A four-month-old baby in New Zealand facing severe pulmonary valve stenosis—a dangerously narrow heart valve—is finding it difficult to get critical heart surgery as the parents don’t want the doctors to use the blood of vaccinated people for the procedure.

The boy’s parents want the operation to proceed immediately but want “safe blood” to be used as they believe that the Covid vaccine is “experimental”.

“We want the surgery to go ahead straight away, as soon as they can schedule it to happen, but we are hugely concerned about the blood that they are going to use,” Metro newspaper quoted the infant’s mother as saying.

The New Zealand health agency, Te Whatu Ora, has refused the parent’s request and urged&nbsp;the high court in Auckland to intervene.

They want the guardianship of the baby to be granted to the agency so that they can perform the critical heart surgery without interference from the parents, who have been influenced by vaccine misinformation.

The high court will decide on Tuesday whether to grant temporary guardianship of the baby to Te Whatu Ora.

The parents, who have not been named to protect the identity of their child, have south the help of lawyer Sue Grey, who is a prominent anti-vaxxer.

The parents said that they have the rights to seek the best interests of the baby and claimed that they have already arranged 30 unvaccinated paediatric donors who have been approved by a blood bank.

Legal experts told the New York Times that in such cases parents don’t have absolute rights, adding that the court would always prefer to rule for what’s best for the well-being of the child”.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A four-month-old baby in New Zealand facing severe pulmonary valve stenosis—a dangerously narrow heart valve—is finding it difficult to get critical heart surgery as the parents don’t want the doctors to use the blood of vaccinated people for the procedure.

A four-month-old baby in New Zealand facing severe pulmonary valve stenosis—a dangerously narrow heart valve—is finding it difficult to get critical heart surgery as the parents don’t want the doctors to use the blood of vaccinated people for the procedure. The boy’s parents want the operation to proceed immediately but want “safe blood” to be used as they believe that the Covid vaccine is “experimental”. “We want the surgery to go ahead straight away, as soon as they can schedule it to happen, but we are hugely concerned about the blood that they are going to use,” Metro newspaper quoted the infant’s mother as saying. The New Zealand health agency, Te Whatu Ora, has refused the parent’s request and urged the high court in Auckland to intervene. They want the guardianship of the baby to be granted to the agency so that they can perform the critical heart surgery without interference from the parents, who have been influenced by vaccine misinformation. The high court will decide on Tuesday whether to grant temporary guardianship of the baby to Te Whatu Ora. The parents, who have not been named to protect the identity of their child, have south the help of lawyer Sue Grey, who is a prominent anti-vaxxer. The parents said that they have the rights to seek the best interests of the baby and claimed that they have already arranged 30 unvaccinated paediatric donors who have been approved by a blood bank. Legal experts told the New York Times that in such cases parents don’t have absolute rights, adding that the court would always prefer to rule for what’s best for the well-being of the child”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New Zealand: Anti-Covid vax parents delay critical heart surgery for infant as they seek unvaccinated blood

Even as threats of assault & civil war fly, Musk praises anti-vaccine Canadian truckers rolling toward Ottawa

Canada's province of Quebec is preparing to introduce a new health tax for individuals who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, as it struggles to control the Omicron variant.

"We are working on a health contribution for all the adults who are refusing to get vaccinated" because they represent a "financial burden for all Quebecois," said Quebec Premier Francois Legault.

According to him, the 10 per cent of Quebecois who have not received any vaccine doses must not "harm" the 90 per cent who have.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-way-to-eradicate-infection-but-us-fast-approaching-threshold-of-living-with-covid-19-dr-fauci-444009">No way to eradicate infection, but US fast approaching 'threshold' of living with COVID-19: Dr Fauci</a>

In a press conference, he said that "it is not on all Quebecois to pay for that, specifying that the French-speaking province expected the tax to be substantial.

"I feel this discontent with regard to the unvaccinated minority which, all things considered, clogs our hospitals," he said.

The Quebec premier explained that these ten per cent of unvaccinated adults represent fifty per cent of the intensive care patients, calling it "shocking."

Those who are not vaccinated for medical reasons will not be affected by the new policy.

A total of 2,742 people in Quebec, which has 8 million inhabitants, are hospitalised with Covid, and 255 are in intensive care.

The number of hospitalisations also continues to rise in the neighbouring province of Ontario, the most populous in Canada, with 3,220 people hospitalised and 477 people in intensive care.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-over-50-of-europeans-on-track-to-contract-omicron-variant-of-coronavirus-443861">WHO says over 50% of Europeans on track to contract Omicron variant of coronavirus</a>

Quebec announced on December 30 a return of certain restrictions in the fight against the new waves of Coronavirus infections. Among the restrictions is a curfew of 10 pm, as well as a ban on private gatherings.

A recent announcement by the province announced that non-essential stores will be closed to people without vaccinations, beginning with stores that sell alcohol and cannabis.&nbsp;

However, Eric Duhaime, head of Quebec's Conservative opposition party, lamented the provincial government's anti-Covid strategy, tweeting that the new fee would "divide" Quebecois.

Dominique Anglade, leader of the Quebec Liberal party and a supporter of mandatory vaccination, called the tax a "distraction."

Although Quebec is the first place to enact a specific tax, the pressure on those who remain unvaccinated by choice is ramping up everywhere.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Europe looks to ‘live with Covid’

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-europe-looks-to-live-with-covid-444243/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The French government has instituted a vaccine passport, and Emmanuel Macron has said he wants to "piss off" the unvaccinated.

Austria has mandated Coronavirus vaccines for all citizens, and Italy has implemented the same policy for those over 50.&nbsp;

For those who refuse the vaccine, Singapore has stated that it will no longer cover the costs of treatment with Covid.&nbsp;

In Canada, it has been suggested at the federal level that those who are unvaccinated be deprived of unemployment benefits.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada's province of Quebec is preparing to introduce a new health tax for individuals who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, as it struggles to control the Omicron variant.

Canada's province of Quebec is preparing to introduce a new health tax for individuals who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, as it struggles to control the Omicron variant. "We are working on a health contribution for all the adults who are refusing to get vaccinated" because they represent a "financial burden for all Quebecois," said Quebec Premier Francois Legault. According to him, the 10 per cent of Quebecois who have not received any vaccine doses must not "harm" the 90 per cent who have. Also read | No way to eradicate infection, but US fast approaching 'threshold' of living with COVID-19: Dr Fauci In a press conference, he said that "it is not on all Quebecois to pay for that, specifying that the French-speaking province expected the tax to be substantial. "I feel this discontent with regard to the unvaccinated minority which, all things considered, clogs our hospitals," he said. The Quebec premier explained that these ten per cent of unvaccinated adults represent fifty per cent of the intensive care patients, calling it "shocking." Those who are not vaccinated for medical reasons will not be affected by the new policy. A total of 2,742 people in Quebec, which has 8 million inhabitants, are hospitalised with Covid, and 255 are in intensive care. The number of hospitalisations also continues to rise in the neighbouring province of Ontario, the most populous in Canada, with 3,220 people hospitalised and 477 people in intensive care. Also read | WHO says over 50% of Europeans on track to contract Omicron variant of coronavirus Quebec announced on December 30 a return of certain restrictions in the fight against the new waves of Coronavirus infections. Among the restrictions is a curfew of 10 pm, as well as a ban on private gatherings. A recent announcement by the province announced that non-essential stores will be closed to people without vaccinations, beginning with stores that sell alcohol and cannabis. However, Eric Duhaime, head of Quebec's Conservative opposition party, lamented the provincial government's anti-Covid strategy, tweeting that the new fee would "divide" Quebecois. Dominique Anglade, leader of the Quebec Liberal party and a supporter of mandatory vaccination, called the tax a "distraction." Although Quebec is the first place to enact a specific tax, the pressure on those who remain unvaccinated by choice is ramping up everywhere. Watch | Gravitas: Europe looks to ‘live with Covid’ The French government has instituted a vaccine passport, and Emmanuel Macron has said he wants to "piss off" the unvaccinated. Austria has mandated Coronavirus vaccines for all citizens, and Italy has implemented the same policy for those over 50. For those who refuse the vaccine, Singapore has stated that it will no longer cover the costs of treatment with Covid. In Canada, it has been suggested at the federal level that those who are unvaccinated be deprived of unemployment benefits. (With inputs from agencies)

Faced with the Omicron threat, Quebec seeks to become the first city to tax the unvaccinated

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz.

The recruitment drive comes just weeks before the European country implements a broad vaccination mandate.

According to a job posting posted by the Austrian city of Linz, successful candidates will be issuing penalties, handling appeals, and taking action against people who fail to pay their fine for being unvaccinated.

According to the opening line, the job will suit those who "like working with legislation and administrative procedures." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-it-on-wife-guests-urged-to-be-vaccinated-at-anti-vaxxers-party-438076">Also read | 'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party</a>

Employees will be paid monthly for their hard work, with salaries starting at €2,774 ($3,126).

To be considered for the position, applicants must be Austrian nationals, have completed secondary education, be resilient and willing to work overtime, be free of criminal records, and, last but not least, have a valid Covid vaccine or recovery certificate.

Furthermore, when competing for the position against males with equivalent qualifications, women will be given preference.

Linz, which has a population of 200,000 people, is notable for having the lowest COVID vaccination rate in Austria.

According to a website tracking the issuance of digital vaccination certificates in the country, only 63 percent of the city's population has gotten a complete dosage of the COVID vaccine so far.&nbsp;

In November, Vienna became the first city in the world to enforce a rigorous statewide lockdown for the unvaccinated, only to have it expanded to include vaccinated citizens weeks later.

The curfew was lifted on December 12, but unvaccinated Austrians were still barred from going on non-essential outings.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz.

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz. The recruitment drive comes just weeks before the European country implements a broad vaccination mandate. According to a job posting posted by the Austrian city of Linz, successful candidates will be issuing penalties, handling appeals, and taking action against people who fail to pay their fine for being unvaccinated. According to the opening line, the job will suit those who "like working with legislation and administrative procedures." Also read | 'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party Employees will be paid monthly for their hard work, with salaries starting at €2,774 ($3,126). To be considered for the position, applicants must be Austrian nationals, have completed secondary education, be resilient and willing to work overtime, be free of criminal records, and, last but not least, have a valid Covid vaccine or recovery certificate. Furthermore, when competing for the position against males with equivalent qualifications, women will be given preference. Linz, which has a population of 200,000 people, is notable for having the lowest COVID vaccination rate in Austria. According to a website tracking the issuance of digital vaccination certificates in the country, only 63 percent of the city's population has gotten a complete dosage of the COVID vaccine so far. In November, Vienna became the first city in the world to enforce a rigorous statewide lockdown for the unvaccinated, only to have it expanded to include vaccinated citizens weeks later. The curfew was lifted on December 12, but unvaccinated Austrians were still barred from going on non-essential outings. (With inputs from agencies)

Hiring alert: Austria seeks hunters of the unvaccinated 

A prominent conservative broadcaster and anti-vaxxer in US Marcus Lamb has died of Covid. Jonathan Lamb, son of Marcus Lamb described the Covid infection as "a spiritual attack from the enemy".

Marcus Lamb, the televangelist, launched his Christian conservative TV network name Daystar Television network in 1997. It has over 70 stations across the US and even broadcasts in other countries in the world.

“It's with a heavy heart we announce that Marcus Lamb, president and founder of Daystar Television Network, went home to be with the Lord this morning," the network said in a tweet onTuesday. "The family asks that their privacy be respected as they grieve this difficult loss. Please continue to lift them up in prayer."

Lamb's TV network had become a way for conspiracy theorists to spread misinformation about Covid pandemic. The network and the guest it featured held firmly that Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) cured Covid infection. Scientists have found no conclusive proof of this.

The network also resisted US President Joe Biden's calls for mandatory vaccination. Daystar Television Network joined forces with Mississippi-based Christian fundamentalist organisation, American Family Association to move court against Biden administration's vaccine mandate.

A prominent conservative broadcaster and anti-vaxxer in US Marcus Lamb has died of Covid. Jonathan Lamb, son of Marcus Lamb described the Covid infection as "a spiritual attack from the enemy".

A prominent conservative broadcaster and anti-vaxxer in US Marcus Lamb has died of Covid. Jonathan Lamb, son of Marcus Lamb described the Covid infection as "a spiritual attack from the enemy". Marcus Lamb, the televangelist, launched his Christian conservative TV network name Daystar Television network in 1997. It has over 70 stations across the US and even broadcasts in other countries in the world. “It's with a heavy heart we announce that Marcus Lamb, president and founder of Daystar Television Network, went home to be with the Lord this morning," the network said in a tweet onTuesday. "The family asks that their privacy be respected as they grieve this difficult loss. Please continue to lift them up in prayer." Lamb's TV network had become a way for conspiracy theorists to spread misinformation about Covid pandemic. The network and the guest it featured held firmly that Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) cured Covid infection. Scientists have found no conclusive proof of this. The network also resisted US President Joe Biden's calls for mandatory vaccination. Daystar Television Network joined forces with Mississippi-based Christian fundamentalist organisation, American Family Association to move court against Biden administration's vaccine mandate.

Conservative anti-vaxxer broadcaster Marcus Lamb dies of Covid

Seven doctors, who are staunch anti-Covid vaccine, contracted the deadly virus after attending an event in Floria to discuss alternative methods to cure coronavirus.

Among those who fell include a 71-year-old doctor who said that he and his wife have been taking ivermectin tablets for 16 months as a precaution against COVID-19.

“I have been on ivermectin for 16 months, my wife and I,” Dr Bruce Boros told the audience at the event held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, adding, “I have never felt healthier in my life.”

The Florida Covid Summit organizer, Dr John Littell—a physician— told the Daily Beast that Boros—a cardiologist—and six other doctors fell ill “within days of the conference.”

Boros is said to be “very ill”. Around 800 to 900 people participated in the event.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travellers-vaccinated-with-who-approved-covid-vaccines-can-enter-us-cdc-419527">&nbsp;Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC</a>

It was also reported that masks and social distancing were not followed at the event.&nbsp;

Boros reportedly began taking ivermectin as a personal research project last summer and has administrated it to several patients, including his father.&nbsp;

At a summit in Ocala, he criticised his 97-year-old father for taking a COVID-19 vaccine, saying, he was “brainwashed” and that he “wanted to give him a spanking.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colleges-say-students-must-get-a-covid-vaccine-but-no-not-that-one-389614">Colleges say students must get a Covid vaccine. But no, not that one.</a>

Ivermectin is a generic drug that has been used for decades to treat river blindness, scabies and even head lice. Veterinarians also use it, in different formulations and dosages, to treat animals for parasites like worms.

After the pandemic began, some countries started prescribing the medicine to treat Covid. Among them was former US president Donald Trump and his Brazilian counterpart Jair Bolsonaro.

However, several scientists later undertook research to find whether ivermectin treats Covid. It was later found to be false.

United States Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) also recommend not using ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19 saying that there is no evidence the drug protects or cures patients.

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven doctors, who are staunch anti-Covid vaccine, contracted the deadly virus after attending an event in Floria to discuss alternative methods to cure coronavirus.

Seven doctors, who are staunch anti-Covid vaccine, contracted the deadly virus after attending an event in Floria to discuss alternative methods to cure coronavirus. Among those who fell include a 71-year-old doctor who said that he and his wife have been taking ivermectin tablets for 16 months as a precaution against COVID-19. “I have been on ivermectin for 16 months, my wife and I,” Dr Bruce Boros told the audience at the event held at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, adding, “I have never felt healthier in my life.” The Florida Covid Summit organizer, Dr John Littell—a physician— told the Daily Beast that Boros—a cardiologist—and six other doctors fell ill “within days of the conference.” Boros is said to be “very ill”. Around 800 to 900 people participated in the event. Also read | Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC It was also reported that masks and social distancing were not followed at the event. Boros reportedly began taking ivermectin as a personal research project last summer and has administrated it to several patients, including his father. At a summit in Ocala, he criticised his 97-year-old father for taking a COVID-19 vaccine, saying, he was “brainwashed” and that he “wanted to give him a spanking.” Also read | Colleges say students must get a Covid vaccine. But no, not that one. Ivermectin is a generic drug that has been used for decades to treat river blindness, scabies and even head lice. Veterinarians also use it, in different formulations and dosages, to treat animals for parasites like worms. After the pandemic began, some countries started prescribing the medicine to treat Covid. Among them was former US president Donald Trump and his Brazilian counterpart Jair Bolsonaro. However, several scientists later undertook research to find whether ivermectin treats Covid. It was later found to be false. United States Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) also recommend not using ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19 saying that there is no evidence the drug protects or cures patients. (With inputs from agencies)

Seven doctors contract Covid after attending anti-vaccine summit in Florida

The Covid pandemic not only changed our lifestyle, it also made a face a new era of misinformation through social media. In the initial days of the pandemic, there was confusion over many aspects of the disease and before social media platforms and governments took steps to provide channels disseminating accurate information, there were claims galore.&nbsp;

Then came the vaccines, but with them also came unscientific claims by people including prominent world leaders. The anti-vaxxers still oppose vaccination against Covid.

A new study has shown that those believing in Covid conspiracies have a greater chance of getting infected with the deadly virus.

"Even if a conspiracy theory is extremely implausible according to logic or scientific evidence, if it seems real to a perceiver, it has a genuine impact on attitudes, emotions, and behavior," say researchers in a paper published in journal Psychological medicine.

Social psychologist Jan-Willem van Prooijen from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands is first author of the study.

For the research, van Prooijen and fellow researchers surveyed 5,745 participants.&nbsp;

These participants were asked early in the pandemic (April 2020), about whether they believe in conspiracy theories like the COVID-19 virus was made by the scientists as a bioweapon and other similar claims.

The same group of participants was asked whether they had tested themselves for the virus and whether the test was positive.

It was found that those who believed in conspiracy theories, were less likely to get themselves tested. But even among those who got tested, those who believed in conspiracy theories were more likely to have been found positive for the infection. The increased likelihood was found to have been due to such participant not having been on guard as compared to those who did not believe in conspiracy theories.

The Covid pandemic not only changed our lifestyle, it also made a face a new era of misinformation through social media. In the initial days of the pandemic, there was confusion over many aspects of the disease and before social media platforms and governments took steps to provide channels disseminating accurate information, there were claims galore.

The Covid pandemic not only changed our lifestyle, it also made a face a new era of misinformation through social media. In the initial days of the pandemic, there was confusion over many aspects of the disease and before social media platforms and governments took steps to provide channels disseminating accurate information, there were claims galore. Then came the vaccines, but with them also came unscientific claims by people including prominent world leaders. The anti-vaxxers still oppose vaccination against Covid. A new study has shown that those believing in Covid conspiracies have a greater chance of getting infected with the deadly virus. "Even if a conspiracy theory is extremely implausible according to logic or scientific evidence, if it seems real to a perceiver, it has a genuine impact on attitudes, emotions, and behavior," say researchers in a paper published in journal Psychological medicine. Social psychologist Jan-Willem van Prooijen from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands is first author of the study. For the research, van Prooijen and fellow researchers surveyed 5,745 participants. These participants were asked early in the pandemic (April 2020), about whether they believe in conspiracy theories like the COVID-19 virus was made by the scientists as a bioweapon and other similar claims. The same group of participants was asked whether they had tested themselves for the virus and whether the test was positive. It was found that those who believed in conspiracy theories, were less likely to get themselves tested. But even among those who got tested, those who believed in conspiracy theories were more likely to have been found positive for the infection. The increased likelihood was found to have been due to such participant not having been on guard as compared to those who did not believe in conspiracy theories.

Those believing in Covid conspiracy more likely to be infected: Study

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content&nbsp;including that of&nbsp;high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous. YouTube has already banned posts that spread false myths around coronavirus treatments.

But the Google-owned site said its concerns about the spread of medical conspiracy theories went beyond the pandemic.

"We've steadily seen false claims about the coronavirus vaccines spill over into misinformation about vaccines in general," YouTube said in a statement.

"We're now at a point where it's more important than ever to expand the work we started with COVID-19 to other vaccines."

A YouTube spokesperson named channels affiliated with Joseph Mercola, Sherri Tenpenny, Robert F Kennedy junior and said that "well-known vaccine misinformation spreaders will be terminated."

An AFP investigation found that Tenpenny runs a sprawling enterprise based on anti-vaccine activism, disdain for masks and testing, and denials that COVID-19 is real.

Mercola, a Florida-based osteopathic physician, was the subject of a New York Times article titled: "The most influential spreader of coronavirus misinformation online".

Robert F Kennedy Jr. had already been blocked from Instagram in February for spreading misinformation about Covid-19 and vaccines.

130,000 videos removed

YouTube said the expanded policy will apply to "currently administered vaccines that are approved and confirmed to be safe and effective by local health authorities and the WHO (World Health Organization)."

This means that false claims about routine vaccines for diseases like measles and Hepatitis B will be removed from YouTube.

These would include cases where vloggers have claimed that approved vaccines do not work, or wrongly linked them to chronic health effects.

Content that "falsely says that approved vaccines cause autism, cancer or infertility, or that substances in vaccines can track those who receive them" will also be taken down.

"As with any significant update, it will take time for our systems to fully ramp up enforcement," YouTube added.

It stressed there would be exceptions to the new guidelines, with personal testimonials of negative experiences with vaccines still allowed, so long as "the channel doesn't show a pattern of promoting vaccine hesitancy."

YouTube said it had removed more than 130,000 videos since last year for violating its COVID-19 vaccine policies.

On Tuesday, the company told German media that it had blocked the German-language channels of Russia's state broadcaster RT for violating its Covid misinformation guidelines.

YouTube said it had issued a warning to RT before shutting the two channels down, but the move has prompted a threat from Moscow to block the video site.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content including that of high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous.

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content including that of high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous. YouTube has already banned posts that spread false myths around coronavirus treatments. But the Google-owned site said its concerns about the spread of medical conspiracy theories went beyond the pandemic. "We've steadily seen false claims about the coronavirus vaccines spill over into misinformation about vaccines in general," YouTube said in a statement. "We're now at a point where it's more important than ever to expand the work we started with COVID-19 to other vaccines." A YouTube spokesperson named channels affiliated with Joseph Mercola, Sherri Tenpenny, Robert F Kennedy junior and said that "well-known vaccine misinformation spreaders will be terminated." An AFP investigation found that Tenpenny runs a sprawling enterprise based on anti-vaccine activism, disdain for masks and testing, and denials that COVID-19 is real. Mercola, a Florida-based osteopathic physician, was the subject of a New York Times article titled: "The most influential spreader of coronavirus misinformation online". Robert F Kennedy Jr. had already been blocked from Instagram in February for spreading misinformation about Covid-19 and vaccines. 130,000 videos removed YouTube said the expanded policy will apply to "currently administered vaccines that are approved and confirmed to be safe and effective by local health authorities and the WHO (World Health Organization)." This means that false claims about routine vaccines for diseases like measles and Hepatitis B will be removed from YouTube. These would include cases where vloggers have claimed that approved vaccines do not work, or wrongly linked them to chronic health effects. Content that "falsely says that approved vaccines cause autism, cancer or infertility, or that substances in vaccines can track those who receive them" will also be taken down. "As with any significant update, it will take time for our systems to fully ramp up enforcement," YouTube added. It stressed there would be exceptions to the new guidelines, with personal testimonials of negative experiences with vaccines still allowed, so long as "the channel doesn't show a pattern of promoting vaccine hesitancy." YouTube said it had removed more than 130,000 videos since last year for violating its COVID-19 vaccine policies. On Tuesday, the company told German media that it had blocked the German-language channels of Russia's state broadcaster RT for violating its Covid misinformation guidelines. YouTube said it had issued a warning to RT before shutting the two channels down, but the move has prompted a threat from Moscow to block the video site. (With inputs from agencies)

YouTube to block all content spreading vaccine misinformation

Jennifer Anniston received flak for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-covid-vaccine-jennifer-aniston-has-%E2%80%98lost-people%E2%80%99-who-have-refused-to-take-shots-403186">stating that she cut ties with "few people" in her inner circle </a>because they didn't get vaccinated. A day later she took to her Instagram story and took her detractors head on, explaining her stance.&nbsp; 
 
A fan asked, "But if (Jennifer's) vaccinated she's protected correct? Why be worried about (having unvaxxed people) around her?" 
Aniston responded by saying, "Because if you have the variant, you are still able to give it to me," referring to breakthrough cases of COVID-19 infections.

"I may get slightly sick but I will not be admitted to a hospital and or die," the Golden Globe winner added. "BUT I CAN give it to someone who does not have the vaccine and whose health is compromised (or has a previous existing condition) — and therefore I would put their lives at risk." 
 
"THAT is why I worry," Aniston said. "We have to care about more than just ourselves." 
 
Aniston also posted another Instagram story of embroidery that said, "What doesn't kill you mutates and tries again." 
 
In an earlier post on Instagram Aniston wrote, "There's still a large group of people who are anti-vaxxers or just don't listen to the facts. It's a real shame. I've just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose (whether or not they had been vaccinated), and it was unfortunate… moral and professional obligation to inform people about the benefits of the vaccine but acknowledged people have their own beliefs,” Aniston was quoted as saying. 
 
“It's tricky because everyone is entitled to their own opinion -- but a lot of opinions don't feel based in anything except fear or propaganda,” she added. 
 
Jennifer Aniston has been urging fans and followers to wear masks and take vaccine shots through her Instagram profile.&nbsp;

Jennifer Anniston received flak for stating that she cut ties with "few people" in her inner circle because they didn't get vaccinated. A day later she took to her Instagram story and took her detractors head on, explaining her stance.

Jennifer Anniston received flak for stating that she cut ties with "few people" in her inner circle because they didn't get vaccinated. A day later she took to her Instagram story and took her detractors head on, explaining her stance. A fan asked, "But if (Jennifer's) vaccinated she's protected correct? Why be worried about (having unvaxxed people) around her?" Aniston responded by saying, "Because if you have the variant, you are still able to give it to me," referring to breakthrough cases of COVID-19 infections. "I may get slightly sick but I will not be admitted to a hospital and or die," the Golden Globe winner added. "BUT I CAN give it to someone who does not have the vaccine and whose health is compromised (or has a previous existing condition) — and therefore I would put their lives at risk." "THAT is why I worry," Aniston said. "We have to care about more than just ourselves." Aniston also posted another Instagram story of embroidery that said, "What doesn't kill you mutates and tries again." In an earlier post on Instagram Aniston wrote, "There's still a large group of people who are anti-vaxxers or just don't listen to the facts. It's a real shame. I've just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose (whether or not they had been vaccinated), and it was unfortunate… moral and professional obligation to inform people about the benefits of the vaccine but acknowledged people have their own beliefs,” Aniston was quoted as saying. “It's tricky because everyone is entitled to their own opinion -- but a lot of opinions don't feel based in anything except fear or propaganda,” she added. Jennifer Aniston has been urging fans and followers to wear masks and take vaccine shots through her Instagram profile.

Jennifer Aniston responds to criticism for her comment on cutting ties with those who are anti-vaccine

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. 
&nbsp; 
Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-nurse-swaps-pfizer-vaccine-with-saline-to-hide-her-fault-380196">Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault</a>

Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said.&nbsp;

These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-contemplates-easing-covid-restrictions-for-vaccinated-citizens-380154">Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens</a>

"Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters.&nbsp;

Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests.&nbsp;

Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic. The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures". Also read | Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP. Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said. These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders. Also read | Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens "Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters. Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests. Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany ropes in spy agency to monitor anti-vaxxers, Covid deniers

Nearly half the French population does not trust the Covid-19 vaccination, making Pasteur's country one of the most anti-vaccine countries in the world

Medical historian puts phenomenon of anti-vaccine movement into perspective

9 people in South Korea died after a shot of the flu vaccine. But authorities found no links between the vaccine and their deaths. But the incident has brought back fears of vaccines. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the 'anti-vaxxer' movement is growing during the pandemic.

Gravitas: Were 9 South Koreans killed by a flu vaccine shot?

anti-vaxxers-0

Anti Vaxxers, News on Anti Vaxxers, stories on Anti Vaxxers, articles on Anti Vaxxers, Anti Vaxxers stories at Wion, Anti Vaxxers news, Anti Vaxxers latest news

anti vaxxers-0