Coronavirus daily update – 18 January

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Tuesday.

1. Moderna aims to launch a single coronavirus and flu booster jab within two years. The combined vaccine should be ready in time for the winter season in 2023.
2. Coronavirus triage marquees are to be set up at major WA hospitals to cope with a surge in cases. Sir Charles Gairdner emergency department has taken the lead here with a large marquee already erected. The system is designed to try and keep coronavirus-positive patients separate from non-coronavirus patients. All patients presenting to emergency will start at the marquee.
3. As of 6pm on Monday 17 January mandatory mask wearing is now in place in all indoor public settings in the South West region. The advice includes anyone who has been in the South West since 12 January.
4. The ACCC has significant concerns about the retail price of rapid antigen tests, reportedly costing between $20-30 per test and sometimes over $70 a test through smaller retail outlets, despite wholesale costs ranging between $3.95 and $11.45 a test. Some online marketplaces have been charging up to $500 for two tests. Consumers can expect to pay no more than $20. Concession card holders should be able to get the tests for free.
5. Beijing city officials have recommended people stop ordering items to be delivered from overseas, after a local woman may have been infected by Omicron after opening a parcel.