More countries see coronavirus cases surge to record levels amid the rapid spread of Omicron variant.

By Faith Barbara Namagembe Updated On 30 Dec 2021 at 1800 EAT.

The number of daily new COVID-19 cases worldwide has crossed one million for the first time since infections were first recorded two years ago, according to a tally. The pandemic began in March 2020.

New infections in the United States have soared to their highest level on record, largely driven by the highly contagious Omicron Corona virus variant.

Australia also hit a new record on Thursday as it narrowed its definition of close contacts of coronavirus cases and relaxed requirements for COVID-19 tests, in a bid to relieve pressure on testing sites.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization warned that the Omicron and Delta variants could produce a “tsunami” of COVID-19 cases that will put “immense pressure” on healthcare systems.