Key Points
- Australia to roll out 50 urgent care clinics for minor emergencies
- Former prime minister Scott Morrison defends his "secret appointments"
- Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla tests positive to COVID-19
On Tuesday, Australia reported at least 73 COVID-19 deaths, including 24 in New South Wales, 20 in Victoria and 17 in Queensland.
Health Minister Mark Butler told 10 News First that they are rolling out 50 urgent care clinics that will give people a bulk billed opportunity to attend minor emergencies.
He said Moderna's new mRNA facility in Melbourne will roll out 100 million vaccine doses every year. He said the government can negotiate with the company to make vaccines required for other respiratory illnesses.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that former prime minister Scott Morrison was appointed to at least five portfolios, including health, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr Albanese said there would be a proper examination of the circumstances into the handling of the COVID-19 crisis once the country is through the pandemic.
Mr Morrison told Sydney radio station 2GB that these appointments were made as "a safeguard against incapacitation from COVID-19."
Britain has authorised Moderna's updated COVID-19 vaccine that targets both original and Omicron variants. The vaccine can be used in people aged 18 and over.
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla has tested positive to COVID-19.
Mr Bourla, who has had all four doses of the Pfizer vaccine, is experiencing "very mild symptoms." He is using the antiviral pill Paxlovid, the company said in a statement.
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