China claimed today that just 3 people have died in Shanghai due to the Wuhan Virus. But reports from the city are challenging this claim. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Did just 3 people die in Shanghai due to Covid?

China is said to be responsible for the origin of covid-19 and has reported the highest daily rise recorded in China since the beginning of the pandemic.. The city of shanghai has emerged as the heart of the virus surge despite being in the lockdown.

US: China to impose arbitrary COVID rules amid record rise in COVID cases

UK's health sector is under pressure yet again as it reports a surge in COVID cases. This comes after UK dropped all COVID-19 restrictions.

After dropping all COVID-19 restrictions Britain reports a surge in cases

There is no end to end in sight to the lockdowns in china's economic hub of shanghai. On Monday, the city reported a record 13,000 new asymptomatic coronavirus cases, the lockdown was originally set to end today but following the surge in cases the lockdown has now been extended until further notice.

The economic impact of lockdown in Shanghai: Lockdown extended until further notice

COVID-19 cases in China continue to rise. China's zero COVID strategy seems to be in jeopardy as new cases are not slowing down in Shanghai.

China's zero COVID strategy is in jeopardy as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Shanghai

A severe COVID wave has gripped China. The city of Shanghai is the worst hit as it recorded 6,000 new cases on Tuesday. The lockdown imposed by authorities has triggered panic shopping.

Parts of Shanghai under lockdown: 6,000 new cases recorded on Tuesday

China has locked down Shanghai to contain a new cluster of Covid-19 cases in the bustling coastal city. Now, curbs have been imposed on highway traffic.

Shanghai tightens COVID lockdown: Curbs imposed on highway traffic

China is searching for a new pandemic strategy to avert economic distress due to rising COVID-19 cases. In the latest, Shanghai will not undergo full lockdown.

Shanghai will not undergo full lockdown as China searches for a new pandemic strategy

UK is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. With over 4.2 Million new COVID cases, the UK sets to break its past record of infections.

Over 4.2 Million new COVID cases recorded across the UK last week

Omicron has threatened China's Zero COVID policy as it battles the worst COVID-19 wave in 2 years. Cases driven by the Omicron mutant variant has been forcing major cities in China into lockdowns. Now, China has reported 1st COVID-19 death in a year.

China reports 1st COVID-19 death in a year amid the ongoing COVID-19 wave driven by the Omicron

Omicron has threatened China's Zero COVID policy as it battles the worst COVID-19 wave in 2 years. Cases driven by the Omicron mutant variant has been forcing major cities in China into lockdowns.

Omicron threatens China's Zero COVID policy as it battles worst COVID wave in 2 years

Covid is not over yet. Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, has said that the country may witness another spike in coronavirus cases. &nbsp;

Fauci has said there will be a need for people to get a fourth dose of Covid vaccines. On Thursday, Fauci briefed House Democrats on the issue. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-seeks-fda-authorization-for-second-covid-booster-for-all-adults-463367" hreflang="en">Moderna seeks FDA authorisation for second COVID-19 booster for all adults</a>

On the same day, Biden announced that Jeff Zients would be replaced by Dr Ashish Jha as COVID-19 response coordinator. Jha is the dean of Brown University’s School of Public Health. &nbsp;

“I would predict that we are going to see a bit of an increase, or at least a flattening out and plateauing of the diminution of cases. And the question is, how do we deal with that?" Fauci told Bloomberg. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-secretary-of-state-mike-pompeo-accuses-uk-of-paying-blood-money-to-iran-for-nationals-release-463360" hreflang="en">Former US secretary of state Mike Pompeo accuses UK of paying “blood money” to Iran for nationals’ release</a>

As per Fauci, three factors are fueling the rise in cases in Europe and the United Kingdom, which has already been seen in the United States: the BA.2 "stealth" subvariant of Omicron, diminishing protection from the vaccines administered and loosened restrictions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Sooner or later, we will need a fourth. We are obviously going in the right direction. We have to be really careful and not declare total victory prematurely. I do believe we will be able to settle into a degree of normality,” Fauci said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Covid is not over yet. Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, has said that the country may witness another spike in coronavirus cases.

Covid is not over yet. Dr Anthony Fauci, who is US President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, has said that the country may witness another spike in coronavirus cases. Fauci has said there will be a need for people to get a fourth dose of Covid vaccines. On Thursday, Fauci briefed House Democrats on the issue. Also Read: Moderna seeks FDA authorisation for second COVID-19 booster for all adults On the same day, Biden announced that Jeff Zients would be replaced by Dr Ashish Jha as COVID-19 response coordinator. Jha is the dean of Brown University’s School of Public Health. “I would predict that we are going to see a bit of an increase, or at least a flattening out and plateauing of the diminution of cases. And the question is, how do we deal with that?" Fauci told Bloomberg. Also Read: Former US secretary of state Mike Pompeo accuses UK of paying “blood money” to Iran for nationals’ release As per Fauci, three factors are fueling the rise in cases in Europe and the United Kingdom, which has already been seen in the United States: the BA.2 "stealth" subvariant of Omicron, diminishing protection from the vaccines administered and loosened restrictions. "Sooner or later, we will need a fourth. We are obviously going in the right direction. We have to be really careful and not declare total victory prematurely. I do believe we will be able to settle into a degree of normality,” Fauci said. (With inputs from agencies)

Not over yet? US may witness another rise in Covid cases, predicts Dr Anthony Fauci

Driven by the Omicron variant of the COVID-19, the coronavirus cases in China is surging. At present, China reported the Highest daily COVID-19 cases in 2 years.

China: Highest daily COVID-19 cases in 2 years as Omicron fuels the surge

In its highest daily figure since the Wuhan outbreak, China on Saturday 1,524 coronavirus cases. As cases surge, China will be introducing rapid antigen tests for the first time, states the Health Ministry. Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases.

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge.&nbsp;

As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities."

The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-builds-new-bridge-to-hong-kong-amid-covid-surge-460602">Also read |&nbsp;China builds new bridge to Hong Kong amid Covid surge</a>

In Hong Kong, a temporary bridge has been built to help bring in material from the mainland for the Covid-19 makeshift hospital. Nearly 2,000 Chinese contractors from the China State Construction Engineering are in Hong Kong for this project.&nbsp;

To battle the surge in cases, doctors and nurses from the mainland have also been allowed to work in the city.

"Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong.

(With inputs from agencies)

In its highest daily figure since the Wuhan outbreak, China on Saturday 1,524 coronavirus cases. As cases surge, China will be introducing rapid antigen tests for the first time, states the Health Ministry.

In its highest daily figure since the Wuhan outbreak, China on Saturday 1,524 coronavirus cases. As cases surge, China will be introducing rapid antigen tests for the first time, states the Health Ministry. Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases. A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities." The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020. Also read | China builds new bridge to Hong Kong amid Covid surge In Hong Kong, a temporary bridge has been built to help bring in material from the mainland for the Covid-19 makeshift hospital. Nearly 2,000 Chinese contractors from the China State Construction Engineering are in Hong Kong for this project. To battle the surge in cases, doctors and nurses from the mainland have also been allowed to work in the city. "Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: China records highest daily cases in two years

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak

Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base. It has ordered the residents to work from home.&nbsp; 
As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities."

As per the health commission, China will be introducing&nbsp;rapid antigen tests for first time as Covid outbreaks spread.&nbsp;

Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases. Recently, Shanghai ordered its schools to close and shift to online instruction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-confirms-its-leader-was-killed-in-syria-names-new-chief-461187">Also read |&nbsp;Islamic State confirms its leader was killed in Syria, names new chief</a>

The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020.&nbsp;

As of March 10, in mainland China, there were 112,940 confirmed cases, including those who had arrived from abroad as well as those from within the country.

"Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong.

(With inputs from agencies)

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base.

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base. It has ordered the residents to work from home. As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities." As per the health commission, China will be introducing rapid antigen tests for first time as Covid outbreaks spread. Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases. Recently, Shanghai ordered its schools to close and shift to online instruction. Also read | Islamic State confirms its leader was killed in Syria, names new chief The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020. As of March 10, in mainland China, there were 112,940 confirmed cases, including those who had arrived from abroad as well as those from within the country. "Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong. (With inputs from agencies)

China locks down city of 9 million as Covid cases surge

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. &nbsp;

In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. &nbsp;

Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-may-be-three-times-deadlier-than-reported-says-study-461157" hreflang="en">Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study</a>

The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. &nbsp;

It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. &nbsp;

The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-sees-a-surge-in-cases-for-people-aged-55-and-above-460980" hreflang="en">COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above</a>

Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." &nbsp;&nbsp;

In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults.

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. Also Read: Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. Also Read | COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. (With inputs from agencies)

In England, number of Covid cases witness rise among older adults, says study  

Hong Kong authorities are ramping up the provision of community isolation and treatment units as cases of coronavirus continue to surge. The government, in a statement, said that the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal would be completely turned into a dedicated Covid facility with 1,000 beds.

On Saturday, Hong Kong reported 6,063 new Covid cases.&nbsp;

China has sent medical personnel to Hong Kong in order to help. As per the authorities, the outbreak will take up to three months to stabilise.

Meanwhile, the officials on Thursday reported that cases in Hong Kong multiplied by 60 times this month, putting the health infrastructure under tremendous strain.

The jump in cases is the biggest test yet of Hong Kong’s “dynamic zero Covid” policy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-dynamic-zero-covid-policy-put-to-test-covid-cases-multiply-by-60-times-454099">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong’s ‘dynamic zero Covid’ policy put to test as cases multiply by 60 times</a>

Schools, gyms, cinemas and most public venues are shut, and many office employees are working from home.

The situation is so dire at public hospitals that one health worker tends to attend at least 20 patients on an average during night shifts, South China Morning reported citing David Chan Kwok-shing, chairman of the labour union Hospital Authority Employees Alliance.

“Some said they have never faced such a bad situation,” he told a radio programme.

Officials have eased discharge criteria for patients to relieve pressure off the health system. There were even reports that some patients, including the elderly, were left lying on beds outside in chilly. This prompted an apology from authorities in the Chinese-controlled city.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong authorities are ramping up the provision of community isolation and treatment units as cases of coronavirus continue to surge. The government, in a statement, said that the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal would be completely turned into a dedicated Covid facility with 1,000 beds.

Hong Kong authorities are ramping up the provision of community isolation and treatment units as cases of coronavirus continue to surge. The government, in a statement, said that the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal would be completely turned into a dedicated Covid facility with 1,000 beds. On Saturday, Hong Kong reported 6,063 new Covid cases. China has sent medical personnel to Hong Kong in order to help. As per the authorities, the outbreak will take up to three months to stabilise. Meanwhile, the officials on Thursday reported that cases in Hong Kong multiplied by 60 times this month, putting the health infrastructure under tremendous strain. The jump in cases is the biggest test yet of Hong Kong’s “dynamic zero Covid” policy. Also read | Hong Kong’s ‘dynamic zero Covid’ policy put to test as cases multiply by 60 times Schools, gyms, cinemas and most public venues are shut, and many office employees are working from home. The situation is so dire at public hospitals that one health worker tends to attend at least 20 patients on an average during night shifts, South China Morning reported citing David Chan Kwok-shing, chairman of the labour union Hospital Authority Employees Alliance. “Some said they have never faced such a bad situation,” he told a radio programme. Officials have eased discharge criteria for patients to relieve pressure off the health system. There were even reports that some patients, including the elderly, were left lying on beds outside in chilly. This prompted an apology from authorities in the Chinese-controlled city. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid a surge in cases, Hong Kong to ramp up isolation facilities

China&nbsp;reported&nbsp;195&nbsp;new&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in the&nbsp;mainland&nbsp;for Feb.&nbsp;19, up from&nbsp;137&nbsp;cases&nbsp;a&nbsp;day&nbsp;earlier, the health authority said on Sunday.

Ninety-four of the&nbsp;new&nbsp;infections were imported, the National Health Commission said in a statement, while 101 were locally transmitted, compared with 80 a&nbsp;day&nbsp;earlier. There were no&nbsp;new&nbsp;deaths.

China&nbsp;also reported 39&nbsp;new&nbsp;asymptomatic patients, compared with 37 a&nbsp;day&nbsp;earlier.&nbsp;China&nbsp;does not classify asymptomatic&nbsp;cases&nbsp;as confirmed&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases.

As of Saturday,&nbsp;mainland&nbsp;China&nbsp;had 107,707 confirmed coronavirus infections, while the&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;death toll remained at 4,636, it said.

China reported 195 new COVID-19 cases in the mainland for Feb. 19, up from 137 cases a day earlier, the health authority said on Sunday. Ninety-four of the new infections were imported, the National Health Commission said in a statement, while 101 were locally transmitted, compared with 80 a day earlier.

China reported 195 new COVID-19 cases in the mainland for Feb. 19, up from 137 cases a day earlier, the health authority said on Sunday. Ninety-four of the new infections were imported, the National Health Commission said in a statement, while 101 were locally transmitted, compared with 80 a day earlier. There were no new deaths. China also reported 39 new asymptomatic patients, compared with 37 a day earlier. China does not classify asymptomatic cases as confirmed COVID-19 cases. As of Saturday, mainland China had 107,707 confirmed coronavirus infections, while the COVID-19 death toll remained at 4,636, it said.

Mainland China reports 195 new COVID-19 cases vs 137 a day earlier

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, while speaking at a press conference said, "The metre is disappearing. We are taking away the recommendation on social distancing. Now we can now socialise like we did before, in nightlife, at cultural events and other social occasions. And on the way to and from work on buses, trains and ferries."

He, however, stressed that "the pandemic is not over", and advised unvaccinated people to continue practising social distancing and wear masks at places where social distancing is not possible.

This comes in despite in surge in Omicron cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-allows-alcohol-serving-and-sports-activities-as-it-eases-covid-rules-444869">Also read |&nbsp;Norway allows alcohol serving and sports activities as it eases Covid rules</a>

Isolate for four days after a person tests positive for Covid was downgraded to a recommendation. Also, children with respiratory symptoms are no longer required to get tested for Covid.

Earlier in January, the government reversed a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants.&nbsp;Apart from this, youth sports activities were allowed to resume.&nbsp;

The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases.&nbsp;

Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates.&nbsp;

Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days.

Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces.

The Norwegian government has lifted its final Covid restrictions as they have scrapped all the social distancing measures. Also, masks are not mandatory now in public spaces. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, while speaking at a press conference said, "The metre is disappearing. We are taking away the recommendation on social distancing. Now we can now socialise like we did before, in nightlife, at cultural events and other social occasions. And on the way to and from work on buses, trains and ferries." He, however, stressed that "the pandemic is not over", and advised unvaccinated people to continue practising social distancing and wear masks at places where social distancing is not possible. This comes in despite in surge in Omicron cases. Also read | Norway allows alcohol serving and sports activities as it eases Covid rules Isolate for four days after a person tests positive for Covid was downgraded to a recommendation. Also, children with respiratory symptoms are no longer required to get tested for Covid. Earlier in January, the government reversed a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants. Apart from this, youth sports activities were allowed to resume. The restrictions were introduced in December when the country was hit hard by Covid cases. Not just Norway but several other European nations are planning on easing the curbs. Spain, recently, became the first European country to move towards ending mask mandates. Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days. Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway scraps all social distancing measures amid a surge in Omicron cases

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;reported 986 new coronavirus infections on Thursday as authorities scramble to contain an outbreak which medical experts warn could see 28,000 daily cases by the end of March, with the unvaccinated elderly a particular worry.

The rise in cases, up 10-fold since Feb. 1, is proving to be the biggest test for the global financial hub's "dynamic zero" policy of virus suppression, which has turned it into one of the world's most isolated cities.

Following mainland China,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is trying to curb outbreaks as soon as possible, in contrast with many other places that are trying to "live with COVID", relying on high vaccination rates to bring protection while easing restrictions.

The fast-spreading Omicron variant is testing both approaches, though experts have said&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's strategy looks increasingly unsustainable with cases ballooning.

Leader Carrie Lam said she was "deeply sorry and anxious" as residents, including elderly and children, queued for hours at testing centres and to enter isolation facilities after daily infections doubled to a record 1,161 cases on Wednesday.

Writing on her official Facebook page, Lam said the government was working hard to enhance capacity and that the fast-spreading infections, hitting places like elderly care homes, were the last thing she wanted to see.

"Citizens have to wait for a long time to receive testing and a large number of people who have tested positive have been waiting for a long time for isolation facilities," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-third-news-company-shutters-amid-chinese-crackdown-on-dissent-441939">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent</a>

"I am deeply sorry and anxious."

Lam said the city was not able to try to live with the virus because more than 50% of the elderly have not been vaccinated.

About 82% of the city's residents have had at least one vaccine shot but many elderly people have been hesitant. Three elderly have died this week from coronavirus, authorities said on Thursday.

However, vaccination rates have finally started to surge in recent days, particularly among older folk, as infections climb and even tougher anti-virus measures like vaccine passports are being put in place.

TEST CENTRES

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has reported more than 4,000 infections over the past two weeks, versus just two in December, taking its tally to more than 18,000 since the outbreak began in 2020, with 216 deaths, figures that are much lower than those seen in other major cities around the world.

The city could see 28,000 new cases a day by the end of March, with its tally of deaths rising to 1,000 by June, health experts from the University of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;said this week.

The experts modelled scenarios that they said indicated&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;could only return to a "zero-covid" state if the entire city was locked down for two to three months.

The government declined to comment directly on speculation of a lockdown, reiterating that people needed to take all measures to contain the virus and limit social activities.

They have responded to the latest surge with the toughest suppression measures yet, despite an increasing social and economic toll on the city's 7.5 million residents.

Public gatherings of more than two people are banned from Thursday while gatherings in homes have also been restricted. The rules add to already strict measures that have forced restaurants to close from 6. p.m. and shut most churches to schools, gyms and cinemas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beyond-tragic-who-reports-130-million-cases-and-500000-deaths-linked-to-omicron-451604">Also read |&nbsp;'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron</a>

About 200,000 people in the Discovery Bay residential area, where many foreigners live, have been ordered to get tested after the government said it detected coronavirus in sewage.

Typically, people are mandated to test if they have been in an area where infections are detected, and tens of thousands have thronged testing centres across the city in recent days with queues stretching hundreds of metres.

Ching Tang, a 50-year old resident waiting to get vaccinated, said the pandemic has greatly affected many aspects of life.

"Some older people don't even dare to go out. They stockpile food for many days. Everyone is worried...I hope the government can do better."

Hong Kong reported 986 new coronavirus infections on Thursday as authorities scramble to contain an outbreak which medical experts warn could see 28,000 daily cases by the end of March, with the unvaccinated elderly a particular worry.

Hong Kong reported 986 new coronavirus infections on Thursday as authorities scramble to contain an outbreak which medical experts warn could see 28,000 daily cases by the end of March, with the unvaccinated elderly a particular worry. The rise in cases, up 10-fold since Feb. 1, is proving to be the biggest test for the global financial hub's "dynamic zero" policy of virus suppression, which has turned it into one of the world's most isolated cities. Following mainland China, Hong Kong is trying to curb outbreaks as soon as possible, in contrast with many other places that are trying to "live with COVID", relying on high vaccination rates to bring protection while easing restrictions. The fast-spreading Omicron variant is testing both approaches, though experts have said Hong Kong's strategy looks increasingly unsustainable with cases ballooning. Leader Carrie Lam said she was "deeply sorry and anxious" as residents, including elderly and children, queued for hours at testing centres and to enter isolation facilities after daily infections doubled to a record 1,161 cases on Wednesday. Writing on her official Facebook page, Lam said the government was working hard to enhance capacity and that the fast-spreading infections, hitting places like elderly care homes, were the last thing she wanted to see. "Citizens have to wait for a long time to receive testing and a large number of people who have tested positive have been waiting for a long time for isolation facilities," she said. Also read | Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent "I am deeply sorry and anxious." Lam said the city was not able to try to live with the virus because more than 50% of the elderly have not been vaccinated. About 82% of the city's residents have had at least one vaccine shot but many elderly people have been hesitant. Three elderly have died this week from coronavirus, authorities said on Thursday. However, vaccination rates have finally started to surge in recent days, particularly among older folk, as infections climb and even tougher anti-virus measures like vaccine passports are being put in place. TEST CENTRES Hong Kong has reported more than 4,000 infections over the past two weeks, versus just two in December, taking its tally to more than 18,000 since the outbreak began in 2020, with 216 deaths, figures that are much lower than those seen in other major cities around the world. The city could see 28,000 new cases a day by the end of March, with its tally of deaths rising to 1,000 by June, health experts from the University of Hong Kong said this week. The experts modelled scenarios that they said indicated Hong Kong could only return to a "zero-covid" state if the entire city was locked down for two to three months. The government declined to comment directly on speculation of a lockdown, reiterating that people needed to take all measures to contain the virus and limit social activities. They have responded to the latest surge with the toughest suppression measures yet, despite an increasing social and economic toll on the city's 7.5 million residents. Public gatherings of more than two people are banned from Thursday while gatherings in homes have also been restricted. The rules add to already strict measures that have forced restaurants to close from 6. p.m. and shut most churches to schools, gyms and cinemas. Also read | 'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron About 200,000 people in the Discovery Bay residential area, where many foreigners live, have been ordered to get tested after the government said it detected coronavirus in sewage. Typically, people are mandated to test if they have been in an area where infections are detected, and tens of thousands have thronged testing centres across the city in recent days with queues stretching hundreds of metres. Ching Tang, a 50-year old resident waiting to get vaccinated, said the pandemic has greatly affected many aspects of life. "Some older people don't even dare to go out. They stockpile food for many days. Everyone is worried...I hope the government can do better."

Hong Kong Covid infections surge, experts warn of 30,000 cases a day

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64.

Health Minister Saia Piukala said 31 new cases had been detected in the previous 24 hours, a record for the island nation which was virus-free until last month's blast.

Piukala said samples sent to Australia confirmed the variant of the virus spreading in&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;was the highly transmissible Omicron strain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-surpasses-400-million-known-coronavirus-cases-and-confronts-how-to-live-with-covid-451660">World surpasses 400 million known coronavirus cases and confronts how to live with COVID</a>

The source of the coronavirus infection remains unknown, but suspicion has fallen on ships delivering aid from countries including Australia, China, France, Japan and New Zealand despite strict quarantine rules on the handling of goods.

Australian defence chiefs have denied it came from the Covid-hit warship HMAS Adelaide, saying the vessel did not unload its humanitarian supplies at the wharf in Nuku'alofa, where the virus was first detected.

The nation of about 100,000 remains in lockdown, with stay-at-home orders meaning all businesses and schools are closed and only essential services are allowed to operate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beyond-tragic-who-reports-130-million-cases-and-500000-deaths-linked-to-omicron-451604" hreflang="en">'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron</a>

The restrictions are hampering disaster relief efforts after the Hunga&nbsp;Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted with a force scientists said was more powerful than a nuclear bomb.

The blast generated massive tsunami waves and blanketed the island nation in toxic ash, claiming three lives.

Some 87 percent of eligible Tongans have received two vaccine doses, according to UN data.

Watch |&nbsp;Tonga: A tale of two disasters

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tonga-a-tale-of-two-disasters-450608/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Communications remain a problem in the kingdom after the eruption cut the undersea cable linking&nbsp;Tonga&nbsp;to the rest of the world.

Tonga&nbsp;Cable Limited said this week that a cable repair ship had found the broken ends of the link but the damage was worse than expected, meaning it was unlikely to be fixed before February 20.

In the meantime, backup satellite links are being used but bandwidth is limited and international communications remain difficult for most Tongans.

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered Tonga for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64.

The Omicron variant coronavirus entered Tonga for the first time in the wake of last month's volcanic eruption, officials confirmed Thursday, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom almost doubled to 64. Health Minister Saia Piukala said 31 new cases had been detected in the previous 24 hours, a record for the island nation which was virus-free until last month's blast. Piukala said samples sent to Australia confirmed the variant of the virus spreading in Tonga was the highly transmissible Omicron strain. Also read | World surpasses 400 million known coronavirus cases and confronts how to live with COVID The source of the coronavirus infection remains unknown, but suspicion has fallen on ships delivering aid from countries including Australia, China, France, Japan and New Zealand despite strict quarantine rules on the handling of goods. Australian defence chiefs have denied it came from the Covid-hit warship HMAS Adelaide, saying the vessel did not unload its humanitarian supplies at the wharf in Nuku'alofa, where the virus was first detected. The nation of about 100,000 remains in lockdown, with stay-at-home orders meaning all businesses and schools are closed and only essential services are allowed to operate. Also read | 'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron The restrictions are hampering disaster relief efforts after the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted with a force scientists said was more powerful than a nuclear bomb. The blast generated massive tsunami waves and blanketed the island nation in toxic ash, claiming three lives. Some 87 percent of eligible Tongans have received two vaccine doses, according to UN data. Watch | Tonga: A tale of two disasters Communications remain a problem in the kingdom after the eruption cut the undersea cable linking Tonga to the rest of the world. Tonga Cable Limited said this week that a cable repair ship had found the broken ends of the link but the damage was worse than expected, meaning it was unlikely to be fixed before February 20. In the meantime, backup satellite links are being used but bandwidth is limited and international communications remain difficult for most Tongans.

Tonga virus cases surge in wake of volcano eruption

Countries around the globe are battling with a fresh wave of the pandemic and the highly contagious omicron variant. While some have ramped up testing and vaccinations, many are bringing back stricter restrictions in an attempt to quell the surge. Several others have ditched restrictions and are gradually moving towards normality.

COVID: While some countries are bringing back restrictions, Several others are ditching them

The BA.2 Omicron sub-variant has rapidly infected people in Denmark, and is transmitting even faster than the original Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Study: Omicron sub-variant BA.2 more contagious, 39% of infected patients likely to infect others

Studies highlight the effectiveness of the Third dose against the Omicron variant of COVID-19. They claim that the booster dose is 90% effective in preventing hospitalisations.

Studies highlight the effectiveness of booster dose against the Omicron variant of COVID-19

COVID-19 cases continue to soar with each passing day. As per the latest data, the number of infections recorded is nearly 3 million globally this week only.

Global COVID cases continue to soar due to the Omicron variant

Taiwan is reporting a surge in Covid cases just ahead of the Lunar New Year. The region has reported several clusters as the Omicron variant of coronavirus is leading a new wave.

Taiwan is reporting a surge in Covid cases just ahead of the Lunar New Year. The region has reported several clusters as the Omicron variant of coronavirus is leading a new wave. Taiwan’s centre for disease control, on Saturday, reported 82 domestic cases. Out of this, 63 were found at the Taoyuan factory in the first round of testing. Health and welfare minister Chen Shih-Chung said that most of those who are sick are migrant workers. In recent weeks there have been reports of the authorities responding to clusters in Taoyuan connected to the international airport. There have also been reports of cases in the southern city of Kaohsiung. Taiwan, in early December, detected the first case of the Omicron variant. It was detected in three people who arrived from abroad. Also read | Chinese company linked to government installs security scanners across Europe: Report Taiwan ramped up its vaccination drive during last year with 62 per cent of the population fully vaccinated in a country of 23.41 million. Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) had announced citizens who had earlier taken both doses of the vaccine five months ago are now eligible for the booster dose in order to stop chances of community transmission. CECC added that vaccine immunity reduces over time amid the threat of new variants. The command centre said frontline health workers including those over 65 were at high risk and should take the booster dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan sees a surge in Covid cases ahead of Lunar New Year

India is currently witnessing a record surge in COVID-19 infections fueled by the fast-spreading omicron variant. With an upward move in cases every day, the country is under the grip of an aggressive third wave.

India reports 337,704 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours amid a surge due to Omicron variant

India reports 317,532 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours amid a surge due to Omicron variant

India reports over 200,000 cases for 3 consecutive days due to the Omicron variant

India reports 268,833 new COVID-19 cases amid a surge due to the Omicron variant

India reports 264,202 new COVID-19 cases amid a surge due to the Omicron variant

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