The privacy watchdog in Australia has opened an investigation into the usage of facial recognition technology by two major retailers, department store Kmart and the hardware company Bunnings take “faceprints” of their patrons. The watchdog added that it was also conducting inquiries about other retail companies, the ones that stopped their facial recognition software. The technology is immoral, invasive, and can be used without consent to justification, according to the Consumer advocacy group Choice. However, both the retailers defended its application as a safety and theft-prevention tool. Angelene Falk, the Australian Information Commissioner, an investigation has been launched to see if any privacy law has been broken, BBC reported.

Falk said, “While deterring theft and creating a safe environment are important goals, using high privacy impact technologies in stores carries significant privacy risks.” She further said that the retailers must be able to prove that their responses are appropriate. However, Falk discovered that the convenience store chain 7-Eleven has violated customers’ privacy by gathering faceprints in a related incident last year.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/report-says-apples-quest-to-produce-a-viable-self-driving-car-stuck-in-low-gear-496684">Report says Apple's quest to produce a viable self-driving car stuck in low gear</a>

The Consumer group Choice said that both retailer Kmart and Bunnings only disclosed their use of the technology in privacy policies online and in tine section of ‘conditions of entry’ placards at the front of the stores. The group surveyed more than 1,000 households and found that more than 75 per cent of people were unaware of the technology.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-meta-removes-a-large-number-of-groups-and-accounts-for-sharing-upskirting-images-490738">Facebook: Meta removes a large number of groups and accounts for sharing upskirting images</a>

However, Bunnings responded saying the technology’s use has been mischaracterised and the subject is stuck to not using the information for marketing purposes and that pictures are kept of people who are banned or ones involved in illegal or violating behaviours.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The privacy watchdog in Australia has opened an investigation into the usage of facial recognition technology by two major retailers, department store Kmart and the hardware company Bunnings take “faceprints” of their patrons.

The privacy watchdog in Australia has opened an investigation into the usage of facial recognition technology by two major retailers, department store Kmart and the hardware company Bunnings take “faceprints” of their patrons. The watchdog added that it was also conducting inquiries about other retail companies, the ones that stopped their facial recognition software. The technology is immoral, invasive, and can be used without consent to justification, according to the Consumer advocacy group Choice. However, both the retailers defended its application as a safety and theft-prevention tool. Angelene Falk, the Australian Information Commissioner, an investigation has been launched to see if any privacy law has been broken, BBC reported. Falk said, “While deterring theft and creating a safe environment are important goals, using high privacy impact technologies in stores carries significant privacy risks.” She further said that the retailers must be able to prove that their responses are appropriate. However, Falk discovered that the convenience store chain 7-Eleven has violated customers’ privacy by gathering faceprints in a related incident last year. Also read | Report says Apple's quest to produce a viable self-driving car stuck in low gear The Consumer group Choice said that both retailer Kmart and Bunnings only disclosed their use of the technology in privacy policies online and in tine section of ‘conditions of entry’ placards at the front of the stores. The group surveyed more than 1,000 households and found that more than 75 per cent of people were unaware of the technology. Also read | Facebook: Meta removes a large number of groups and accounts for sharing upskirting images However, Bunnings responded saying the technology’s use has been mischaracterised and the subject is stuck to not using the information for marketing purposes and that pictures are kept of people who are banned or ones involved in illegal or violating behaviours. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian watchdog investigates Kmart and Bunnings over ‘faceprints’ technology

A 70-year-old man in Nevada has been accused of the 1982 murder case of a 5-year-old girl who vanished while making her way to her kindergarten. The investigators solved the case with the help of DNA evidence, as per the authorities. Pham vanished on January 21, 1982, on her way to kindergarten at High Elementary School in Seaside, California. Two days later, her body was found in an abandoned Fort Ord. However, after being charged last week with the killing of the little girl, Robert John Lanoue of Reno, Nevada, was scheduled to appear in Washoe County for a hearing about his extradition to Monterey County, media reports said.

As per the authorities, the child had been kidnapped, sexually molested, and strangled.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-year-old-boy-left-orphaned-after-parents-killed-in-us-mass-shooting-494846">2-year-old boy left orphaned after parents killed in US mass shooting</a>

Monterey County District Attorney Jeannie Pacioni said, Lanoue, a Nevada-registered sex offender, was 29 years old when the girl was killed and resided close to her Seaside home. After obtaining a grant to reopen the cold case, the old case was reopened in 2020 when detectives with the Monterey Case Task Force collaborated with Seaside Police Department to submit the evidence from the case for DNA testing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-kentucky-man-shoots-8-police-officers-killing-three-493775">US: Kentucky man shoots 8 police officers, killing three</a>

According to Pacioni, Lanoue was charged with one count of first-degree murder along with special circumstance accusations that he milled the girl while engaging in kidnapping and lewd acts on a minor.&nbsp;

According to Attorney Pacioni, investigators in California were able to secure a warrant for Lanoue’s arrest on July 6. Records showed that the man was already incarcerated in the Washoe County jail when he was arrested on June 8 for a parole violation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A 70-year-old man in Nevada has been accused of the 1982 murder case of a 5-year-old girl who vanished while making her way to her kindergarten. The investigators solved the case with the help of DNA evidence, as per the authorities.

A 70-year-old man in Nevada has been accused of the 1982 murder case of a 5-year-old girl who vanished while making her way to her kindergarten. The investigators solved the case with the help of DNA evidence, as per the authorities. Pham vanished on January 21, 1982, on her way to kindergarten at High Elementary School in Seaside, California. Two days later, her body was found in an abandoned Fort Ord. However, after being charged last week with the killing of the little girl, Robert John Lanoue of Reno, Nevada, was scheduled to appear in Washoe County for a hearing about his extradition to Monterey County, media reports said. As per the authorities, the child had been kidnapped, sexually molested, and strangled. Also read | 2-year-old boy left orphaned after parents killed in US mass shooting Monterey County District Attorney Jeannie Pacioni said, Lanoue, a Nevada-registered sex offender, was 29 years old when the girl was killed and resided close to her Seaside home. After obtaining a grant to reopen the cold case, the old case was reopened in 2020 when detectives with the Monterey Case Task Force collaborated with Seaside Police Department to submit the evidence from the case for DNA testing. Also read | US: Kentucky man shoots 8 police officers, killing three According to Pacioni, Lanoue was charged with one count of first-degree murder along with special circumstance accusations that he milled the girl while engaging in kidnapping and lewd acts on a minor. According to Attorney Pacioni, investigators in California were able to secure a warrant for Lanoue’s arrest on July 6. Records showed that the man was already incarcerated in the Washoe County jail when he was arrested on June 8 for a parole violation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

DNA solves murder case 40 years later: Man charged for killing minor girl in 1982

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to&nbsp; abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights. This Reproductive Rights Task Force, which will be led by Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta, will “monitor and evaluate” state and local laws that might restrict access to reproductive healthcare, outlaw drugs that cause abortions or penalise federal employees who provide reproductive health services permitted by the federal law, CNN reported.&nbsp;

Gupta in a statement said, “The Court abandoned 50 years of precedent and took away the constitutional right to abortion, preventing women all over the country from being able to make critical decisions about our bodies, our health, and our futures. The Justice Department is committed to protecting access to reproductive services.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-says-doctors-must-provide-abortion-services-if-a-mothers-life-is-at-danger-496639">Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger</a>

This announcement comes after the US president signed an executive order on Friday defending abortion rights and urged the Justice Department to “much like they did in the civil rights era, to do something, to do everything in their power to protect these women seeking to invoke their rights." The Biden administration has been working across federal agencies to reverse Roe v. Wade—clarifying the obligations and protections of medical professionals to perform abortions for life or for health-saving measures.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-biden-signs-executive-order-on-abortion-access-amid-pressure-from-democrats-495675">Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats</a>

Nevertheless, in light of the court’s decision, the President is unable to take any steps to reinstate the country’s right to an abortion, and the president has openly admitted hate he has few alternatives for increasing access to the procedures. The Democrats and advocates are pressurising the White House to take a stronger stance to codify abortion access.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights.

In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the legal right to abortion, the US Justice Department on Tuesday (July 12) announced the formation of a task force to find methods to protect reproductive rights. This Reproductive Rights Task Force, which will be led by Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta, will “monitor and evaluate” state and local laws that might restrict access to reproductive healthcare, outlaw drugs that cause abortions or penalise federal employees who provide reproductive health services permitted by the federal law, CNN reported. Gupta in a statement said, “The Court abandoned 50 years of precedent and took away the constitutional right to abortion, preventing women all over the country from being able to make critical decisions about our bodies, our health, and our futures. The Justice Department is committed to protecting access to reproductive services.” Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger This announcement comes after the US president signed an executive order on Friday defending abortion rights and urged the Justice Department to “much like they did in the civil rights era, to do something, to do everything in their power to protect these women seeking to invoke their rights." The Biden administration has been working across federal agencies to reverse Roe v. Wade—clarifying the obligations and protections of medical professionals to perform abortions for life or for health-saving measures. Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats Nevertheless, in light of the court’s decision, the President is unable to take any steps to reinstate the country’s right to an abortion, and the president has openly admitted hate he has few alternatives for increasing access to the procedures. The Democrats and advocates are pressurising the White House to take a stronger stance to codify abortion access. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Justice Department announces a Reproductive Task Force to protect abortion rights

The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, attacked the Pakistan People Party in yet another condescending move for the mismanagement in handling the Karachi floods and Sindh administration after the nation’s economic centre was destroyed by torrential rains. Khan further claimed that the ruling government failed to improve solid waste disposal and clean minor nullahs, and the city’s repeated flooding is a glimpse of the party's' ’14 years of mismanagement and corruption in Sindh. ’ Imran further said, "My govt had given Rs 35 billion to clean and reconstruct major nullahs, but the provincial government failed to perform its task of improving solid waste disposal and cleaning minor nullahs," ANI reported.

Due to the city’s drainage infrastructure and the Sindh government’s claims for rain emergency plans, several major roads and streets in Karachi were entirely submerged during the city’s record-breaking rains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-warns-to-reveal-details-of-conspiracy-if-harassment-of-pti-workers-continues-494842">Imran Khan warns to reveal details of 'conspiracy' if harassment of PTI workers continues</a>

Additionally, as per many journalists and ministers, the PPP is to be blamed for Sindh’s deteriorating conditions. "The Shehbaz govt won`t say a word on Karachi as its survival depends on the support of PPP, MQM, and those running DHA---the `real state` within real estate," This doesn’t end here, Shehryar Afridi, head of PTI, claimed that the residents were questioning the 15-year rule because of the city’s recent floods. In conversation with Dawn, the leader said, "The imported federal govt is [a] silent observer of this chaos. They want this kind of democracy, where they rule forever without accountability."

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-pakistani-rupee-so-worthless-that-this-cop-in-karachi-demanded-goats-and-cow-as-bribe-494600">&nbsp;Is Pakistani rupee so worthless that this cop in Karachi demanded goats and cow&nbsp;as bribe?</a>

Imran Ismail, former governor of Sindh, also attributed the country’s flooding and power shortages to the PPM-MQM alliance. Ismail said both the parties are busy in blaming each other, while the citizens are waiting for assistance. He continued, noting that PTI employees were busy assisting people on highways. The former governor, on his twitter, posted videos of the neighbourhood covered in rainfall.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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This is my karachi, ruined by PPP’s incapable leadership <a href="https://t.co/dmc3Fs5EjS">pic.twitter.com/dmc3Fs5EjS</a>
— Imran Ismail (@ImranIsmailPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranIsmailPTI/status/1546414044701007874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/KkmV5ZnEZy">pic.twitter.com/KkmV5ZnEZy</a>
— Imran Ismail (@ImranIsmailPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranIsmailPTI/status/1546411640798707712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, attacked the Pakistan People Party in yet another condescending move for the mismanagement in handling the Karachi floods and Sindh administration after the nation’s economic centre was destroyed by torrential rains.

The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, attacked the Pakistan People Party in yet another condescending move for the mismanagement in handling the Karachi floods and Sindh administration after the nation’s economic centre was destroyed by torrential rains. Khan further claimed that the ruling government failed to improve solid waste disposal and clean minor nullahs, and the city’s repeated flooding is a glimpse of the party's' ’14 years of mismanagement and corruption in Sindh. ’ Imran further said, "My govt had given Rs 35 billion to clean and reconstruct major nullahs, but the provincial government failed to perform its task of improving solid waste disposal and cleaning minor nullahs," ANI reported. Due to the city’s drainage infrastructure and the Sindh government’s claims for rain emergency plans, several major roads and streets in Karachi were entirely submerged during the city’s record-breaking rains. Also read | Imran Khan warns to reveal details of 'conspiracy' if harassment of PTI workers continues Additionally, as per many journalists and ministers, the PPP is to be blamed for Sindh’s deteriorating conditions. "The Shehbaz govt won`t say a word on Karachi as its survival depends on the support of PPP, MQM, and those running DHA---the `real state` within real estate," This doesn’t end here, Shehryar Afridi, head of PTI, claimed that the residents were questioning the 15-year rule because of the city’s recent floods. In conversation with Dawn, the leader said, "The imported federal govt is [a] silent observer of this chaos. They want this kind of democracy, where they rule forever without accountability." Also read | Is Pakistani rupee so worthless that this cop in Karachi demanded goats and cow as bribe? Imran Ismail, former governor of Sindh, also attributed the country’s flooding and power shortages to the PPM-MQM alliance. Ismail said both the parties are busy in blaming each other, while the citizens are waiting for assistance. He continued, noting that PTI employees were busy assisting people on highways. The former governor, on his twitter, posted videos of the neighbourhood covered in rainfall. This is my karachi, ruined by PPP’s incapable leadership pic.twitter.com/dmc3Fs5EjS — Imran Ismail (@ImranIsmailPTI) July 11, 2022 × pic.twitter.com/KkmV5ZnEZy — Imran Ismail (@ImranIsmailPTI) July 11, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan criticises Shehbaz government for mismanagement of Karachi floods

Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action. During an interview with the BBC, Premadasa stated that his party and allies concurred that he should "submit my nomination for the position of the leadership." The speaker of parliament declared that legislators would elect the country’s new leader in place of Rajapaksa on July 20, BBC reported.

Premadasa lost the 2019 presidential race and would require the backing of MPs to win. Earlier, the leader of SJB was offered the position of prime minister in April, but he declined, drawing criticism. Ranil Wickremesinghe, his rival, was appointed but said he will also step down to create room for a unity administration.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/long-queues-in-sri-lanka-as-fuel-supplies-resume-after-weekend-of-tumultuous-anti-government-protests-496577">Long queues in Sri Lanka, as fuel supplies resume after weekend of tumultuous anti-government protests</a>

The SJB leader described the current situation&nbsp;in Sri Lanka as "confused, uncertainty and total anarchy", saying it needs "consensus, consultation, compromise, and coming togetherness."

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka economic crunch: Citizens try to flee country amid crisis

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Premadasa acknowledged the situation, saying there are no easy solutions to this. He added that his party has an economic strategy to get the nation out of this situation and that it would take four to five years to get the economy back on track like in 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-a-band-of-activists-helped-bring-down-sri-lankas-government-496522">How a band of activists helped bring down Sri Lanka's government</a>

Premadasa said, "We are not going to hoodwink the people. We are going, to be frank and present a plan to get rid of Sri Lanka's economic ills."

However, the protesters in Colombo’s Galle Face claim that all the 255 members of the parliament are equally responsible for the current state of the country and demand a new beginning with young and dynamic politicians taking over.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action.

Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action. During an interview with the BBC, Premadasa stated that his party and allies concurred that he should "submit my nomination for the position of the leadership." The speaker of parliament declared that legislators would elect the country’s new leader in place of Rajapaksa on July 20, BBC reported. Premadasa lost the 2019 presidential race and would require the backing of MPs to win. Earlier, the leader of SJB was offered the position of prime minister in April, but he declined, drawing criticism. Ranil Wickremesinghe, his rival, was appointed but said he will also step down to create room for a unity administration. Also read | Long queues in Sri Lanka, as fuel supplies resume after weekend of tumultuous anti-government protests The SJB leader described the current situation in Sri Lanka as "confused, uncertainty and total anarchy", saying it needs "consensus, consultation, compromise, and coming togetherness." Watch | Sri Lanka economic crunch: Citizens try to flee country amid crisis Premadasa acknowledged the situation, saying there are no easy solutions to this. He added that his party has an economic strategy to get the nation out of this situation and that it would take four to five years to get the economy back on track like in 2019. Also read | How a band of activists helped bring down Sri Lanka's government Premadasa said, "We are not going to hoodwink the people. We are going, to be frank and present a plan to get rid of Sri Lanka's economic ills." However, the protesters in Colombo’s Galle Face claim that all the 255 members of the parliament are equally responsible for the current state of the country and demand a new beginning with young and dynamic politicians taking over. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka in crisis: Sajith Premadasa ready to run for president when Rajapaksa steps down

Brandy Bottone, a 34 weeks pregnant woman, was stopped by police in Dallas, Texas, when she was driving on the HOV lane, which is meant for at least two persons per car. The officer noted that it first appeared like there was just one other person in the car, but Bottone responded that she was almost 9 months pregnant. The High Occupancy Vehicle Lane or the HOV lane is a protected lane that should only be used by vehicles carrying several passengers. The purpose of this is to promote carpooling among individuals in an effort to reduce emissions and traffic.&nbsp;

Recollecting the incident, Bottone told CNN, "He said, 'Is there somebody else in the car?' And, looking around, I said, 'Yes there is,' and he said 'Well, where?' I pointed at my stomach and I was like, 'Right here.'"

She further added, “He said, 'Well, it's two bodies outside of the body, so that doesn't count.' I was kind of in shock, and I was like, 'Well, in light of everything that's happened, and I'm not trying to make a huge political stance here, but do you understand that this is a baby?'"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-biden-signs-executive-order-on-abortion-access-amid-pressure-from-democrats-495675">Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats</a>

The Dallas Morning News was the first to report the interaction which happened some weeks ago, days after the Supreme Court concluded that there is no federal right to abortion and that abortion rights can be regulated by each state. Like many other states, Texas advocated for restrictions on abortion and the penal code refers to the fetus or unborn child as a ‘person.’

Watch |&nbsp;Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage'

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Bottone said, “If we're talking about a fetus being a person, there's a lot of other rights that attach to being a person that will be litigated in the courts, such as does my fetus qualify for a tax deduction? Does my fetus qualify for citizenship? Does my fetus qualify for child support?". She further added, "These are all issues that are going to be raised and probably litigated in the courts."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/governor-jared-polis-signs-executive-order-strengthening-abortion-protections-in-colorado-495690">Governor Jared Polis signs executive order strengthening abortion protections in Colorado</a>

Bottone claimed that her reasons failed to persuade the officers on scenes. Requests for comment from the Texas Dept. of Transportation and Dallas County were not promptly fulfilled.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Brandy Bottone, a 34 weeks pregnant woman, was stopped by police in Dallas, Texas, when she was driving on the HOV lane, which is meant for at least two persons per car.

Brandy Bottone, a 34 weeks pregnant woman, was stopped by police in Dallas, Texas, when she was driving on the HOV lane, which is meant for at least two persons per car. The officer noted that it first appeared like there was just one other person in the car, but Bottone responded that she was almost 9 months pregnant. The High Occupancy Vehicle Lane or the HOV lane is a protected lane that should only be used by vehicles carrying several passengers. The purpose of this is to promote carpooling among individuals in an effort to reduce emissions and traffic. Recollecting the incident, Bottone told CNN, "He said, 'Is there somebody else in the car?' And, looking around, I said, 'Yes there is,' and he said 'Well, where?' I pointed at my stomach and I was like, 'Right here.'" She further added, “He said, 'Well, it's two bodies outside of the body, so that doesn't count.' I was kind of in shock, and I was like, 'Well, in light of everything that's happened, and I'm not trying to make a huge political stance here, but do you understand that this is a baby?'" Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats The Dallas Morning News was the first to report the interaction which happened some weeks ago, days after the Supreme Court concluded that there is no federal right to abortion and that abortion rights can be regulated by each state. Like many other states, Texas advocated for restrictions on abortion and the penal code refers to the fetus or unborn child as a ‘person.’ Watch | Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage' Bottone said, “If we're talking about a fetus being a person, there's a lot of other rights that attach to being a person that will be litigated in the courts, such as does my fetus qualify for a tax deduction? Does my fetus qualify for citizenship? Does my fetus qualify for child support?". She further added, "These are all issues that are going to be raised and probably litigated in the courts." Also read | Governor Jared Polis signs executive order strengthening abortion protections in Colorado Bottone claimed that her reasons failed to persuade the officers on scenes. Requests for comment from the Texas Dept. of Transportation and Dallas County were not promptly fulfilled. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pregnant woman in Texas argues her fetus is second passenger after getting a ticket

The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases. This advice came after a few days when President Joe Biden issued an executive order to make it easier to get abortion services in the wake of the Supreme Court’s reversing of Roe v. Wade judgement last month. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, on Monday declared a public health emergency would not necessarily free up resources, citing the government’s costly responses to COVID-19 and monkeypox, Reuters reported.

The Emergency Medical Treatment Active Labor Act (EMTALA) defines a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, abortion is a “stabilising treatment,” that doctors are required to offer that treatment. &nbsp;In addition to this protecting medical staff while providing legally required abortion services in such circumstances, EMTALA mandates that medical facilities identify whether a patient seeking treatment may be in labor or in a situation of a medical emergency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pregnant-woman-in-texas-argues-her-fetus-is-second-passenger-after-getting-a-ticket-496625">Pregnant woman in Texas argues her fetus is second passenger after getting a ticket</a>

The dept in a statement later specified what emergency conditions include, “ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia with severe features."

Watch |&nbsp;Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage'

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After the Supreme Court decision last month, the White House has come under pressure from Biden’s own party to act for it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-vs-wade-biden-signs-executive-order-on-abortion-access-amid-pressure-from-democrats-495675">Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats</a>

A Reuters poll indicates that more than 70 per cent of Americans believe that a woman and doctor should decide whether or not to have an abortion, and protecting abortion rights is a concern for women.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases.

The Biden Administration declared on Monday (July 11) that healthcare providers must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is in danger irrespective of any state laws in such cases. This advice came after a few days when President Joe Biden issued an executive order to make it easier to get abortion services in the wake of the Supreme Court’s reversing of Roe v. Wade judgement last month. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, on Monday declared a public health emergency would not necessarily free up resources, citing the government’s costly responses to COVID-19 and monkeypox, Reuters reported. The Emergency Medical Treatment Active Labor Act (EMTALA) defines a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, abortion is a “stabilising treatment,” that doctors are required to offer that treatment. In addition to this protecting medical staff while providing legally required abortion services in such circumstances, EMTALA mandates that medical facilities identify whether a patient seeking treatment may be in labor or in a situation of a medical emergency. Also read | Pregnant woman in Texas argues her fetus is second passenger after getting a ticket The dept in a statement later specified what emergency conditions include, “ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss, or emergent hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia with severe features." Watch | Thousands march for Abortion rights | Activists call for a 'summer of rage' After the Supreme Court decision last month, the White House has come under pressure from Biden’s own party to act for it. Also read | Roe vs Wade: Biden signs executive order on abortion access amid pressure from Democrats A Reuters poll indicates that more than 70 per cent of Americans believe that a woman and doctor should decide whether or not to have an abortion, and protecting abortion rights is a concern for women. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Roe vs Wade: Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if mother’s life is in danger

Is&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;too&nbsp;old&nbsp;to be&nbsp;president?

It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it.

But as the oldest person ever elected to the top US office prepares for a grueling Middle East tour, debate is mounting over his apparent desire to run again in 2024.

The issue puts Democrats in a difficult position as there is no clear alternative to&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;-- who turns 80 on November 20.

"He's fit to be&nbsp;president&nbsp;right now. But he's&nbsp;too&nbsp;old&nbsp;for the next election," The Atlantic concluded in recent article, while sharply criticizing right-wing claims that&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is suffering from dementia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-says-doctors-must-provide-abortion-services-if-a-mothers-life-is-at-danger-496639">Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is at danger</a>

Disenchantment with&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;runs deep inside his own camp, with a New York Times poll released Monday showing that 64 per cent of Democratic voters would prefer another candidate in 2024. His age was cited as the main reason for those who want a change.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;would be 82 at the beginning of a second term, and 86 at its conclusion. By comparison, Ronald Reagan was 77 when he left office in 1989.

Biden's "age has become an uncomfortable issue for him and his party," The New York Times wrote on Saturday, describing a White House that has become protective, even anxious.

Like his predecessors,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;has exhausting responsibilities, from the war in Ukraine and runaway inflation to gun violence plaguing the country and a fiercely conservative Supreme Court.

Quiet weekends

There are certainly many Americans who envy his health, with a checkup last November concluding that he is a "vigorous" man suffering from mild problems with acid reflux and arthritis.

But his appearance betrays the heavy toll taken by the office: his white hair is increasingly thin, his gait cautious.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/gaffe-porn-are-those-making-fun-of-joe-biden-ageist-472738">Gaffe-porn: Are those making fun of Joe Biden ageist?</a>

He sometimes loses his train of thought or stumbles while reading from a teleprompter, and the stutter he overcame as a child periodically resurfaces.

The White House has several times had to walk back inopportune remarks by the&nbsp;president&nbsp;on sensitive diplomatic issues.

Biden&nbsp;gives fewer news conferences and interviews than his predecessors, preferring to publish op-eds in newspapers, the content of which can be carefully controlled.

On the weekends, he often disappears to one of his two homes in Delaware for two or three days. White House correspondents only see him once, at a distance, when he goes to mass.

And when G7 leaders posed for a photo at a June summit, it was impossible to ignore the age gap between&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;and Canadian premier Justin Trudeau, 50, or French&nbsp;President&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron, 44.

Watch |&nbsp;United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father

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&nbsp;'Life begins at 80!'

But his aides defend him vigorously, with senior advisor Mike Donilon telling The New York Times that the&nbsp;president&nbsp;wants "to spend four hours planning for how we hit the ground running on domestic policy, when all much younger staff want to do is sleep" on the plane.

Biden, after a minor but much-publicized bike crash on June 18, made a point of getting back in the saddle on Sunday and joking about his misadventure with reporters.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;is far from the exception in American politics, where many key players are over 70, including his predecessor Donald Trump, who is currently 76.

Trump -- a potential 2024 Republican candidate -- knows the age card plays well, and is keen to use it.

"There are many people in their 80s, and even 90s, that are as good and sharp as ever.&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is not one of them, but it has little to do with his age. In actuality, life begins at 80!" Trump wrote on his social media platform.

In touch with young voters?&nbsp;

Beyond health issues, there is also the political question of how a&nbsp;president&nbsp;born during World War II can remain in touch with younger Americans.

How does he respond, for instance, to young demonstrators who protested in front of the White House against the Supreme Court removing the federal right to an abortion?

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flood-of-guns-is-turning-us-communities-into-killing-fields-says-biden-496477">Flood of guns is turning US communities into 'killing fields', says Biden</a>

Biden&nbsp;did not have a clear answer, saying: "Keep protesting. Keep making your point. It's critically important."

According to a Morning Consult poll conducted from in April and May, only 43 percent of Democrats between the ages of 18 and 34 believe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;is keeping his promises.

But who could replace him? Commentators are skeptical about the chances of 57-year-old&nbsp;Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris, who would be a natural candidate if&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;withdraws.

A member of the party's younger guard, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, 54, or 40-year-old&nbsp;Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, would be another option.

But a frontrunner has yet to emerge from the Democratic camp.

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Is Joe Biden too old to be president? It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it.

Is Joe Biden too old to be president? It's a question that has provided ample fodder for Republicans and right-wing outlets, while Democrats and most of the American media have been reluctant to broach it. But as the oldest person ever elected to the top US office prepares for a grueling Middle East tour, debate is mounting over his apparent desire to run again in 2024. The issue puts Democrats in a difficult position as there is no clear alternative to Biden -- who turns 80 on November 20. "He's fit to be president right now. But he's too old for the next election," The Atlantic concluded in recent article, while sharply criticizing right-wing claims that Biden is suffering from dementia. Also read | Biden administration says doctors must provide abortion services if a mother’s life is at danger Disenchantment with Biden runs deep inside his own camp, with a New York Times poll released Monday showing that 64 per cent of Democratic voters would prefer another candidate in 2024. His age was cited as the main reason for those who want a change. The president would be 82 at the beginning of a second term, and 86 at its conclusion. By comparison, Ronald Reagan was 77 when he left office in 1989. Biden's "age has become an uncomfortable issue for him and his party," The New York Times wrote on Saturday, describing a White House that has become protective, even anxious. Like his predecessors, Biden has exhausting responsibilities, from the war in Ukraine and runaway inflation to gun violence plaguing the country and a fiercely conservative Supreme Court. Quiet weekends There are certainly many Americans who envy his health, with a checkup last November concluding that he is a "vigorous" man suffering from mild problems with acid reflux and arthritis. But his appearance betrays the heavy toll taken by the office: his white hair is increasingly thin, his gait cautious. Also Read | Gaffe-porn: Are those making fun of Joe Biden ageist? He sometimes loses his train of thought or stumbles while reading from a teleprompter, and the stutter he overcame as a child periodically resurfaces. The White House has several times had to walk back inopportune remarks by the president on sensitive diplomatic issues. Biden gives fewer news conferences and interviews than his predecessors, preferring to publish op-eds in newspapers, the content of which can be carefully controlled. On the weekends, he often disappears to one of his two homes in Delaware for two or three days. White House correspondents only see him once, at a distance, when he goes to mass. And when G7 leaders posed for a photo at a June summit, it was impossible to ignore the age gap between Biden and Canadian premier Justin Trudeau, 50, or French President Emmanuel Macron, 44. Watch | United States: Biden heckled during a White House event by Parkland shooting victim's father 'Life begins at 80!' But his aides defend him vigorously, with senior advisor Mike Donilon telling The New York Times that the president wants "to spend four hours planning for how we hit the ground running on domestic policy, when all much younger staff want to do is sleep" on the plane. Biden, after a minor but much-publicized bike crash on June 18, made a point of getting back in the saddle on Sunday and joking about his misadventure with reporters. The president is far from the exception in American politics, where many key players are over 70, including his predecessor Donald Trump, who is currently 76. Trump -- a potential 2024 Republican candidate -- knows the age card plays well, and is keen to use it. "There are many people in their 80s, and even 90s, that are as good and sharp as ever. Biden is not one of them, but it has little to do with his age. In actuality, life begins at 80!" Trump wrote on his social media platform. In touch with young voters? Beyond health issues, there is also the political question of how a president born during World War II can remain in touch with younger Americans. How does he respond, for instance, to young demonstrators who protested in front of the White House against the Supreme Court removing the federal right to an abortion? Also read | Flood of guns is turning US communities into 'killing fields', says Biden Biden did not have a clear answer, saying: "Keep protesting. Keep making your point. It's critically important." According to a Morning Consult poll conducted from in April and May, only 43 percent of Democrats between the ages of 18 and 34 believe Biden is keeping his promises. But who could replace him? Commentators are skeptical about the chances of 57-year-old Vice President Kamala Harris, who would be a natural candidate if Biden withdraws. A member of the party's younger guard, such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, 54, or 40-year-old Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, would be another option. But a frontrunner has yet to emerge from the Democratic camp. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Not just a number: Joe Biden's age in the spotlight

The&nbsp;Indian central bank's decision to let importers pay with&nbsp;rupees&nbsp;and&nbsp;exporters be paid in&nbsp;rupees is likely to make&nbsp;trade&nbsp;easier with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;South Asian&nbsp;neighbours,&nbsp;and&nbsp;will&nbsp;help&nbsp;a long term goal to internationalise the currency,&nbsp;experts&nbsp;said.

On Monday, the Reserve Bank of&nbsp;India&nbsp;said it had put in place a mechanism for international&nbsp;trade&nbsp;settlements in&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;rupees (INR) with immediate effect.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rupee-hits-all-time-low-of-789-against-dollar-80-level-at-sight-492813">Rupee hits all-time low of 78.9 against dollar; 80-level at sight</a>

The RBI said that "in order to promote growth of global&nbsp;trade&nbsp;with emphasis on exports from&nbsp;India&nbsp;and&nbsp;to support the increasing interest of global trading community in INR, it has been decided to put in place an additional arrangement for invoicing, payment,&nbsp;and&nbsp;settlement&nbsp;of exports/imports in INR."

"This step can be particularly useful for neighbouring countries,&nbsp;and&nbsp;also those countries willing to use the&nbsp;rupee&nbsp;as a base currency for&nbsp;trade&nbsp;diversification in their&nbsp;settlement&nbsp;rules," said Rahul Bajoria, chief&nbsp;India&nbsp;economist at Barclays.

Watch |&nbsp;RBI allows payment for International trade in Rupee

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Engineering Export Promotion Council chairman Mahesh Desai noted the new mechanism "would facilitate&nbsp;trade&nbsp;with countries under sanctions, like&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia."

Trade&nbsp;between&nbsp;India&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;has come to a virtual standstill due to sanctions imposed on&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;over the war in Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-rupee-slides-to-record-low-of-7782-against-us-dollar-486849">Indian rupee slides to record low of 77.82 against US dollar</a>

The new steps allow&nbsp;Indian exporters&nbsp;and&nbsp;importers to use special&nbsp;Rupee&nbsp;Vostro Accounts to settle&nbsp;trade&nbsp;denominated in&nbsp;rupees,&nbsp;and&nbsp;banks will need the RBI's approval to use the&nbsp;settlement&nbsp;system.

"We see this as a first step towards 100 per cent&nbsp;convertibility of&nbsp;rupee," Desai said, noting it would also reduce currency fluctuation risks for importers&nbsp;and&nbsp;exporters.

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The Indian central bank's decision to let importers pay with rupees and exporters be paid in rupees is likely to make trade easier with Russia and South Asian neighbours, and will help a long term goal to internationalise the currency, experts said.

The Indian central bank's decision to let importers pay with rupees and exporters be paid in rupees is likely to make trade easier with Russia and South Asian neighbours, and will help a long term goal to internationalise the currency, experts said. On Monday, the Reserve Bank of India said it had put in place a mechanism for international trade settlements in Indian rupees (INR) with immediate effect. Also read | Rupee hits all-time low of 78.9 against dollar; 80-level at sight The RBI said that "in order to promote growth of global trade with emphasis on exports from India and to support the increasing interest of global trading community in INR, it has been decided to put in place an additional arrangement for invoicing, payment, and settlement of exports/imports in INR." "This step can be particularly useful for neighbouring countries, and also those countries willing to use the rupee as a base currency for trade diversification in their settlement rules," said Rahul Bajoria, chief India economist at Barclays. Watch | RBI allows payment for International trade in Rupee Engineering Export Promotion Council chairman Mahesh Desai noted the new mechanism "would facilitate trade with countries under sanctions, like Iran and Russia." Trade between India and Russia has come to a virtual standstill due to sanctions imposed on Russia over the war in Ukraine. Also read | Indian rupee slides to record low of 77.82 against US dollar The new steps allow Indian exporters and importers to use special Rupee Vostro Accounts to settle trade denominated in rupees, and banks will need the RBI's approval to use the settlement system. "We see this as a first step towards 100 per cent convertibility of rupee," Desai said, noting it would also reduce currency fluctuation risks for importers and exporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rupee settlement will help India trade with Russia, Iran and S Asian neighbours - experts

In pics: Damaged Russian military equipment on display in Prague

A&nbsp;booster&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;developed by Elon Musk's&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;for its next-generation Starship spacecraft burst into&nbsp;flames&nbsp;during a ground-test&nbsp;firing on Monday in Texas, dealing a likely setback to Musk's aim of launching Starship to orbit this year.

"Yeah, actually not good. Team is assessing damage," Musk said on Twitter after the early evening explosion of the Super Heavy&nbsp;Booster&nbsp;7 prototype, as seen in a livestream recorded by the website NASA Spaceflight.

There was no immediate indication of injuries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacexs-starlink-internet-approved-for-use-with-ships-boats-planes-by-us-federal-communications-commission-493408">SpaceX's Starlink internet approved for use with ships, boats, planes by US Federal Communications Commission</a>

The explosion, which engulfed the base of the&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;in a ball of&nbsp;flames&nbsp;and heavy smoke and appeared to shake the video camera, was specific to the engine spin start&nbsp;test, Musk said on Tuesday.

"Going forward, we won't do a spin start&nbsp;test&nbsp;with all 33 engines at once," he said on Twitter.

The&nbsp;booster&nbsp;remained standing upright, bolted to a&nbsp;test&nbsp;gantry afterward.

Watch |&nbsp;SpaceX: Employees who wrote letter criticizing CEO Elon Musk fired

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The failure came in the midst of a dayslong static fire&nbsp;test&nbsp;campaign in Boca Chica, Texas, of the&nbsp;booster, equipped with an array of 33 Raptor engines for use in an upcoming uncrewed orbital&nbsp;test&nbsp;flight&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;hoped to launch later this year.

SpaceX's complete Starship, which will stand 394 feet (120 meters) tall when mated with its super-heavy first-stage&nbsp;booster, is the company's next-generation launch vehicle at the center of Musk's ambitions to make human space travel more affordable and routine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-eyes-using-spacex-rockets-to-build-military-starships-490412">Pentagon eyes using SpaceX rockets to build 'military starships'</a>

SpaceX&nbsp;did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on Monday's blast.

The US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also did not immediately respond when asked if it would investigate the explosion.

In late 2020 and early 2021,&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;lost four prototypes of the Starship itself in a series of high-altitude&nbsp;test&nbsp;launches when the return landing attempts ended in explosions. The Starship prototype finally made a safe touchdown in May 2021.

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A booster rocket developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX for its next-generation Starship spacecraft burst into flames during a ground-test firing on Monday in Texas, dealing a likely setback to Musk's aim of launching Starship to orbit this year.

A booster rocket developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX for its next-generation Starship spacecraft burst into flames during a ground-test firing on Monday in Texas, dealing a likely setback to Musk's aim of launching Starship to orbit this year. "Yeah, actually not good. Team is assessing damage," Musk said on Twitter after the early evening explosion of the Super Heavy Booster 7 prototype, as seen in a livestream recorded by the website NASA Spaceflight. There was no immediate indication of injuries. Also read | SpaceX's Starlink internet approved for use with ships, boats, planes by US Federal Communications Commission The explosion, which engulfed the base of the rocket in a ball of flames and heavy smoke and appeared to shake the video camera, was specific to the engine spin start test, Musk said on Tuesday. "Going forward, we won't do a spin start test with all 33 engines at once," he said on Twitter. The booster remained standing upright, bolted to a test gantry afterward. Watch | SpaceX: Employees who wrote letter criticizing CEO Elon Musk fired The failure came in the midst of a dayslong static fire test campaign in Boca Chica, Texas, of the booster, equipped with an array of 33 Raptor engines for use in an upcoming uncrewed orbital test flight SpaceX hoped to launch later this year. SpaceX's complete Starship, which will stand 394 feet (120 meters) tall when mated with its super-heavy first-stage booster, is the company's next-generation launch vehicle at the center of Musk's ambitions to make human space travel more affordable and routine. Also read | Pentagon eyes using SpaceX rockets to build 'military starships' SpaceX did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on Monday's blast. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also did not immediately respond when asked if it would investigate the explosion. In late 2020 and early 2021, SpaceX lost four prototypes of the Starship itself in a series of high-altitude test launches when the return landing attempts ended in explosions. The Starship prototype finally made a safe touchdown in May 2021. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Test-fired booster rocket bursts into flames at SpaceX plant

German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox. The results were reported in the journal Eurosurveillance, which revealed that all surfaces that the patients’ hands had directly touched viral contamination, with the largest amounts being found in patients' bathrooms and also detected on the fabrics of chairs of patients, IANS reported.

However, it was unknown during the time of the test if and to what extent the patients had touched the surfaces, researchers found viral DNA on “all other investigated surfaces in the patients’ rooms.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-issues-first-situation-report-on-spread-of-monkeypox-495401">WHO issues first situation report on spread of monkeypox</a>

All of the hand-contact locations in the anteroom that were investigated produced positive PCR results. Both the room door handles, placed in the hallway outside the rooms, had DNA traces on them.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms

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Researchers concluded that there currently is no “definite date” on the viral load required to spread the monkeypox. As per them, the virus was discovered on a number of surfaces, without touching them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-risk-of-monkeypox-spread-in-russia-remains-high-493843">WHO says risk of Monkeypox spread in Russia remains high</a>

Hugh Adler, from the dept of clinical sciences at the Liverpool School of Tropical medicines, said, “absolutely an expected development" and that "outside of very heavily contaminated areas surfaces in the community are not likely to be at high risk for transmission,” IANS reported.&nbsp;

Adler further said, “Monkeypox viral persistence on surfaces is already well known in public health circles, and current public health guidelines for people self-isolating at home include recommendations for how to do laundry and steps to be taken to prevent transmission to household contacts.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox.

German researchers recently discovered that patients with monkeypox have high chances for virus load that can be ‘potentially’ contagious. With assistance from the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) and University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the researchers examined the hospital rooms of two monkeypox. The results were reported in the journal Eurosurveillance, which revealed that all surfaces that the patients’ hands had directly touched viral contamination, with the largest amounts being found in patients' bathrooms and also detected on the fabrics of chairs of patients, IANS reported. However, it was unknown during the time of the test if and to what extent the patients had touched the surfaces, researchers found viral DNA on “all other investigated surfaces in the patients’ rooms.” Also read | WHO issues first situation report on spread of monkeypox All of the hand-contact locations in the anteroom that were investigated produced positive PCR results. Both the room door handles, placed in the hallway outside the rooms, had DNA traces on them. Watch | Analysts challenge Monkeypox definition as UK patients show different symptoms Researchers concluded that there currently is no “definite date” on the viral load required to spread the monkeypox. As per them, the virus was discovered on a number of surfaces, without touching them. Also read | WHO says risk of Monkeypox spread in Russia remains high Hugh Adler, from the dept of clinical sciences at the Liverpool School of Tropical medicines, said, “absolutely an expected development" and that "outside of very heavily contaminated areas surfaces in the community are not likely to be at high risk for transmission,” IANS reported. Adler further said, “Monkeypox viral persistence on surfaces is already well known in public health circles, and current public health guidelines for people self-isolating at home include recommendations for how to do laundry and steps to be taken to prevent transmission to household contacts.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Researchers discover that monkeypox patients shed significant virus load that are ‘potentially’ infectious

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Tanisha Rajput

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