Australia Sees Surge in COVID Cases; Vaccination Rate Speeds Up

Victoria, the second-most populous state in Australia has seen the biggest one-day rise in covid-19 cases this year on Thursday. Over 514 new cases were detected as compared to last year which recorded only 473.
However, nationwide vaccination rates are also seen rising as the county boosts its immunization campaign to have as many citizens vaccinated as possible. Sydney and Melbourne are struggling to cope with a possible third wave of infections as Delta Variant becomes a threat. Over 20 million of the population has been advised to stay at home.
On the other hand, coronavirus infections in Australia are still considered lower in comparison to other countries. The government has promised to ease restrictions soon as more people get vaccinated. 44% of citizens over the age of 16 have been fully vaccinated while 60% have received one vaccine shot.
New South Wales reported 12 covid related deaths out of which 10 people were unvaccinated. Sydney has implemented a nightly curfew in suburban areas where the infection rate is extremely high. It is expected that the 70% vaccination mark will be achieved by Friday in Victoria.
Anti-lockdown protests have erupted in Melbourne as residents go through their sixth lockdown so far. Authorities and the government are encouraging people to become fully vaccinated to help minimize the risk of growing covid cases.