It's not even huge by US standards. It's not any sort of walk out or strike. As someone who actively follows and supports this, this didn't happen. This actually is fake news. Australia really should know better, but they love the clicks.

Lots of Americans are sick, then they called out. That's it. Most are negative-Covid, but they are calling out as a precaution. They get tested, they go back to work.

There are no "strikes" happening. I called out sick last Friday for a major cold, Covid-negative. It's maybe the 3rd time that I have ever called out in 20 years.

There was no strike, or mass reaction. Australia press loves to make headlines. I hate the fake news guy, but this isn't real news.