Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover.

International donors including the World Bank and European Union froze funding to Afghanistan shortly after Taliban took control.

"One of the great risks for the health system here is basically to collapse because of lack of support," said Filipe Ribeiro, Afghanistan representative for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), one of the largest medical aid agencies in the country.

"The overall health system in Afghanistan is understaffed, under-equipped and underfunded, for years. And the great risk is that this underfunding will continue over time."

Necephor Mghendi, Afghanistan head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), said the healthcare system, which was already fragile and heavily reliant on foreign aid, had been left under additional strain.

"The humanitarian needs on the ground are massive," he said.

Increased demand

Both aid agencies said that they have seen significant increase in demand as other facilities are unable to fully function.

Mghendi said closures of Afghan banks had meant almost all humanitarian agencies have been unable to access funds, leaving vendors and staff unpaid.

Compounding the issue, medical supplies will now need to be restocked earlier than expected.

"Supplies that were supposed to last for three months will not be able to last three months. We may need to replenish much earlier than that," Mghendi said.

Ribeiro said MSF had stockpiled medical supplies before the takeover but that with flights disrupted and land borders in disarray, it was unclear when more might reach the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover.

Afghanistan's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, reported Reuters quoting two major aid agencies. Foreign donors have stopped donations after Taliban takeover. International donors including the World Bank and European Union froze funding to Afghanistan shortly after Taliban took control. "One of the great risks for the health system here is basically to collapse because of lack of support," said Filipe Ribeiro, Afghanistan representative for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), one of the largest medical aid agencies in the country. "The overall health system in Afghanistan is understaffed, under-equipped and underfunded, for years. And the great risk is that this underfunding will continue over time." Necephor Mghendi, Afghanistan head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), said the healthcare system, which was already fragile and heavily reliant on foreign aid, had been left under additional strain. "The humanitarian needs on the ground are massive," he said. Increased demand Both aid agencies said that they have seen significant increase in demand as other facilities are unable to fully function. Mghendi said closures of Afghan banks had meant almost all humanitarian agencies have been unable to access funds, leaving vendors and staff unpaid. Compounding the issue, medical supplies will now need to be restocked earlier than expected. "Supplies that were supposed to last for three months will not be able to last three months. We may need to replenish much earlier than that," Mghendi said. Ribeiro said MSF had stockpiled medical supplies before the takeover but that with flights disrupted and land borders in disarray, it was unclear when more might reach the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Aid agencies warn Afghanistan's healthcare system near collapse

Space is a wonderful mystery!&nbsp;It has&nbsp;glamour that mesmerises our&nbsp;minds. Rockets lifting off, probes examining planets in our solar system, even going beyond the boundary of it is something that enthralls us.&nbsp;

For a layman, space travel is just about sitting in a spaceship and travelling through the void witnessing colourful wonders of the universe. But for a scientist involved in a mission, it is a result of precise work that involves many factors. Main impediment to human space travel is intense space radiation. Once we leave the protective shell of Earth we are exposed to these cosmic rays which are deadly. Human spaceflight therefore involves consideration of this major factor. Even a manned mission to Mars is tricky because it involves years of space travel for a roundtrip.

But now a study has said that an astronaut's journey to Mars is safe even when the spaceship is being bombarded with lethal cosmic rays during the journey.

However, certain conditions have to be fulfilled in order to make the journey safe for the astronaut.

An international team of space scientists including researchers from UCLA carried out the study.

The scientists have said that the protective shielding must be of sufficient thickness and a round trip to Mars must be shorter than approximately four years. Average flight to Mars takes about nine months. So the window advised by the scientists is sufficient.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-successfully-tests-a-system-that-will-propel-indias-human-carrying-spacecraft-409433">ISRO successfully tests a system that will propel India’s human-carrying spacecraft</a>

Moreover, the timing of the manned mission to Mars would be important as well. Scientists have suggested that the mission should be undertaken when the solar activity is at its peak. This is known as solar maximum.

Why?

Well, the heightened solar activity deflects the most lethal cosmic rays.

Move over Neil Armstrong, the race to be the first human on Mars is on!

Space is a wonderful mystery! It has glamour that mesmerises our minds. Rockets lifting off, probes examining planets in our solar system, even going beyond the boundary of it is something that enthralls us.

Space is a wonderful mystery! It has glamour that mesmerises our minds. Rockets lifting off, probes examining planets in our solar system, even going beyond the boundary of it is something that enthralls us. For a layman, space travel is just about sitting in a spaceship and travelling through the void witnessing colourful wonders of the universe. But for a scientist involved in a mission, it is a result of precise work that involves many factors. Main impediment to human space travel is intense space radiation. Once we leave the protective shell of Earth we are exposed to these cosmic rays which are deadly. Human spaceflight therefore involves consideration of this major factor. Even a manned mission to Mars is tricky because it involves years of space travel for a roundtrip. But now a study has said that an astronaut's journey to Mars is safe even when the spaceship is being bombarded with lethal cosmic rays during the journey. However, certain conditions have to be fulfilled in order to make the journey safe for the astronaut. An international team of space scientists including researchers from UCLA carried out the study. The scientists have said that the protective shielding must be of sufficient thickness and a round trip to Mars must be shorter than approximately four years. Average flight to Mars takes about nine months. So the window advised by the scientists is sufficient. Also Read | ISRO successfully tests a system that will propel India’s human-carrying spacecraft Moreover, the timing of the manned mission to Mars would be important as well. Scientists have suggested that the mission should be undertaken when the solar activity is at its peak. This is known as solar maximum. Why? Well, the heightened solar activity deflects the most lethal cosmic rays. Move over Neil Armstrong, the race to be the first human on Mars is on!

Journey to Mars is full of danger, but here's the safe way

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic. In order to obtain a pass, a worker must reportedly have proof of having been vaccinated, negative test result, or recovery from coronavirus infection.

The health pass is official documentation, with a QR scan code, that proves a person has had the COVID-19 vaccine. Many French bars, restaurants, museums and sports venues will not allow people inside unless they can show the health pass.

The health pass mandate has seen fierce protests for weeks.

While the majority of people in France have been vaccinated against COVID-19, demonstrators argue the health pass discriminates against those who have not, and infringes upon people's liberties.

The protesters have been protesting across France for many weekends.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic.

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic. In order to obtain a pass, a worker must reportedly have proof of having been vaccinated, negative test result, or recovery from coronavirus infection. The health pass is official documentation, with a QR scan code, that proves a person has had the COVID-19 vaccine. Many French bars, restaurants, museums and sports venues will not allow people inside unless they can show the health pass. The health pass mandate has seen fierce protests for weeks. While the majority of people in France have been vaccinated against COVID-19, demonstrators argue the health pass discriminates against those who have not, and infringes upon people's liberties. The protesters have been protesting across France for many weekends. (With inputs from agencies)

France: Health pass mandatory for service sector workers to enter workplace

Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday that China's foreign minister Wang Yi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on call on Sunday that international community should engage and "positively guide" the Taliban.

According to a statement, Wang Yi said that Washington should work with the international community to provide economic and humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, help the new regime run governmental functions normally, maintain social stability, and stop the currency from depreciating and the cost of living from rising,

"While respecting the sovereignty of Afghanistan, the US should take concrete action to help Afghanistan fight terrorism and stop violence, rather than playing double standards or fighting terrorism selectively," Wang said, warning that the "hasty withdrawal" could allow terrorist groups to "regroup and come back stronger."

China's state television said that the call was made at the invitation of Washington.

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement that both Blinken and Wang spoke about "the importance of the international community holding the Taliban accountable for the public commitments they have made regarding the safe passage and freedom to travel for Afghans and foreign nationals."

US officials had argued before the chaos of past two weeks that troop withdrawal from Afghanistan would free up time of senior US political and military leaders and help them focus their attention on the Indo-Pacific and challenge posed by China.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/russia-appeals-usa-to-release-afghan-central-bank-reserves-409426">Russia appeals USA to release Afghan central bank reserves</a>

But China's state-controlled media have seized on the often chaotic pullout, portraying US support for allies as fickle.

China has not officially recognized the Taliban as Afghanistan's new rulers, but Wang Yi last month hosted Mullah Baradar, chief of the group's political office, and has said the world should guide and support the country as it transitions to a new government instead of putting more pressure on it.

Wang earlier told Blinken in a call on Aug. 16 that the hasty pullout of U.S. troops from Afghanistan had a "serious negative impact," but pledged to work with Washington to promote stability in the country.

But Wang said Washington could not expect China's cooperation if it was also trying to "contain and suppress China and harm China's legitimate rights and interests," Chinese state media reported at the time of the earlier call.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday that China's foreign minister Wang Yi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on call on Sunday that international community should engage and "positively guide" the Taliban.

Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday that China's foreign minister Wang Yi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on call on Sunday that international community should engage and "positively guide" the Taliban. According to a statement, Wang Yi said that Washington should work with the international community to provide economic and humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, help the new regime run governmental functions normally, maintain social stability, and stop the currency from depreciating and the cost of living from rising, "While respecting the sovereignty of Afghanistan, the US should take concrete action to help Afghanistan fight terrorism and stop violence, rather than playing double standards or fighting terrorism selectively," Wang said, warning that the "hasty withdrawal" could allow terrorist groups to "regroup and come back stronger." China's state television said that the call was made at the invitation of Washington. US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement that both Blinken and Wang spoke about "the importance of the international community holding the Taliban accountable for the public commitments they have made regarding the safe passage and freedom to travel for Afghans and foreign nationals." US officials had argued before the chaos of past two weeks that troop withdrawal from Afghanistan would free up time of senior US political and military leaders and help them focus their attention on the Indo-Pacific and challenge posed by China. Also Read | Russia appeals USA to release Afghan central bank reserves But China's state-controlled media have seized on the often chaotic pullout, portraying US support for allies as fickle. China has not officially recognized the Taliban as Afghanistan's new rulers, but Wang Yi last month hosted Mullah Baradar, chief of the group's political office, and has said the world should guide and support the country as it transitions to a new government instead of putting more pressure on it. Wang earlier told Blinken in a call on Aug. 16 that the hasty pullout of U.S. troops from Afghanistan had a "serious negative impact," but pledged to work with Washington to promote stability in the country. But Wang said Washington could not expect China's cooperation if it was also trying to "contain and suppress China and harm China's legitimate rights and interests," Chinese state media reported at the time of the earlier call. (With inputs from agencies)

International community should 'guide' Taliban in Afghanistan, says China

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient.

The office did not say&nbsp;whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament.

He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine. Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament. He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia PM comes in contact with Covid patient, in quarantine now

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month.

"If our Western colleagues are actually worried about the fate of the Afghan people, then we must not create additional problems for them by freezing gold and foreign exchange reserves," said the Kremlin's envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov.

He said that the United States must urgently unfreeze these events. He was speaking on the state-run Rossiya 24 network. He said that the assets must be unfrozen &nbsp;"to bolster the rate of the collapsing national currency".

Kabulov said that if this was not done, the new authorities will turn to "the trafficking of illegal opiates" and "sell on the black market the weapons" abandoned by the Afghan army and the United States.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/should-have-informed-us-taliban-condemn-arbitrary-us-drone-strike-claim-civilians-killed-409410">‘Should have informed us’: Taliban condemn ‘arbitrary’ US drone strike, claim civilians killed</a>

The Afghan central bank's gross reserves totalled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the IMF. The majority of these funds are held outside of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Washington has indicated that the Taliban will not have access to assets held in the United States, without specifying the total amount there.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has long been the world's largest producer of opium and heroin, with profits from the illicit trade helping fund the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month.

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month. "If our Western colleagues are actually worried about the fate of the Afghan people, then we must not create additional problems for them by freezing gold and foreign exchange reserves," said the Kremlin's envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. He said that the United States must urgently unfreeze these events. He was speaking on the state-run Rossiya 24 network. He said that the assets must be unfrozen "to bolster the rate of the collapsing national currency". Kabulov said that if this was not done, the new authorities will turn to "the trafficking of illegal opiates" and "sell on the black market the weapons" abandoned by the Afghan army and the United States. Also Read | ‘Should have informed us’: Taliban condemn ‘arbitrary’ US drone strike, claim civilians killed The Afghan central bank's gross reserves totalled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the IMF. The majority of these funds are held outside of Afghanistan. Washington has indicated that the Taliban will not have access to assets held in the United States, without specifying the total amount there. Afghanistan has long been the world's largest producer of opium and heroin, with profits from the illicit trade helping fund the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia appeals USA to release Afghan central bank reserves

A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time. Offerings made of paper are also made. These resemble the things the deceased may have wanted.

This year, a box set of a syringe and two vaccine vials made of paper are among the fastest-selling items for the festival at Raymond Shieh Siow Leong's religious goods store in the southern Malaysian city of Johor Bahru.

"The COVID-19 situation in our country is quite serious and many people passed away before receiving the vaccine. I hope this product can help the deceased to fulfill their dying wish," Shieh said.

He started making paper vaccine sets in early August. Each set is priced at 22.80 ringgit ($5.45). Shieh says he has sold more than 200 sets so far.

<img alt="Covid paper vaccine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72d41ddd-ab36-4c1c-af47-f32fbdef4c09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/paper%20vaccine.JPG" />

"We made this paper vaccine to test the water of the market, but we didn't expect the reaction to be this good. The orders keep coming, and we have to work overtime until late at night to make this product," he said.

Malaysia has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths in Southeast Asia with a total caseload of almost 1.6 million and a death toll of 14,818. About 57% of the population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

A Muslim-majority country, about 20% of Malaysia's 32 million people practise Buddhism, the second-most prevalent religion.

(With inputs from agencies)

A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time.

A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time. Offerings made of paper are also made. These resemble the things the deceased may have wanted. This year, a box set of a syringe and two vaccine vials made of paper are among the fastest-selling items for the festival at Raymond Shieh Siow Leong's religious goods store in the southern Malaysian city of Johor Bahru. "The COVID-19 situation in our country is quite serious and many people passed away before receiving the vaccine. I hope this product can help the deceased to fulfill their dying wish," Shieh said. He started making paper vaccine sets in early August. Each set is priced at 22.80 ringgit ($5.45). Shieh says he has sold more than 200 sets so far. "We made this paper vaccine to test the water of the market, but we didn't expect the reaction to be this good. The orders keep coming, and we have to work overtime until late at night to make this product," he said. Malaysia has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths in Southeast Asia with a total caseload of almost 1.6 million and a death toll of 14,818. About 57% of the population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. A Muslim-majority country, about 20% of Malaysia's 32 million people practise Buddhism, the second-most prevalent religion. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia: Covid vaccine paper mock-ups in demand during religious festival

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons. One such anti-mask activist has passed away due to Covid-19.

Caleb Wallace (30) was the so-called anti-mask activist and he helped organise "The Freedom Rally" in July 2020. As per media reports, he is a father of three children and his wife is pregnant with their fourth child.&nbsp;

His wife Jessica told a local newspaper that Caleb began experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 on July 26. However, he refused to get tested or go to the hospital. He self-medicated with Vitamin C, Zinc, Aspirin and Ivermectin. Health officials in the US have urged people not to take Ivermectin to treat Covid.

He was taken to emergency room on July 30 and had been unconscious since August 8. He passed away on Saturday.

“To those who wished him death, I’m sorry his views and opinions hurt you. I prayed he’d come out of this with a new perspective and more appreciation for life. I can’t say much more than that because I can’t speak for him,” wrote his wife Jessica on the family's GoFundMe page.

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons.

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons. One such anti-mask activist has passed away due to Covid-19. Caleb Wallace (30) was the so-called anti-mask activist and he helped organise "The Freedom Rally" in July 2020. As per media reports, he is a father of three children and his wife is pregnant with their fourth child. His wife Jessica told a local newspaper that Caleb began experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 on July 26. However, he refused to get tested or go to the hospital. He self-medicated with Vitamin C, Zinc, Aspirin and Ivermectin. Health officials in the US have urged people not to take Ivermectin to treat Covid. He was taken to emergency room on July 30 and had been unconscious since August 8. He passed away on Saturday. “To those who wished him death, I’m sorry his views and opinions hurt you. I prayed he’d come out of this with a new perspective and more appreciation for life. I can’t say much more than that because I can’t speak for him,” wrote his wife Jessica on the family's GoFundMe page.

Texas: Anti-mask 'activist' dies of COVID-19

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year.

After donating or selling 66 million doses to nearly 100 countries, India barred exports in the middle of April to focus on domestic immunisation as infections exploded, upsetting the inoculation plans of many African and South Asian countries&nbsp;

India`s daily vaccinations surpassed 10 million doses on Friday, with national vaccine production more than doubling since April and set to rise again in the coming weeks. New production lines &nbsp;have been set up, a vaccine developed by Cadila Healthcare won recent approval, and commercial production of Russia`s Sputnik V is starting in India.

The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world`s biggest vaccine maker, is now producing about 150 million doses a month of its version of the AstraZeneca shot, more than twice its April output of about 65 million, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

"No fixed timeline on exports but the company hopes to restart in a few months," said the source, who declined to be named without approval to talk on the matter.

SII, which has previously indicated exports could resume by year-end , did not respond to a request for comment.

Global vaccine sharing platform COVAX hopes India will restart foreign sales sooner than later.

"With successful national vaccination and the arrival of more products, we are hoping that Indian supply to COVAX will resume as quickly as possible," a spokesperson for the platform`s co-lead GAVI told Reuters in an email.

India, a major international producer of many other vaccines, could play a "similarly transformative role in the global response to COVID-19," the spokesperson said.

India`s health ministry and the foreign ministry, which coordinates vaccine exports, did not respond to a request for comment.

Bharat Biotech, the maker of India`s first domestically developed COVID-19 shot, on Sunday inaugurated a new factory with a production capacity of 10 million doses a month. It said it was "marching towards" a goal of a total annual capacity of about 1 billion doses of the drug, Covaxin.

Infections, meanwhile, are again rising in India after an explosive outbreak in April and May. But the country has administered more than 633 million vaccine doses, with at least one dose to 52% of its 944 million adults and two doses to more than 15%.

A government source told Reuters in June the U.S. experience showed that vaccinations tend to slow down after a big majority of people get their shots. That might give SII a chance to export excess output, said the source.

The chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s party said this month India could produce as many as 1.1 billion vaccine doses between September and December, enough to fully immunise all adults in the country this year.

India has so far given emergency authorisation to six COVID-19 shots, four of which are being produced locally. One more domestic vaccine is expected to be approved soon while many more are going through mid-stage trials.

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year.

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year. After donating or selling 66 million doses to nearly 100 countries, India barred exports in the middle of April to focus on domestic immunisation as infections exploded, upsetting the inoculation plans of many African and South Asian countries India`s daily vaccinations surpassed 10 million doses on Friday, with national vaccine production more than doubling since April and set to rise again in the coming weeks. New production lines have been set up, a vaccine developed by Cadila Healthcare won recent approval, and commercial production of Russia`s Sputnik V is starting in India. The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world`s biggest vaccine maker, is now producing about 150 million doses a month of its version of the AstraZeneca shot, more than twice its April output of about 65 million, a source with knowledge of the matter said. "No fixed timeline on exports but the company hopes to restart in a few months," said the source, who declined to be named without approval to talk on the matter. SII, which has previously indicated exports could resume by year-end , did not respond to a request for comment. Global vaccine sharing platform COVAX hopes India will restart foreign sales sooner than later. "With successful national vaccination and the arrival of more products, we are hoping that Indian supply to COVAX will resume as quickly as possible," a spokesperson for the platform`s co-lead GAVI told Reuters in an email. India, a major international producer of many other vaccines, could play a "similarly transformative role in the global response to COVID-19," the spokesperson said. India`s health ministry and the foreign ministry, which coordinates vaccine exports, did not respond to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech, the maker of India`s first domestically developed COVID-19 shot, on Sunday inaugurated a new factory with a production capacity of 10 million doses a month. It said it was "marching towards" a goal of a total annual capacity of about 1 billion doses of the drug, Covaxin. Infections, meanwhile, are again rising in India after an explosive outbreak in April and May. But the country has administered more than 633 million vaccine doses, with at least one dose to 52% of its 944 million adults and two doses to more than 15%. A government source told Reuters in June the U.S. experience showed that vaccinations tend to slow down after a big majority of people get their shots. That might give SII a chance to export excess output, said the source. The chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s party said this month India could produce as many as 1.1 billion vaccine doses between September and December, enough to fully immunise all adults in the country this year. India has so far given emergency authorisation to six COVID-19 shots, four of which are being produced locally. One more domestic vaccine is expected to be approved soon while many more are going through mid-stage trials.

India could soon be exporting Covid vaccines again as production jumps

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources.

On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.63 million doses shipped to 863 vaccination centres nationawide.

However, production of Moderna (MRNA.O) COVID-19 vaccines at a plant in Spain can continue, the European Union drugs regulator said on Friday, while it carries out its investigation of a suspected metallic contamination incident.

The European Union drugs regulator said it was investigating the incident at the Spanish plant run by Rovi (ROVI.MC), but did not find reasons to seek a temporary suspension of production after an initial assessment.

"COVID-19 vaccine production in Rovi is able to continue, following a preliminary risk assessment," the European Medicines Agency told Reuters in a statement.

"An investigation into the root cause is ongoing. EMA will be able to provide more information as the investigation progresses," it added.

Moderna has so far delivered to the EU nearly 75 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine, EU public data show. The company has two contracts with the 27-nation bloc for up to 460 million shots.

Spanish pharma company Rovi, which bottles Moderna vaccines for markets outside of the United States, said the contamination could be due to a manufacturing issue on a production line. A spokesperson said the company could not say anything more while it was investigating.

Moderna put the lot in question and two adjacent ones on hold.

(With inputs from agencies)

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources. On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources. On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.63 million doses shipped to 863 vaccination centres nationawide. However, production of Moderna (MRNA.O) COVID-19 vaccines at a plant in Spain can continue, the European Union drugs regulator said on Friday, while it carries out its investigation of a suspected metallic contamination incident. The European Union drugs regulator said it was investigating the incident at the Spanish plant run by Rovi (ROVI.MC), but did not find reasons to seek a temporary suspension of production after an initial assessment. "COVID-19 vaccine production in Rovi is able to continue, following a preliminary risk assessment," the European Medicines Agency told Reuters in a statement. "An investigation into the root cause is ongoing. EMA will be able to provide more information as the investigation progresses," it added. Moderna has so far delivered to the EU nearly 75 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine, EU public data show. The company has two contracts with the 27-nation bloc for up to 460 million shots. Spanish pharma company Rovi, which bottles Moderna vaccines for markets outside of the United States, said the contamination could be due to a manufacturing issue on a production line. A spokesperson said the company could not say anything more while it was investigating. Moderna put the lot in question and two adjacent ones on hold. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Moderna vaccine contaminant believed to be metallic particle

Three powerful blasts outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport claimed at least 60 lives on Thursday, as per numbers reported by BBC. 12&nbsp;US soldiers lost lives in the blast as well. The blasts took place even as hundreds of Afghans were gathered outside the airport in order to try and escape the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Taliban condemned the attack on Twitter. Two blasts took place in the evening while third took place hours later.

The attack created chaos at the airport. It came just hours after after Western nations warned of an imminent terror threat. The blasts came close to the August 31 deadline for US troops withdrawal.&nbsp;

Gruesome images

In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, social media was flooded with gruesome images and videos. One of the unverified video also showed bodies semi-submerged in a canal near the airport.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-chaotic-scenes-in-airport-hospital-after-kabul-airport-terror-attack-408595">WATCH: Chaotic scenes in airport, hospital after Kabul airport terror attack</a>

After the blasts, images posted on social media showed men ferrying injured people to safety in wheelbarrows.

In another picture, a boy was seen clutching the arm of a man whose clothes were soaked in blood.

The Pentagon said "a number" of US troops died in what spokesman John Kirby called a complex attack.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-troops-wounded-in-the-blast-at-kabuls-hamid-karzai-international-airport-408645/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

US President Joe Biden had earlier cited an "acute" terrorist threat from the regional chapter of the Islamic State jihadist group.

The Taliban condemned the blasts, saying they were in an area under US military control.

"The Islamic Emirate strongly condemns the bombing targeting civilians at Kabul airport," said a statement released by Mujahid on Twitter.&nbsp;

Shortly after the blasts the White House said Biden was being briefed on the attack, delaying a planned meeting with Israel's visiting prime minister and cancelling another event.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said allied forces should continue to evacuate as many vulnerable people as they can from Kabul despite what he branded a "horrific terrorist attack".&nbsp;

Global condemnation

The tragedy drew international attention and global leaders and their offices condemned the attack

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I utterly condemn the barbaric terrorist attack in Kabul in which Afghans and members of the US military lost their lives. 
 
The threat of terrorist attack is one of the constraints we’ve been operating under, but our evacuation effort continues with over 12,000 extracted so far. <a href="https://t.co/DXCFPj9KQC">pic.twitter.com/DXCFPj9KQC</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1430953808096595977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Statement on this morning's attack at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HKIA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HKIA</a>: <a href="https://t.co/Qb1DIAJQJU">pic.twitter.com/Qb1DIAJQJU</a>
— John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PentagonPresSec/status/1430941547541979141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Praying for the three U.S. Marines and innocent civilians injured in the terrorist attacks near Kabul Airport today. America must do whatever it takes to protect our troops and our citizens stranded in this disastrous withdrawal. God bless them all.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1430923085515997187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Islamic State threat

Though it has not accepted the responsibility officially, it is suspected that Islamic State is behind the attack.

In recent years, the Islamic State's Afghanistan-Pakistan chapter has been responsible for some of the deadliest attacks in those countries.

It has massacred civilians at mosques, shrines, public squares and even hospitals.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/isis-khorasan-what-you-should-know-408623">ISIS-Khorasan: What you should know</a>

The group has especially targeted Muslims from sects it considers heretical, including Shiites.

But while IS and the Taliban are both hardline Sunni Islamist militants, they are rivals and oppose each other.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three powerful blasts outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport claimed at least 60 lives on Thursday, as per numbers reported by BBC. 12 US soldiers lost lives in the blast as well.

Three powerful blasts outside Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport claimed at least 60 lives on Thursday, as per numbers reported by BBC. 12 US soldiers lost lives in the blast as well. The blasts took place even as hundreds of Afghans were gathered outside the airport in order to try and escape the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Taliban condemned the attack on Twitter. Two blasts took place in the evening while third took place hours later. The attack created chaos at the airport. It came just hours after after Western nations warned of an imminent terror threat. The blasts came close to the August 31 deadline for US troops withdrawal. Gruesome images In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, social media was flooded with gruesome images and videos. One of the unverified video also showed bodies semi-submerged in a canal near the airport. WATCH: Chaotic scenes in airport, hospital after Kabul airport terror attack After the blasts, images posted on social media showed men ferrying injured people to safety in wheelbarrows. In another picture, a boy was seen clutching the arm of a man whose clothes were soaked in blood. The Pentagon said "a number" of US troops died in what spokesman John Kirby called a complex attack. × US President Joe Biden had earlier cited an "acute" terrorist threat from the regional chapter of the Islamic State jihadist group. The Taliban condemned the blasts, saying they were in an area under US military control. "The Islamic Emirate strongly condemns the bombing targeting civilians at Kabul airport," said a statement released by Mujahid on Twitter. Shortly after the blasts the White House said Biden was being briefed on the attack, delaying a planned meeting with Israel's visiting prime minister and cancelling another event. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said allied forces should continue to evacuate as many vulnerable people as they can from Kabul despite what he branded a "horrific terrorist attack". Global condemnation The tragedy drew international attention and global leaders and their offices condemned the attack I utterly condemn the barbaric terrorist attack in Kabul in which Afghans and members of the US military lost their lives. The threat of terrorist attack is one of the constraints we’ve been operating under, but our evacuation effort continues with over 12,000 extracted so far. pic.twitter.com/DXCFPj9KQC — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) August 26, 2021 × Statement on this morning's attack at #HKIA: pic.twitter.com/Qb1DIAJQJU — John Kirby (@PentagonPresSec) August 26, 2021 × Praying for the three U.S. Marines and innocent civilians injured in the terrorist attacks near Kabul Airport today. America must do whatever it takes to protect our troops and our citizens stranded in this disastrous withdrawal. God bless them all. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) August 26, 2021 × Islamic State threat Though it has not accepted the responsibility officially, it is suspected that Islamic State is behind the attack. In recent years, the Islamic State's Afghanistan-Pakistan chapter has been responsible for some of the deadliest attacks in those countries. It has massacred civilians at mosques, shrines, public squares and even hospitals. Also Read | ISIS-Khorasan: What you should know The group has especially targeted Muslims from sects it considers heretical, including Shiites. But while IS and the Taliban are both hardline Sunni Islamist militants, they are rivals and oppose each other. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul's evening of mayhem: 12 US soldiers among 60 killed in terror attacks, say reports

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths.

North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths.

The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday.

Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries.

The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries.

Flare up in North America

This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent.

The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East.

Biggest spike

On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more.

Biggest drops

Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent.

US bears the brunt

The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent.

On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699.

(With inputs from agencies)

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week.

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths. The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday. Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries. The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries. Flare up in North America This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent. The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East. Biggest spike On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more. Biggest drops Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent. US bears the brunt The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent. On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699. (With inputs from agencies)

USA bears the brunt of the Covid pandemic

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.