President Joe Biden's administration on Monday said it will end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11, nearly three years after the United States imposed sweeping pandemic measures to curb the spread of the illness.

The COVID-19 national emergency and public health emergency (PHE) were put in place in 2020 by then-President Donald Trump. Biden has repeatedly extended the measures, which allow millions of Americans to receive free tests, vaccines and treatments.

Watch |&nbsp;Lunar New Year holidays see decrease in China's Covid-19 deaths&nbsp;

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The White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) said in a statement the declarations, which were set to expire in the coming months, would be extended again until May 11 and then terminated.

"This wind-down would align with the Administration's previous commitments to give at least 60 days' notice prior to termination of the PHE," OMB said in an administration policy statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-maintains-highest-alert-over-coronavirus-significant-decline-in-cases-in-china-557364">WHO maintains highest alert over coronavirus; significant decline in cases in China</a>

The government has been paying for COVID-19 vaccines, some tests and certain treatments under the PHE declaration. When it expires, those costs will be transferred to private insurance and government health plans.

PHE's expiration will also end directives, known as Title 42, that expel migrants from Nicaragua, Cuba and Haiti caught crossing the US-Mexico border back to Mexico, OMB said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-covid-cases-and-deaths-trending-downwards-557185">China says Covid cases and deaths 'trending downwards'</a>

OMB said in a separate statement that Biden would veto a proposed bill in the US&nbsp;Congress that would eliminate COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare providers working on certain federal programmes.

COVID-19 cases are declining in the United States, though more than 500 people continue to die each day from the disease, government data showed.

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President Joe Biden's administration on Monday said it will end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11, nearly three years after the United States imposed sweeping pandemic measures to curb the spread of the illness.

President Joe Biden's administration on Monday said it will end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11, nearly three years after the United States imposed sweeping pandemic measures to curb the spread of the illness. The COVID-19 national emergency and public health emergency (PHE) were put in place in 2020 by then-President Donald Trump. Biden has repeatedly extended the measures, which allow millions of Americans to receive free tests, vaccines and treatments. Watch | Lunar New Year holidays see decrease in China's Covid-19 deaths The White House's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) said in a statement the declarations, which were set to expire in the coming months, would be extended again until May 11 and then terminated. "This wind-down would align with the Administration's previous commitments to give at least 60 days' notice prior to termination of the PHE," OMB said in an administration policy statement. Also read | WHO maintains highest alert over coronavirus; significant decline in cases in China The government has been paying for COVID-19 vaccines, some tests and certain treatments under the PHE declaration. When it expires, those costs will be transferred to private insurance and government health plans. PHE's expiration will also end directives, known as Title 42, that expel migrants from Nicaragua, Cuba and Haiti caught crossing the US-Mexico border back to Mexico, OMB said. Also read | China says Covid cases and deaths 'trending downwards' OMB said in a separate statement that Biden would veto a proposed bill in the US Congress that would eliminate COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare providers working on certain federal programmes. COVID-19 cases are declining in the United States, though more than 500 people continue to die each day from the disease, government data showed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US to end COVID-19 emergency declarations on May 11

In its latest weekly update, the Chinese Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the nation's current wave of COVID-19 infections is nearing an end.&nbsp;

As per the China CDC, infections during the Lunar New Year holidays saw no significant rebound. In a report dated last week, officials also reported that the cases as well as the deaths were "trending downwards".

Watch |&nbsp;Travel boosts in China after years of curbs

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Japan, however, said it will continue to monitor the situation in China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-wave-past-its-peak-deaths-declining-rapidly-claims-china-556640">Covid wave past its peak, deaths declining rapidly, claims China</a>

Reuters reports that talking to the press, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said his country will deal "flexibly" with border control measures.

This comes just a day after the Chinese embassy in Japan announced that it will resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens travelling to China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/daily-covid-deaths-in-china-down-by-nearly-80-say-authorities-556065">Daily Covid deaths in China down by nearly 80%, say authorities</a>

The nation had previously toughened its Covid border rules for travellers from China and had stopped issuing general visas to Japanese travelling to the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In its latest weekly update, the Chinese Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the nation's current wave of COVID-19 infections is nearing an end.

In its latest weekly update, the Chinese Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the nation's current wave of COVID-19 infections is nearing an end. As per the China CDC, infections during the Lunar New Year holidays saw no significant rebound. In a report dated last week, officials also reported that the cases as well as the deaths were "trending downwards". Watch | Travel boosts in China after years of curbs Japan, however, said it will continue to monitor the situation in China. Also read | Covid wave past its peak, deaths declining rapidly, claims China Reuters reports that talking to the press, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said his country will deal "flexibly" with border control measures. This comes just a day after the Chinese embassy in Japan announced that it will resume issuing visas for Japanese citizens travelling to China. Also read | Daily Covid deaths in China down by nearly 80%, say authorities The nation had previously toughened its Covid border rules for travellers from China and had stopped issuing general visas to Japanese travelling to the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China says Covid cases and deaths 'trending downwards'

As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours.&nbsp; The Guardian reports that the month-long "Spring Festival online improvement" programme is set to target people posting content that could be deemed as rumours by the authorities.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping

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As per the national cyber administration, it will undertake an "in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments". It also announced punishment for people "fabricating patient experiences". This comes as social media has been awash with people sharing their personal stories about their struggle to get treatment&nbsp;and shortage of medicines after contracting the deadly virus.

Following the sudden scrapping of China's stringent zero-Covid policy last month, the nation started reporting increasingly higher figures of those affected by the coronavirus.

As per a report by the Economic Times, Chinese premier Xi Jinping too has expressed concern about the virus situation in China's countryside.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-chinese-found-themselves-alone-in-their-fight-against-covid-so-they-decided-to-join-hands-554087">The Chinese found themselves alone in their fight against Covid. So they decided to join hands</a>

Xinhua news agency reported that the leader said&nbsp;that "he was primarily concerned about rural areas and rural residents after the country adjusted its Covid-19 response measures."

During the upcoming holiday season in China, millions of people are expected to travel from cities — in what is being called the largest migration — back home to the rural countryside.

However, defending his zero-Covid policy the leader reportedly said that the move had been "a right choice".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/champagne-sales-hit-record-high-in-2022-growth-attributed-to-waning-covid-553980">Champagne sales hit record high in 2022; growth attributed to waning Covid</a>

On the other hand, Hong Kong leader John Lee, as per a Time report, showed optimism and said that he hopes to remove the last of pandemic curbs this year.&nbsp;

In an interview with Hong Kong Commercial Daily, he said, "My hope in 2023 is to remove all Covid restrictions". He also said he hopes “all problems will be resolved in the first quarter.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours.

As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours. The Guardian reports that the month-long "Spring Festival online improvement" programme is set to target people posting content that could be deemed as rumours by the authorities. Watch | China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping As per the national cyber administration, it will undertake an "in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments". It also announced punishment for people "fabricating patient experiences". This comes as social media has been awash with people sharing their personal stories about their struggle to get treatment and shortage of medicines after contracting the deadly virus. Following the sudden scrapping of China's stringent zero-Covid policy last month, the nation started reporting increasingly higher figures of those affected by the coronavirus. As per a report by the Economic Times, Chinese premier Xi Jinping too has expressed concern about the virus situation in China's countryside. Also read | The Chinese found themselves alone in their fight against Covid. So they decided to join hands Xinhua news agency reported that the leader said that "he was primarily concerned about rural areas and rural residents after the country adjusted its Covid-19 response measures." During the upcoming holiday season in China, millions of people are expected to travel from cities — in what is being called the largest migration — back home to the rural countryside. However, defending his zero-Covid policy the leader reportedly said that the move had been "a right choice". Also read | Champagne sales hit record high in 2022; growth attributed to waning Covid On the other hand, Hong Kong leader John Lee, as per a Time report, showed optimism and said that he hopes to remove the last of pandemic curbs this year. In an interview with Hong Kong Commercial Daily, he said, "My hope in 2023 is to remove all Covid restrictions". He also said he hopes “all problems will be resolved in the first quarter.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Internet censorship crackdown, Jinping's concerns and Lee's optimism, here's how Covid is faring in China

China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year.

The National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday that China's economy expanded by 2.9 per cent year over year in the fourth quarter, slowing from 3.9 per cent in the quarter before.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Massive rush at stations, airports as thousands head home for Lunar New Year

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On a quarterly sequential basis, China's economy stagnated in the December quarter, highlighting the costs incurred by the stringent "zero-COVID" policy adopted.

For the full year, GDP growth was 3.0 per cent, significantly below the government's target of "around" 5.5 per cent and a sharp slowdown from 2021's 8.4 per cent growth.

While the reported rate was higher than the World Bank's 2.7 per cent forecast made earlier this month by the World Bank, the 2022 figure marks China's worst annual performance since 1976, excluding the 2.2 per cent growth that followed the initial Covid hit in 2020.

In 2020, major economies around the world slumped into a deep recession.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-population-falls-to-a-60-year-low-demographers-predict-nation-will-get-old-before-it-gets-rich-553315">China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich'</a>

China's "Zero-COVID policy" and a severe property market downturn last year hurt domestic economic activity and weighed on global supply chains already disrupted by the pandemic.

While Beijing abruptly lifted all those stringent pandemic restrictions in early December, it led to a surge in infections, which economists say would likely hamper growth in the near term.

But Redmond Wong, Greater China market strategist at Saxo Markets Hong Kong, told Reuters, "I think investors will look through the Q4 GDP prints and focus on 2023".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-housing-market-witnesses-a-slump-for-the-16th-month-553088">China's housing market witnesses a slump for the 16th month</a>

"According to Chinese media, more than half of the 31 provinces and municipalities that have released 2023 work reports are targeting above 5.5 per cent growth for 2023," added Wong.

There are questions about how the alarming mortality toll — officially at 60,000 in the past month or so — will affect broader consumer confidence. Supply chain disruptions caused by workers reporting sick may hinder the recovery and impact nations that depend heavily on Chinese imports.

With real estate prices still declining and expected to do so this year, the health of the massive property market debt-ridden property developers will pose another risk to economic recovery.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year.

China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year. The National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday that China's economy expanded by 2.9 per cent year over year in the fourth quarter, slowing from 3.9 per cent in the quarter before. Watch | China: Massive rush at stations, airports as thousands head home for Lunar New Year On a quarterly sequential basis, China's economy stagnated in the December quarter, highlighting the costs incurred by the stringent "zero-COVID" policy adopted. For the full year, GDP growth was 3.0 per cent, significantly below the government's target of "around" 5.5 per cent and a sharp slowdown from 2021's 8.4 per cent growth. While the reported rate was higher than the World Bank's 2.7 per cent forecast made earlier this month by the World Bank, the 2022 figure marks China's worst annual performance since 1976, excluding the 2.2 per cent growth that followed the initial Covid hit in 2020. In 2020, major economies around the world slumped into a deep recession. Also read | China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich' China's "Zero-COVID policy" and a severe property market downturn last year hurt domestic economic activity and weighed on global supply chains already disrupted by the pandemic. While Beijing abruptly lifted all those stringent pandemic restrictions in early December, it led to a surge in infections, which economists say would likely hamper growth in the near term. But Redmond Wong, Greater China market strategist at Saxo Markets Hong Kong, told Reuters, "I think investors will look through the Q4 GDP prints and focus on 2023". Also read | China's housing market witnesses a slump for the 16th month "According to Chinese media, more than half of the 31 provinces and municipalities that have released 2023 work reports are targeting above 5.5 per cent growth for 2023," added Wong. There are questions about how the alarming mortality toll — officially at 60,000 in the past month or so — will affect broader consumer confidence. Supply chain disruptions caused by workers reporting sick may hinder the recovery and impact nations that depend heavily on Chinese imports. With real estate prices still declining and expected to do so this year, the health of the massive property market debt-ridden property developers will pose another risk to economic recovery. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hit by Covid restrictions, China's economy grew just 3% in 2022

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. On the other hand, President Vladimir Putin, in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, publicly humiliated his deputy Prime Minister Denis Maturov during their first official virtual meeting of 2023 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Black Lives Matter (BLM) co-founder Patrisse Cullors lost a cousin to police brutality to police brutality that 'included' being repeatedly tasered and restrained.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Authorities in Peru have preemptively closed the airport in the tourist hub of Cusco in the light of weeks-long protests that have left dozens dead across the country.

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-who-for-calling-it-out-on-lack-of-covid-19-data-552123">China slams WHO for calling it out on lack of COVID-19 data</a>

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A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/peru-tourist-hub-airport-closed-amid-nationwide-protests-552116">Peru: Tourist hub airport closed amid nationwide protests</a>

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In Peru, supporters of ousted president Pedro Castillo are demanding the removal of the current leader Dina Boluarte. They&nbsp;marched on the streets of cities across the country with demands of fresh elections.

The demonstrations have at times turned violent, and clashes with security forces have left 42 people dead, including a police officer who was burnt alive in a vehicle, while hundreds more have been injured.

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/furious-putin-scolds-deputy-pm-manturov-over-failure-to-procure-contracts-from-russian-airlines-552127">Furious Putin scolds deputy PM Manturov over failure to procure contracts from Russian airlines</a>

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President Putin accused Manturov, the minister for trade and industry, of fooling around instead of acquiring new aircraft for the nation. RIA Novosti news agency has released the deputy PM's humiliation tape.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/black-man-a-cousin-of-black-lives-matter-co-founder-suffers-cardiac-arrest-dies-after-being-tasered-by-lapd-552113">A cousin of Black Lives Matter co-founder suffers cardiac arrest, dies after being tasered by LAPD</a>

<img alt="BLM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a6722f6-a563-4ad2-9a06-fcbcc0165acc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/325162-untitled-design-2023-01-13t084722674.jpg" />

Keenan Anderson, 31, was a teacher and a father and died at a hospital in Santa Monica. Body camera footage of the January 3 incident released by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) shows Anderson being held down by the officers as he begs for help.&nbsp;

"They're trying to George Floyd me!" he can be heard saying in the video. Notably, Floyd's case made headlines worldwide when he was murdered by a policeman in May 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

WATCH| UAE agrees to roll over Pakistan debt, give additional $1 billion

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&nbsp;

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, China has hit out at the World Health Organization for saying that the country has not been transparent about reporting COVID-19 deaths. On the other hand, President Vladimir Putin, in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, publicly humiliated his deputy Prime Minister Denis Maturov during their first official virtual meeting of 2023 on Wednesday. Furthermore, Black Lives Matter (BLM) co-founder Patrisse Cullors lost a cousin to police brutality to police brutality that 'included' being repeatedly tasered and restrained. Meanwhile, Authorities in Peru have preemptively closed the airport in the tourist hub of Cusco in the light of weeks-long protests that have left dozens dead across the country. Click on headlines to read more: China slams WHO for calling it out on lack of COVID-19 data A spokesperson of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that Beijing has held close communication with WHO, holding five technical exchanges over the past month with the latest one on Wednesday. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters that the two sides have discussed current clinical treatment, epidemic development, monitoring and vaccination. Peru: Tourist hub airport closed amid nationwide protests In Peru, supporters of ousted president Pedro Castillo are demanding the removal of the current leader Dina Boluarte. They marched on the streets of cities across the country with demands of fresh elections. The demonstrations have at times turned violent, and clashes with security forces have left 42 people dead, including a police officer who was burnt alive in a vehicle, while hundreds more have been injured. Furious Putin scolds deputy PM Manturov over failure to procure contracts from Russian airlines President Putin accused Manturov, the minister for trade and industry, of fooling around instead of acquiring new aircraft for the nation. RIA Novosti news agency has released the deputy PM's humiliation tape. A cousin of Black Lives Matter co-founder suffers cardiac arrest, dies after being tasered by LAPD Keenan Anderson, 31, was a teacher and a father and died at a hospital in Santa Monica. Body camera footage of the January 3 incident released by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) shows Anderson being held down by the officers as he begs for help. "They're trying to George Floyd me!" he can be heard saying in the video. Notably, Floyd's case made headlines worldwide when he was murdered by a policeman in May 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. WATCH| UAE agrees to roll over Pakistan debt, give additional $1 billion

Morning Brief: China slams WHO for questioning COVID data, Peru witnesses nationwide riots, and more

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply. The move as per AFP is a requirement by the US congress as part of the 2023 defence spending bill. Scrapping the mandate, Austin in a memo wrote he was&nbsp;"deeply proud" of the Defense Department's efforts to combat the coronavirus adding that, "we have improved the health of our service members and the readiness of the force, and we have provided life-saving assistance to the American people."

He added that the department, however, would keep encouraging personnel to get vaccinated. Addressing commanders, the memo said they have "the responsibility and authority to preserve the department's compelling interests in mission accomplishment."

Watch |&nbsp;Travellers rush to renew passports as China ends Covid restrictions

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As per AFP, the memo then expands on the said responsibilities and authority, adding that it "includes the ability to maintain military readiness, unit cohesions, good order and discipline, and the health and safety of a resilient joint force."

The thousands of army personnel who lost their jobs because of the mandate can also apply to have the characterisations of their discharge amended. However, the memo makes no mention of reinstatement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-to-begin-training-on-patriot-missiles-in-us-next-week-pentagon-confirms-551346">Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms</a>

Republicans have pushed for the removal of the said mandate and have also sought reinstatement of those relieved from their duties. Republican Kevin McCarthy, who is now the speaker of the House, had even argued that the mandate affects recruiting.

However, Austin said that he has not been made privy to any "hard data that directly links the Covid mandate to an effect on our recruiting."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-about-the-presence-of-classified-documents-in-private-office-says-biden-551349">Was surprised to learn about govt documents in private office, says Biden</a>

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, in a statement, said the mandate "appears to have very minimal impact on recruiting". She added that scrapping the mandate "would impact the readiness of the force."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply. The move as per AFP is a requirement by the US congress as part of the 2023 defence spending bill. Scrapping the mandate, Austin in a memo wrote he was "deeply proud" of the Defense Department's efforts to combat the coronavirus adding that, "we have improved the health of our service members and the readiness of the force, and we have provided life-saving assistance to the American people." He added that the department, however, would keep encouraging personnel to get vaccinated. Addressing commanders, the memo said they have "the responsibility and authority to preserve the department's compelling interests in mission accomplishment." Watch | Travellers rush to renew passports as China ends Covid restrictions As per AFP, the memo then expands on the said responsibilities and authority, adding that it "includes the ability to maintain military readiness, unit cohesions, good order and discipline, and the health and safety of a resilient joint force." The thousands of army personnel who lost their jobs because of the mandate can also apply to have the characterisations of their discharge amended. However, the memo makes no mention of reinstatement. Also read | Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms Republicans have pushed for the removal of the said mandate and have also sought reinstatement of those relieved from their duties. Republican Kevin McCarthy, who is now the speaker of the House, had even argued that the mandate affects recruiting. However, Austin said that he has not been made privy to any "hard data that directly links the Covid mandate to an effect on our recruiting." Also read | Was surprised to learn about govt documents in private office, says Biden Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, in a statement, said the mandate "appears to have very minimal impact on recruiting". She added that scrapping the mandate "would impact the readiness of the force." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pentagon scraps Covid vaccine mandate that led to the discharge of more than 8,000 army personnel

Hong Kong is in talks of declaring COVID-19 an 'endemic' disease, as per the top government pandemic advisers. Such an action would lead to the absolute abandonment of constraints, including isolation orders for infected patients.&nbsp;

A day after Macau declared the virus an endemic and eased many monitoring efforts, Hong Kong authorities shared similar plans.&nbsp;

Apart from the Special Administrative Regions (SAR), mainland China has relaxed restrictions. Isolation is no longer mandatory for people who tested positive, South China Morning Post reported.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/japan-tightens-covid-curbs-on-travellers-from-china-550404">Japan makes Covid test must for travellers from China, orders quarantine for those found infected</a>

Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka-Chiu, said that the government would observe the situation closely before taking any decision. "I remind people here that the World Health Organization has not changed its classification of Covid-19. So we will also be watching for the possibility of variants developing," he said. However, he believes that the statistics and data indicate that the factors are under control.&nbsp;

Furthermore, government pandemic adviser Professor Ivan Hung Fan-Ngai from Hong Kong University backed mainland China's decision to declare COVID-19 an endemic due to the robust hybrid immunity amongst the citizens. Hung cited many figures and assured the country would treat COVID-19 as any other upper respiratory virus.

Watch|&nbsp;China posts 'Wolf Warrior' diplomat to border affairs

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In September 2021, pandemic adviser Professor Yuen Kwok-Yung published an article on COVID-19 that pointed towards the virus's deep-rooted presence in the country. However, masks are necessary to stop the spread of the virus, especially during the winter season, said Yuen.

"Masking is to protect the Hospital Authority from being overwhelmed because there is no immunity among children less than three years old," 
he said.

However, there's a difference of opinion amongst the pandemic advisors. For instance, Professor Lau Yu-lung believes that isolation should continue for a while as the country has opened its borders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hong Kong is in talks of declaring COVID-19 an 'endemic' disease, as per the top government pandemic advisers. Such an action would lead to the absolute abandonment of constraints, including isolation orders for infected patients.

Hong Kong is in talks of declaring COVID-19 an 'endemic' disease, as per the top government pandemic advisers. Such an action would lead to the absolute abandonment of constraints, including isolation orders for infected patients. A day after Macau declared the virus an endemic and eased many monitoring efforts, Hong Kong authorities shared similar plans. Apart from the Special Administrative Regions (SAR), mainland China has relaxed restrictions. Isolation is no longer mandatory for people who tested positive, South China Morning Post reported. Also Read| Japan makes Covid test must for travellers from China, orders quarantine for those found infected Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka-Chiu, said that the government would observe the situation closely before taking any decision. "I remind people here that the World Health Organization has not changed its classification of Covid-19. So we will also be watching for the possibility of variants developing," he said. However, he believes that the statistics and data indicate that the factors are under control. Furthermore, government pandemic adviser Professor Ivan Hung Fan-Ngai from Hong Kong University backed mainland China's decision to declare COVID-19 an endemic due to the robust hybrid immunity amongst the citizens. Hung cited many figures and assured the country would treat COVID-19 as any other upper respiratory virus. Watch| China posts 'Wolf Warrior' diplomat to border affairs In September 2021, pandemic adviser Professor Yuen Kwok-Yung published an article on COVID-19 that pointed towards the virus's deep-rooted presence in the country. However, masks are necessary to stop the spread of the virus, especially during the winter season, said Yuen. "Masking is to protect the Hospital Authority from being overwhelmed because there is no immunity among children less than three years old," he said. However, there's a difference of opinion amongst the pandemic advisors. For instance, Professor Lau Yu-lung believes that isolation should continue for a while as the country has opened its borders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China: After Macau, Hong Kong might declare 'COVID-19' as 'endemic' disease

As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals.&nbsp;

Cities like Beijing and Shanghai are facing a Covid outbreak after the relaxation of COVID-19 rules and abandonment of the 'zero-Covid' policy. Specialist doctors are also helping in treating COVID-19 patients, and all wards are now open to treat them. However, the relocation of staff impacted surgery and other treatments.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/china-lifts-covid-19-restrictions-reopens-borders-for-quarantine-free-travel-550395">China lifts Covid restrictions on foreign travel, ends quarantine rule for inbound travellers</a>

The terrifying pandemic worsened since hospitals normalised working for healthcare staff and treating other patients while infected with the virus, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

Two weeks earlier, Beijing called doctors from several parts of China and asked them to help with the treatment and ease the burden of staff at overcrowded hospitals. However, hospitals in other cities depend on their team. Thus, healthcare workers in several parts of China continue to work despite being tested positive or under-recovery.

Watch|&nbsp;China reopens borders from Hong Kong to mainland China ending its major Covid restrictions

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Six out of 10 healthcare workers are toiling through the pandemic, according to the medical platform, Yimi research. A survey also shows that 70 per cent of 3,000 medical care workers contracted the coronavirus in the last week of December.&nbsp;

Some hospitals have also tried to separate the positive and negative cases to protect the most vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals.

As the COVID-19 horror in China surges, healthcare workers are going through more stress and workload at hospitals and clinics. Amid the spike in COVID-19 cases, doctors and nurses in China are battling unprecedented staff shortages, scarcity of medicines, and overcrowded hospitals. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai are facing a Covid outbreak after the relaxation of COVID-19 rules and abandonment of the 'zero-Covid' policy. Specialist doctors are also helping in treating COVID-19 patients, and all wards are now open to treat them. However, the relocation of staff impacted surgery and other treatments. Also Read| China lifts Covid restrictions on foreign travel, ends quarantine rule for inbound travellers The terrifying pandemic worsened since hospitals normalised working for healthcare staff and treating other patients while infected with the virus, the South China Morning Post reported. Two weeks earlier, Beijing called doctors from several parts of China and asked them to help with the treatment and ease the burden of staff at overcrowded hospitals. However, hospitals in other cities depend on their team. Thus, healthcare workers in several parts of China continue to work despite being tested positive or under-recovery. Watch| China reopens borders from Hong Kong to mainland China ending its major Covid restrictions Six out of 10 healthcare workers are toiling through the pandemic, according to the medical platform, Yimi research. A survey also shows that 70 per cent of 3,000 medical care workers contracted the coronavirus in the last week of December. Some hospitals have also tried to separate the positive and negative cases to protect the most vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, and the elderly. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's Covid crisis: Healthcare workers continue to work despite being tested positive for coronavirus

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.&nbsp;

Kim Joo-young, a health official said that the Chinese passenger tested positive after his arrival at the Icheon International Airport near Seoul on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-makes-covid-negative-test-mandatory-for-arrivals-from-china-549103">Also read |&nbsp;UK makes Covid negative test mandatory for arrivals from China</a>

He added that the individual has not yet been identified and has been listed on a 'wanted list.' Kim said that the individual might be subjected to a year in prison or a 10 million won ($7,840) fine for violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act.

Amid Beijing's Covid spike, several countries have imposed travel restrictions. After the UK, South Korea also joined the list. It announced some mandatory coronavirus tests on arrivals from China on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read | '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-impressed-chinas-new-foreign-minister-heaps-praises-on-americans-549162">Deeply impressed': China's new foreign minister heaps praises on Americans</a>

It includes individuals arriving from China to undergo a PCR after arrival. &nbsp;Starting from Jan 05, passengers can also submit a PCR taken not more than 48 hours before their departure or a negative test not more than 24 hours old before departure.

Since Jan 02, a total of 2,189 people have arrived from China. South Korea's (KDCA) said that some 590 tests showed that around 136 people have tested positive for COVID-19.

The KDCA&nbsp;also said on Tuesday, 281 people tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility.

The South Korean authorities on Wednesday (Jan 04) said that they are tracking a Chinese national, who tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival but went missing while waiting at a quarantine facility. Kim Joo-young, a health official said that the Chinese passenger tested positive after his arrival at the Icheon International Airport near Seoul on Tuesday. Also read | UK makes Covid negative test mandatory for arrivals from China He added that the individual has not yet been identified and has been listed on a 'wanted list.' Kim said that the individual might be subjected to a year in prison or a 10 million won ($7,840) fine for violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. Amid Beijing's Covid spike, several countries have imposed travel restrictions. After the UK, South Korea also joined the list. It announced some mandatory coronavirus tests on arrivals from China on Tuesday. Also read | 'Deeply impressed': China's new foreign minister heaps praises on Americans It includes individuals arriving from China to undergo a PCR after arrival. Starting from Jan 05, passengers can also submit a PCR taken not more than 48 hours before their departure or a negative test not more than 24 hours old before departure. Since Jan 02, a total of 2,189 people have arrived from China. South Korea's (KDCA) said that some 590 tests showed that around 136 people have tested positive for COVID-19. The KDCA also said on Tuesday, 281 people tested positive for coronavirus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea searches for 'wanted' Chinese national who escaped from Covid quarantine centre

Chinese hospitals and funeral homes were under intense pressure on Wednesday as a surging Covid-19 wave drained resources. Watch this video to know more.

Chinese hospitals, funeral homes 'extremely busy' as Covid spreads

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, became the first person in human history to lose $200 billion from his net worth, as per the Bloomberg Billionaire index. Amid the Covid crisis in China, the country's manufacturing activity saw a sharp decline for the third successive month, said China's National Bureau of Statistics. Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler is facing a sexual assault lawsuit. Former US President Donald Trump wanted to trademark the phrase 'Rigged Election!' days after he lost the 2020 election, according to Jared Kushner's testimony to the House select committee that released a damning report earlier this month. The House Ways and Means Committee released redacted his last six years' tax returns on Friday.

<a href="www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-first-person-in-human-history-to-lose-200-billion-548224">Elon Musk first person in human history to lose $200 billion</a>

<a href="www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-first-person-in-human-history-to-lose-200-billion-548224"><img alt="Elon Musk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61a06556-e762-43b3-8b03-55231b5f5461" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/322221-untitled-design-99.jpg" /></a> 
 
After Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Musk was the second person with more than $200 billion of "personal fortune", a figure he achieved in January 2021.&nbsp;Elon Musk's wealth plummeted to $137 billion after Tesla shares declined in recent weeks. This includes a massive 11 per cent fall in Tesla shares on December 27.&nbsp;

Musk's fortune topped at $340 billion in November 2021. Following this, he was the world's richest person for consecutive months till more than a year. He was then overtaken this month by Bernard Arnault, the French business magnate and co-founder of luxury goods powerhouse LVMH. 
 
<a href="www.wionews.com/world/chinas-manufacturing-activity-plunges-steeply-in-december-amid-covid-crisis-548226">China's manufacturing activity plunges steeply in December amid Covid crisis</a>

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/chinas-manufacturing-activity-plunges-steeply-in-december-amid-covid-crisis-548226"><img alt="China's Covid crisis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03f6a17f-199e-4bd2-a28f-e82ce0e4fece" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/china.png" /></a> 
 
<a>The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) recorded in December 2022 was down to 47, compared to 48 recorded in the previous month. China marked the downfall for the third month in a row. China's sudden relaxation on its zero-Covid policy, followed by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has hurt the nation's overall production. The PMI is a fundamental measure in the world's second-biggest economy, and a recording below 50 indicates a downturn in factory activities. NBS obtains the PMI from a survey of large-scale and state-owned companies.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/after-election-defeat-donald-trump-wanted-to-trademark-the-phrase-rigged-election-house-panel-548218">After election defeat, Donald Trump wanted to trademark the phrase ‘Rigged Election!’: House panel</a>

<img alt="Donald Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ecc56f6f-9b7a-4e9a-9d57-19f2400ba85f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/311189-trump.jpg" />

The committee released a transcript of Kushner's interview where White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino wrote an email to Trump's son-in-law and former adviser, forwarding the then president's request.&nbsp;

“Hey Jared! POTUS wants to trademark/own rights to below, I don’t know who to see – or ask…I don’t know who to take to,” read the email by Scavino with “Save America PAC!” and “Rigged Election!” written in bold.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="www.wionews.com/entertainment/aerosmith-lead-vocalist-steven-tyler-accused-of-sexual-assault-of-minor-548216">Aerosmith lead vocalist Steven Tyler accused of sexual assault of minor</a>

<img alt="Steven Tyler" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1193bf08-cb4b-4e94-be6c-f364319cec7e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FlMZvBxXoAEX-6V.jpg" />

A woman who has previously said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/aerosmith-singer-steven-tyler-doing-amazing-well-after-leaving-rehab-493997">Steven Tyler&nbsp;</a>had an illicit sexual relationship with her when she was a teenager is now suing the Aerosmith frontman for sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.&nbsp;The lawsuit brought by Julia Misley was filed Tuesday under a 2019 California law that gave adult victims of childhood sexual assault a three-year window to file lawsuits for decades-old instances of assault. Saturday is the deadline to file such claims.

Watch|&nbsp;North Korea fires three ballistic missiles, Japan Coast Guard confirms firing of missiles

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&nbsp;

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Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, became the first person in human history to lose $200 billion from his net worth, as per the Bloomberg Billionaire index.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, became the first person in human history to lose $200 billion from his net worth, as per the Bloomberg Billionaire index. Amid the Covid crisis in China, the country's manufacturing activity saw a sharp decline for the third successive month, said China's National Bureau of Statistics. Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler is facing a sexual assault lawsuit. Former US President Donald Trump wanted to trademark the phrase 'Rigged Election!' days after he lost the 2020 election, according to Jared Kushner's testimony to the House select committee that released a damning report earlier this month. The House Ways and Means Committee released redacted his last six years' tax returns on Friday. Elon Musk first person in human history to lose $200 billion After Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Musk was the second person with more than $200 billion of "personal fortune", a figure he achieved in January 2021. Elon Musk's wealth plummeted to $137 billion after Tesla shares declined in recent weeks. This includes a massive 11 per cent fall in Tesla shares on December 27. Musk's fortune topped at $340 billion in November 2021. Following this, he was the world's richest person for consecutive months till more than a year. He was then overtaken this month by Bernard Arnault, the French business magnate and co-founder of luxury goods powerhouse LVMH. China's manufacturing activity plunges steeply in December amid Covid crisis The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) recorded in December 2022 was down to 47, compared to 48 recorded in the previous month. China marked the downfall for the third month in a row. China's sudden relaxation on its zero-Covid policy, followed by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has hurt the nation's overall production. The PMI is a fundamental measure in the world's second-biggest economy, and a recording below 50 indicates a downturn in factory activities. NBS obtains the PMI from a survey of large-scale and state-owned companies. After election defeat, Donald Trump wanted to trademark the phrase ‘Rigged Election!’: House panel The committee released a transcript of Kushner's interview where White House deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino wrote an email to Trump's son-in-law and former adviser, forwarding the then president's request. “Hey Jared! POTUS wants to trademark/own rights to below, I don’t know who to see – or ask…I don’t know who to take to,” read the email by Scavino with “Save America PAC!” and “Rigged Election!” written in bold. Aerosmith lead vocalist Steven Tyler accused of sexual assault of minor A woman who has previously said Steven Tyler had an illicit sexual relationship with her when she was a teenager is now suing the Aerosmith frontman for sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit brought by Julia Misley was filed Tuesday under a 2019 California law that gave adult victims of childhood sexual assault a three-year window to file lawsuits for decades-old instances of assault. Saturday is the deadline to file such claims. Watch| North Korea fires three ballistic missiles, Japan Coast Guard confirms firing of missiles

Morning Brief: Elon Musk loses $200 billion, China's factory activity declines, and more

As Covid cases continue to mount in China, countries across the world are opting for precautionary measures to avoid a repeat of the first wave. France, Spain, South Korea and Israel are the recent entrants to the list of countries to have announced different Covid curbs.

As Covid cases continue to mount in China, countries across the world are opting for precautionary measures to avoid a repeat of the first wave. France, Spain, South Korea and Israel are the recent entrants to the list of countries to have announced different Covid curbs. In France, passengers travelling from China will have to show a negative report of Covid test done less than 48 hours prior to boarding the flight. Meanwhile, in South Korea, Chinese passengers will have to present a negative PCR or antigen test before boarding the flight. Afterwards, on their arrival in South Korea, the passengers will have to undergo a PCR test. As for Spain, Chinese travellers can skip the tests if they are fully vaccinated. In Israel, the authorities have directed foreign airlines to not accept any Chinese passenger if they fail to provide a negative Covid test report. Previously, Malaysia, India, US and Japan had put different measures in place to screen Chinese travellers. WATCH | Global alarm over China's Covid surge, travel curbs imposed on Chinese travelers × While cases are on an unprecedented rise, the Xi Jinping regime has let go of its draconian 'zero-Covid' policy, primarily responsible for the current predicament. The countries are anxious about Chinese travellers as the country is opaque regarding its Covid numbers and the Chinese vaccines and their efficacy continue to divide the scientists. Such has been the situation that the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday urged Beijing to release real-time data on the prevailing situation in the country. “WHO again asked for regular sharing of specific and real-time data on the epidemiological situation," said the global health body before adding, "Including more genetic sequencing data, data on disease impact including hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths, and data on vaccinations delivered and vaccination status, especially in vulnerable people and those over 60 years old." Read more: WHO asks China to share real-time COVID-19 data amid uncertainty regarding numbers According to a Bloomberg report, the minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held earlier this month showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain, France, Israel and S Korea tighten Covid rules for travellers from China as cases mount

As more and more countries are imposing restrictions on travellers from China amid the recent surge in cases in the country, Beijing’s state media, called these mandates “discriminatory”. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief, on Thursday, called the measures “understandable” given the lack of information from China.

WHO 'concerned’ on Covid situation in China, calls restrictions by countries ‘understandable’

Japan on Wednesday (December 28) reported a record number of deaths. The nation recorded 415 COVID-19-related deaths, which is its highest-ever count for a single day.

The national tally of newly confirmed Covid cases on Wednesday stood at 216, 219. This is an approximately four per cent jump from last Wednesday when the number stood at &nbsp;206,943. In August Japan, recorded a high of 260,000 cases a day.

Watch |&nbsp;Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data

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In the past week, Japan had the highest global number of infections. In terms of reported deaths, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), while the United States recorded the highest number while Japan stood in second place.

The current outbreak as per Business Standard is the nation's eighth wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Japan as per IANS has seen a total death tally of 55,000 with more than 28 million cases nationwide.

This uptick in cases as per the Japan Times comes after the government in October ended curbs that have for two and a half years barred tourists from entering the nation. Following this, in November, Japan had nearly one million visitors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

The nation as per AFP has also imposed Covid curbs on visitors from China, requiring them to take Covid tests upon arrival. This as per Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has been done because of the "information that infection is spreading rapidly" in China.

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Japan on Wednesday (December 28) reported a record number of deaths. The nation recorded 415 COVID-19-related deaths, which is its highest-ever count for a single day.

Japan on Wednesday (December 28) reported a record number of deaths. The nation recorded 415 COVID-19-related deaths, which is its highest-ever count for a single day. The national tally of newly confirmed Covid cases on Wednesday stood at 216, 219. This is an approximately four per cent jump from last Wednesday when the number stood at 206,943. In August Japan, recorded a high of 260,000 cases a day. Watch | Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data In the past week, Japan had the highest global number of infections. In terms of reported deaths, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), while the United States recorded the highest number while Japan stood in second place. The current outbreak as per Business Standard is the nation's eighth wave of COVID-19 infections. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Japan as per IANS has seen a total death tally of 55,000 with more than 28 million cases nationwide. This uptick in cases as per the Japan Times comes after the government in October ended curbs that have for two and a half years barred tourists from entering the nation. Following this, in November, Japan had nearly one million visitors. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts The nation as per AFP has also imposed Covid curbs on visitors from China, requiring them to take Covid tests upon arrival. This as per Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has been done because of the "information that infection is spreading rapidly" in China. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan reports its highest-ever tally of Covid related deaths, 415 in one day

In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China.&nbsp;As per an earlier report by the Telegraph, the nation was mulling over restrictions including requiring testing travellers for the deadly virus on arrival.

A spokesperson of the UK government said, "There are no plans to re-introduce COVID-19 testing or additional requirements for arrivals into the UK."

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under siege as Covid crisis worsens

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Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister had said that restrictions were not something the nation was looking at.

Australia too as per a Reuters report said that it will make no change to its rules for travellers from China. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they are consulting heath experts but at the moment there is no change in travel advice, adding that they are monitoring "the situation, as we continue to monitor the impact of COVID here in Australia as well as around the world."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-travelling-from-china-to-us-now-need-to-show-negative-covid-test-547503">Passengers travelling from China to US now need to show negative Covid&nbsp; test report</a>&nbsp;

Recent days have seen nations stepping up precautionary measures involving travellers from China. These restrictions come as this month Beijing abruptly eased its once stringent zero-Covid rules that left much of its population vulnerable to infection and its healthcare infrastructure overwhelmed.

The United States has made mandatory a negative COVID-19 result. Passengers from China will have to submit to the airline before boarding a negative Covid test that needs to be done two days before flying. Italy on the other hand has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Meanwhile, India's health ministry said that travellers coming from "select&nbsp;countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random tests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China.

In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China. As per an earlier report by the Telegraph, the nation was mulling over restrictions including requiring testing travellers for the deadly virus on arrival. A spokesperson of the UK government said, "There are no plans to re-introduce COVID-19 testing or additional requirements for arrivals into the UK." Watch | China: Hospitals under siege as Covid crisis worsens Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister had said that restrictions were not something the nation was looking at. Australia too as per a Reuters report said that it will make no change to its rules for travellers from China. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they are consulting heath experts but at the moment there is no change in travel advice, adding that they are monitoring "the situation, as we continue to monitor the impact of COVID here in Australia as well as around the world." Also read | Passengers travelling from China to US now need to show negative Covid test report Recent days have seen nations stepping up precautionary measures involving travellers from China. These restrictions come as this month Beijing abruptly eased its once stringent zero-Covid rules that left much of its population vulnerable to infection and its healthcare infrastructure overwhelmed. The United States has made mandatory a negative COVID-19 result. Passengers from China will have to submit to the airline before boarding a negative Covid test that needs to be done two days before flying. Italy on the other hand has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Meanwhile, India's health ministry said that travellers coming from "select countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random tests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK, Australia have no plans to impose Covid restrictions on travellers from China

Hospitals across China have been overwhelmed by an explosion of Covid cases following Beijing's decision to lift strict rules. Watch this video to know more.

China's Covid surge triggers global alarm

Due to spike in covid infections in China, the United States will require all visitors from China to present a negative Covid-19 test result before boarding a flight to the country.

U.S. will require Covid-19 testing for travellers from China

U.S., like India and other countries, to impose entry curbs for those coming from China

COVID-19 has spread globally since its discovery in Hubei province, China in December 2019. Let's have a look as to what are the causes of creation of the new virus variants.

What causes the creation of new virus variants?

The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

"There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said&nbsp;officials on Tuesday.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from&nbsp;China.

While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports.

This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened.

Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health&nbsp;body will publish data once a month.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data". "There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said officials on Tuesday. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from China. While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports. This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened. Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health body will publish data once a month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people.&nbsp;China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting&nbsp;close to a million people every day.&nbsp;

However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening.

Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". 
 
An emergency department pharmacy staff said,&nbsp;“Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms.

Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people. China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting close to a million people every day. However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening. Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". An emergency department pharmacy staff said, “Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms. Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s funeral homes, hospitals overwhelmed even as official Covid figures remain low

China's industrial profits declined 3.6 per cent during the 11-month period between January-November period as Beijing's 'zero Covid policy' disrupted factory activity and supply chains. However, as China loosened its grip over Covid restrictions as 2022 proceeded to its conclusion in December, analysts have foreseen brighter long-time prospects.&nbsp;

Industrial profits fell in January-November from a year earlier to 7.7 trillion yuan ($1.11 trillion), according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Tuesday. That compares with a 3.0 per cent&nbsp;decline for January-October. No standalone data was released for November.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-bank-slashes-chinas-growth-forecast-from-43-per-cent-to-27-per-cent-in-2022-544824">World Bank slashes China’s growth forecast from 4.3 per cent to 2.7 per cent for 2022</a>

Statisticians from NBS said that Covid outbreaks and slow demand in November decreased industrial production have increased pressure on Chinese businesses.

For January-November, profits at private-sector firms shrank 7.9 per cent, a slight improvement from the 8.1 per cent fall in the first 10 months.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-chinas-gdp-growth-rebounds-at-a-faster-pace-527896">WION Business News | China's GDP growth rebounds at a faster pace</a>

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Profits fell for 21 of 41 major industrial sectors, with the steel&nbsp;industry suffering the steepest decline, at 94.5 per cent. That compares with a 92.7 per cent fall for the first 10 months.

Profits for manufacturers were down 13.4 per cent in the first 11 months, matching the fall in January-October.

Despite Beijing ditching some of the world's toughest Covid restrictions in early December, the economy is still reeling under the impact of restrictions that gripped the country for most of 2022.

JP Morgan analysts said China's domestic reopening, which came earlier and faster than expected, would mean a shorter period of transitional pain in the first quarter of 2023, followed by an above-trend sustained recovery from the second quarter.

Earlier this month, JP Morgan trimmed their forecast for China's year-on-year GDP growth rate for the current quarter, to 2.2 per cent from 2.7 per cent, but raised their full-year growth forecast for next year, to 4.3 per cent from 4 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's industrial profits declined 3.6 per cent during the 11-month period between January-November period as Beijing's 'zero Covid policy' disrupted factory activity and supply chains.

China's industrial profits declined 3.6 per cent during the 11-month period between January-November period as Beijing's 'zero Covid policy' disrupted factory activity and supply chains. However, as China loosened its grip over Covid restrictions as 2022 proceeded to its conclusion in December, analysts have foreseen brighter long-time prospects. Industrial profits fell in January-November from a year earlier to 7.7 trillion yuan ($1.11 trillion), according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Tuesday. That compares with a 3.0 per cent decline for January-October. No standalone data was released for November. ALSO READ | World Bank slashes China’s growth forecast from 4.3 per cent to 2.7 per cent for 2022 Statisticians from NBS said that Covid outbreaks and slow demand in November decreased industrial production have increased pressure on Chinese businesses. For January-November, profits at private-sector firms shrank 7.9 per cent, a slight improvement from the 8.1 per cent fall in the first 10 months. WATCH | WION Business News | China's GDP growth rebounds at a faster pace × Profits fell for 21 of 41 major industrial sectors, with the steel industry suffering the steepest decline, at 94.5 per cent. That compares with a 92.7 per cent fall for the first 10 months. Profits for manufacturers were down 13.4 per cent in the first 11 months, matching the fall in January-October. Despite Beijing ditching some of the world's toughest Covid restrictions in early December, the economy is still reeling under the impact of restrictions that gripped the country for most of 2022. JP Morgan analysts said China's domestic reopening, which came earlier and faster than expected, would mean a shorter period of transitional pain in the first quarter of 2023, followed by an above-trend sustained recovery from the second quarter. Earlier this month, JP Morgan trimmed their forecast for China's year-on-year GDP growth rate for the current quarter, to 2.2 per cent from 2.7 per cent, but raised their full-year growth forecast for next year, to 4.3 per cent from 4 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China's Covid restrictions pulled away industrial profits in 2022

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world.

As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant."

Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation.

Watch |&nbsp;China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

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"When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said&nbsp;Ray comparing&nbsp;the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those."

The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population.&nbsp;

Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said&nbsp;that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time.

"Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-face-criticism-over-distributing-traditional-medicine-not-ibuprofen-and-paracetamol-546493">Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol</a>

The World Health Organization&nbsp;has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China.

"We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant.

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant." Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation. Watch | China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th "When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said Ray comparing the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those." The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population. Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time. "Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray. Also read | Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol The World Health Organization has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China. "We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official.&nbsp;Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend.&nbsp;

This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers</a>

In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China.

Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive.

In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak".

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend. This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures. Also read | China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China. Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive. In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese health official says half a million people in Qingdao infected with Covid daily; censored

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country.&nbsp;The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. 
 
"Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/covid-horror-six-pictures-show-reality-of-coronavirus-outbreak-haunting-china-546043">COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China</a>

Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator.

As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported.

However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week."

He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources."&nbsp;

Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable."

Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data.

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. "Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions. Also read | COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator. As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported. However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week." He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources." Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable." Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers

China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China. During German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing, a deal was reached between the two nations under which China agreed to allow German nationals in China to receive the mRNA vaccine.

Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world

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As per Reuters, Scholz's also urged Beijing to allow Chinese citizens and other foreign nationals to avail the shot. However, initially, the vaccines will be administered to German expatriates.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it is "supporting China&nbsp;to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system".

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"WHO is supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system"-<a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>
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Up till now, China has only allowed its own vaccines for the general public. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available and only inactivated shots of Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

These would be the first mRNA vaccines available in China. mRNA vaccines are generally considered to be the most efficient against the deadly virus.

Faced with a huge surge in cases following its easing of stringent zero-Covid restrictions, cities in China have also begun distributing free fever and cold drugs to the public, in order to deal with a spike in demand for the medicines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-is-china-a-threat-to-the-world-beijings-new-covid-wave-a-wild-card-warn-experts-544965">Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts</a>

As per Global Times, the market regulator in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province has distributed 73,030 fever medicines to local residents with plans to distribute more. Dongguan in South China's Guangdong Province will be distributing 100,000 ibuprofen tablets. &nbsp;Zhengzhou, Shangqiu, Zhoukou and a number of other cities have also handed out anti-epidemic drugs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China.

China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China. During German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing, a deal was reached between the two nations under which China agreed to allow German nationals in China to receive the mRNA vaccine. Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world As per Reuters, Scholz's also urged Beijing to allow Chinese citizens and other foreign nationals to avail the shot. However, initially, the vaccines will be administered to German expatriates. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it is "supporting China to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system". "WHO is supporting #China to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system"-@DrTedros #COVID19 — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) December 21, 2022 × Up till now, China has only allowed its own vaccines for the general public. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available and only inactivated shots of Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter These would be the first mRNA vaccines available in China. mRNA vaccines are generally considered to be the most efficient against the deadly virus. Faced with a huge surge in cases following its easing of stringent zero-Covid restrictions, cities in China have also begun distributing free fever and cold drugs to the public, in order to deal with a spike in demand for the medicines. Also read | Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts As per Global Times, the market regulator in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province has distributed 73,030 fever medicines to local residents with plans to distribute more. Dongguan in South China's Guangdong Province will be distributing 100,000 ibuprofen tablets. Zhengzhou, Shangqiu, Zhoukou and a number of other cities have also handed out anti-epidemic drugs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China accepts Germany's mRNA COVID vaccines as cases spike, distributes free fever, cold medicines

Just a week back,&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.

This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done."

Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID</a> emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming

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"It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added.

Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January.

This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine.

Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-in-china-demand-for-a-particular-fruit-rises-as-people-seek-natural-remedies-to-fight-the-virus-544905">COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus</a>

Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment."&nbsp;

Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]."&nbsp;

Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-population-in-china-may-be-infected-by-covid-in-the-next-three-months-top-epidemiologist-544810">Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist</a>

Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks.

"We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang.

Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.

Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic. This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done." Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the COVID emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave." Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming "It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added. Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January. This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine. Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear. Also read | COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment." Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]." Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office. Also read | Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks. "We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang. Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts

A #WuhanVirus tsunami has engulfed China. The country's top doctor has predicted 3 Covid waves in 3 months. Is Xi Jinping caught in his own trap? Will China infect the world once again?

Gravitas: China stares at 3 Covid waves in 3 months

Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped.

Talking to the press before his visit to the Chinese capital Beijing, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu revealed the relaxation adding that details would be provided at a health briefing later in the day.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

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Lee who will be on a "duty visit" from Wednesday to Saturday will reportedly update President Xi Jinping on the latest situation of Covid and the city's economy.

The Hong Kong leader as per the Standard promised to reflect Hong Kongers' hopes to reopen the border with mainland China. However, he did not say when that would happen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

"I believe the central government understands very much about Hong Kong residents' longstanding hopes for reopening the border and having exchanges in a normal manner," said Lee.

While the particulars of the curb relaxation are not known citing sources the Standard reported that in addition to the possible scrapping of the mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT test for entry to bars, banquets or joining local group tours, other restrictions like the number of people allowed at venues like cinemas, performance venues, theme parks may also be removed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-takes-away-much-criticised-covid-restrictions-542509">Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions</a>

Currently, as per the Strati Times, in Hong Kong masks remain mandatory in public places, arrivals are still subject to PCR tests and people visiting a bar have to produce a negative rapid antigen test. Additionally, only 240 people are allowed to attend a banquet.

This comes as China and Hong Kong battle a sudden surge in the number of Covid cases after the lifting of coronavirus restrictions. On Monday, hong Kong reported 15,00 new daily cases and 39 deaths. Last week the city&nbsp;also scrapped a mandatory Covid mobile application that was required to check in to most venues such as gyms, beauty salons and schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped.

Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped. Talking to the press before his visit to the Chinese capital Beijing, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu revealed the relaxation adding that details would be provided at a health briefing later in the day. Watch | Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion? Lee who will be on a "duty visit" from Wednesday to Saturday will reportedly update President Xi Jinping on the latest situation of Covid and the city's economy. The Hong Kong leader as per the Standard promised to reflect Hong Kongers' hopes to reopen the border with mainland China. However, he did not say when that would happen. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' "I believe the central government understands very much about Hong Kong residents' longstanding hopes for reopening the border and having exchanges in a normal manner," said Lee. While the particulars of the curb relaxation are not known citing sources the Standard reported that in addition to the possible scrapping of the mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT test for entry to bars, banquets or joining local group tours, other restrictions like the number of people allowed at venues like cinemas, performance venues, theme parks may also be removed. Also read | Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions Currently, as per the Strati Times, in Hong Kong masks remain mandatory in public places, arrivals are still subject to PCR tests and people visiting a bar have to produce a negative rapid antigen test. Additionally, only 240 people are allowed to attend a banquet. This comes as China and Hong Kong battle a sudden surge in the number of Covid cases after the lifting of coronavirus restrictions. On Monday, hong Kong reported 15,00 new daily cases and 39 deaths. Last week the city also scrapped a mandatory Covid mobile application that was required to check in to most venues such as gyms, beauty salons and schools. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong announces further easing of COVID-19 curbs

Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower.

As per a Reuters report citing academics, vaccine hesitancy poses a growing headache for Beijing as it attempts to persuade more and more of its citizens to vaccinate in the face of the sudden spike of Covid cases reported after the lifting of the nation's stringent Zero-Covid restrictions.

Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world

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Compared to the official vaccination rate of 90 per cent the rate of adults who have taken a booster shot drops to 57.9 per cent. According to government data, the number takes a further plunge to 42.3 per cent among people aged 80 and above.

This has prompted warning calls that the country could see over 1.5 million deaths after curbs like mass testing and lockdowns were lifted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-major-cities-fight-surge-in-covid-cases-as-hearses-queue-outside-crematoriums-544198">China’s major cities battle surge in Covid cases, hearses queue up outside crematoriums</a>

Speaking to BBC epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that the nation might undergo three waves of infection this winter. As per his estimates the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office.

In China where till recently stringent restrictions were the norm, vaccination isn't mandatory. This is because of signs that the public might push back against any such move.

Vaccinations developed overseas are not available to the general public in mainland china. Only inactivated shots Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-ordered-to-hold-online-classes-in-shanghai-to-control-covid-19-cases-544061">Schools ordered to hold online classes in Shanghai to control COVID-19 cases</a>

However, Beijing is yet to develop an mRNA vaccine and in its absence questions have been raised about the efficacy of Chinese vaccines vs foreign-made mRNA vaccines.

"At least a half of doctors and educated people wanted to get the mRNA ones and refused to get the Chinese ones," said &nbsp;Kelly Lei, a doctor from Shenzhen.

With the neighbouring Chinese territory of Macau offering these mRNA vaccines, people are scrambling to get the jab. As a consequence, no bookings are available until January 21.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower.

Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower. As per a Reuters report citing academics, vaccine hesitancy poses a growing headache for Beijing as it attempts to persuade more and more of its citizens to vaccinate in the face of the sudden spike of Covid cases reported after the lifting of the nation's stringent Zero-Covid restrictions. Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world Compared to the official vaccination rate of 90 per cent the rate of adults who have taken a booster shot drops to 57.9 per cent. According to government data, the number takes a further plunge to 42.3 per cent among people aged 80 and above. This has prompted warning calls that the country could see over 1.5 million deaths after curbs like mass testing and lockdowns were lifted. Also read | China’s major cities battle surge in Covid cases, hearses queue up outside crematoriums Speaking to BBC epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that the nation might undergo three waves of infection this winter. As per his estimates the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office. In China where till recently stringent restrictions were the norm, vaccination isn't mandatory. This is because of signs that the public might push back against any such move. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available to the general public in mainland china. Only inactivated shots Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available. Also read | Schools ordered to hold online classes in Shanghai to control COVID-19 cases However, Beijing is yet to develop an mRNA vaccine and in its absence questions have been raised about the efficacy of Chinese vaccines vs foreign-made mRNA vaccines. "At least a half of doctors and educated people wanted to get the mRNA ones and refused to get the Chinese ones," said Kelly Lei, a doctor from Shenzhen. With the neighbouring Chinese territory of Macau offering these mRNA vaccines, people are scrambling to get the jab. As a consequence, no bookings are available until January 21. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much.

"Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency."

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-xi-administration-gradually-dismantles-zero-covid-policy-541962/embed" width="560"></iframe>

As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began.

"We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-impossible-to-accurately-grasp-the-actual-number-of-covid-infected-people-542857">China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people</a>

The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories.

A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-focuses-on-economic-stability-in-2023-traditional-medicine-expert-endorses-changing-covids-name-540754">In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert</a>

The WHO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp; technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology.

As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much. "Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency." Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with Covid and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began. "We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros. Also read | China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories. A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase. Also read | In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert The WHO COVID-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology. As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China

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