.
First Doses
Abu Dhabi has begun volunteer clinical trials for a Russian Covid-19 vaccine candidate, Sputnik V. 500 volunteers will receive the vaccine, which developers claim to be 91.4% effective in preventing new infections. Sputnik V will reportedly sell for less than 20 USD in international markets, competing with Pfizer’s and Moderna’s pricier candidates.
The first doses of the Pfizer vaccine have arrived in several countries around the world as healthcare systems prepare their rollout plans. In the United Kingdom, the first dose was given to Margaret Keenan, a 90-year old grandmother.
Although vaccine approvals have raised the spirits of the global population, experts warn that much is still uncertain and caution is necessary. Reinfection is becoming a recognized issue among experts and could determine how long a vaccine may be effective.
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