Japan on Wednesday recorded 415 Covid deaths, the highest-ever count for a single day, health ministry data showed.

Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data

The news of China ending mandatory quarantine for arrivals has resulted in instant gains when it comes to Asian markets. China’s benchmark Shanghai index and the second index in Shenzhen both opened with considerable gains while similar trends were also observed in Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore and Mumbai.

The Chinese economy has been suffering quite a bit due to the tough restrictions imposed by the Xi Jinping government but the new concessions has already seen a major uptick in tourist activity and experts around the world are hoping for a relatively quick recovery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/once-in-a-lifetime-weather-disaster-leaves-at-least-60-dead-in-us-546886">'Once-in-a-lifetime' weather disaster leaves at least 60 dead in US</a>

"Global equities climbed Tuesday while the dollar declined amid positive sentiment from China upping the speed limits on zero-Covid off ramps and the softening of a key inflation measure in the US," Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management told AFP when asked about the developments.

"Inbound tourism is not a huge economic bounty for China relative to domestic tourism but policy fast-track and early zero-Covid exit means growth could recover enormously," he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

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The Chinese government decided to reverse some of its strict COVID-19 restrictions following massive protests around the country. For the first time in almost three years, COVID-19 was classified a Class B infectious disease and that means the citizens can move much more freely.

The markets were also impacted by the rising price of oil following Russia’s announcement about reducing their production by over seven percent in the next year. On top of that, the blizzard in the United States has caused the production of over 1.8 million barrels of oil per day.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The news of China ending mandatory quarantine for arrivals has resulted in instant gains when it comes to Asian markets. China’s benchmark Shanghai index and the second index in Shenzhen both opened with considerable gains while similar trends were also observed in Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore and Mumbai.

The news of China ending mandatory quarantine for arrivals has resulted in instant gains when it comes to Asian markets. China’s benchmark Shanghai index and the second index in Shenzhen both opened with considerable gains while similar trends were also observed in Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore and Mumbai. The Chinese economy has been suffering quite a bit due to the tough restrictions imposed by the Xi Jinping government but the new concessions has already seen a major uptick in tourist activity and experts around the world are hoping for a relatively quick recovery. Also read | 'Once-in-a-lifetime' weather disaster leaves at least 60 dead in US "Global equities climbed Tuesday while the dollar declined amid positive sentiment from China upping the speed limits on zero-Covid off ramps and the softening of a key inflation measure in the US," Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management told AFP when asked about the developments. "Inbound tourism is not a huge economic bounty for China relative to domestic tourism but policy fast-track and early zero-Covid exit means growth could recover enormously," he added. WATCH | China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th The Chinese government decided to reverse some of its strict COVID-19 restrictions following massive protests around the country. For the first time in almost three years, COVID-19 was classified a Class B infectious disease and that means the citizens can move much more freely. The markets were also impacted by the rising price of oil following Russia’s announcement about reducing their production by over seven percent in the next year. On top of that, the blizzard in the United States has caused the production of over 1.8 million barrels of oil per day.

Asian markets gain momentum following China's decision to loosen Covid restrictions

China's property sector shrank further in November, with falls in prices, sales and investment, partly as COVID-19 restrictions hit demand. Watch this video to know more.

World Business Watch: China property slumps further in November

Hospitals in China struggle with spike in Covid cases. Even as China records zero covid deaths now data firm is claiming that the real scale of infection could be far greater than what the official data is showing. Watch to know further.

China reports ‘zero Covid death’ for the first time in three years

As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US,&nbsp;the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached&nbsp;31. In other news, with&nbsp;COVID-19 cases&nbsp;rising&nbsp;in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants. While multiple missile hits have been reported in Ukraine on Christmas Day, shots have been fired at NATO patrol in Kosovo. Meanwhile, as the Russia-Ukraine struggle continues, President Vladimir Putin said he is ready to talk. Furthermore, women in Afghanistan continue to protest against the Taliban's decision to ban female students to pursue a university education.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/the-blizzard-of-2022-historic-us-winter-storm-kills-31-including-12-in-new-york-state-546563">'The blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone'</a>

<img alt="US Blizzard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6efdea9b-736f-4539-90d5-8f33954d35be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320884-untitled-design-2022-12-26t085747086_0.jpg" />

A devastating winter storm is wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas.

"It is (like) going to a warzone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking," said New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, where eight-foot (2.4-meter) snow drifts and power outages have made for life-threatening conditions.

<a href="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>

<img alt="Experts call China, breeding ground for COVID mutations" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31bcd175-f06d-49ac-a174-48173f8f9ed8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320887-new-wion-52.jpg" />

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."

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/amid-fresh-tensions-shots-fired-near-nato-patrol-in-kosovo-546559">Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo</a>

<img alt="Shots fired at NATO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fdf595f5-b43d-4965-acf9-8d557abacb7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320881-new-wion-51.jpg" />

Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported.

As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade.

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/missile-hits-reported-from-across-ukraine-on-christmas-day-even-as-putin-says-he-is-open-to-talks-546557">Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks</a>

<img alt="Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6e45ed2-7231-4f1e-a602-a77410f3ac50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/320880-untitled-design-2022-12-26t081206828.jpg" />

Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard.

Afghan women continue to protest against Taliban's ban on education

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As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US, the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached 31. In other news, with COVID-19 cases rising in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants.

As the atmospheric pressure plummets in the US, the 'Bomb Cyclone' has become deadly and the weather-related death count has reached 31. In other news, with COVID-19 cases rising in China, experts are calling the country a potentially dangerous mutation ground for more variants. While multiple missile hits have been reported in Ukraine on Christmas Day, shots have been fired at NATO patrol in Kosovo. Meanwhile, as the Russia-Ukraine struggle continues, President Vladimir Putin said he is ready to talk. Furthermore, women in Afghanistan continue to protest against the Taliban's decision to ban female students to pursue a university education. Click on the headlines to read more: 'The blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone' A devastating winter storm is wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas. "It is (like) going to a warzone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking," said New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, where eight-foot (2.4-meter) snow drifts and power outages have made for life-threatening conditions. China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts 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." Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported. As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade. Missile hits reported from across Ukraine on Christmas Day even as Putin says he is open to talks Ukrainian and Russian media outlets reported hearing blasts at Russia's Engels air base early Monday, hundreds of kilometres from the frontlines in Ukraine. However, the reports haven't been confirmed yet. The RBC-Ukraine news agency reported that two explosions took place. Russian news outlet Baza cited local residents as saying that air raid sirens followed by an explosion were heard. Afghan women continue to protest against Taliban's ban on education

Morning Brief: Deadly blizzard leaves 31 dead in US, shots fired near NATO in Kosovo, and more

Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a&nbsp;message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own&nbsp;Christmas magic. In other news starting Sunday,&nbsp;China's top health body the National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 cases. As the global community decried Taliban's latest order banning university education for girls, the group has reportedly resorted to using water cannons on students protesting the ban.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/a-defiant-volodymyr-zelensky-says-ukraine-will-create-its-own-christmas-magic-546390">A defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will create its own Christmas Magic</a>

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On the day that marks 10 months of Moscow's launching of the war that has killed tens and thousands and displaced millions, Zelensky said, "We endured at the beginning of the war - we withstood attacks, threats, nuclear blackmail, terror, missile strikes. We will endure this winter because we know what we are fighting for."

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/18-miners-trapped-in-a-gold-mine-in-xinjiang-rescue-operation-underway-546402">18 miners trapped in a gold mine in Xinjiang, rescue operation underway</a>

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As many as 18 people were trapped in an underground gold mine in China's Xinjiang region on Sunday after a cave-in was reported by local news agencies.&nbsp;

40 people were working in the mine, situated 100 kilometres from the border with Kazakhstan when the accident occurred.&nbsp;

<a href="www.wionews.com/world/watch-taliban-use-water-cannon-on-afghan-women-opposing-prohibition-on-university-education-546399">Taliban use water cannons on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education</a>

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A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females.

Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.'&nbsp;

<a href="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>

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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.

However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information.

Pope Francis on Christmas: 'Men &amp; women in their hunger for power, consume their own people'

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Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own Christmas magic.

Ten months into the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine remains defiant. In a message to Ukrainian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the country will make its own Christmas magic. In other news starting Sunday, China's top health body the National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 cases. As the global community decried Taliban's latest order banning university education for girls, the group has reportedly resorted to using water cannons on students protesting the ban. Click on the headlines to read more: A defiant Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine will create its own Christmas Magic On the day that marks 10 months of Moscow's launching of the war that has killed tens and thousands and displaced millions, Zelensky said, "We endured at the beginning of the war - we withstood attacks, threats, nuclear blackmail, terror, missile strikes. We will endure this winter because we know what we are fighting for." 18 miners trapped in a gold mine in Xinjiang, rescue operation underway As many as 18 people were trapped in an underground gold mine in China's Xinjiang region on Sunday after a cave-in was reported by local news agencies. 40 people were working in the mine, situated 100 kilometres from the border with Kazakhstan when the accident occurred. Taliban use water cannons on Afghan women opposing prohibition on university education A video of Afghan women using a lane as a shield to protect themselves from a water cannon has gone viral on social media. The Taliban have started to opt for different ways to stop women from protesting against the university education ban in Afghanistan for females. Hundreds of Afghan women have taken to the streets to protest against the Taliban's decision. Protest marches in Afghanistan echoed with slogans like 'education is our right' and 'The Taliban are cowards.' China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers 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. Pope Francis on Christmas: 'Men & women in their hunger for power, consume their own people'

Morning Brief: Zelensky sends defiant Christmas message, China to stop publishing COVID count, and more

Despite rising pressures across the globe, China will now stop publishing daily Covid-19 figures. The National Health Commission says that the decision will come into effect immediately which is from December 25. The NHC has been releasing daily Covid data on this website for the last three years.

China to stop publishing daily Covid data, NHC gives no explanation for policy change

China is currently facing a deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) wave, that led to a sharp rise in infections which is believed to have been fuelled after Beijing rapidly eased its zero-Covid strategy last month.

China is currently facing a deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) wave, that led to a sharp rise in infections which is believed to have been fuelled after Beijing rapidly eased its zero-Covid strategy last month. The surge in cases in China, where the first known Covid case was reported in late 2019, has resulted in a shortage of medicines. There are also reports of overflowing hospital wards. Amid chaotic conditions, Chinese authorities are facing a backlash for distributing traditional medicines, such as Lianhua Qingwen (LHQW). The South China Morning Post reported on Sunday that the Chinese government is stepping up the production and distribution of Lianhua Qingwen in order to curb the spread. LHQW has been widely used in China, and it reportedly has some advantages in the Covid treatment. But there's no proof. LHQW is best known for its use in the treatment of influenza. In the practice of TCM, it is said that it has the effects of clearing excessive heat, removing toxins, improving lung ventilation, and discharging heat. SCMP report mentioned that some Chinese provinces are distributing tens of thousands of boxes to residents. The distribution of half a million boxes of the medicine was approved by a special task force last week in the southwestern province of Yunnan. A million rapid antigen test kits were also distributed. The Chinese government had officially recommended traditional medicine as a treatment when the pandemic had just begun. But people have raised concerns over it as some of the residents asked for modern medicines such as paracetamol. As quoted by SCMP, one Weibo user said, "Why give us expensive Lianhua Qingwen? What we need is drugs that can lower the temperature, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol." "Why can Lianhua Qingwen be transported and distributed freely, while the usual fever drugs are not available or distributed," asked another. Medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen are currently in short supply in China, the Yunnan government said on Thursday. The authorities also mentioned that they are working to produce medicines. India to export fever drugs to China Meanwhile, quoting the chairperson of an Indian drug export body, the news agency Reuters reported last week that India is ready to step up exports of fever medicines to China. Sahil Munjal, the chairperson of the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil), told Reuters: "Marketing queries are coming to drug-makers asking for quotes on ibuprofen and paracetamol." Munjal added, "Ibuprofen and paracetamol are facing a shortage in China at the moment, they are high in demand." 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 authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol

China battles surge in Covid cases, medics blame government for 'insufficient planning'

Authorities in Shanghai have urged residents to stay home this weekend, seeking a lowkey Christmas celebration this time as China battles an intensifying spread of Covid. On Saturday (December 24), a branch of the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission urged the city's young people in particular to avoid being in any crowded gatherings, a report by news agency Reuters said.&nbsp;

Many people lamented on social media that they will be staying indoors as most of their friends have been infected. "I originally planned to go to Shanghai for Christmas but now I can only lie in bed," a person wrote on Weibo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-crisis-in-china-nearly-37-million-people-may-have-been-infected-on-single-day-546078">Leaked documents show nearly 250 million Chinese contracted Covid in December</a>

Christmas is not traditionally celebrated in China but it is common for people to spend the festival holiday. In Shanghai, a large Christmas-themed market in a luxury shopping area along Nanjing West Road is set up.&nbsp;

However this time, many restaurants in the city have cancelled Christmas parties while hotels have capped reservations due to a shortage of staff, Jacqueline Mocatta, a hospitality industry&nbsp;worker, told Reuters on Saturday. "There's only a certain amount of customers we can accept given our manpower, with a majority of team members being unwell at the moment," Mocatta said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;W<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-didnt-receive-data-from-china-on-new-covid-hospitalisations-report-546030">HO didn't receive data from China on new Covid hospitalisations: Report</a>

Shanghai has seen a spike in Covid cases since last week. Many residents of the city are isolating themselves voluntarily, businesses have been closed due to staff getting infected and most schools have also been shut. Hospitals are overburdened with an increase in the number of patients. A few days back, the Shanghai Deji Hospital posted on its official WeChat account that there were about 5.43 million positive cases of the virus in Shanghai and that 12.5 million people in the city will get infected by the end of this year.

The hospital also warned its staff of a tragic battle against the virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in Shanghai have urged residents to stay home this weekend, seeking a lowkey Christmas celebration this time as China battles an intensifying spread of Covid.

Authorities in Shanghai have urged residents to stay home this weekend, seeking a lowkey Christmas celebration this time as China battles an intensifying spread of Covid. On Saturday (December 24), a branch of the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission urged the city's young people in particular to avoid being in any crowded gatherings, a report by news agency Reuters said. Many people lamented on social media that they will be staying indoors as most of their friends have been infected. "I originally planned to go to Shanghai for Christmas but now I can only lie in bed," a person wrote on Weibo. ALSO READ | Leaked documents show nearly 250 million Chinese contracted Covid in December Christmas is not traditionally celebrated in China but it is common for people to spend the festival holiday. In Shanghai, a large Christmas-themed market in a luxury shopping area along Nanjing West Road is set up. However this time, many restaurants in the city have cancelled Christmas parties while hotels have capped reservations due to a shortage of staff, Jacqueline Mocatta, a hospitality industry worker, told Reuters on Saturday. "There's only a certain amount of customers we can accept given our manpower, with a majority of team members being unwell at the moment," Mocatta said. ALSO READ | WHO didn't receive data from China on new Covid hospitalisations: Report Shanghai has seen a spike in Covid cases since last week. Many residents of the city are isolating themselves voluntarily, businesses have been closed due to staff getting infected and most schools have also been shut. Hospitals are overburdened with an increase in the number of patients. A few days back, the Shanghai Deji Hospital posted on its official WeChat account that there were about 5.43 million positive cases of the virus in Shanghai and that 12.5 million people in the city will get infected by the end of this year. The hospital also warned its staff of a tragic battle against the virus. (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.

Shanghai urges residents to stay at home on Christmas as Covid cases surge

China struggles to deal with Covid; patients line corridors in hospitals

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not received data from China on new Covid hospitalisations since the government lifted its Zero-Covid policy, a report by news agency Reuters said on Friday.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not received data from China on new Covid hospitalisations since the government lifted its Zero-Covid policy, a report by news agency Reuters said on Friday. China is racing against time to combat the spike in infections with an overburdened health infrastructure, a shortage of life-saving medicines and a low rate of full vaccination among the elderly. Weekly reports of the WHO showed a rise in Covid hospitalisations in China running up to the government's December 7 decision to ease restrictions on movement that were imposed to stamp out any transmission of the virus, the report said. ALSO READ | China has 1 million Covid cases, 5k deaths a day, claims report as it plans to cut travellers' quarantine According to a graph by the WHO, hospitalisations peaked through to December 4, which was the highest reported figure in the country since the onset of the pandemic. But the figures were absent in the last two weekly reports. The United Nations health agency, however, said that gaps in hospitalisation data might be due to Chinese authorities struggling to tally infections. "I wouldn't like to say that China is actively not telling us what's going on. I think they're behind the curve," WHO emergencies chief Mike Ryan said, Reuters reported. The Chinese government has faced criticism for downplaying the spread of the pandemic and according to experts, the recently introduced criteria for identifying Covid deaths will "underestimate'' the actual figure. The criteria say that only those Covid patients who directly died of respiratory failure caused by the virus would be counted under Covid death statistics. Meanwhile, United States Secretary of States Antony Blinken on Thursday called on China to share details on the pandemic. "It is very important for all countries, including China, to focus on people getting vaccinated, making testing and treatment available and, importantly, sharing information with the world about what they're experiencing," Blinken told reporters and renewed an offer to share American vaccines with 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.

WHO didn't receive data from China on new Covid hospitalisations: Report

China has limited the definition of COVID-19 deaths and will henceforth only account the deaths from pneumonia or respiratory failure, a Chinese health official has said as virus cases surge across the country.

Under the new definition, deaths occurring over pre-existing illnesses are not counted as COVID-19 deaths, said Wang Guiqiang, the head of infectious disease at Peking University’s No. 1 Hospital, reports AP news agency.

He said that the National Health Commission recently revised its guidelines to “scientifically and objectively reflect deaths caused by the coronavirus pandemic”.

“Deaths caused by other diseases such as cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases and heart attacks are not classified as deaths caused by coronavirus,” Wang said.

One of the main aims of narrowing the definition seems to be linked to limiting the number of deaths being reported even as reports and images of overloaded hospitals and crematoriums and queues of hearses emerge.

Till Wednesday, China has reported 2,966 new cases and there have been fewer than 10 Covid deaths since the beginning of December. The country has so far recorded only 5,241 deaths since the virus outbreak was first reported from Wuhan in 2020.

The health official claimed that when compared with the first outbreak of Covid in early 2020, when most patients died of respiratory failure, “the main cause of death from infection with Omicron is the underlying diseases. Respiratory failure directly caused by the new coronavirus infection is rare.”

The new definition illustrated by China is at odds with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, which states that many countries now use “excess mortality” as a more accurate measure to gauge the true impact of the pandemic.

According to WHO, excess mortality is defined as the difference in the total number of deaths in a crisis compared with those expected under normal conditions.

Covid-19 excess mortality accounts for both the total number of deaths directly attributed to the virus as well as the indirect impact, such as disruption to essential health services or travel disruptions, the WHO says.

Meanwhile, various institutes who have run projections to accurately capture the true number of Covid cases argue that China might be experiencing 1 million Covid infections and 5,000 virus deaths every day.

It is believed that the cases might peak at over 4 million in March, according to Airfinity Ltd., a London-based research firm that focuses on predictive health analytics and has been tracking the pandemic since it first emerged.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has limited the definition of COVID-19 deaths and will henceforth only account the deaths from pneumonia or respiratory failure, a Chinese health official has said as virus cases surge across the country.

China has limited the definition of COVID-19 deaths and will henceforth only account the deaths from pneumonia or respiratory failure, a Chinese health official has said as virus cases surge across the country. Under the new definition, deaths occurring over pre-existing illnesses are not counted as COVID-19 deaths, said Wang Guiqiang, the head of infectious disease at Peking University’s No. 1 Hospital, reports AP news agency. He said that the National Health Commission recently revised its guidelines to “scientifically and objectively reflect deaths caused by the coronavirus pandemic”. “Deaths caused by other diseases such as cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases and heart attacks are not classified as deaths caused by coronavirus,” Wang said. One of the main aims of narrowing the definition seems to be linked to limiting the number of deaths being reported even as reports and images of overloaded hospitals and crematoriums and queues of hearses emerge. Till Wednesday, China has reported 2,966 new cases and there have been fewer than 10 Covid deaths since the beginning of December. The country has so far recorded only 5,241 deaths since the virus outbreak was first reported from Wuhan in 2020. The health official claimed that when compared with the first outbreak of Covid in early 2020, when most patients died of respiratory failure, “the main cause of death from infection with Omicron is the underlying diseases. Respiratory failure directly caused by the new coronavirus infection is rare.” The new definition illustrated by China is at odds with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, which states that many countries now use “excess mortality” as a more accurate measure to gauge the true impact of the pandemic. According to WHO, excess mortality is defined as the difference in the total number of deaths in a crisis compared with those expected under normal conditions. Covid-19 excess mortality accounts for both the total number of deaths directly attributed to the virus as well as the indirect impact, such as disruption to essential health services or travel disruptions, the WHO says. Meanwhile, various institutes who have run projections to accurately capture the true number of Covid cases argue that China might be experiencing 1 million Covid infections and 5,000 virus deaths every day. It is believed that the cases might peak at over 4 million in March, according to Airfinity Ltd., a London-based research firm that focuses on predictive health analytics and has been tracking the pandemic since it first emerged. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

As virus cases surge, China limits definition of Covid deaths in official toll

India’s health minister has advised the public to take precautions against Covid-19, as the country remains on alert for potential new variants that could emerge from the wave of infections sweeping neighboring China.

WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China

Raising concerns over rapid cases of Covid being detected in China, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the hospitals are filling up fast in the country.

Dr Michael Ryan, Executive Director, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, told BBC on Wednesday that the intensive care units (ICU) have been running busy despite Beijing officials claiming that numbers are "relatively low".

Though no Covid deaths were reported on Wednesday, there have been doubts about the real impact of the virus.

Since the stringent Covid measures were lifted last week due to massive protests, China has been witnessing a surge in coronavirus cases.

"In China, what's been reported is relatively low numbers of cases in ICUs, but anecdotally ICUs are filling up,” Ryan was quoted as saying.

"We've been saying this for weeks that this highly infectious virus was always going to be very hard to stop completely, with just public health and social measures."

It is being reported that the present surge in Covid infections in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 —a sub-variant of omicron.

The same variant was dominant in the United States and several European countries in October.

On December 20, Xu Wenbo, director at the National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, said China has been closely monitoring the omicron subvariants circulating in the country.

He said that the government has established a national Covid viral sequencing database, which will receive genetic sequences from three hospitals in every province each week to catch any emerging variants, he said.&nbsp;

"This will allow us to monitor in real-time how omicron subvariants are circulating in China and their makeup," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Raising concerns over rapid cases of Covid being detected in China, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the hospitals are filling up fast in the country.

Raising concerns over rapid cases of Covid being detected in China, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the hospitals are filling up fast in the country. Dr Michael Ryan, Executive Director, WHO Health Emergencies Programme, told BBC on Wednesday that the intensive care units (ICU) have been running busy despite Beijing officials claiming that numbers are "relatively low". Though no Covid deaths were reported on Wednesday, there have been doubts about the real impact of the virus. Since the stringent Covid measures were lifted last week due to massive protests, China has been witnessing a surge in coronavirus cases. "In China, what's been reported is relatively low numbers of cases in ICUs, but anecdotally ICUs are filling up,” Ryan was quoted as saying. "We've been saying this for weeks that this highly infectious virus was always going to be very hard to stop completely, with just public health and social measures." It is being reported that the present surge in Covid infections in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 —a sub-variant of omicron. The same variant was dominant in the United States and several European countries in October. On December 20, Xu Wenbo, director at the National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, said China has been closely monitoring the omicron subvariants circulating in the country. He said that the government has established a national Covid viral sequencing database, which will receive genetic sequences from three hospitals in every province each week to catch any emerging variants, he said. "This will allow us to monitor in real-time how omicron subvariants are circulating in China and their makeup," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hospitals filling up fast, says WHO as China battles Covid spike

The infectious Coronavirus disease also known as COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Over time, like all other viruses, SARS-CoV-2 also changes itself. The majority of changes have little to no effect on the characteristics of the virus, but some changes might impact how easily the virus spreads, the severity, or the effectiveness of vaccines.&nbsp;The virus variants so far are categorized by WHO as Variants of Interest (VOIs), Variants under monitoring (VUMs) and Variants of Concern (VOCs).&nbsp;

<h2>What is BF.7 variant?&nbsp;</h2>

SARS-CoV-2 tree sprouts branches and sub-branches meaning as the viruses mutate they change creates lineages and sub-lineages. The Omicron variant comprises four lineages including B.1.1.529, BA.1, BA.2 and BA.3. WHO on 26 November 2021 designated variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron.

The BF.7 also called by the name BA.5.2.1.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron sub-lineage BA.5. As per reports, BF.7 sub-variant has a higher neutralisation resistance meaning antibodies from a vaccinated or infected individual were less likely to destroy BF.7 than the original coronavirus that spread worldwide in 2020. This is not the first time BF.7 is detected as BF.7 accounted for more than 5% of US cases and 7.26% of UK cases in October.&nbsp;

<h2>BF.7 in India, is it a Variant of Concern?&nbsp;</h2>

The BA.1 and BA.2 sub-variants of Omicron were responsible for the January 2022 wave in India. However,&nbsp;India experienced extremely few cases of BF.7. Now the global concern around COVID situation in China has increased. In India, four cases have been found so far of BF.7, two cases each in Gujarat and Odisha. In Odisha, the Omicron BF.7 was detected in a sample testing on 30 September. As per&nbsp;Odisha Health and Family Welfare department cited by multiple media outlets, at the time of testing, BF.7 was neither a VOC (Variant of Concern) nor VOI (Variant of Interest).&nbsp;

<h2>Are vaccines effective on BF.7?</h2>

The virus has mutated many times over since the beginning of 2020. As per reports, the Omicron variants are known to evade the immune response from most vaccines currently in use however getting vaccination is still advisable as it prevents death, as per medical experts.&nbsp;

<h2>Transmission</h2>

The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell.

Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age.&nbsp;

<h2>Symptoms</h2>

The most common symptoms are fever, cough, tiredness and loss of taste or smell. The less common symptoms are sore throat, headache, aches and pains, diarrhoea, a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes and red or irritated eyes. Serious symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, loss of speech or mobility, confusion and chest pain.

<h2>How to protect yourself?</h2>

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by staying at least 1 metre apart from others, wearing a properly fitted mask, and washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn and follow local guidance. Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-live-coverage-covid-latest-news-chaos-in-china-new-guidelines-in-india-pm-modi-to-chair-covid-review-meet-545359">Check Coronavirus Live Updates here</a> 
&nbsp;

The infectious Coronavirus disease also known as COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Over time, like all other viruses, SARS-CoV-2 also changes itself. The majority of changes have little to no effect on the characteristics of the virus, but some changes might impact how easily the virus spreads, the severity, or the effectiveness of vaccines.

The infectious Coronavirus disease also known as COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Over time, like all other viruses, SARS-CoV-2 also changes itself. The majority of changes have little to no effect on the characteristics of the virus, but some changes might impact how easily the virus spreads, the severity, or the effectiveness of vaccines. The virus variants so far are categorized by WHO as Variants of Interest (VOIs), Variants under monitoring (VUMs) and Variants of Concern (VOCs). What is BF.7 variant? SARS-CoV-2 tree sprouts branches and sub-branches meaning as the viruses mutate they change creates lineages and sub-lineages. The Omicron variant comprises four lineages including B.1.1.529, BA.1, BA.2 and BA.3. WHO on 26 November 2021 designated variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron. The BF.7 also called by the name BA.5.2.1.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron sub-lineage BA.5. As per reports, BF.7 sub-variant has a higher neutralisation resistance meaning antibodies from a vaccinated or infected individual were less likely to destroy BF.7 than the original coronavirus that spread worldwide in 2020. This is not the first time BF.7 is detected as BF.7 accounted for more than 5% of US cases and 7.26% of UK cases in October. BF.7 in India, is it a Variant of Concern? The BA.1 and BA.2 sub-variants of Omicron were responsible for the January 2022 wave in India. However, India experienced extremely few cases of BF.7. Now the global concern around COVID situation in China has increased. In India, four cases have been found so far of BF.7, two cases each in Gujarat and Odisha. In Odisha, the Omicron BF.7 was detected in a sample testing on 30 September. As per Odisha Health and Family Welfare department cited by multiple media outlets, at the time of testing, BF.7 was neither a VOC (Variant of Concern) nor VOI (Variant of Interest). Are vaccines effective on BF.7? The virus has mutated many times over since the beginning of 2020. As per reports, the Omicron variants are known to evade the immune response from most vaccines currently in use however getting vaccination is still advisable as it prevents death, as per medical experts. Transmission The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. Symptoms The most common symptoms are fever, cough, tiredness and loss of taste or smell. The less common symptoms are sore throat, headache, aches and pains, diarrhoea, a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes and red or irritated eyes. Serious symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, loss of speech or mobility, confusion and chest pain. How to protect yourself? The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by staying at least 1 metre apart from others, wearing a properly fitted mask, and washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn and follow local guidance. Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors. Check Coronavirus Live Updates here

EXPLAINED: What is BF.7, the new variant behind China's COVID wave, are available vaccines effective?

Amid the burst of Covid-19 cases in China, India has stepped up efforts to prepare for any eventuality. The Health Ministry has asked all states to increase genome sequencing of positive cases through the INSACOG network in order to understand which new coronavirus variants might be circulating.&nbsp;

"ln view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, United States of America, Republic of Korea, Brazil and China, it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through...INSACOG network," Health Ministry Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said in the letter to all states.

"Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same," Mr Bhushan said.

All positive case samples should be sent every day to INSACOG genome sequencing labs mapped with all states and Union Territories, the Centre said.

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>

Meanwhile, NK Arora, the chairman of the COVID-19 working group of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), said that since Indians have what is called "hybrid immunity", there is nothing to panic about.&nbsp;

In India, we have "an extensively immunised adult population, particularly with very effective vaccines".&nbsp;

"Over 90 per cent of our individuals have also been affected by natural COVID infection. So, the Indian population is immunised with what we call as hybrid immunity," he said.

He said that genome sequencing is a crucial aspect of keeping a tab on the situation and that the system is "vigilant".

“It is an important thing that we keep a close vigil on the Chinese situation. But I would say that there is nothing to be panicked about. There is no need for getting too much worried. The system is very vigilant, we need to be very vigilant. As far as genomic surveillance is concerned, this is the most important part we are doing genomic surveillance of individuals with symptoms,” he said.

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Talking about the situation in China, Arora said that the country's zero-Covid policy meant that a majority of the people did not get naturally infected, leading to a lack of natural immunity.&nbsp;

“China was following so-called zero COVID policy and as we learn from media recently they have relaxed this policy and after that, we are hearing that there is widespread COVID infection in that community with associated severe disease and deaths also. But what is the exact situation we really do not know,” he said.

Hospitals in China are struggling and pharmacy shelves have been stripped bare in the wake of the government's sudden decision to lift years of lockdowns, quarantines and mass testing.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Amid the burst of Covid-19 cases in China, India has stepped up efforts to prepare for any eventuality. The Health Ministry has asked all states to increase genome sequencing of positive cases through the INSACOG network in order to understand which new coronavirus variants might be circulating.

Amid the burst of Covid-19 cases in China, India has stepped up efforts to prepare for any eventuality. The Health Ministry has asked all states to increase genome sequencing of positive cases through the INSACOG network in order to understand which new coronavirus variants might be circulating. "ln view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, United States of America, Republic of Korea, Brazil and China, it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through...INSACOG network," Health Ministry Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said in the letter to all states. "Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same," Mr Bhushan said. All positive case samples should be sent every day to INSACOG genome sequencing labs mapped with all states and Union Territories, the Centre said. Also Read | Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist Meanwhile, NK Arora, the chairman of the COVID-19 working group of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), said that since Indians have what is called "hybrid immunity", there is nothing to panic about. In India, we have "an extensively immunised adult population, particularly with very effective vaccines". "Over 90 per cent of our individuals have also been affected by natural COVID infection. So, the Indian population is immunised with what we call as hybrid immunity," he said. He said that genome sequencing is a crucial aspect of keeping a tab on the situation and that the system is "vigilant". “It is an important thing that we keep a close vigil on the Chinese situation. But I would say that there is nothing to be panicked about. There is no need for getting too much worried. The system is very vigilant, we need to be very vigilant. As far as genomic surveillance is concerned, this is the most important part we are doing genomic surveillance of individuals with symptoms,” he said. × Talking about the situation in China, Arora said that the country's zero-Covid policy meant that a majority of the people did not get naturally infected, leading to a lack of natural immunity. “China was following so-called zero COVID policy and as we learn from media recently they have relaxed this policy and after that, we are hearing that there is widespread COVID infection in that community with associated severe disease and deaths also. But what is the exact situation we really do not know,” he said. Hospitals in China are struggling and pharmacy shelves have been stripped bare in the wake of the government's sudden decision to lift years of lockdowns, quarantines and mass testing. (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.

India steps up measures amidst China Covid explosion, expert says 'hybrid immunity' will help country

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

China reported its first Covid-related deaths in weeks as rising cases continue to put strain following the relaxation of pandemic-related curbs.

On Monday, China recorded two Covid deaths, a first since December 3, the National Health Commission said, reports Reuters news agency.

However, doubts were raised on whether the official toll truly reflects the country’s battle with a spurt in cases, which was largely in check due to zero-Covid measures.

Following the reports of Covid related deaths, a hashtag on the same was seen trending on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform on Monday.

"What is the point of incomplete statistics?" asked one user. "Isn't this cheating the public?" wrote another.

China has officially acknowledged that only 5,237 Covid-related deaths occurred during the pandemic, including the latest toll figures, which is a tiny fraction considering its 1.4 billion population.

The Beijing government has largely praised its tough anti-virus measures for the low number of cases, but it was forcefully withdrawn last month after a string of protests complaining lack of movement across cities and difficulties in purchasing essential items.

But, experts fear that easing Covid measures could take the total number of deaths to more than a million.

Zhou Jiatong, head of the Center for Disease Control in southwestern Guangxi region, in a paper published last month by the Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine said that mainland China&nbsp;faces more than 2 million deaths if it eased on Covid curbs.

Similarly, a US-based organisation, the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, has projected that by April 1, 2023, China could register 322,000 deaths, when the Covid cases peak.

A few days ago, China's National Health Commission said that it was ramping up vaccinations and building stocks of ventilators and essential drugs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China reported its first Covid-related deaths in weeks as rising cases continue to put strain following the relaxation of pandemic-related curbs. On Monday, China recorded two Covid deaths, a first since December 3, the National Health Commission said, reports Reuters news agency.

China reported its first Covid-related deaths in weeks as rising cases continue to put strain following the relaxation of pandemic-related curbs. On Monday, China recorded two Covid deaths, a first since December 3, the National Health Commission said, reports Reuters news agency. However, doubts were raised on whether the official toll truly reflects the country’s battle with a spurt in cases, which was largely in check due to zero-Covid measures. Following the reports of Covid related deaths, a hashtag on the same was seen trending on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform on Monday. "What is the point of incomplete statistics?" asked one user. "Isn't this cheating the public?" wrote another. China has officially acknowledged that only 5,237 Covid-related deaths occurred during the pandemic, including the latest toll figures, which is a tiny fraction considering its 1.4 billion population. The Beijing government has largely praised its tough anti-virus measures for the low number of cases, but it was forcefully withdrawn last month after a string of protests complaining lack of movement across cities and difficulties in purchasing essential items. But, experts fear that easing Covid measures could take the total number of deaths to more than a million. Zhou Jiatong, head of the Center for Disease Control in southwestern Guangxi region, in a paper published last month by the Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine said that mainland China faces more than 2 million deaths if it eased on Covid curbs. Similarly, a US-based organisation, the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, has projected that by April 1, 2023, China could register 322,000 deaths, when the Covid cases peak. A few days ago, China's National Health Commission said that it was ramping up vaccinations and building stocks of ventilators and essential drugs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China reports first Covid-related deaths in weeks as questions remain on official count

In the aftermath of the massive protests that were witnessed has decided to lift the Covid restrictions that were in place as a part of the zero Covid strategy. So China's Covid situation is not ringing any festive bells but rather it's actually bled in emergency siren.

China's Covid nightmare continues; New model predicts 1 million deaths

China's Covid crisis has refreshed the horrific memories of the pandemic that started in 2019. Local media reports say that long lines could be seen at crematorium in the nation's capital - Beijing. As healthcare nears collapse after recent surge in cases, China relaxed its controversial zero-Covid policy.

Covid pressurises funeral services in China's Beijing; long lines at crematoriums

China could end up witnessing more than a million Covid deaths in 2023 if it decides to stay with its decision of lifting the stringent coronavirus regulations, a new projection from a US-based institute has claimed.&nbsp;According to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), by April 1, China could register 322,000 deaths, when the Covid cases peak.

“Nobody thought they would stick to zero-COVID as long as they did," IHME Director Christopher Murray said on Friday when the IHME projections were released online, reports Reuters news agency.

Beijing decided to ease its stringent Covid restrictions in December following unprecedented public protests across the country.

Ever since the curbs were lifted, China has been experiencing a spike in infections, with fears that the virus could infect all of its 1.4 billion population during next month's Lunar New Year holiday.

Moreover, it has not recorded any Covid deaths since the lifting of restrictions. The last official deaths were reported on December 3. Total pandemic fatalities stand at 5,235.

The IMHE believes that the emergence of highly-transmittable Omicron variants has rendered China's zero-Covid policy ineffective, and hence Beijing decided to lift the restrictions.

The group, which is present at the University of Washington in Seattle, based its projections by relying on provincial data and information from a recent Omicron outbreak in Hong Kong.

"China has since the original Wuhan outbreak barely reported any deaths. That is why we looked to Hong Kong to get an idea of the infection fatality rate," Murray said.

The IHME also used information on vaccination rates provided by the Chinese government as well as assumptions on how various provinces will respond as infection rates increase for its forecasts.

Meanwhile, Chinese officials are looking to provide booster vaccines for the vulnerable sections even as the government remains pessimistic about the use of vaccination of foreign vaccines.

On Friday, China's National Health Commission said that it was ramping up vaccinations and building stocks of ventilators and essential drugs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China could end up witnessing more than a million Covid deaths in 2023 if it decides to stay with its decision of lifting the stringent coronavirus regulations, a new projection from a US-based institute has claimed.

China could end up witnessing more than a million Covid deaths in 2023 if it decides to stay with its decision of lifting the stringent coronavirus regulations, a new projection from a US-based institute has claimed. According to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), by April 1, China could register 322,000 deaths, when the Covid cases peak. “Nobody thought they would stick to zero-COVID as long as they did," IHME Director Christopher Murray said on Friday when the IHME projections were released online, reports Reuters news agency. Beijing decided to ease its stringent Covid restrictions in December following unprecedented public protests across the country. Ever since the curbs were lifted, China has been experiencing a spike in infections, with fears that the virus could infect all of its 1.4 billion population during next month's Lunar New Year holiday. Moreover, it has not recorded any Covid deaths since the lifting of restrictions. The last official deaths were reported on December 3. Total pandemic fatalities stand at 5,235. The IMHE believes that the emergence of highly-transmittable Omicron variants has rendered China's zero-Covid policy ineffective, and hence Beijing decided to lift the restrictions. The group, which is present at the University of Washington in Seattle, based its projections by relying on provincial data and information from a recent Omicron outbreak in Hong Kong. "China has since the original Wuhan outbreak barely reported any deaths. That is why we looked to Hong Kong to get an idea of the infection fatality rate," Murray said. The IHME also used information on vaccination rates provided by the Chinese government as well as assumptions on how various provinces will respond as infection rates increase for its forecasts. Meanwhile, Chinese officials are looking to provide booster vaccines for the vulnerable sections even as the government remains pessimistic about the use of vaccination of foreign vaccines. On Friday, China's National Health Commission said that it was ramping up vaccinations and building stocks of ventilators and essential drugs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China likely to record one million Covid deaths in 2023, says projection by US institute

Just weeks after China abruptly eased some of the world's strictest Covid-19 containment measures, deaths linked to the virus are beginning to appear. Local media has reported the death of two former Chinese state media journalists due to Covid-19.

China: Cases surge as Beijing looses curbs; two new Covid fatalities reported | English News | WION

Days after China eased its Covid restrictions, Beijing now says it is impossible to track the true scale of infections in the country. Officials have warned of new cases in Beijing after abruptly scaling down its zero-Covid policy.

China scales down on Covid restrictions amid concerns of surge

The country is ramping up ICU beds, and building new hospitals, as it relaxes covid measures and drops mandatory quarantine. What explains these contradictory measures? @MollyGambhir tells you

Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

Covid cases are surging in the Chinese capital of Beijing, this comes as the country tries to turn away from its zero-tolerance coronavirus strategy. Beijing authorities said, more than 22,000 patients visited hospitals across the city in the previous days.

Covid cases surge in China as hardline policy eases

China on Monday said that a major application used for tracking COVID-19 contacts will retire, a major move in the rapid turn away from its zero-tolerance Covid strategy.

Trending on WION: China retires application that tracks COVID contacts

China is slowly easing out its way out of the zero-Covid policy. Residents are now partially free from the curbs that hampered their day-to-day movement for months but in the wake of a new wave of infections, cities in China still bear a very deserted look.

China relaxes Zero-Covid policy, halts Covid test for domestic carriers

China's Covid heroes have now become the country's ultimate villains. The men and women in White began their journey as the saviours of the ordinary people in the Pandemic-hit country but the outburst against the curbs changed the way people looked at them.

No more jobs for China's Covid Army? China lifts curbs, 'Big Whites' left jobless

Wall Street Journal has reported that it was Foxconn founder Terry Gou who pushed China to move away from its zero-Covid policy and loosen restrictions. Gou apparently warned Beijing that the strict stance of COVID-19 threatens its position as the world's second-largest economy in the global supply chain.

Foxconn's founder pushed China to ease COVID curbs?

After series of mass protests, COVID-19 curbs are being relaxed in few parts of China. Businesses were reopened and testing requirements were also eased.

China eases zero Covid curbs after mass protests

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