There are calls for Australia to send AstraZeneca vaccines over to Indonesia, as the country to ensure the highly-effective vaccine brand does not go to waste
Australia has millions of AstraZeneca vaccines on hand, with millions stockpiled in storage awaiting to be used. But with the rare side effect of blood clotting linked to the jab, many Australians are opting to receive the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine instead.
Australian politician Josh Burns has called for 6 million doses of the vaccine to be shipped off and used within Indonesia, as the transcontinental country in Southeast Asia continues the rollout of the vaccine.
Mr Burns wrote to the Lowy Institute on Tuesday urging Australia’s Federal Government to not to leave the nation’s hefty stockpile of spare AstraZeneca jabs to sit in storage until they reach their expiry date, instead put them to use.
“Despite having a shortage of supply during the crucial winter months that led to extended lockdowns for major cities, Australia now has the reverse dilemma – a growing stockpile of over six million doses of AstraZeneca vaccines sitting in fridges and an ongoing production of one million doses a week,”
Mr Burns said.
Indonesia has already administered over 100 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine
Due to Indonesia being a nation made up of thousands of scattered islands, the rollout of the vaccine has been a challenge, with the country struggling to inoculate its population.
So far, Australia plans to deliver 500,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses to Indonesia, as part of the nation’s partnership with its close neighbour.
“These vaccine doses are the first instalment of Australia’s commitment to share 2.5 million AstraZeneca doses with Indonesia in 2021. They are an important component of Australia’s health response package for Indonesia, announced in July, adding to the 1000 ventilators, 700 oxygen concentrators and 20,000 rapid antigen tests already delivered.”
The Federal Government says
At present, only 20 per cent of the Indonesian population has been fully vaccinated, with around 35 per cent having received at least one dose.
Anthony Lucas is reporter, presenter and social media producer with ticker News. Anthony holds a Bachelor of Professional Communication, with a major in Journalism from RMIT University as well as a Diploma of Arts and Entertainment journalism from Collarts. He’s previously worked for 9 News, ONE FM Radio and Southern Cross Austerio’s Hit Radio Network.
A new report has raised concerns about potential power shortages this summer in several Australian states. With temperatures expected to soar, experts warn that the electricity grid could be under significant strain.
The report, released by the Energy Authority of Australia, highlights that New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia are at the greatest risk of experiencing blackouts. Increased demand for electricity due to air conditioning use during hot summer days is the primary driver of this concern.
The report suggests that immediate measures should be taken to mitigate these risks. These measures include improving grid infrastructure, investing in renewable energy sources, and implementing demand-side management programs to reduce peak electricity consumption.
Energy Minister Sarah Thompson acknowledged the challenges but assured the public that the government is actively working on solutions to prevent power shortages. She stated, “We are committed to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply during the summer months.”
As the summer approaches, Australians will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the necessary steps will be taken to ensure a steady power supply during the hottest days. #featured
New details about the relationship between the failed FTX boss and politicians and business leaders has been laid bare.
It’s been revealed that Sam Bankman-Fried, the CEO of FTX crypto exchange, explored the idea of offering former President Donald Trump a substantial sum of money to dissuade him from running for president again.
The proposition is detailed in an upcoming book that promises to shed light on behind-the-scenes dealings and unconventional political strategies.
#featured
Enhancing National Preparedness: The Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test
On October 4, the United States is set to conduct a crucial nationwide emergency alert system test, a vital evaluation of the nation’s ability to disseminate critical information effectively during emergencies.
This upcoming test is a significant event, not just as a routine check but also in response to notable past incidents that underscore the imperative of a robust emergency alert system. One such incident took place on January 13, 2018, in the state of Hawaii, when an accidental alert was issued via the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert System.
This alert, transmitted across various media platforms including television, radio, and cellphones, advised citizens to seek shelter due to an incoming ballistic missile, concluding with the chilling declaration: “This is not a drill.”
The subsequent 38 minutes and 13 seconds were filled with panic and uncertainty, until state officials clarified that the alert had resulted from a miscommunication during a routine drill at the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. The incident prompted a public apology from David Ige, the governor of Hawaii, acknowledging the distress it had caused.
Additionally, it triggered investigations by the Federal Communications Commission and the Hawaii House of Representatives, ultimately leading to the resignation of the state’s emergency management administrator. This incident served as a stark reminder of the critical importance of a well-functioning, error-free emergency alert system.
Fast forward to the present, the nation is preparing for the upcoming nationwide emergency alert system test scheduled for October 4. At the designated time, a loud alert tone will resonate across all devices, followed by a test message that clearly identifies its nature as a simulation meant to evaluate the readiness and functionality of the emergency alert infrastructure. This exercise aims to assure citizens that the emergency alert system is well-prepared and efficient in conveying vital information during a crisis.
Citizens are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to this test, acquaint themselves with the alert sound and message, and comprehend its profound significance in the broader context of preparedness for potential emergencies in the future. The October 4 nationwide emergency alert system test represents a commitment to learning from past incidents and continuously improving preparedness measures to protect citizens and ensure a resilient society. It highlights the nation’s dedication to enhancing its communication systems, thereby reinforcing the safety and security of its populace.