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Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997"> coronavirus </a>epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worst-is-yet-to-come-pandemic-could-peak-in-india-during-may-june-293963">Also Read:&nbsp;'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June</a>

The minister said the government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty.

"No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Javadekar said.

"They can be penalized for&nbsp;Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented."

"Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added.

"If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted.

On the resumption of flights, the minister said no decision has been taken it as yet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the ministry of home affairs said that strict action will be taken against those who obstruct the performance of the last rites of coronavirus warriors succumbing to COVID-19.

"Will ensure adequate security for healthcare professionals, medical staff and frontline workers to prevent violence against them," the MHA said.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the coronavirus epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the coronavirus epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks. Also Read: 'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June The minister said the government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty. "No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Javadekar said. "They can be penalized for Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented." "Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added. "If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted. On the resumption of flights, the minister said no decision has been taken it as yet. Meanwhile, the ministry of home affairs said that strict action will be taken against those who obstruct the performance of the last rites of coronavirus warriors succumbing to COVID-19. "Will ensure adequate security for healthcare professionals, medical staff and frontline workers to prevent violence against them," the MHA said.

Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked: Javadekar

India has cleared 530 kg of Hydroxychloroquine to Brazil and has offered 5 million tablets of the game-changer drug to Brazil on a commercial basis.

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's Chargé d’ Affaires &nbsp;S. Koventhan said, "India has responded positively to the pharmaceutical requirements of other friendly nations". He also talked about how the mission has tied up with locals Indian restaurants to provide food for stranded Indian nationals.&nbsp;

WION: How are India and Brazil cooperating to fight the COVID-19 crisis?&nbsp;

S. Koventhan: India believes ‘global pandemic requires a global response’. India is committed to contributing to humanity’s fight against this pandemic.

India has responded positively to the pharmaceutical requirements of other friendly nations and also extended assistance to other countries by providing essential medical equipment and medicines based on their requests.&nbsp;

Brazil is an important strategic partner of India. With regard to Brazil, on April 4, 2020, Prime Minister Modi had a telephonic conversation with President Bolsonaro, President of Brazil.&nbsp;

The two leaders discussed the global situation in the wake of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Modi assured all possible support to the Brazilian President in this difficult hour.&nbsp;

They agreed that their officials would remain in regular touch with respect to the COVID-19 situation and its emerging challenges. President Bolsonaro in his address to the nation on April 8 2020 had thanked PM Modi the people of India for the timely help for the export of hydroxychloroquine.

PM Modi also reciprocated his thanks. In the words of the prime minister of India conveyed in one of his tweets, "our partnership with Brazil is stronger than ever in the challenging times."

WION: India sending HCQ to Brazil, how has been the reaction and how did it go about?&nbsp;

S. Koventhan: At the request of the President of Brazil, consignment (530 kg of hydroxychloroquine) for Brazil was put on priority and was cleared as soon as possible. This is a testimony of the importance that both countries attach to their bilateral relationship. This goodwill gesture was well received in Brazil. India has also offered 5 million tablets of hydroxychloroquine to Brazil on a commercial basis.

WION: The role played by the Indian mission in Brazil in taking care of Indian citizens, many Indian nationals are saying they are in deep trouble...&nbsp;

S. Koventhan: To help Indian nationals in Brazil, we had set up two 24x7 Helplinenos +55(61) 981391127 &amp; + 55(11) 994518224. A situation room has been established in Brasilia (email covidsitbrasilia@gmail.com). All the queries received on emails and phone calls are being promptly responded to. We also keep our social media pages updated with&nbsp;all relevant advisories on travel and visa.

Officials from the Consulate-General of India in Sao Paulo &amp; Honorary Consulate in Rio are also part of our response teams.

Through Oyo Rooms, hotel accommodation at discounted rates were facilitated for Indian nationals. We have tied up with Indian restaurants in cities of Sao Paulo, Rio and Brasilia for providing meals at a discounted rate for Indian nationals, who are stranded in these cities.&nbsp;

We are currently working on extending such measures to other cities also. We are also doing a weekly Video conferencing with prominent members of Indian community in Brazil to get their perceptive on handling this situation. In the embassy here, we have adopted the approach of "social distancing and digital proximity".&nbsp;

We have implemented work from home for more than half of our embassy personnel. We also organize online Yoga classes mainly to de-stress our body and mind during this time of crisis. This is well received in Brazil.

WION: Have we shared any Indian model of containment with Brazil?&nbsp;

S. Koventhan: Under the Indian technical and economic cooperation program (ITEC) of the ministry of external affairs, government of India, e-ITEC short training live webinars for healthcare professionals on COVID-19 management strategies and related aspects are proposed to be organized.

These e-ITEC webinars for training on basic COVID-19 management are 45 minutes to one&nbsp;hour interactive sessions and will cover various aspects including – Understanding COVID-19, infection prevention measures, diagnosis, and clinical management of COVID-19 patients &amp; contacts, field surveillance and public health measures and other emerging issues.&nbsp;

Brazil being an ITEC partner country of India, we have extended an invitation to Brazil to participate in this program.

WION: How are the Indian diplomat faring? it hasn't been easy for diplomats too.

S. Koventhan: This is a difficult situation for the whole of humanity. In Brazil, we are taking necessary precautionary measures for the embassy personnel and their families.&nbsp;

We strictly follow measures like social distancing, usage of masks and hand sanitizers etc.

As diplomats, it is important that we keep our physical, mental and emotional well-being high during this time of crisis. We are fully committed towards discharging our duties and responsibilities, in the best possible manner to help our fellow citizens, who are stranded in Brazil because of COVID-19.

India has cleared 530 kg of Hydroxychloroquine to Brazil and has offered 5 million tablets of the game-changer drug to Brazil on a commercial basis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's Chargé d’ Affaires S.

India has cleared 530 kg of Hydroxychloroquine to Brazil and has offered 5 million tablets of the game-changer drug to Brazil on a commercial basis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, India's Chargé d’ Affaires S. Koventhan said, "India has responded positively to the pharmaceutical requirements of other friendly nations". He also talked about how the mission has tied up with locals Indian restaurants to provide food for stranded Indian nationals. WION: How are India and Brazil cooperating to fight the COVID-19 crisis? S. Koventhan: India believes ‘global pandemic requires a global response’. India is committed to contributing to humanity’s fight against this pandemic. India has responded positively to the pharmaceutical requirements of other friendly nations and also extended assistance to other countries by providing essential medical equipment and medicines based on their requests. Brazil is an important strategic partner of India. With regard to Brazil, on April 4, 2020, Prime Minister Modi had a telephonic conversation with President Bolsonaro, President of Brazil. The two leaders discussed the global situation in the wake of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Modi assured all possible support to the Brazilian President in this difficult hour. They agreed that their officials would remain in regular touch with respect to the COVID-19 situation and its emerging challenges. President Bolsonaro in his address to the nation on April 8 2020 had thanked PM Modi the people of India for the timely help for the export of hydroxychloroquine. PM Modi also reciprocated his thanks. In the words of the prime minister of India conveyed in one of his tweets, "our partnership with Brazil is stronger than ever in the challenging times." WION: India sending HCQ to Brazil, how has been the reaction and how did it go about? S. Koventhan: At the request of the President of Brazil, consignment (530 kg of hydroxychloroquine) for Brazil was put on priority and was cleared as soon as possible. This is a testimony of the importance that both countries attach to their bilateral relationship. This goodwill gesture was well received in Brazil. India has also offered 5 million tablets of hydroxychloroquine to Brazil on a commercial basis. WION: The role played by the Indian mission in Brazil in taking care of Indian citizens, many Indian nationals are saying they are in deep trouble... S. Koventhan: To help Indian nationals in Brazil, we had set up two 24x7 Helplinenos +55(61) 981391127 & + 55(11) 994518224. A situation room has been established in Brasilia (email covidsitbrasilia@gmail.com). All the queries received on emails and phone calls are being promptly responded to. We also keep our social media pages updated with all relevant advisories on travel and visa. Officials from the Consulate-General of India in Sao Paulo & Honorary Consulate in Rio are also part of our response teams. Through Oyo Rooms, hotel accommodation at discounted rates were facilitated for Indian nationals. We have tied up with Indian restaurants in cities of Sao Paulo, Rio and Brasilia for providing meals at a discounted rate for Indian nationals, who are stranded in these cities. We are currently working on extending such measures to other cities also. We are also doing a weekly Video conferencing with prominent members of Indian community in Brazil to get their perceptive on handling this situation. In the embassy here, we have adopted the approach of "social distancing and digital proximity". We have implemented work from home for more than half of our embassy personnel. We also organize online Yoga classes mainly to de-stress our body and mind during this time of crisis. This is well received in Brazil. WION: Have we shared any Indian model of containment with Brazil? S. Koventhan: Under the Indian technical and economic cooperation program (ITEC) of the ministry of external affairs, government of India, e-ITEC short training live webinars for healthcare professionals on COVID-19 management strategies and related aspects are proposed to be organized. These e-ITEC webinars for training on basic COVID-19 management are 45 minutes to one hour interactive sessions and will cover various aspects including – Understanding COVID-19, infection prevention measures, diagnosis, and clinical management of COVID-19 patients & contacts, field surveillance and public health measures and other emerging issues. Brazil being an ITEC partner country of India, we have extended an invitation to Brazil to participate in this program. WION: How are the Indian diplomat faring? it hasn't been easy for diplomats too. S. Koventhan: This is a difficult situation for the whole of humanity. In Brazil, we are taking necessary precautionary measures for the embassy personnel and their families. We strictly follow measures like social distancing, usage of masks and hand sanitizers etc. As diplomats, it is important that we keep our physical, mental and emotional well-being high during this time of crisis. We are fully committed towards discharging our duties and responsibilities, in the best possible manner to help our fellow citizens, who are stranded in Brazil because of COVID-19.

530 kg HCQ consignment cleared for Brazil, says India's top diplomat in Brazil

At a time when journalists in few Indian states are testing positive for the Coronavirus, an event involving Tamil Nadu Minister for revenue and Disaster Management &nbsp;RB Udhayakumar and the Madurai district administration appeared to follow or encourage hardly any social distancing measures.&nbsp;

Journalists from print and electronic media, who were invited the government departments were seen jostling for space to capture the news. The journalists also say that there were hardly any precautions that were being exercised and encouraged by the authorities. &nbsp;

The event was held this morning in Madurai district’s South Masi street, where the Minister was to declare open 300 shops selling essential items. The large marketplace at South Masi street is said to have over 2000 shops, but they were all shut due to the lockdown and the restrictions that ensued. It was after an inspection by the Minister and the district authorities that 300 shops were opened today.&nbsp;

A media professional who spoke to WION said that there was no social distancing between the officials themselves and that no arrangements had been made to ensure that the on-site press meet involving over 50 journalists could take place with social distancing measures.&nbsp;

“While it important for the authorities to lead by example and act responsibly at times like these, it is also the clear responsibility of the media fraternity to collectively decide the ways and means to ensure safe coverage at such events. The way in which we were standing to cover the minister’s press only worsened our fears about the rapid spread of the pandemic. We must remind ourselves that Madurai alone has 48 COVID cases” the journalist added.

So far, according to sources in a Chennai-based private Tamil news channel, 27 employees have been tested positive for COVID-19. However, the government bulletin has not mentioned this figure specifically or gone into the details.

According to the channel staff, after 1 employee was tested positive, 94 of the channel’s staff were tested and 26 turned positive and it includes those in news and non-news functions. The channel has suspended news operations and has only a handful of staff to ensure that recorded programming is aired.&nbsp;

As per the latest government bulletin, Tamil Nadu currently has 1596 recorded coronavirus cases, of which 940 are active cases, as 635 patients have been discharged and there have been 18 casualties. Capital city Chennai alone has 358 cases, which is the highest in any district in Tamil Nadu.

At a time when journalists in few Indian states are testing positive for the Coronavirus, an event involving Tamil Nadu Minister for revenue and Disaster Management RB Udhayakumar and the Madurai district administration appeared to follow or encourage hardly any social distancing measures.

At a time when journalists in few Indian states are testing positive for the Coronavirus, an event involving Tamil Nadu Minister for revenue and Disaster Management RB Udhayakumar and the Madurai district administration appeared to follow or encourage hardly any social distancing measures. Journalists from print and electronic media, who were invited the government departments were seen jostling for space to capture the news. The journalists also say that there were hardly any precautions that were being exercised and encouraged by the authorities. The event was held this morning in Madurai district’s South Masi street, where the Minister was to declare open 300 shops selling essential items. The large marketplace at South Masi street is said to have over 2000 shops, but they were all shut due to the lockdown and the restrictions that ensued. It was after an inspection by the Minister and the district authorities that 300 shops were opened today. A media professional who spoke to WION said that there was no social distancing between the officials themselves and that no arrangements had been made to ensure that the on-site press meet involving over 50 journalists could take place with social distancing measures. “While it important for the authorities to lead by example and act responsibly at times like these, it is also the clear responsibility of the media fraternity to collectively decide the ways and means to ensure safe coverage at such events. The way in which we were standing to cover the minister’s press only worsened our fears about the rapid spread of the pandemic. We must remind ourselves that Madurai alone has 48 COVID cases” the journalist added. So far, according to sources in a Chennai-based private Tamil news channel, 27 employees have been tested positive for COVID-19. However, the government bulletin has not mentioned this figure specifically or gone into the details. According to the channel staff, after 1 employee was tested positive, 94 of the channel’s staff were tested and 26 turned positive and it includes those in news and non-news functions. The channel has suspended news operations and has only a handful of staff to ensure that recorded programming is aired. As per the latest government bulletin, Tamil Nadu currently has 1596 recorded coronavirus cases, of which 940 are active cases, as 635 patients have been discharged and there have been 18 casualties. Capital city Chennai alone has 358 cases, which is the highest in any district in Tamil Nadu.

No social distancing encouraged at Tamil Nadu Minister’s event in Madurai

Indian Council of Medical Research has instructed&nbsp;states to pause the use of Chinese rapid testing kits over concerns that they are faulty.

At least three Indian states have expressed dissatisfaction with the kits, claiming that they are malfunctioning and only have an accuracy of 5 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worst-is-yet-to-come-pandemic-could-peak-in-india-during-may-june-293963" hreflang="en">'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June</a>

Rajasthan has outrightly&nbsp;refused to use them after its health officials found that&nbsp;the tests&nbsp;showed&nbsp;negative&nbsp;results for even those who&nbsp;they already knew were positive.

The kits are supposed to test&nbsp;the presence of antibodies against the coronavirus pandemic&nbsp;from blood samples.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coronavirus-case-tally-nears-20000-death-toll-reaches-640-293954" hreflang="en">India's coronavirus case tally nears 20,000; death toll reaches 640</a>

Previously, several countries including Spain, Turkey, Czech Republic and the Netherlands&nbsp;have reported problems with kits.

They have returned thousands of&nbsp;testing kits&nbsp;and medical masks to China on the grounds&nbsp;of them being below standard or defective.

However, Beijing has denied any quality issues.&nbsp;In a statement last week, China said it attached "great importance to the export of medical products".

India imported almost one million kits from China to ramp up testing.

Indian Council of Medical Research has instructed states to pause the use of Chinese rapid testing kits over concerns that they are faulty. At least three Indian states have expressed dissatisfaction with the kits, claiming that they are malfunctioning and only have an accuracy of 5 per cent.

Indian Council of Medical Research has instructed states to pause the use of Chinese rapid testing kits over concerns that they are faulty. At least three Indian states have expressed dissatisfaction with the kits, claiming that they are malfunctioning and only have an accuracy of 5 per cent. Also read: 'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June Rajasthan has outrightly refused to use them after its health officials found that the tests showed negative results for even those who they already knew were positive. The kits are supposed to test the presence of antibodies against the coronavirus pandemic from blood samples. Also read: India's coronavirus case tally nears 20,000; death toll reaches 640 Previously, several countries including Spain, Turkey, Czech Republic and the Netherlands have reported problems with kits. They have returned thousands of testing kits and medical masks to China on the grounds of them being below standard or defective. However, Beijing has denied any quality issues. In a statement last week, China said it attached "great importance to the export of medical products". India imported almost one million kits from China to ramp up testing.

COVID-19: Rapid testing paused due to issues with Chinese kits

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date.&nbsp;

“There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases.

Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly.

All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of.&nbsp;

As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday.

The total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 19,984 and 69% of these positive cases of the total case were asymptomatic, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said on Tuesday. The council also informed that around four lakh samples have been collected to date. “There is only one study that suggests there are 80% cases. Secondly, in the case of asymptomatic, where the symptoms are not very clear, the chances of a patient coming and reporting the case, too, becomes low. I am now saying for the first time that if we look at the number of tests done, so far 31% belong to symptomatic category and the rest 69% would fall under asymptomatic…we can say that for every single case detected there would be two cases that may be termed as asymptomatic," aid Dr R R Gangakhedkar, ICMR head of epidemiology and communicable diseases. Experts believe that there is a chance that some asymptomatic people may have been carriers of the virus for a while without knowing. However, the numbers are very high in this scenario, otherwise, it would have lead to a higher number of positive cases. The officials also believe that if more testing was needed in such a scenario, the protocols will be revised accordingly. All cases, even with very mild and mild symptoms, are identified through surveillance and contact tracing. The asymptomatic cases have been divided into three categories: purely asymptomatic, pre-asymptomatic and asymptomatic. The experts explained their pre-emptive approach and told that even in case of mild symptoms, the tests are conducted and taken care of. As of now, according to data provided by ICMR, over four lakh samples have been tested, out of which 18,601 cases were tested positive.

More of asymptomatic positive cases in India, says ICMR

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AugustaWestland VVIP chopper scam accused, on the ground that his petition "did not fall in the criteria for grant of relief".

A two-judge bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and also comprising Justice B R Gavai dismissed the bail application of Christian Michel.

Michel, in his bail application, stated that he is aged 59 years, and has a history of bad health which will make him easy prey to any Corona outbreak in the Tihar jail in Delhi and thereby he be released on bail.

"We don`t find any merit in the petition filed by the accused, petitioner in the case. We, thereby, dismiss the same," Justice Kaul observed.&nbsp;

The apex court did not consider his prayers and upheld the Delhi High Court order that his case did not fall in the criteria for grant of relief.

The accused, a 59-year-old British National, Michel is currently lodged in Tihar jail for his alleged involvement in the Augusta Westland VVIP chopper scam case.

Michel had moved the Apex Court after the Delhi High Court had rejected his bail application.

Michel was extradited from Dubai in 2018 and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal.&nbsp;

While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a middleman in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AugustaWestland VVIP chopper scam accused, on the ground that his petition "did not fall in the criteria for grant of relief".

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the bail plea of Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the AugustaWestland VVIP chopper scam accused, on the ground that his petition "did not fall in the criteria for grant of relief". A two-judge bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and also comprising Justice B R Gavai dismissed the bail application of Christian Michel. Michel, in his bail application, stated that he is aged 59 years, and has a history of bad health which will make him easy prey to any Corona outbreak in the Tihar jail in Delhi and thereby he be released on bail. "We don`t find any merit in the petition filed by the accused, petitioner in the case. We, thereby, dismiss the same," Justice Kaul observed. The apex court did not consider his prayers and upheld the Delhi High Court order that his case did not fall in the criteria for grant of relief. The accused, a 59-year-old British National, Michel is currently lodged in Tihar jail for his alleged involvement in the Augusta Westland VVIP chopper scam case. Michel had moved the Apex Court after the Delhi High Court had rejected his bail application. Michel was extradited from Dubai in 2018 and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal. While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a middleman in the deal, the ED is investigating money laundering charges against him.

Supreme Court rejects bail application of alleged AugustaWestland middleman Christian Michel

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concern over the unscientific disposal of the bio-medical waste arising out of the handling of the COVID-19 disease.&nbsp;

NGT has urged the State Pollution Control Board and Pollution Control Committee to put in serious efforts to mitigate possible risk of contamination of land.

A bench headed by Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, on Tuesday, raked up the issue of gaps in compliance of the Bio Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 which are applicable to the disposal of the bio-medical waste generated out of handling a viral disease.

The tribunal also perused the guidelines for 'Handling, Treatment and Disposal of Waste Generated during Treatment, Diagnosis, Quarantine of COVID-19 Patients' issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recently.

It expressed the need for proper disposal of used Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), used bags, gloves, goggles, without the same getting mixed with other municipal solid waste causing contamination.

The bench also expressed the need to review the effectiveness of the monitoring mechanism. It stated that there was a need to create awareness by special awareness programmers, organising training in concerned local bodies, health departments, providing workers handling COVID-19 waste with adequate protective gear, adequate coordination with media and other concerned regulatory authorities.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concern over the unscientific disposal of the bio-medical waste arising out of the handling of the COVID-19 disease.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concern over the unscientific disposal of the bio-medical waste arising out of the handling of the COVID-19 disease. NGT has urged the State Pollution Control Board and Pollution Control Committee to put in serious efforts to mitigate possible risk of contamination of land. A bench headed by Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, on Tuesday, raked up the issue of gaps in compliance of the Bio Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 which are applicable to the disposal of the bio-medical waste generated out of handling a viral disease. The tribunal also perused the guidelines for 'Handling, Treatment and Disposal of Waste Generated during Treatment, Diagnosis, Quarantine of COVID-19 Patients' issued by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recently. It expressed the need for proper disposal of used Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), used bags, gloves, goggles, without the same getting mixed with other municipal solid waste causing contamination. The bench also expressed the need to review the effectiveness of the monitoring mechanism. It stated that there was a need to create awareness by special awareness programmers, organising training in concerned local bodies, health departments, providing workers handling COVID-19 waste with adequate protective gear, adequate coordination with media and other concerned regulatory authorities.

NGT raises concern over COVID-19 bio-medical waste disposal

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly.&nbsp;

Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other.

According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19.

Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect."&nbsp;

According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces.

A recent study of COVID-19 infections from families who visited a restaurant with a central air conditioning system has suggested that coronavirus can spread within centrally air-conditioned spaces. One family came to a restaurant in Guangzhou from Wuhan, the initial hotspot of COVID-19 in China and one of them was carrying the virus unknowingly. Days later, nine others who dined at the restaurant started showing symptoms of coronavirus. The virus travelled through the air conditioner duct at the restaurant and infected three families sitting in the vicinity of each other who never engaged with the other. According to the expert, the humidity of a building may also affect the spread of infections like COVID-19. Considering the potential use of air filtration systems, the experts found the majority of viruses, including coronavirus, are too small to capture bugs like SARS-CoV-2 and "no filter system is perfect." According to experts, the use of Window ACs does not pose any additional risk of coronavirus infection, especially at a time when people are isolated inside their homes with no outside contact.

Central air conditioning could raise risks of coronavirus infection

Nearly 100 people at the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex have been quarantined after a sanitation worker there tested positive for coronavirus. The secretary-level officials and their families have been asked to be under home quarantine, workers were taken to a quarantine facility in central Delhi.

COVID-19 case in Rashtrapati Bhavan: 100 staffers asked to quarantine

The low prices of crude oil may benefit India in long term but may not boost the Indian economy in the short run. India imports around 80% of its crude. Low crude price may boost consumer spending and government's income from excise.

Fineprint: Low crude price may benefit India in long term, but may not boost economy in short run

The number of coronavirus cases in India is now 17,656 with more than 1500 cases recorded in the last 24-hours. The death toll has been recorded to 559. Watch report.

COVID-19 situation report India: 17,656 cases | 559 fatalities

The coronavirus pandemic seems to be tailored to Pakistani instincts. It is silent, discreet and knows no borders.

As it quietly spreads to new territories, Pakistan, too is quietly upto something. Pakistan is rebranding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-drops-nearly-4000-terrorists-names-from-its-watchlist-including-one-2611-mastermind-report-293762">terrorists</a>.

At least four thousand of them have "quietly" been removed from its watchlist. It also apparently includes one of the masterminds of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

A terror watchlist is maintained to help financial institutions. It helps them to avoid doing business with or process transactions to designated terrorists and terrorist organizations.

There are many in Pakistan in 2018, the list included 7,600 names but given the developments soon there will be none.

Thousands of terrorists will "officially" be free men in Pakistan including Zaki-ur-Rahman Lakhvi - the leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba and the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The country is changing names of individuals in its official data, incorporating IDs that do not match and Pakistan is putting out reports that these terrorists are either missing or deceased.&nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic seems to be tailored to Pakistani instincts. It is silent, discreet and knows no borders. As it quietly spreads to new territories, Pakistan, too is quietly upto something.

The coronavirus pandemic seems to be tailored to Pakistani instincts. It is silent, discreet and knows no borders. As it quietly spreads to new territories, Pakistan, too is quietly upto something. Pakistan is rebranding terrorists. At least four thousand of them have "quietly" been removed from its watchlist. It also apparently includes one of the masterminds of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. A terror watchlist is maintained to help financial institutions. It helps them to avoid doing business with or process transactions to designated terrorists and terrorist organizations. There are many in Pakistan in 2018, the list included 7,600 names but given the developments soon there will be none. Thousands of terrorists will "officially" be free men in Pakistan including Zaki-ur-Rahman Lakhvi - the leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba and the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The country is changing names of individuals in its official data, incorporating IDs that do not match and Pakistan is putting out reports that these terrorists are either missing or deceased.

How Pakistan is 'rebranding' terrorists

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus.

Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment.

In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there was a ''huge variation" in the test results.

States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits.&nbsp;&nbsp;India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies.

About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty.

India's ambassador to China&nbsp;Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was&nbsp;in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china.

New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality..&nbsp;After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China.&nbsp;The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty.

China's faulty test kits that couldn't detect the virus have dealt a blow to India's fight against the Wuhan virus. Last week, India had bought lakhs of rapid testing kits from China and they have turned out to be faulty. World over, countries are complaining about unusable Chinese equipment. In a daily press conference today Indian health officials said that the Chinese kits are not working and that there was a ''huge variation" in the test results. States have been advised to not use Chinese test kits. India got 6.5 lakh testing kits from China on April 16, supplied by three Chinese companies. About three lakh of these kits were sent to Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Rajasthan government went public with its findings today. The state health minister said they were expecting a 90 per cent accuracy. What they got, was more than 94 per cent inaccuracy. Only 5.4 per cent of the Chinese kits give an accurate result. The rest are faulty. India's ambassador to China Vikram Misri said that he has been coordinating the procurement from China and added India was in touch with China to identify bonafide suppliers. He said that India is getting more supplies from china. New Delhi has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1000 ventilators. It is a fact that options are limited which is why most countries continue to buy from China despite the poor quality.. After today's disclosure, India should re-think its orders from China as supplies from China cannot be trusted. Several countries have complained about China's defective supplies. Spain, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Finland and the United Kingdom have received faulty kits from China. The Netherlands recalled 600 thousand face masks purchased from china.

China's faulty test kits deal a body blow to India's fight against Wuhan virus

The nationwide lockdown has entered the 27th day even as the number of Coronavirus positive cases continues to rise daily. As per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 18,601 and the death toll is 590.

The nationwide lockdown has entered the 27th day even as the number of Coronavirus positive cases continues to rise daily. As per the latest data released by the Union Health Ministry, the total COVID-19 cases in India stand at 18,601 and the death toll is 590. The tally of those cured, discharged from hospital stands at 3251. While Gujarat, at over 1,800, has the third-highest number of confirmed coronavirus infections in India at present — the first two being Maharashtra and Delhi — Tamil Nadu is seeing some plateauing in the number of new cases. Globally, 2,481,287 people have been infected and 170,436 have died so far, according to Worldometer. During yesterday’s press briefing, the Health Ministry claimed that at least 80 per cent of the coronavirus positive cases have no or very mild symptoms. "Based on the worldwide analysis, out of 100 coronavirus patients, 80 per cent are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Health and Family Welfare. “Around 15 per cent patients turn into severe cases and five per cent cases turn into the critical case”, he further added. “80 out of 100 people do not show symptoms and therefore chances are that they test positive”, echoed Raman Gangakhedkar, head infectious disease and epidemiology at the Indian Council of Medical Research.

Total COVID-19 cases in India rise to 18,601; 590 dead

India is under a nationwide lockdown until may 3rd to curb COVID-19. While most have been ordered to stay indoors and work from home, essential service-providers continue to venture out of their homes to fulfil needs that cannot be met from within four walls.

Health workers, grocery stores, pharmacies are some of the services which are exempt from the lockdown, and so is the Indian media, and they too find themselves vulnerable to this infection.

Media professionals, be it, reporters, camera crew, photojournalists and more,&nbsp;are stepping out of their homes to bring you the news about this deadly pandemic. As Indians are confined to their homes amid the nationwide lockdown, they rely on independent media to inform them about the latest updates about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recently, more than 170 media professionals were tested at a medical camp in Azad Maidan in Mumbai and 53 were found positive for COVID-19. The positive cases are employed across print and electronic media and have been reporting from the ground since the pandemic gripped the nation in March this year. Reports say that most of those who tested positive are asymptomatic

A majority of these positive cases are from TV&nbsp;channels and had been reporting from Dharavi, one of the virus&nbsp;hotspots in Mumbai.

They have now been placed under quarantine In another instance, a journalist who attended senior Congress leader Kamal Nath's final news conference as Madhya Pradesh chief minister also tested positive for COVID-19. In Tamil Nadu, one reporter and a sub-editor with a TV&nbsp;channel tested positive while an indian-origin journalist died in a New York hospital.

Even in New Delhi, journalists covering the pandemic on the ground will be tested for the infection

While most radio jockeys and print media professionals are working from home, some have no choice but to venture out with masks and gloves. Despite precautions, these media professionals expose themselves to the infection.

India is under a nationwide lockdown until may 3rd to curb COVID-19. While most have been ordered to stay indoors and work from home, essential service-providers continue to venture out of their homes to fulfil needs that cannot be met from within four walls.

India is under a nationwide lockdown until may 3rd to curb COVID-19. While most have been ordered to stay indoors and work from home, essential service-providers continue to venture out of their homes to fulfil needs that cannot be met from within four walls. Health workers, grocery stores, pharmacies are some of the services which are exempt from the lockdown, and so is the Indian media, and they too find themselves vulnerable to this infection. Media professionals, be it, reporters, camera crew, photojournalists and more, are stepping out of their homes to bring you the news about this deadly pandemic. As Indians are confined to their homes amid the nationwide lockdown, they rely on independent media to inform them about the latest updates about the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, more than 170 media professionals were tested at a medical camp in Azad Maidan in Mumbai and 53 were found positive for COVID-19. The positive cases are employed across print and electronic media and have been reporting from the ground since the pandemic gripped the nation in March this year. Reports say that most of those who tested positive are asymptomatic A majority of these positive cases are from TV channels and had been reporting from Dharavi, one of the virus hotspots in Mumbai. They have now been placed under quarantine In another instance, a journalist who attended senior Congress leader Kamal Nath's final news conference as Madhya Pradesh chief minister also tested positive for COVID-19. In Tamil Nadu, one reporter and a sub-editor with a TV channel tested positive while an indian-origin journalist died in a New York hospital. Even in New Delhi, journalists covering the pandemic on the ground will be tested for the infection While most radio jockeys and print media professionals are working from home, some have no choice but to venture out with masks and gloves. Despite precautions, these media professionals expose themselves to the infection.

Mediapersons find themselves vulnerable to coronavirus amid lockdown

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced lockdown exemptions from April 20.&nbsp;

The move was aimed at providing relief to farmers and daily wage labourers. But in many places across India, this has been interpreted as a complete repeal of all restrictions, resulting in utter disregard for social distancing.

The market was allowed to remain open to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential goods but the government failed to anticipate what unfolded as massive crowds thronged the mandi, &nbsp;disregarding social distancing norms.

Government authorities are finding it difficult to manage the large number of people who are turning up by the hour. Not just markets, traffic jams were reported in multiple areas in Mumbai as chief minister Uddhav Thackeray announced his decision to partially reopen businesses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced lockdown exemptions from April 20. The move was aimed at providing relief to farmers and daily wage labourers. But in many places across India, this has been interpreted as a complete repeal of all restrictions, resulting in utter disregard for social distancing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced lockdown exemptions from April 20. The move was aimed at providing relief to farmers and daily wage labourers. But in many places across India, this has been interpreted as a complete repeal of all restrictions, resulting in utter disregard for social distancing. The market was allowed to remain open to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential goods but the government failed to anticipate what unfolded as massive crowds thronged the mandi, disregarding social distancing norms. Government authorities are finding it difficult to manage the large number of people who are turning up by the hour. Not just markets, traffic jams were reported in multiple areas in Mumbai as chief minister Uddhav Thackeray announced his decision to partially reopen businesses.

Lockdown exemptions misconstrued, social distancing norms flouted in several places

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has advised all states not to use rapid test kits for two days as different kit showing different results.

ICMR asked states to not to use rapid test kits distributed among all for 2 days

In India, the coronavirus cases are doubling much slower than before. The doubling rate has improved from 7.5 days to 3.5 days. Watch report.

India's COVID-19 spread slows down: Kerala and Odisha best performing states

Six foreign tourists, who had made a cave their abode in Uttarakhand since March 24, were rescued. The tourists, including women, hail from Ukraine, Turkey, Unites States, France and Nepal.

Six foreign tourists, who had made a cave their abode in Uttarakhand since March 24, were rescued. The tourists, including women, hail from Ukraine, Turkey, Unites States, France and Nepal. According to the Lakshman Jhoola, police officer, these tourists had exhausted their money and had nothing to pay for their hotel stay and hence resorted to living in the forest/cave. The rescued tourists lived in the cave for 25 days before local people spotted them and informed the police. The foreign nationals used to get their ration for food from the nearby market. Medical tests have confirmed that none of them is infected with COVID nor exhibited any symptoms. However, for safety reasons and precaution all of them have been quarantined the concerned embassies have been intimated too. Air, rail and road transport have been suspended since 24 March after PM Modi announced a nationwide shutdown.

6 foreign tourists who lived in a cave in Uttarakhand for 25 days rescued 

Maharashtra government on Tuesday revoked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-govt-will-conduct-covid-19-test-on-mediapersons-in-national-capital-cm-293823">lockdown</a> relaxations and exemptions for Mumbai and Pune regions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-advised-not-to-use-rapid-testing-kits-for-two-days-need-to-be-validated-government-293806">Also Read:&nbsp;Govt advises states not to use rapid testing kits for two days</a>

People are not behaving responsibly, the rest of the parts of the state will continue to have partial exemptions, the Maharashtra chief minister's office declared.

In Mumbai's slum area in Dharavi, twelve new coronavirus cases were reported with one person dieing of the virus. The total number of coronavirus cases in the area has increased to 179 with 12 deaths reported.

West Bengal today reported 274 active coronavirus cases. 15 people have died due to the virus in the state.

Meanwhile, union health minister Harsh Vardhan said that there have been reports that convalescent plasma can play a crucial role in the recovery of coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

"We have requested the Red Cross volunteers to approach people who have recovered from coronavirus and motivate them to donate blood," the health minister said.

In Chandigarh, 27 people tested positive for COVID-19 while in Tamil Nadu 76 persons tested positive for the virus today. The number of coroanvirus cases has now risen to 1,596 in the state.

One person died due to the virus in Tamil Nadu today, with the death toll climbing to 18 in the state.

Kerala recorded 19 new cases for the virus today, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said with the total number of cases reaching 117.

Maharashtra government on Tuesday revoked lockdown relaxations and exemptions for Mumbai and Pune regions. Also Read: Govt advises states not to use rapid testing kits for two days People are not behaving responsibly, the rest of the parts of the state will continue to have partial exemptions, the Maharashtra chief minister's office declared.

Maharashtra government on Tuesday revoked lockdown relaxations and exemptions for Mumbai and Pune regions. Also Read: Govt advises states not to use rapid testing kits for two days People are not behaving responsibly, the rest of the parts of the state will continue to have partial exemptions, the Maharashtra chief minister's office declared. In Mumbai's slum area in Dharavi, twelve new coronavirus cases were reported with one person dieing of the virus. The total number of coronavirus cases in the area has increased to 179 with 12 deaths reported. West Bengal today reported 274 active coronavirus cases. 15 people have died due to the virus in the state. Meanwhile, union health minister Harsh Vardhan said that there have been reports that convalescent plasma can play a crucial role in the recovery of coronavirus patients. "We have requested the Red Cross volunteers to approach people who have recovered from coronavirus and motivate them to donate blood," the health minister said. In Chandigarh, 27 people tested positive for COVID-19 while in Tamil Nadu 76 persons tested positive for the virus today. The number of coroanvirus cases has now risen to 1,596 in the state. One person died due to the virus in Tamil Nadu today, with the death toll climbing to 18 in the state. Kerala recorded 19 new cases for the virus today, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said with the total number of cases reaching 117.

Maharahtra govt revokes lockdown relaxation in Mumbai, Pune

Family members of at least 25 workers employed inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises have been asked to isolate themselves after a staffer's relative tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

COVID-19, a disease caused by coronavirus, has claimed over 550 lives in India so far.

According to IANS, a relative of a resident of Rashtrapati Bhavan Estate Quarters died a few days ago. The person who has tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday had attended the funeral.

The staffer's relative who has tested positive has no direct connection with Rashtrapati Bhavan. The families living in around 25 houses have, however, been asked to isolate themselves as a precautionary measure.

The individual has been sent to the quarantine centre.

Family members of at least 25 workers employed inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises have been asked to isolate themselves after a staffer's relative tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Family members of at least 25 workers employed inside the Rashtrapati Bhavan premises have been asked to isolate themselves after a staffer's relative tested positive for the novel coronavirus. COVID-19, a disease caused by coronavirus, has claimed over 550 lives in India so far. According to IANS, a relative of a resident of Rashtrapati Bhavan Estate Quarters died a few days ago. The person who has tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday had attended the funeral. The staffer's relative who has tested positive has no direct connection with Rashtrapati Bhavan. The families living in around 25 houses have, however, been asked to isolate themselves as a precautionary measure. The individual has been sent to the quarantine centre.

Families of over 20 staffers in Rashtrapati Bhavan premises asked to self isolate, says report

In a recent study published in The Lancet experts have projected the demand for ventilators at the peak of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-advised-not-to-use-rapid-testing-kits-for-two-days-need-to-be-validated-government-293806"> coronavirus</a> outbreak in the USA. ''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/explained-can-mobile-apps-aid-the-fight-against-coronavirus-293804">Explained: Can mobile apps aid the fight against coronavirus?</a>

According to the report, at a basic reproduction rate of 2.5, 1,15,001 (ranging between 101 006–131 770) invasive ventilators and 89,788 (ranging between 78 861–102 880) non-invasive ventilators would be needed, on average at the outbreak peak.

The estimates used to project the numbers include recent evaluations of coronavirus patient’s hospitalization and data of patients in ICU requiring ventilation.&nbsp;

The study further elaborates that 69,660 out of 98,105 invasive ventilators in the USA are already deployed for non-coronavirus patients, before the spread of the pandemic. It essentially means that only 28,445 invasive ventilators would be left for coronavirus patients.

Consequently, at least 45 341 (IQR 31 346–62 110) additional units would be needed for the surge at the peak. Similarly, of the 22,976 non-invasive devices, an estimated 12,499 units would be available for COVID-19 patients. As a result, a minimum of 77,289 additional units would be needed at the peak in the USA.&nbsp;

The startling numbers projected in the report reveals how ill-prepared the USA really is, once coronavirus peaks in the country. A point worth being noted here is that these available ventilators include additional units in stockpile or storage.

The USA is not alone in facing the crisis. As the pandemic spread, countries around the world started to push to get more ventilators to treat coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

According to an estimate projected by in a report by Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy on March 24, India will need an estimated 1 million ventilators to address the peak of coronavirus.

The shortfall has resulted in a race to develop low-cost ventilators in the country. India is also looking to import ventilators from countries like China, South Korea to meet the required numbers of units.

But, with growing concerns among health experts on the usage of ventilators and data suggesting higher mortality rate among patients on ventilators than the normal mortality rate, leaves a big question unanswered. Are ventilators saving lives or killing more people?

As health officials around the world are working day and night for a possible vaccination to cure COVID-19 responsible for the death of more than 171,652 around the world, some doctors are moving away from using ventilators when they can.

High death rates on most advanced breathing support in the UK, New York, etc. raises questions on the effectiveness of critical care for patients in ICU who are fighting for their lives.&nbsp;

The reason - some hospitals have reported unusually high death rates for coronavirus patients on ventilators, and some doctors worry that the machines could be harming certain patients.

The evolving treatments highlight the fact that doctors are still learning the best way to manage a virus that emerged only months ago. They are relying on anecdotal, real-time data amid a clutch of patients and shortages of basic supplies.

Mechanical ventilators push oxygen into patients whose lungs are failing. Using the machines involves sedating a patient and sticking a tube into the throat. Deaths in such sick patients are common, no matter the reason they need breathing help.

Generally speaking, 40 per cent to 50 per cent of patients with severe respiratory distress die while on ventilators, experts say. But 80 per cent or more of coronavirus patients placed on the machines in New York City have died, state and city officials say, reported by Associated Press.&nbsp;

Similar reports have emerged from China and the United Kingdom. One UK report put the figure at 66 per cent. The ICNARC (Intensive Care National Audit &amp; Research Centre, UK) report looked at the first 775 patients who had fallen critically ill with COVID-19 across 285 intensive care units. &nbsp;

Of the 98 patients who needed advanced respiratory support when their lungs started to fail, just 33 patients lived (34 per cent). A very small study in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the disease first emerged, said 86 per cent died.

The reason is not clear. It may have to do with what kind of shape the patients were in before they were infected or it could be related to how sick they had become by the time they were put on the machines, some experts said. But some health professionals have wondered whether ventilators might make matters worse in certain patients, perhaps by igniting or worsening a harmful immune system reaction- that’s speculation. ''

But experts do say ventilators can be damaging to a patient over time, as high-pressure oxygen is forced into the tiny air sacs in a patient’s lungs.

“We know that mechanical ventilation is not benign,” said Dr Eddy Fan, an expert on respiratory treatment at Toronto General Hospital.&nbsp;

“One of the most important findings in the last few decades is that medical ventilation can worsen lung injury — so we have to be careful about how we use it.”

The dangers can be eased by limiting the amount of pressure and the size of breaths delivered by the machine, Fan said in an interview to Associated Press.&nbsp;

Dr Luciano Gatinoni, an expert in anesthesiology and intensive care at the Medical University of Gottingen, in a letter to the editor published in Intensive Care Medicine, wrote that coronavirus patients in Italy showed symptoms subtly but significantly different from of other patients in respiratory distress.&nbsp;

“All we can do ventilating these patients is "buying time" with minimal additional damage: the lowest possible PEEP [Positive End Expiratory Pressure] and gentle ventilation,” Gattinoni added.

“The ventilator is not therapeutic. It’s a supportive measure while we wait for the patient’s body to recover,” said Dr Roger Alvarez, a lung specialist with the University of Miami Health System in Florida, who is a leader in the effort to use nitric oxide to keep patients off ventilators for as long as possible said, while speaking the Associated Press.

In a recent study published in The Lancet experts have projected the demand for ventilators at the peak of the coronavirus outbreak in the USA. '' Explained: Can mobile apps aid the fight against coronavirus?

In a recent study published in The Lancet experts have projected the demand for ventilators at the peak of the coronavirus outbreak in the USA. '' Explained: Can mobile apps aid the fight against coronavirus? According to the report, at a basic reproduction rate of 2.5, 1,15,001 (ranging between 101 006–131 770) invasive ventilators and 89,788 (ranging between 78 861–102 880) non-invasive ventilators would be needed, on average at the outbreak peak. The estimates used to project the numbers include recent evaluations of coronavirus patient’s hospitalization and data of patients in ICU requiring ventilation. The study further elaborates that 69,660 out of 98,105 invasive ventilators in the USA are already deployed for non-coronavirus patients, before the spread of the pandemic. It essentially means that only 28,445 invasive ventilators would be left for coronavirus patients. Consequently, at least 45 341 (IQR 31 346–62 110) additional units would be needed for the surge at the peak. Similarly, of the 22,976 non-invasive devices, an estimated 12,499 units would be available for COVID-19 patients. As a result, a minimum of 77,289 additional units would be needed at the peak in the USA. The startling numbers projected in the report reveals how ill-prepared the USA really is, once coronavirus peaks in the country. A point worth being noted here is that these available ventilators include additional units in stockpile or storage. The USA is not alone in facing the crisis. As the pandemic spread, countries around the world started to push to get more ventilators to treat coronavirus patients. According to an estimate projected by in a report by Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy on March 24, India will need an estimated 1 million ventilators to address the peak of coronavirus. The shortfall has resulted in a race to develop low-cost ventilators in the country. India is also looking to import ventilators from countries like China, South Korea to meet the required numbers of units. But, with growing concerns among health experts on the usage of ventilators and data suggesting higher mortality rate among patients on ventilators than the normal mortality rate, leaves a big question unanswered. Are ventilators saving lives or killing more people? As health officials around the world are working day and night for a possible vaccination to cure COVID-19 responsible for the death of more than 171,652 around the world, some doctors are moving away from using ventilators when they can. High death rates on most advanced breathing support in the UK, New York, etc. raises questions on the effectiveness of critical care for patients in ICU who are fighting for their lives. The reason - some hospitals have reported unusually high death rates for coronavirus patients on ventilators, and some doctors worry that the machines could be harming certain patients. The evolving treatments highlight the fact that doctors are still learning the best way to manage a virus that emerged only months ago. They are relying on anecdotal, real-time data amid a clutch of patients and shortages of basic supplies. Mechanical ventilators push oxygen into patients whose lungs are failing. Using the machines involves sedating a patient and sticking a tube into the throat. Deaths in such sick patients are common, no matter the reason they need breathing help. Generally speaking, 40 per cent to 50 per cent of patients with severe respiratory distress die while on ventilators, experts say. But 80 per cent or more of coronavirus patients placed on the machines in New York City have died, state and city officials say, reported by Associated Press. Similar reports have emerged from China and the United Kingdom. One UK report put the figure at 66 per cent. The ICNARC (Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre, UK) report looked at the first 775 patients who had fallen critically ill with COVID-19 across 285 intensive care units. Of the 98 patients who needed advanced respiratory support when their lungs started to fail, just 33 patients lived (34 per cent). A very small study in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the disease first emerged, said 86 per cent died. The reason is not clear. It may have to do with what kind of shape the patients were in before they were infected or it could be related to how sick they had become by the time they were put on the machines, some experts said. But some health professionals have wondered whether ventilators might make matters worse in certain patients, perhaps by igniting or worsening a harmful immune system reaction- that’s speculation. '' But experts do say ventilators can be damaging to a patient over time, as high-pressure oxygen is forced into the tiny air sacs in a patient’s lungs. “We know that mechanical ventilation is not benign,” said Dr Eddy Fan, an expert on respiratory treatment at Toronto General Hospital. “One of the most important findings in the last few decades is that medical ventilation can worsen lung injury — so we have to be careful about how we use it.” The dangers can be eased by limiting the amount of pressure and the size of breaths delivered by the machine, Fan said in an interview to Associated Press. Dr Luciano Gatinoni, an expert in anesthesiology and intensive care at the Medical University of Gottingen, in a letter to the editor published in Intensive Care Medicine, wrote that coronavirus patients in Italy showed symptoms subtly but significantly different from of other patients in respiratory distress. “All we can do ventilating these patients is "buying time" with minimal additional damage: the lowest possible PEEP [Positive End Expiratory Pressure] and gentle ventilation,” Gattinoni added. “The ventilator is not therapeutic. It’s a supportive measure while we wait for the patient’s body to recover,” said Dr Roger Alvarez, a lung specialist with the University of Miami Health System in Florida, who is a leader in the effort to use nitric oxide to keep patients off ventilators for as long as possible said, while speaking the Associated Press.

Ventilators in times of COVID-19: Life-saving machine or a 'killing' unit?

Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday reported 1,294 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/central-air-conditioning-could-raise-risks-of-coronavirus-infection-293747">coronavirus</a> cases with 1.134 active cases even as 83 new virus cases were reported in Rajasthan today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-advised-not-to-use-rapid-testing-kits-for-two-days-need-to-be-validated-government-293806">Also Read: States advised not to use rapid testing kits for two days, need to be validated, says Govt</a>

The total number&nbsp;of coroanvirus cases in the state has now risen to 1,659. Twenty-five people have died due to the virus in the state.

According to Haryana's health department, the number of coronavirus cases in the state has risen to 252 with 142 patients discharged from hospital. Two people have died due to the virus in the state.

In Andhra Pradesh, thirty-five 35 new coronavirus cases have been reported with three each in Ananthpur and Krishna, nine in Guntur, six in Kadapa, ten in Kurnool and four in West Godavari districts.&nbsp;

The total number of coronavirus cases has risen to 757 in the state with 22 people dying of the virus.

In Karnataka, seven new COVID-19 cases were reported. The total number of coronavirus cases has&nbsp;now risen to 415 with seventeen deaths. Fourteen people have been discharged.

Six more deaths were reported in Gujarat due to COVID-19 with the death toll rising to 77. There were 127 new coronavirus cases in the state taking the total number of cases to 2,066 which includes 131 recoveries.

Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday reported 1,294 coronavirus cases with 1.134 active cases even as 83 new virus cases were reported in Rajasthan today. Also Read: States advised not to use rapid testing kits for two days, need to be validated, says Govt The total number of coroanvirus cases in the state has now risen to 1,659.

Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday reported 1,294 coronavirus cases with 1.134 active cases even as 83 new virus cases were reported in Rajasthan today. Also Read: States advised not to use rapid testing kits for two days, need to be validated, says Govt The total number of coroanvirus cases in the state has now risen to 1,659. Twenty-five people have died due to the virus in the state. According to Haryana's health department, the number of coronavirus cases in the state has risen to 252 with 142 patients discharged from hospital. Two people have died due to the virus in the state. In Andhra Pradesh, thirty-five 35 new coronavirus cases have been reported with three each in Ananthpur and Krishna, nine in Guntur, six in Kadapa, ten in Kurnool and four in West Godavari districts. The total number of coronavirus cases has risen to 757 in the state with 22 people dying of the virus. In Karnataka, seven new COVID-19 cases were reported. The total number of coronavirus cases has now risen to 415 with seventeen deaths. Fourteen people have been discharged. Six more deaths were reported in Gujarat due to COVID-19 with the death toll rising to 77. There were 127 new coronavirus cases in the state taking the total number of cases to 2,066 which includes 131 recoveries.

COVID-19: Six deaths reported in Gujarat, 83 new cases in Rajasthan

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said his government will conduct COVID-19 test on mediapersons in the national capital, after 53 scribes tested positive for novel coronavirus in Mumbai.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said his government will conduct COVID-19 test on mediapersons in the national capital, after 53 scribes tested positive for novel coronavirus in Mumbai. Responding to a tweet in which a person requested the CM to arrange mass COVID-19 test for mediapersons in Delhi on the lines of the one carried out in Mumbai, Kejriwal said, "Sure. We will do that." However, the chief minister did not elaborate. We will ensure food security for all Delhiites throughout the period in which people will face the economic impact of Corona https://t.co/Uu5hDWWgFQ — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 21, 2020 × Kejriwal further said that the Delhi government will provide ration to 30 lakh people who don't have ration cards and added, that the state government will also procure 60 new ambulances in wake of coronavirus outbreak: Arvind Kejriwal. There are 1,603 active cases of COVID-19 in Delhi; 47 people have died of coronavirus. Out of 1,397 samples taken, 78 people were found infected with COVID-19 on Monday.

Delhi govt will conduct COVID-19 test on mediapersons in national capital: CM

India has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1,000 ventilators from China and the Indian mission in China are in touch with Chinese authorities regarding the identification of bonafide suppliers.&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION'sPrincipal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian ambassador to China, Vikram Misri said at the height of the outbreak in China, New Delhi "had offered and provided medical assistance" to the country as well. He also spoke about how the mission coordinated the evacuation plan of over 750 Indians and foreigners and how diplomats in the mission are dealing with the crisis.&nbsp;

WION: How can India and China cooperate in dealing with the COVID-19 crisis?

Vikram Misri: In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, there is considerable space for India and China to cooperate in controlling the spread of this pandemic and there are immediate, short-term as well as medium and long term aspects to our cooperation.

When China was at the height of dealing with this outbreak, we had offered and provided medical assistance. Now, India is in the process of commercially procuring a large number of these supplies.&nbsp;

China happens to be one of the largest producers of a number of these products. Thus, in the immediate short-term there is an opportunity for both countries to cooperate in facilitating our procurement of medical equipment and products from China in a stable and orderly manner.

We have been in touch with Chinese authorities regarding the identification of bonafide suppliers. That quality materials are available at reasonable and stable prices and that these are enabled to be transported in an efficient and timely manner to India is a priority.

At the same time, there are a number of Chinese companies whose products have been sold in the past to India and whose products have been licensed for import into India by the concerned Indian regulatory authorities.

However, recent regulations have restricted the number of companies from China that could export to India.

Given the fact that some products are already licensed for import into India, it would be a welcome step for the concerned authorities such as the National Medical Product Authority to expedite the registration of those companies and products that already have a large number of orders in the pipeline from India.

In the medium to longer-term, as both India and China are repositories of large pools of scientific and technological manpower, there is scope for both countries to cooperate on the Research and Development (R&amp;D) aspects of dealing with COVID-19 virus, apart from other public health issues. It would be mutually beneficial to intensify engagements between our biologists, epidemiologists, scientists and relevant national institutes in these fields.

WION: What is the quantum of the medical and protective supplies being procured from China?

Vikram Misri: India and China are cooperating on the procurement of the much needed medical equipment and products by our health care fraternity in India.

These include medical kits and equipment, ventilators, testing kits, PPEs, etc. China happens to be one of the largest producers of a number of these products, and the two governments have been in touch with each other to ensure stable and orderly purchase and procurement of these items.

The embassy has so far placed orders for around 7 to 8 million PPEs and about a 1000 ventilators. More orders are in the pipeline and at various stages of procurement. This is an extremely dynamic process, and it would not be appropriate for me at this time to get into the specifics of all the numbers.

WION: The role played by the Indian mission in Beijing and consulates in various parts of the country from evacuation in February to now?

Vikram Misri: The embassy of India in Beijing and our Consulates-General in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong have been playing a role in India’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.

As the outbreak first took place here, our initial concern and attention was focused on the welfare of Indians in China.

We had been closely following the developments here since January, and, on 23 January 2020, set up dedicated 24x7 hotlines and email desks for Indians looking for advice and information on the evolving epidemic situation. Thereafter, as Hubei province went into lockdown, we facilitated the evacuation of over 750 Indian and foreign nationals stranded there and wishing to return home. &nbsp;

Our hotlines continue to be operational. Consular officers also remain directly engaged with members of the community.

I myself recently had an interaction via video conference with representatives of the Indian community from across the country on 17 April 2020.

Our Mission and Consulates continue to remain committed to extending consular services and ensuring the welfare of the Indian community in China during these challenging times.

As the number of cases has increased in India, we have been actively involved in the procurement process for essential medical and protective supplies that India needs to fight the virus, including, as stated earlier, ventilators, testing kits, PPEs, etc.

We are now at the start of what promises to be an extremely intense logistical exercise. As the orders get ready to be shipped, we will have flights taking off on almost a daily basis from Shanghai and Guangzhou. We are engaged with Chinese officials on all aspects of this process, including flight clearances, customs clearances of goods, etc.

WION: How are the Indian diplomats faring. How tough have the past few months been?

Vikram Misri: A critical aspect in all our work has been to ensure that none of our diplomats and staff posted here in Beijing or in the Consulates fall sick.

Speaking for the Mission here in Beijing, I can say that we put in place stringent best practices for preventing infection. These were scrupulously followed by all and I am happy to note that we have been successful in preserving the good health of all of our colleagues so far.

This is an unprecedented situation for most of us and things have been generally tough on the personal and professional front.

But the way I see it, as I am sure most of my colleagues do as well, is that the work that we are doing right now is fundamental to ensuring India’s successful response to the COVID-19 crisis, and this call to duty is not a privilege available to all in the ordinary course of events.

We, therefore, hope to do our best and prove equal to the challenge. 
&nbsp;

India has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1,000 ventilators from China and the Indian mission in China are in touch with Chinese authorities regarding the identification of bonafide suppliers.

India has placed an order of 7-8 million PPEs and 1,000 ventilators from China and the Indian mission in China are in touch with Chinese authorities regarding the identification of bonafide suppliers. Speaking exclusively to WION'sPrincipal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Indian ambassador to China, Vikram Misri said at the height of the outbreak in China, New Delhi "had offered and provided medical assistance" to the country as well. He also spoke about how the mission coordinated the evacuation plan of over 750 Indians and foreigners and how diplomats in the mission are dealing with the crisis. WION: How can India and China cooperate in dealing with the COVID-19 crisis? Vikram Misri: In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, there is considerable space for India and China to cooperate in controlling the spread of this pandemic and there are immediate, short-term as well as medium and long term aspects to our cooperation. When China was at the height of dealing with this outbreak, we had offered and provided medical assistance. Now, India is in the process of commercially procuring a large number of these supplies. China happens to be one of the largest producers of a number of these products. Thus, in the immediate short-term there is an opportunity for both countries to cooperate in facilitating our procurement of medical equipment and products from China in a stable and orderly manner. We have been in touch with Chinese authorities regarding the identification of bonafide suppliers. That quality materials are available at reasonable and stable prices and that these are enabled to be transported in an efficient and timely manner to India is a priority. At the same time, there are a number of Chinese companies whose products have been sold in the past to India and whose products have been licensed for import into India by the concerned Indian regulatory authorities. However, recent regulations have restricted the number of companies from China that could export to India. Given the fact that some products are already licensed for import into India, it would be a welcome step for the concerned authorities such as the National Medical Product Authority to expedite the registration of those companies and products that already have a large number of orders in the pipeline from India. In the medium to longer-term, as both India and China are repositories of large pools of scientific and technological manpower, there is scope for both countries to cooperate on the Research and Development (R&D) aspects of dealing with COVID-19 virus, apart from other public health issues. It would be mutually beneficial to intensify engagements between our biologists, epidemiologists, scientists and relevant national institutes in these fields. WION: What is the quantum of the medical and protective supplies being procured from China? Vikram Misri: India and China are cooperating on the procurement of the much needed medical equipment and products by our health care fraternity in India. These include medical kits and equipment, ventilators, testing kits, PPEs, etc. China happens to be one of the largest producers of a number of these products, and the two governments have been in touch with each other to ensure stable and orderly purchase and procurement of these items. The embassy has so far placed orders for around 7 to 8 million PPEs and about a 1000 ventilators. More orders are in the pipeline and at various stages of procurement. This is an extremely dynamic process, and it would not be appropriate for me at this time to get into the specifics of all the numbers. WION: The role played by the Indian mission in Beijing and consulates in various parts of the country from evacuation in February to now? Vikram Misri: The embassy of India in Beijing and our Consulates-General in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong have been playing a role in India’s response to the COVID-19 crisis. As the outbreak first took place here, our initial concern and attention was focused on the welfare of Indians in China. We had been closely following the developments here since January, and, on 23 January 2020, set up dedicated 24x7 hotlines and email desks for Indians looking for advice and information on the evolving epidemic situation. Thereafter, as Hubei province went into lockdown, we facilitated the evacuation of over 750 Indian and foreign nationals stranded there and wishing to return home. Our hotlines continue to be operational. Consular officers also remain directly engaged with members of the community. I myself recently had an interaction via video conference with representatives of the Indian community from across the country on 17 April 2020. Our Mission and Consulates continue to remain committed to extending consular services and ensuring the welfare of the Indian community in China during these challenging times. As the number of cases has increased in India, we have been actively involved in the procurement process for essential medical and protective supplies that India needs to fight the virus, including, as stated earlier, ventilators, testing kits, PPEs, etc. We are now at the start of what promises to be an extremely intense logistical exercise. As the orders get ready to be shipped, we will have flights taking off on almost a daily basis from Shanghai and Guangzhou. We are engaged with Chinese officials on all aspects of this process, including flight clearances, customs clearances of goods, etc. WION: How are the Indian diplomats faring. How tough have the past few months been? Vikram Misri: A critical aspect in all our work has been to ensure that none of our diplomats and staff posted here in Beijing or in the Consulates fall sick. Speaking for the Mission here in Beijing, I can say that we put in place stringent best practices for preventing infection. These were scrupulously followed by all and I am happy to note that we have been successful in preserving the good health of all of our colleagues so far. This is an unprecedented situation for most of us and things have been generally tough on the personal and professional front. But the way I see it, as I am sure most of my colleagues do as well, is that the work that we are doing right now is fundamental to ensuring India’s successful response to the COVID-19 crisis, and this call to duty is not a privilege available to all in the ordinary course of events. We, therefore, hope to do our best and prove equal to the challenge.

In touch with China for indentification of bonafide suppliers, says Indian envoy to China Vikram Misri

Watch in this video, Latest updates by Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home Affairs & other concerned officials on pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection status in India.

India: Officials of concerned ministries brief media over COVID-19 infection so far | April 21, 2020

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