U.S. breaks COVID-19 hospitalization record at over 132,000 as Omicron surges

13 Sept 04:27 Key points summarised by AI

U.S. COVID-19 hospitalizations reached a new record of 132,646, surpassing the previous high set in January last year.
The highly contagious Omicron variant is driving this surge, causing hospitalizations to double in the last three weeks and becoming the dominant strain.
Numerous states and territories are reporting record levels of COVID-19 patients, straining health systems already facing staff shortages.
Daily new cases have soared to a seven-day average of 704,000, with deaths also increasing to 1,700 per day.

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Today 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.