So, how come there's a pandemic?cannot transmit from one patient to another
No, that's exactly how viruses propagate. They have no ability to reproduce independently. They replicate by invading a host cell. They then hijack the genetic 'machinery' of that cell, forcing it to make copies of the virus. The cell eventually ruptures releasing the new viruses, which are expelled from the host and go on to infect another.Is there perhaps a difference in the pathogen in that once a person becomes infected, the virus loses the ability to infect another?
A quarantine-free travel corridor with New Zealand is about to be opened as far as I'm aware. Other than that there are strict measures with very limited international connectivity. There are limits on the number of Australian citizens allowed to return home from abroad. Domestic travel is getting back to normality, including air travel.And what’s international travel like in Australia? How normal is that?
You can aim to get to zero covid and pull up the drawbridge if you wish - it is a legitimate strategy - but the consequence is you remain isolated for years until the pandemic is over, so don’t expect to travel there until 2022/2023. Also because there is so little infection there vaccine uptake is low since people feel there is no incentive to get it, again prolonging the period until Australia can reconnect with the rest of the world.
I am not sure that is normal.
Which is essentially why everyone who is healthy has the jab to help protect vulnerable people such as yourself. I'm currently queuing to have my first jabs. I've had the virus, but having more immunity will help protect less fortunate members of my family and friends.Given my condition, being vascular by nature, DVT is a daily consideration and preventive measures are called for. Compression stockings are basic and exercise useful but clots did for me and am living with the consequences. Nothing whatsoever to do with Covid 19 as my medical incident occurred 2001 and is ongoing.
Note: I am yet to receive a dose of the vaccine subject to assessment of risk by medical practitioners!
Just for the record, I feel rubbish today and for me at least the vaccine was worse than the virus itself. I was warned this was likely having had the virus just 30 days ago. I'll be fine in a couple of days.
I had the Astra jab and it knocked me for six for a whole 24 hours after and I didn't feel right for another 24 hours after that. My dad whose 69 didn't have any side effects.All my relatives have had Oxford/Astrazenca and anecdotally I've seen/heard the younger you are, the "stronger" you're reaction is.