Increased capacity for Australian Open final; Victoria reports 39 virus deaths; NSW hospitalizations increase; Pfizer booster tentatively approved for teens

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Infectious disease expert Professor Sanjaya Senanayake of the Australian National University said she applauded the TGA for tentatively approving Pfizer booster shots for teenagers aged 16 and 17. The TGA noted that Pfizer was already an approved booster for people of that age in the US, UK and Israel.

Victoria has recorded 12,755 new COVID-19 infections and 39 deaths, while the number of people hospitalized with the virus has fallen below 1,000.

All schools in New South Wales received rapid antigen tests before returning to class on February 1. Students will be tested twice a week with RATs provided to parents via schools.

South Australian Prime Minister Steven Marshall has announced that from 12:01 a.m. tomorrow indoor seating capacity will be increased to 50 per cent density while elective pediatric surgery will also be recommended. He said the two restriction changes were made first because they created jobs.

And nine new COVID-19 infections have been recorded in Western Australia, as Premier Mark McGowan announced new public health rules that will come into effect when cases rise in the state.

Our live blog will be back on Monday. In the meantime, you can stay up to date with all the latest news at 9news.com.au and nine.com.au.