Here's the latest variant picture for Western Australia.
The XBB.1.9.* "Hyperion" clan (31%) is battling with XBB.1.5.* "Kraken" variant (23%) for dominance.
XBB.1.16.* "Arcturus" (20%) is growing quite rapidly. Be alert for conjunctivitis symptoms, which seem more common with that variant.
The variant mix in WA continues to be uniquely chaotic, reflecting it's situation as a global crossroads. Even WA residents who've been racking up regular reinfections are likely to meet globally obscure variants capable of overcoming their immunity.
The sample volumes seem representative up to May 12.
My sister is still testing positive on day 13. Just to let you all know #CovidIsNotOver#COVIDisAirborne she has no sick days left. And has had to go to work sick. We can thank our politicians for letting Covid rip on us without protections😞 #MasksWork imagine how many people are walking around transmitting this virus 🦠 #winter#perth
Here's the latest variant picture for Western Australia.
The XBB.1.5.* "Kraken" variant (20%) has continued to decline and has been overhauled by the XBB.1.9.* "Hyperion" clan (30%).
XBB.1.16.* "Arcturus" (11%) is growing a bit recently, but seems lower than in other Australian states.
The variant mix in WA continues to be uniquely chaotic, reflecting it's stituation as a global crossroads. Even WA residents who've been racking up regular reinfections are likely to meet globally obscure variants capable of overcoming their immunity.
The sample volumes seem representative up to May 2.
I'm feeling it's time for another picture from Australia.
When I was last there, this enormous sculpture by Marcus Canning stood at the entrance to Fremantle WA. It weighs about 66 tonnes and is known as Containbow (for obvious reasons).
It's a popular and cheery piece, but I believe there are plans to move it to make way for a new road bridge across the Swan River.
Every place has its season and for #Perth Western Australia it is definitely Autumn. The days are, for the most part, long and warm, the nights are cool. Autumn here is beautiful.