Sydney enters ‘scariest’ phase of pandemic as delta variant spreads, leader says

SYDNEY — Australia is regularly hailed as one of the best places to be during the coronavirus pandemic, with low case numbers, comparatively few deaths and a strict quarantine system for returning citizens and residents.

But authorities say parts of the country are entering the most worrisome phase of the virus fight, just as vaccinated Americans are ditching masks and Europe is lifting bans on travelers.