BA.5 confirmed as dominant strain in Australia The latest Omicron variant has overtaken BA.2 and now accounts for roughly half of all current cases across the country.
Extra 7.4 million eligible for fourth COVID shot ATAGI recommends that everyone aged 50–64 should get a second booster, while those between 30–49 may also receive a fourth dose.
New diabetes medication shortage will impact patient care The semaglutide shortage is having a flow on effect, with dulaglutide now also in short supply until at least the end of August.
‘Very disappointing’: UTI pharmacy prescribing pilot extended indefinitely The Queensland UTI prescription pilot will carry on despite extensive concerns raised by doctors’ groups, including the RACGP.
Concerns over vulnerable patients missing COVID-19 oral antivirals Patients in some areas are reportedly struggling to access treatments on the PBS in a timely way, even with a prescription.
Government announces last-minute delay of new telehealth rules Implementation of the proposed 30/20 and extended 80/20 restrictions have been deferred for at least the next three months.
‘Large potential burden’: Long COVID warning for GPs The number of patients with lingering symptoms will almost certainly rise, with one expert calling it a ‘very significant’ public health challenge.
Text reminders mooted for at-risk COVID-19 patients The Federal Health Minister has asked department officials for advice on ways of further raising awareness of oral antiviral treatments.
Health Secretary urged to delay telehealth rule changes Proposed changes to MBS claiming rules should be further deferred, the RACGP has said in a letter to Professor Brendan Murphy.
‘A real public health risk’: Study cites mobile phones as ‘Trojan horse’ in infection control Using swabs and DNA extraction, new research claims to have uncovered the fullest picture yet of the microbes found on mobile phones, with big implications for healthcare workers.