Summary

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide has surpassed 179 million, with more than 3.8 million deaths, according to the latest data from Johns Hopkins University.

Here is the latest:

The Chinese mainland reported 24 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, all from overseas. 

Researchers at Oxford University on Thursday identified the level of antibody protection needed to prevent symptomatic COVID-19. It is said that results from the study could help speed up new vaccine development.

The Delta coronavirus variant has now spread to 92 countries, according to the World Health Organization.

The Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics organizers agreed to allow up to 10,000 spectators to enter each games venue, if the number does not exceed half of the venue's capacity.