Most parts of North India have been reeling under chilling cold wave conditions along with dense fog lowering the visibility and disrupting rail and air traffic in the national capital.

India: Cold wave in Delhi, Punjab, UP, Rajasthan for next two days

Millions of Americans awoke on Tuesday to snow, freezing rain and frigid temperatures as an Arctic blast gripped much of the United States, ending a nearly two-year "snow drought" in New York City and putting much of the West into a deep freeze.

US: Arctic blast ends New York snow drought

As winter grips most of North India, the chill has left people piling up in woolens. However, it is also the perfect time to venture out. WION brings you this special segment on some experiences that come alive especially in the winter.

North India's winter symphony: Monuments, parks and hidden delights

As many as five members of a family died due to a suspected case of asphyxiation in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Monday (Jan 9) night. The incident took place in&nbsp;Allipur Bhud village of Amroha district&nbsp;after smoke emitting from an ‘angeethi’ or coal brazier, suffocated the family members while they were sleeping.&nbsp;

According to police reports, the seven people did not exit the house after Monday night, leading to suspicion amongst the villagers. Around Tuesday evening, the villagers took matters into their own hands and broke open the door, only to find the seven family members lying unconscious.&nbsp;

While five succumbed to the smoke, two others were rushed to the hospital.&nbsp;

"Prima facie the cause of death could be due to lack of oxygen because these people had burnt a coal brazier in their room," the police said.&nbsp;

Reports indicate that the house belonged to one&nbsp;Raheezuddin whose three children and two children of his relatives died in the accident. They have been identified as&nbsp;Sonam (19), Waris (17), Mehak (16), Zaid (15), and Mahir (12). Meanwhile,&nbsp;Raheezuddin's wife and brother are said to be the ones in critical condition currently.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-ceo-suchana-seth-charged-with-the-murder-of-4-year-old-son-in-goa-678358">Watch |&nbsp;Bengaluru CEO Suchana Seth charged with the murder of 4-year-old son in Goa</a>

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<h2>Investigation underway</h2>

Superintendent of Police Kunwar Anupam Singh, alongside heavy police force and administrative officials, arrived on the scene and started an investigation into the matter to rule out foul play.&nbsp;

Experts say that burning of&nbsp;coal braziers releases harmful gases such as&nbsp;carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide among others. If they are burned in a closed surrounding, such as a room, without much ventilation, the continuous discharge of the gases reduces oxygen in the room.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-six-nri-family-members-killed-in-road-accident-in-texas-day-after-christmas-674092">Also read |&nbsp;US: Six NRI family members killed in road accident in Texas, day after Christmas</a>

In the case of the family, it appears that the room was closed and prolonged exposure to the gases led to their death.&nbsp;

Notably, this is not the first instance when asphyxiation has led to the death of family members in the state. Earlier this week, two people died in the&nbsp;Hisar cantonment area after&nbsp;lighting a fire in a room to beat the cold.&nbsp;

&nbsp;According to the police, the deceased have been&nbsp;identified as Travez Mohammad (31) and Shiv Dhani (29) who worked as&nbsp;crane operators at the Satrod railway station in Hisar.

(With inputs from agencies)

As many as five members of a family died due to a suspected case of asphyxiation in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Monday (Jan 9) night. The incident took place in Allipur Bhud village of Amroha district after smoke emitting from an ‘angeethi’ or coal brazier, suffocated the family members while they were sleeping.

As many as five members of a family died due to a suspected case of asphyxiation in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on Monday (Jan 9) night. The incident took place in Allipur Bhud village of Amroha district after smoke emitting from an ‘angeethi’ or coal brazier, suffocated the family members while they were sleeping. According to police reports, the seven people did not exit the house after Monday night, leading to suspicion amongst the villagers. Around Tuesday evening, the villagers took matters into their own hands and broke open the door, only to find the seven family members lying unconscious. While five succumbed to the smoke, two others were rushed to the hospital. "Prima facie the cause of death could be due to lack of oxygen because these people had burnt a coal brazier in their room," the police said. Reports indicate that the house belonged to one Raheezuddin whose three children and two children of his relatives died in the accident. They have been identified as Sonam (19), Waris (17), Mehak (16), Zaid (15), and Mahir (12). Meanwhile, Raheezuddin's wife and brother are said to be the ones in critical condition currently. Watch | Bengaluru CEO Suchana Seth charged with the murder of 4-year-old son in Goa × Investigation underway Superintendent of Police Kunwar Anupam Singh, alongside heavy police force and administrative officials, arrived on the scene and started an investigation into the matter to rule out foul play. Experts say that burning of coal braziers releases harmful gases such as carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide among others. If they are burned in a closed surrounding, such as a room, without much ventilation, the continuous discharge of the gases reduces oxygen in the room. Also read | US: Six NRI family members killed in road accident in Texas, day after Christmas In the case of the family, it appears that the room was closed and prolonged exposure to the gases led to their death. Notably, this is not the first instance when asphyxiation has led to the death of family members in the state. Earlier this week, two people died in the Hisar cantonment area after lighting a fire in a room to beat the cold. According to the police, the deceased have been identified as Travez Mohammad (31) and Shiv Dhani (29) who worked as crane operators at the Satrod railway station in Hisar. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Five family members found dead in Uttar Pradesh's Amroha; investigation underway

The North of India continues to shiver under cold wave conditions that are likely to persist for the rest of the week in the region. Delhi and its neighbouring states have been covered in a thick layer of smog.

North India: Temperatures to remain below normal, thick smog

Heavy fog has led to travel disruptions and road accidents in the city and other parts of northern India.

India: Dense fog blankets India's Delhi-NCR region

Take a look at a North Sea swim with a challenging difference. Over 10,000 people take a dive into freezing water, upholding an age-old tradition despite icy temperatures.

Netherlands: Over 10,000 people take a dive into freezing water

As an intense cold wave continues to grip several parts of north India, visibility in the national capital region was considered better today in comparison to Wednesday. But a band of thick fog left cities, towns, and villages in the indo-gangetic plains virtually blinded.

India: Visibility in national capital region better toda

A cold wave has tightened its grip over China, forcing schools and roads to close across several provinces. Strict restrictions have been imposed on highway traffic following collision of several vehicles.

China: Roads and rail services stalled amid cold wave

Here we bring you the news from around the globe. With a minimum temperature of 6.5°C, India's national capital recorded the coldest morning of the season so far on Monday.

India: National capital wakes up to a chilly and breezy Monday, the coldest day of the season

A wave of freezing temperatures is sweeping across Europe, bringing snow forecasts from Germany to the UK. This poses a challenge to energy systems in a second consecutive winter without significant Russian fuel supplies.

People in the United Kingdom have been told to brace for "hazardous conditions"&nbsp; after Yellow weather warnings were issued.

Berlin is expected to experience a low of -4.5°C, while Helsinki won't surpass -8°C. Germany faces weather warnings, anticipating up to 20 centimetres&nbsp;(8 inches) of snow, according to a Bloomberg report. Parts of Scotland and northeast England, along with London, are also set to encounter snow and freezing temperatures.

Icy weather arrives after a delayed start to the heating season, allowing many countries to accumulate record natural gas inventories.

Although these reserves aren't meant to meet peak winter demand entirely, they help stabilise prices. However, some withdrawals have already commenced.

Post the first week of December, weather forecasts for Europe differ. Maxar predicts a continued cold pattern for most of Europe in the next two weeks, while some models suggest a potential temperature rebound in the northwest from December 6. Global Forecast System data even hint at above-normal temperatures in central and southern Europe.

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Cold air across northern and eastern Europe bringing fresh snowfall and strong winds at times🌬️📉 <a href="https://t.co/olTgqieNzZ">pic.twitter.com/olTgqieNzZ</a>
— Met Office (@metoffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/metoffice/status/1729472245469200441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oils-new-currency-landscape-russias-struggle-beyond-the-dollar-663689">Also read |&nbsp;Oil's new currency landscape: Russia's struggle beyond the dollar</a>

<h2>Impact on eastern Europe</h2>

Eastern European countries, including Romania and Moldova, faced heavy snowfall and blizzards over the weekend, resulting in road closures and electricity outages. Three deaths were reported. Moldova is bracing for temperatures of -9°C, potentially causing more disruptions.

Romania issued red weather warnings in several eastern counties, with wind forecasts reaching up to 100kph.

Over 400 localities in Romania experienced electrical outages due to heavy snowfall. Bulgaria declared a state of emergency as winter storms left over 1,000 settlements without electricity.

Russia-Ukraine war: NATO Chief says Ukraine inflicting heavy losses on Russian forces

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In Bulgaria, two deaths occurred in traffic accidents, and the prime minister declared a state of emergency.

Ukraine's Hydrometeorological Center issued yellow and orange weather warnings for a significant portion of the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A wave of freezing temperatures is sweeping across Europe, bringing snow forecasts from Germany to the UK. This poses a challenge to energy systems in a second consecutive winter without significant Russian fuel supplies.

A wave of freezing temperatures is sweeping across Europe, bringing snow forecasts from Germany to the UK. This poses a challenge to energy systems in a second consecutive winter without significant Russian fuel supplies. People in the United Kingdom have been told to brace for "hazardous conditions" after Yellow weather warnings were issued. Berlin is expected to experience a low of -4.5°C, while Helsinki won't surpass -8°C. Germany faces weather warnings, anticipating up to 20 centimetres (8 inches) of snow, according to a Bloomberg report. Parts of Scotland and northeast England, along with London, are also set to encounter snow and freezing temperatures. Icy weather arrives after a delayed start to the heating season, allowing many countries to accumulate record natural gas inventories. Although these reserves aren't meant to meet peak winter demand entirely, they help stabilise prices. However, some withdrawals have already commenced. Post the first week of December, weather forecasts for Europe differ. Maxar predicts a continued cold pattern for most of Europe in the next two weeks, while some models suggest a potential temperature rebound in the northwest from December 6. Global Forecast System data even hint at above-normal temperatures in central and southern Europe. Cold air across northern and eastern Europe bringing fresh snowfall and strong winds at times🌬️📉 pic.twitter.com/olTgqieNzZ — Met Office (@metoffice) November 28, 2023 × Also read | Oil's new currency landscape: Russia's struggle beyond the dollar Impact on eastern Europe Eastern European countries, including Romania and Moldova, faced heavy snowfall and blizzards over the weekend, resulting in road closures and electricity outages. Three deaths were reported. Moldova is bracing for temperatures of -9°C, potentially causing more disruptions. Romania issued red weather warnings in several eastern counties, with wind forecasts reaching up to 100kph. Over 400 localities in Romania experienced electrical outages due to heavy snowfall. Bulgaria declared a state of emergency as winter storms left over 1,000 settlements without electricity. Russia-Ukraine war: NATO Chief says Ukraine inflicting heavy losses on Russian forces In Bulgaria, two deaths occurred in traffic accidents, and the prime minister declared a state of emergency. Ukraine's Hydrometeorological Center issued yellow and orange weather warnings for a significant portion of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe shivers as cold snap tightens grip, UK braces for 'hazardous conditions'

The United States might witness record-breaking temperatures on Halloween this year, weather predictions said. According to the National Weather Service, the US might see frightening temperatures as October ends.

The United States might witness record-breaking temperatures on Halloween this year, weather predictions said. According to the National Weather Service, the US might see frightening temperatures as October ends. By Monday night, a cold front will move through the Gulf Coast and the East Coast. The social media post by the National Weather Service said, "It may be a good idea to figure out how to incorporate a jacket into that costume tomorrow night across much of the lower 48. 'Mr. Freeze' is a good costume, but only if it's intended." Dr Rick Knabb, a meteorologist with The Weather Channel, said that most areas in the central and eastern US might have below-average temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday. ALSO READ | USFDA flags eyedrops from major brands for infection threat "Temperatures will be cold enough on Halloween night for most of the eastern two-thirds of the country that jackets will be required unless you can strategically wear warm layers underneath your costume to stay warm," the meteorologist told CBS News. According to Knabb, the Plains, Midwest, parts of the Tennessee Valley, and Appalachians might witness the coldest temperatures on Halloween. The weather prediction mentions the temperature range in these areas would be 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. "Record cold low (and cool high) temperatures are expected through Thursday morning from Texas northeastward into the Ohio and Tennessee Valley regions, and even for some spots along the East Coast from South Carolina to Maine," Knabb said. ALSO READ | Japan's factory output growth slows, adding uncertainty to economic outlook The cold spell will likely end by Thursday, and the temperatures will normalise in most areas by Friday, the forecast stated. However, the National Weather Service has issued freeze watches and warnings for the upcoming week from central Arizona through the southern Plains and into the Midwest and Ohio Valley. The organisation gives a freeze watch when there's potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures within the next 24-36 hours. Knabb added that over 100 million people will witness below-freezing temperatures on Tuesday. The number might rise to 165 million on Thursday morning. The Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and interior Northeast might also see rain or snow showers through Wednesday, the forecast added. Parts of the Midwest will also deal with "blustery Cold winds." Northern Maine, Northern Pains, the Upper Midwest, and the Great Lakes through Halloween might witness accumulating snowfall. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

A chilly Halloween is on the cards for most trick-or-treaters in the US

Around 20 per cent&nbsp;of individuals who contract the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus experience no symptoms of the illness.

Scientists have now made a significant discovery, identifying a genetic mutation associated with a higher likelihood of evading symptoms during a COVID-19 infection, according to the Nature Journal.

The identified mutation appears to confer an advantage to the immune cells of individuals who have previously encountered 'seasonal' coronaviruses, responsible for causing the common cold.

This advantage allows the immune system to more efficiently detect and eliminate the SARS-CoV-2 virus before it can trigger an overwhelming immune response.

Jill Hollenbach, an immunogeneticist from the University of California, San Francisco, who co-authored the study, told the Nature Journal&nbsp;that this mutation enables immune cells to act proactively against the pathogen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deleted-mortality-data-that-couldve-revealed-heavy-death-toll-report-617253">COVID-19: China deletes mortality data that offered a peek into impact of its pandemic policies</a>

<h2>Acclaim for the research and its scope</h2>

Experts in the field have applauded the research findings.

Jean-Laurent Casanova, a paediatric immunologist from Rockefeller University, praises the study, acknowledging it as the most significant association between a common gene and COVID-19 to date.

While studies exploring the link between genetics and severe COVID-19 cases are essential, Hollenbach emphasises that most SARS-CoV-2 infections result in mild symptoms, making the investigation of asymptomatic cases crucial.

To identify individuals with asymptomatic infections, the researchers examined a database of bone-marrow donors, enrolling nearly 30,000 participants.

Of the 1,400 participants who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during the 15-month study, 136 remained asymptomatic.

The scientists then focused on variations in HLA genes, responsible for encoding proteins found on the surface of cells that play a vital role in the immune response.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-cuts-off-funds-to-wuhan-institute-over-covid-stonewalling-report-617338?utm_source=flipboard&amp;utm_content=user%2FWIONews">United States cuts off funds to Wuhan Institute over Covid stonewalling: Report</a>

<h2>Strong link between HLA mutation and asymptomatic infections</h2>

The study revealed a strong link between asymptomatic infections and a specific HLA mutation carried by approximately 10 per cent of the study's population.

Individuals with the mutated gene were twice as likely to remain asymptomatic compared to those without it, and those with two copies of the gene were eight times as likely. The researchers were surprised by the magnitude of this effect.

Also watch |&nbsp;WHO accuses China of under-representing COVID-19 death figures

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The main analyses were conducted on participants who identified as white, as there were insufficient numbers from other ethnic and racial groups for a comprehensive analysis.

However, evidence suggests a link between the mutation and asymptomatic infections in Black individuals, though results for Asian and Hispanic individuals were less conclusive.

The discovery of this "smoking gun" variant opens new possibilities for next-generation COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines could not only reduce disease severity but also prevent symptomatic infections, potentially making a significant impact on curbing the spread of the virus.

&nbsp;

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Around 20 per cent of individuals who contract the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus experience no symptoms of the illness. Scientists have now made a significant discovery, identifying a genetic mutation associated with a higher likelihood of evading symptoms during a COVID-19 infection, according to the Nature Journal.

Around 20 per cent of individuals who contract the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus experience no symptoms of the illness. Scientists have now made a significant discovery, identifying a genetic mutation associated with a higher likelihood of evading symptoms during a COVID-19 infection, according to the Nature Journal. The identified mutation appears to confer an advantage to the immune cells of individuals who have previously encountered 'seasonal' coronaviruses, responsible for causing the common cold. This advantage allows the immune system to more efficiently detect and eliminate the SARS-CoV-2 virus before it can trigger an overwhelming immune response. Jill Hollenbach, an immunogeneticist from the University of California, San Francisco, who co-authored the study, told the Nature Journal that this mutation enables immune cells to act proactively against the pathogen. Also read | COVID-19: China deletes mortality data that offered a peek into impact of its pandemic policies Acclaim for the research and its scope Experts in the field have applauded the research findings. Jean-Laurent Casanova, a paediatric immunologist from Rockefeller University, praises the study, acknowledging it as the most significant association between a common gene and COVID-19 to date. While studies exploring the link between genetics and severe COVID-19 cases are essential, Hollenbach emphasises that most SARS-CoV-2 infections result in mild symptoms, making the investigation of asymptomatic cases crucial. To identify individuals with asymptomatic infections, the researchers examined a database of bone-marrow donors, enrolling nearly 30,000 participants. Of the 1,400 participants who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during the 15-month study, 136 remained asymptomatic. The scientists then focused on variations in HLA genes, responsible for encoding proteins found on the surface of cells that play a vital role in the immune response. Also read | United States cuts off funds to Wuhan Institute over Covid stonewalling: Report Strong link between HLA mutation and asymptomatic infections The study revealed a strong link between asymptomatic infections and a specific HLA mutation carried by approximately 10 per cent of the study's population. Individuals with the mutated gene were twice as likely to remain asymptomatic compared to those without it, and those with two copies of the gene were eight times as likely. The researchers were surprised by the magnitude of this effect. Also watch | WHO accuses China of under-representing COVID-19 death figures The main analyses were conducted on participants who identified as white, as there were insufficient numbers from other ethnic and racial groups for a comprehensive analysis. However, evidence suggests a link between the mutation and asymptomatic infections in Black individuals, though results for Asian and Hispanic individuals were less conclusive. The discovery of this "smoking gun" variant opens new possibilities for next-generation COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines could not only reduce disease severity but also prevent symptomatic infections, potentially making a significant impact on curbing the spread of the virus. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Covid positive but no symptoms? The reason probably lies in your genes. Here's how

As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started&nbsp;spreading its tentacles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US.&nbsp;

The positivity rate has increased by 36 per cent in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels. Although the percentages were high in April, they decreased in May.&nbsp;

A report published by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that there has been a decrease in positivity rates during the warmer months, which is similar to what has been observed in flu and colds.&nbsp;

The data states that the Antigen detection rate and PCR detection rate as observed on April 3, 2023, were 19.395 and 10.368, respectively, which decreased to the rate of 0.000 and 2.558, respectively, when observed on May 20, 2023.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's report states that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can affect a person's upper and lower respiratory tracts irrespective of their age and have higher vulnerability in older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

HMPV's severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period for HMPV is around three&nbsp;to six&nbsp;days, and the recovery period from the illness depends on its severity. However, it is similar to other respiratory infections, such as colds.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sars-cov-2-virus-can-alter-our-dna-lead-to-long-covid-study-575438">SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study</a>

<h2>What is human metapneumovirus?</h2>

First discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, human metapneumovirus is a type of paramyxovirus, which is a family of viruses that cause multiple common infections.&nbsp;

Other paramyxoviruses include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza, measles and mumps.

"This one usually causes a cold — not a big deal in most individuals,” stated Monica Gandhi, an infectious-disease expert at the University of California in San Francisco.

In 2001, experts collected 28 samples from children who were suffering from unexplained respiratory infections. A few children were very ill and needed mechanical ventilation, but their test results didn't show positive for any known pathogens.

<h2>Why is metapneumovirus being discussed?</h2>

There has been a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, just like other respiratory illnesses.

This month, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reported unusual spikes in cases across the United States.

According to virus experts, there has been an increase in the number of viruses, which include RSV. The experts have speculated that this may have occurred as an aftereffect of lockdowns and masking due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

As per experts, if our systems have small interactions with viruses, it prepares our body to better handle exposure to viruses in future.&nbsp;

However, after years of social distancing and masking in school, children are left with fewer biological defences to fight the exposure to multiple viruses at once.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan Virus wave grips China, again

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<h2>What are the symptoms of HPMV?</h2>

The virus, which has been observed to usually make its appearance in spring and winter, most commonly affects the body's upper respiratory tract and leads to nasal congestion, cough and shortness of breath, along with fever. &nbsp;The illness generally lasts three to seven days.&nbsp;

<h2>Can HPMV turn into a serious illness?</h2>

Usually, human metapneumovirus is mild, however, the infection can lead to more serious consequences for older adults, young children, older adults and those people with weakened immune systems.&nbsp;

Human metapneumovirus has been spreading similarly to other viruses through airborne particles which are produced by sneezing or coughing, by coming in physical contact with a person who is carrying the virus, or by handling objects which are contaminated by the virus and then touching the nose, eyes or mouth, according to the CDC.

Gandhi emphasised that the virus can spread even from someone who is asymptomatic. As per a study, at least 38 per cent of infections are recorded as asymptomatic human metapneumovirus infections.

“But the time you’re most infectious in all infectious diseases is when you’re having active symptoms because you’re spreading it — you’re coughing it out through your mouth, you’re sneezing it out through your nose,” Gandhi stated.

<h2>Is there a vaccine for the virus? How is HMPV treated?</h2>

No vaccines have till now being created for human metapneumovirus, and medical treatment for the illness remains limited to supportive care.

“We try to make you feel better and make sure that your breathing is okay while your body fights off the virus,” stated William Schaffner, who is a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University.&nbsp;

Schaffner said that severe cases are rare in which people have been reported to be facing difficulty in breathing. However, he added, “We can put them in an intensive care unit and treat them there,” but generally people fully recover on their own.

"Unlike the novel coronavirus and its variants that cause covid, human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that has been around for decades," Gandhi said.

“Hopefully, in the future, we will actually see advances against human metapneumovirus. But we’ve been living with it for a long time. This is not one that is going to cause a pandemic," she stated.&nbsp;

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As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started spreading its tentacles. In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US.

As cases of COVID-19 and RSV decline, another respiratory virus called HMPV has started spreading its tentacles. In March, around 11 per cent of PCR tests and 20 per cent of antigen tests for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were positive in the US. The positivity rate has increased by 36 per cent in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels. Although the percentages were high in April, they decreased in May. A report published by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that there has been a decrease in positivity rates during the warmer months, which is similar to what has been observed in flu and colds. The data states that the Antigen detection rate and PCR detection rate as observed on April 3, 2023, were 19.395 and 10.368, respectively, which decreased to the rate of 0.000 and 2.558, respectively, when observed on May 20, 2023. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's report states that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) can affect a person's upper and lower respiratory tracts irrespective of their age and have higher vulnerability in older adults, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems. HMPV's severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period for HMPV is around three to six days, and the recovery period from the illness depends on its severity. However, it is similar to other respiratory infections, such as colds. ALSO READ | SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study What is human metapneumovirus? First discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, human metapneumovirus is a type of paramyxovirus, which is a family of viruses that cause multiple common infections. Other paramyxoviruses include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza, measles and mumps. "This one usually causes a cold — not a big deal in most individuals,” stated Monica Gandhi, an infectious-disease expert at the University of California in San Francisco. In 2001, experts collected 28 samples from children who were suffering from unexplained respiratory infections. A few children were very ill and needed mechanical ventilation, but their test results didn't show positive for any known pathogens. Why is metapneumovirus being discussed? There has been a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus, just like other respiratory illnesses. This month, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reported unusual spikes in cases across the United States. According to virus experts, there has been an increase in the number of viruses, which include RSV. The experts have speculated that this may have occurred as an aftereffect of lockdowns and masking due to the coronavirus pandemic. As per experts, if our systems have small interactions with viruses, it prepares our body to better handle exposure to viruses in future. However, after years of social distancing and masking in school, children are left with fewer biological defences to fight the exposure to multiple viruses at once. WATCH | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus wave grips China, again What are the symptoms of HPMV? The virus, which has been observed to usually make its appearance in spring and winter, most commonly affects the body's upper respiratory tract and leads to nasal congestion, cough and shortness of breath, along with fever. The illness generally lasts three to seven days. Can HPMV turn into a serious illness? Usually, human metapneumovirus is mild, however, the infection can lead to more serious consequences for older adults, young children, older adults and those people with weakened immune systems. Human metapneumovirus has been spreading similarly to other viruses through airborne particles which are produced by sneezing or coughing, by coming in physical contact with a person who is carrying the virus, or by handling objects which are contaminated by the virus and then touching the nose, eyes or mouth, according to the CDC. Gandhi emphasised that the virus can spread even from someone who is asymptomatic. As per a study, at least 38 per cent of infections are recorded as asymptomatic human metapneumovirus infections. “But the time you’re most infectious in all infectious diseases is when you’re having active symptoms because you’re spreading it — you’re coughing it out through your mouth, you’re sneezing it out through your nose,” Gandhi stated. Is there a vaccine for the virus? How is HMPV treated? No vaccines have till now being created for human metapneumovirus, and medical treatment for the illness remains limited to supportive care. “We try to make you feel better and make sure that your breathing is okay while your body fights off the virus,” stated William Schaffner, who is a professor of infectious diseases and preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University. Schaffner said that severe cases are rare in which people have been reported to be facing difficulty in breathing. However, he added, “We can put them in an intensive care unit and treat them there,” but generally people fully recover on their own. "Unlike the novel coronavirus and its variants that cause covid, human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that has been around for decades," Gandhi said. “Hopefully, in the future, we will actually see advances against human metapneumovirus. But we’ve been living with it for a long time. This is not one that is going to cause a pandemic," she stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What is HMPV respiratory virus? The most important virus still unheard of

Italy suffered its most severe drought in 70 years in 2022 and prolonged dry winter weather has raised fears that 2023 could be even worse. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

Italy must learn to cope with drought-inducing weather: Minister

Indian researchers from Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology in Surat have developed an AI tool that can detect fake sick leaves. It analyses voice to detect whether a person actually has a cold. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: AI can detect if you actually have cold | Is AI coming for your job?

The 2023 winter has&nbsp;broken all records of severe cold and is&nbsp;creating havoc all over the world. Recently, China's northernmost city, Mohe recorded its coldest day ever and now in Afghanistan, around 124 people died due to freezing temperatures.&nbsp;

The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan confirmed that at least 124 people have died due to freezing cold in the country. The official spokesperson of the State Ministry for Disaster Management said that about 70,000 livestock had also perished in cold weather. According to BBC reports, this is the coldest winter season in a decade.&nbsp;

Acting Minister of Disaster Management Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund told the BBC that many areas of Afghanistan were now completely cut off due to&nbsp;snow and even military helicopters sent to the rescue, couldn't land in the most mountainous regions.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-tells-people-to-stay-at-home-over-respiratory-illness-report-555784">North Korea imposes a 5-day lockdown in Pyongyang over 'respiratory illness': Report</a>

Though the forecast for the next 10 days indicates that temperatures will rise and the weather will be a bit warmer, the acting minister Akhund says he is still worried about the rising&nbsp;toll of Afghans and their livestock.&nbsp;

"Most of the people who lost their lives to the cold were shepherds or people living in rural areas. They didn't have access to healthcare,"&nbsp;Mullah Akhund said.

"We're concerned about those who are still living in the mountain regions. Most of the roads which pass through the mountains have been closed due to snow. Cars have got stuck there and passengers have died in the freezing temperatures."

Watch |&nbsp;One year of Taliban rule in Afghanistan

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Winter has always been harsh in Afghanistan but this is one of the worst till now.&nbsp;And this year, relief operations were further hampered by last month's Taliban government's step of barring Afghan women from working in aid agencies.&nbsp;

But Akhund told BBC, "Men are already working with us in the rescue effort and there is no need for women to work with us. Men from every family are already participating in relief efforts, so there's no need for women."

Aid officials and United Nations are urgently trying to find ways to work around this ban.

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The 2023 winter has broken all records of severe cold and is creating havoc all over the world. Recently, China's northernmost city, Mohe recorded its coldest day ever and now in Afghanistan, around 124 people died due to freezing temperatures.

The 2023 winter has broken all records of severe cold and is creating havoc all over the world. Recently, China's northernmost city, Mohe recorded its coldest day ever and now in Afghanistan, around 124 people died due to freezing temperatures. The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan confirmed that at least 124 people have died due to freezing cold in the country. The official spokesperson of the State Ministry for Disaster Management said that about 70,000 livestock had also perished in cold weather. According to BBC reports, this is the coldest winter season in a decade. Acting Minister of Disaster Management Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund told the BBC that many areas of Afghanistan were now completely cut off due to snow and even military helicopters sent to the rescue, couldn't land in the most mountainous regions. Also Read | North Korea imposes a 5-day lockdown in Pyongyang over 'respiratory illness': Report Though the forecast for the next 10 days indicates that temperatures will rise and the weather will be a bit warmer, the acting minister Akhund says he is still worried about the rising toll of Afghans and their livestock. "Most of the people who lost their lives to the cold were shepherds or people living in rural areas. They didn't have access to healthcare," Mullah Akhund said. "We're concerned about those who are still living in the mountain regions. Most of the roads which pass through the mountains have been closed due to snow. Cars have got stuck there and passengers have died in the freezing temperatures." Watch | One year of Taliban rule in Afghanistan × Winter has always been harsh in Afghanistan but this is one of the worst till now. And this year, relief operations were further hampered by last month's Taliban government's step of barring Afghan women from working in aid agencies. But Akhund told BBC, "Men are already working with us in the rescue effort and there is no need for women to work with us. Men from every family are already participating in relief efforts, so there's no need for women." Aid officials and United Nations are urgently trying to find ways to work around this ban. 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.

Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban

In what comes as a bizarre turn of events, a Women’s Super League clash between Liverpool and Chelsea was abandoned after six minutes of play as the pitch was deemed unsafe to play on.

In what comes as a bizarre turn of events, a Women’s Super League clash between Liverpool and Chelsea was abandoned after six minutes of play as the pitch was deemed unsafe to play on. The embarrassing scenes were reported at the Kingsmeadow Stadium, the home ground of the Chelsea Women's and U-21 team. The pitch was wrapped in covers from the morning and an inspection at 9:30 AM had deemed it unplayable. Despite the conditions being less than ideal, the kickoff took place at the scheduled time. However, soon enough, it became clear that the players could not play a competitive match in such conditions without injuring themselves. Video clips of players slipping and struggling to stay upright on the pitch went viral after the match. One of the Chelsea players could be seen pulling their hamstring after tumbling. Chelsea women vs Liverpool highlights #CFCW #WSL pic.twitter.com/mlYu3yb1DQ — frankirbydaily (@frankirbydaily) January 22, 2023 × Read more: Premier League: Arsenal edge past Manchester United in a five-goal thriller Chelsea manager Emma Hayes was scathing in her assessment of the English FA and said the game should never have started whilst describing the pitch as being like an “ice rink”. “You could see from the opening minutes that it was like an ice rink down the sides. It’s not for managers to decide if it’s on – it’s up to the FA and officials. The game should never have started." "Everyone wanted to get the game on but when you have got emotions of teams wanting or not wanting to play, that’s when you need a decision from above. The FA weren’t here - they need to be making the decision.” WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? Similar sentiments were echoed by Hayes' Liverpool counterpart Matt Beard. "It’s frustrating. I did say to the referee that we had to move our warm-up because it wasn’t safe.Someone could have got hurt today, especially with the history of ACL’s [injuries] this year." The players also took to social media platforms to question the authorities and asked for better amenities for the women's game. “Apologies to both sets of fans who travelled today. Players’ safety should always be the number one priority. Luckily no one was injured today and the right decision was taken eventually. Women’s football deserves better and we won’t stop fighting to make that happen,” tweeted forward Fran Kirby. Apologies to both sets of fans who travelled today. Players safety should always be the number one priority❗️ Luckily no one was injured today and the right decision was taken eventually. Womens football deserves better and we won’t stop fighting to make that happen 💪🏻 — Fran Kirby (@frankirby) January 22, 2023 × Read more: Liverpool in talks with Saudi and Qatari consortiums after Mukesh Ambani takeover rumour: Reports A WSL spokesperson in the aftermath of the cancellation said the fixture will be rescheduled in due course. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chelsea vs Liverpool match abandoned only after six minutes. Know why

As the cold wave continues to batter north Indian states, accompanied by dense fog, there is no news of relief from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD director stated that the cold weather would continue to prevail in Delhi and neighbouring states for the next two days.&nbsp;

The IMD has stated that the day temperatures will plunge due to cold north-western winds travelling through the plains. For the next two days, parts of north India will receive reduced sunshine due to foggy weather, said the report.&nbsp;

"Dense fog conditions will remain in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and other parts of the country. It will continue for the next two days," stated IMD. 
Also read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/global-cold-wave-live-updates-snowstorms-in-us-canada-extreme-cold-waves-in-india-sinking-temperatures-in-uk-europe-brings-world-to-a-standstill-546960">Global cold wave LIVE updates: Snowstorms in US, Canada, extreme cold waves in India, sinking temperatures in UK, Europe brings world to a standstill</a>

The prime weather station in the national capital, Safdarjung observatory, recorded a minimum temperature of 5 degrees Celsius. It was three gaps down the normal one.&nbsp;

The extreme cold weather and fog have affected day-to-day life in Rajasthan. On Monday, Sikar's Fatehpur, the coldest place in Rajasthan, recorded a temperature of minus 1.5 degrees. Churu and Pilani follow in second and third place, where the registered temperature was 0 degrees Celsius and 0.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday.&nbsp;

IMD predicted snowfall in five regions of Himachal Pradesh on December 29, 2022. As a result, many tourists are rushing towards the hill state. 
Watch|&nbsp;At least 60 killed in U.S. due to devastating winter storm

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The meteorological department has predicted cold weather in several parts of Punjab and Haryana. Narnaul will be the coldest region of the upper belt, with a forecasted temperature of 2.4 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh, recorded a minimum temperature of 7.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Although the minimum temperature has risen in Kashmir, it remains below the freezing temperature. However, after a small wet spell this week, the valley has no forecasts for rain.&nbsp;

In Bihar's Patna, the government has ordered to shut the schools for students up to grade 8, as the district magistrate said in a notice.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the cold wave continues to batter north Indian states, accompanied by dense fog, there is no news of relief from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD director stated that the cold weather would continue to prevail in Delhi and neighbouring states for the next two days.

As the cold wave continues to batter north Indian states, accompanied by dense fog, there is no news of relief from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD director stated that the cold weather would continue to prevail in Delhi and neighbouring states for the next two days. The IMD has stated that the day temperatures will plunge due to cold north-western winds travelling through the plains. For the next two days, parts of north India will receive reduced sunshine due to foggy weather, said the report. "Dense fog conditions will remain in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and other parts of the country. It will continue for the next two days," stated IMD. Also read| Global cold wave LIVE updates: Snowstorms in US, Canada, extreme cold waves in India, sinking temperatures in UK, Europe brings world to a standstill The prime weather station in the national capital, Safdarjung observatory, recorded a minimum temperature of 5 degrees Celsius. It was three gaps down the normal one. The extreme cold weather and fog have affected day-to-day life in Rajasthan. On Monday, Sikar's Fatehpur, the coldest place in Rajasthan, recorded a temperature of minus 1.5 degrees. Churu and Pilani follow in second and third place, where the registered temperature was 0 degrees Celsius and 0.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday. IMD predicted snowfall in five regions of Himachal Pradesh on December 29, 2022. As a result, many tourists are rushing towards the hill state. Watch| At least 60 killed in U.S. due to devastating winter storm The meteorological department has predicted cold weather in several parts of Punjab and Haryana. Narnaul will be the coldest region of the upper belt, with a forecasted temperature of 2.4 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh, recorded a minimum temperature of 7.4 degrees Celsius. Although the minimum temperature has risen in Kashmir, it remains below the freezing temperature. However, after a small wet spell this week, the valley has no forecasts for rain. In Bihar's Patna, the government has ordered to shut the schools for students up to grade 8, as the district magistrate said in a notice. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's northern states to combat severe cold wave conditions for next two days

Health officials in the UK have advised anyone with cold or cough to avoid celebrating Christmas with their grandparents to protect them from a surge in winter viruses. 'If you're unwell, stay at home' say the officials as UK witnesses a rise in hospitalisations. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: 'Got cold & cough? Avoid the elderly, Britons told

In what scientists are calling a breakthrough, they have finally figured out the biological reasoning behind an uptick in cold and cases of flu in winter. A study published, on Tuesday, found that cold air leads to a weakened immune response from the body, particularly the nose.&nbsp;

“This is the first time that we have a biologic, molecular explanation regarding one factor of our innate immune response that appears to be limited by colder temperatures,” Stanford University School of Medicine professor, Dr Zara Patel, who was not a part of the study told CNN.&nbsp;

Published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, the study found that since the nose is the first site of contact for respiratory viruses as well important for the body’s immune response.&nbsp;

This factor makes the nose particularly vulnerable to lower temperatures, in fact, the study found that lowering the temperature by just five degrees Celsius reduced the billions of virus and bacteria-fighting cells in the nostrils, by at least 50 per cent.&nbsp; 
 
“Cold air is associated with increased viral infection because you’ve essentially lost half of your immunity just by that small drop in temperature,” said the co-author of the study, Dr Benjamin Bleier, a rhinologist and the director of otolaryngology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear.&nbsp;

According to Bleier, that’s why masks work because not only do they protect you from “direct inhalation of viruses”, they also act&nbsp;like a “sweater on your nose” protecting it from the chilly air. Bleier and her team conducted a study on four participants who were exposed to a 4.4-degree-Celsius temperature for 15 minutes.&nbsp;

However, the study was completed in vitro which means it was not conducted on a live subject but on human tissue in a lab. Notably, they also found that the nose increases the replication of decoy extracellular vesicles by 160 per cent when faced with lower temperatures. &nbsp;

“EVs act as decoys, so now when you inhale a virus, the virus sticks to these decoys instead of sticking to the cells,” said Bleier to CNN. The co-author also said that these EVs do not divide like normal cells; they are mini versions of them, “specifically designed to go and kill these viruses.” Since they have up to 20 times more receptors than the original cells which enhances their capability to trap germs.&nbsp;

Subsequently, these EVs are expelled with the mucus out of the body as it continues to fight the germs and further multiply. However, the study also noted a 42 per cent drop in the number of EVs when exposed to just a few more degrees drop in temperature. Additionally, those that do remain have at least 70 per cent fewer receptors on each vesicle making it less sticky and lessening your ability to fight off respiratory infections by half, as mentioned earlier.&nbsp;

In what scientists are calling a breakthrough, they have finally figured out the biological reasoning behind an uptick in cold and cases of flu in winter. A study published, on Tuesday, found that cold air leads to a weakened immune response from the body, particularly the nose.

In what scientists are calling a breakthrough, they have finally figured out the biological reasoning behind an uptick in cold and cases of flu in winter. A study published, on Tuesday, found that cold air leads to a weakened immune response from the body, particularly the nose. “This is the first time that we have a biologic, molecular explanation regarding one factor of our innate immune response that appears to be limited by colder temperatures,” Stanford University School of Medicine professor, Dr Zara Patel, who was not a part of the study told CNN. Published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, the study found that since the nose is the first site of contact for respiratory viruses as well important for the body’s immune response. This factor makes the nose particularly vulnerable to lower temperatures, in fact, the study found that lowering the temperature by just five degrees Celsius reduced the billions of virus and bacteria-fighting cells in the nostrils, by at least 50 per cent. “Cold air is associated with increased viral infection because you’ve essentially lost half of your immunity just by that small drop in temperature,” said the co-author of the study, Dr Benjamin Bleier, a rhinologist and the director of otolaryngology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear. According to Bleier, that’s why masks work because not only do they protect you from “direct inhalation of viruses”, they also act like a “sweater on your nose” protecting it from the chilly air. Bleier and her team conducted a study on four participants who were exposed to a 4.4-degree-Celsius temperature for 15 minutes. However, the study was completed in vitro which means it was not conducted on a live subject but on human tissue in a lab. Notably, they also found that the nose increases the replication of decoy extracellular vesicles by 160 per cent when faced with lower temperatures. “EVs act as decoys, so now when you inhale a virus, the virus sticks to these decoys instead of sticking to the cells,” said Bleier to CNN. The co-author also said that these EVs do not divide like normal cells; they are mini versions of them, “specifically designed to go and kill these viruses.” Since they have up to 20 times more receptors than the original cells which enhances their capability to trap germs. Subsequently, these EVs are expelled with the mucus out of the body as it continues to fight the germs and further multiply. However, the study also noted a 42 per cent drop in the number of EVs when exposed to just a few more degrees drop in temperature. Additionally, those that do remain have at least 70 per cent fewer receptors on each vesicle making it less sticky and lessening your ability to fight off respiratory infections by half, as mentioned earlier.

Scientists have finally found the reason why people get more colds and flu during winters

Viruses and bacteria plague the air throughout the year. Then why are respiratory illnesses more common in winter? A new study answers the question. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Why do more people catch a cold in winter?

Gambia launched urgent door-to-door campaign to remove cough and cold syrups. The World Health Organisation has issued an alert against four India-made cold and cough syrups.

Gambia launches urgent door-to-door campaign to remove cough and cold syrups

According to forecasting models created by the EU's meteorological office, Europe is set to have a cooler, drier, and less windy early winter, as the UK energy regulator warned there is a "significant risk" of gas shortages this winter.

Will Colder early winter in Europe worsen the cost of living crisis?

Scientists have finally cracked the code on how to remain young. Actually, it’s quite simple. You just have to be born as a turtle.

The two studies published in the journal Science on Thursday have presented limited evidence of cold-blooded species escaping ageing.&nbsp;They have called for further research to show how they do it&nbsp;which can benefit human health and longevity.

In their findings, the scientists for the first time found that turtles, crocodilians and salamanders have particularly low ageing rates and extended lifespans for their sizes.

For example, Jonathan the Seychelles giant tortoise is 190 years old&nbsp;and is believed to be the oldest living land animal in the world.

These researchers used a technique called "mark-recapture" that is used to estimate the size of a population. Under this technique, a small number of individuals are captured and then marked, and released back into the population.

The scientists used this technique to analyse the mortality estimates based on probabilities.

"We found examples of negligible ageing," explained biologist and lead investigator Beth Reinke of Northeastern Illinois University, as reported by AFP news agency.

"Negligible ageing or senescence does not mean that they're immortal," she added. What it means is that there is a chance of dying, but it does not increase with age."

It was long believed that ectotherms— an animal that is dependent on external sources of body heat and has lower metabolism —age slowly than endotherms, which internally generate their own heat and have higher metabolisms.

However, in the new study, it was revealed that the metabolic rate was not the key factor as was previously thought.

According to the study, some of these species are even able to reduce their rate of senescence— the process of deterioration—in response to the improved living conditions in zoos and aquariums, compared to the wild.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Scientists have finally cracked the code on how to remain young. Actually, it’s quite simple. You just have to be born as a turtle. The two studies published in the journal Science on Thursday have presented limited evidence of cold-blooded species escaping ageing.

Scientists have finally cracked the code on how to remain young. Actually, it’s quite simple. You just have to be born as a turtle. The two studies published in the journal Science on Thursday have presented limited evidence of cold-blooded species escaping ageing. They have called for further research to show how they do it which can benefit human health and longevity. In their findings, the scientists for the first time found that turtles, crocodilians and salamanders have particularly low ageing rates and extended lifespans for their sizes. For example, Jonathan the Seychelles giant tortoise is 190 years old and is believed to be the oldest living land animal in the world. These researchers used a technique called "mark-recapture" that is used to estimate the size of a population. Under this technique, a small number of individuals are captured and then marked, and released back into the population. The scientists used this technique to analyse the mortality estimates based on probabilities. "We found examples of negligible ageing," explained biologist and lead investigator Beth Reinke of Northeastern Illinois University, as reported by AFP news agency. "Negligible ageing or senescence does not mean that they're immortal," she added. What it means is that there is a chance of dying, but it does not increase with age." It was long believed that ectotherms— an animal that is dependent on external sources of body heat and has lower metabolism —age slowly than endotherms, which internally generate their own heat and have higher metabolisms. However, in the new study, it was revealed that the metabolic rate was not the key factor as was previously thought. According to the study, some of these species are even able to reduce their rate of senescence— the process of deterioration—in response to the improved living conditions in zoos and aquariums, compared to the wild. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists decode secret of eternal youth: Be born as turtle

A new study, published in the prestigious medical journal Lancet says that a common virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms resulted in deaths of more than 100,000 children in the world in year 2019. These children were under the age of five.

This is the first such study that examined respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease burden in this age group. The study said that there were over 45,000 deaths in infants in 2019. These infants were under six months old. This age bracket accounted for one in five cases of RSV.

"RSV is the predominant cause of acute lower respiratory infection in young children and our updated estimates reveal that children six months and younger are particularly vulnerable,” said research co-author, Harish Nair, from the University of Edinburgh, UK. He was quoted by news agency PTI.

This is "especially with cases surging as COVID-19 restrictions are easing around the world and majority of the young children born in the last 2 years have never been exposed to RSV (and therefore have no immunity against this virus)," Nair said.

Researchers feel that study with narrower age brackets in mind may help us decide which section of the population needs prioritised vaccination.

These include pregnant people, so that children in the youngest age groups can be protected, similarly to current strategies which offer vaccines for whooping cough, typhoid, and tetanus to pregnant people, they said.

Another study of this kind was carried out in 2015. The findings of the latest study are broadly consistent with the 2015 study.

The 2015 study had placed the number of annual cases of RSV in children up to five years old at 33.1 million, resulting in a total of 118,200 overall deaths, the researchers said.

However, these updated calculations of RSV mortality on global, regional, and national levels for the year 2019 include modelling data from over a hundred new studies, they said.

This allowed researchers to provide estimates for narrower age groups - including from 28 days to six months old, which is known to be the age range with the highest RSV fatality rate -- and community mortality rates, i.e., deaths that did not occur in a hospital.

Across the globe in 2019, there were 33 million RSV-associated acute lower respiratory infection episodes in children under five years old, leading to 3.6 million hospital admissions, 26,300 in-hospital deaths and 101,400 RSV-attributable deaths overall, the researchers said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new study, published in the prestigious medical journal Lancet says that a common virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms resulted in deaths of more than 100,000 children in the world in year 2019.

A new study, published in the prestigious medical journal Lancet says that a common virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms resulted in deaths of more than 100,000 children in the world in year 2019. These children were under the age of five. This is the first such study that examined respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease burden in this age group. The study said that there were over 45,000 deaths in infants in 2019. These infants were under six months old. This age bracket accounted for one in five cases of RSV. "RSV is the predominant cause of acute lower respiratory infection in young children and our updated estimates reveal that children six months and younger are particularly vulnerable,” said research co-author, Harish Nair, from the University of Edinburgh, UK. He was quoted by news agency PTI. This is "especially with cases surging as COVID-19 restrictions are easing around the world and majority of the young children born in the last 2 years have never been exposed to RSV (and therefore have no immunity against this virus)," Nair said. Researchers feel that study with narrower age brackets in mind may help us decide which section of the population needs prioritised vaccination. These include pregnant people, so that children in the youngest age groups can be protected, similarly to current strategies which offer vaccines for whooping cough, typhoid, and tetanus to pregnant people, they said. Another study of this kind was carried out in 2015. The findings of the latest study are broadly consistent with the 2015 study. The 2015 study had placed the number of annual cases of RSV in children up to five years old at 33.1 million, resulting in a total of 118,200 overall deaths, the researchers said. However, these updated calculations of RSV mortality on global, regional, and national levels for the year 2019 include modelling data from over a hundred new studies, they said. This allowed researchers to provide estimates for narrower age groups - including from 28 days to six months old, which is known to be the age range with the highest RSV fatality rate -- and community mortality rates, i.e., deaths that did not occur in a hospital. Across the globe in 2019, there were 33 million RSV-associated acute lower respiratory infection episodes in children under five years old, leading to 3.6 million hospital admissions, 26,300 in-hospital deaths and 101,400 RSV-attributable deaths overall, the researchers said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Cold-like symptoms causing virus has killed more than 100,000 children in 2019: Study

A cold snap has hit Brazil. Snowfall is likely to continue and temperatures to drop further. Possible snowfall may also occur in northern cities.

Snowfall to continue & temperatures to drop further as cold snap hits southern Brazil

A 43-year-old woman from the UK, Claire Muffett-Reece, has revealed that she lost 20 years of memories after procuring a very dangerous disease that started as a cold. One night in 2021, she went to sleep thinking she had a cold. The next day, she slipped into a coma for over two weeks.&nbsp;

Claire lives in Essex, UK, with her husband Scott and their two sons, Jack and Max. She spoke about living with encephalitis or inflammation of the brain, which is why she lost her memory.&nbsp;

During the interview, Scott spoke about how his wife had been suffering from a cold which she might have picked from their son Max, for around two weeks. Also, things were deteriorating and becoming worse with each passing day.&nbsp;

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Tomorrow marks World Encephalitis Day, so catch me and <a href="https://twitter.com/Chipfatinasock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chipfatinasock</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/PackedLunchC4?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PackedLunchC4</a> to raise awareness of encephalitis and how serious it is<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/worldencephalitisday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#worldencephalitisday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/red4wed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#red4wed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/theencephalitissociety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#theencephalitissociety</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/encephalitis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#encephalitis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/abi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#abi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/acquiredbraininjury?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#acquiredbraininjury</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stephspackedlunch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stephspackedlunch</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/channel4?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#channel4</a> <a href="https://t.co/33VXkBiF5y">pic.twitter.com/33VXkBiF5y</a>
— Claire Muffett-Reece (@MrsMuffettReece) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrsMuffettReece/status/1495875320083369994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a report by Lad Bible, he said, “And then she went to bed the night before Father's Day, and in the morning, I couldn't wake her up. She then had a rush to the hospital, where she started seizing. And then they put her on a ventilator."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/checking-trolls-social-media-users-may-get-power-to-block-anonymous-accounts-in-uk-456425">Also read |&nbsp;Checking trolls? Social media users may get power to block anonymous accounts in UK</a>

The couple spoke about their harrowing experience on the TV show Steph's Packed Lunch on February 22, which happens to be World Encephalitis day.&nbsp;

Initially, her condition was suspected to have been caused by a brain bleed. However, further tests revealed that she had encephalitis.

Claire explained how the memory loss made her forget several significant life events. While speaking to The Sun, she said,

"Though I knew I had children I loved and recognised, I couldn't remember giving birth, their birthdays, first days at school, their likes or dislikes."

"Thankfully, I remembered everyone I knew - I don't know how Scott would have coped if I'd thought he was a stranger."

She still cannot remember how Scott proposed. "It is kind of all or gone. It is horrible, I am not going to lie," she said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 43-year-old woman from the UK, Claire Muffett-Reece, has revealed that she lost 20 years of memories after procuring a very dangerous disease that started as a cold.

A 43-year-old woman from the UK, Claire Muffett-Reece, has revealed that she lost 20 years of memories after procuring a very dangerous disease that started as a cold. One night in 2021, she went to sleep thinking she had a cold. The next day, she slipped into a coma for over two weeks. Claire lives in Essex, UK, with her husband Scott and their two sons, Jack and Max. She spoke about living with encephalitis or inflammation of the brain, which is why she lost her memory. During the interview, Scott spoke about how his wife had been suffering from a cold which she might have picked from their son Max, for around two weeks. Also, things were deteriorating and becoming worse with each passing day. Tomorrow marks World Encephalitis Day, so catch me and @Chipfatinasock on @PackedLunchC4 to raise awareness of encephalitis and how serious it is#worldencephalitisday #red4wed #theencephalitissociety #encephalitis #abi #acquiredbraininjury #stephspackedlunch #channel4 pic.twitter.com/33VXkBiF5y — Claire Muffett-Reece (@MrsMuffettReece) February 21, 2022 × In a report by Lad Bible, he said, “And then she went to bed the night before Father's Day, and in the morning, I couldn't wake her up. She then had a rush to the hospital, where she started seizing. And then they put her on a ventilator." Also read | Checking trolls? Social media users may get power to block anonymous accounts in UK The couple spoke about their harrowing experience on the TV show Steph's Packed Lunch on February 22, which happens to be World Encephalitis day. Initially, her condition was suspected to have been caused by a brain bleed. However, further tests revealed that she had encephalitis. Claire explained how the memory loss made her forget several significant life events. While speaking to The Sun, she said, "Though I knew I had children I loved and recognised, I couldn't remember giving birth, their birthdays, first days at school, their likes or dislikes." "Thankfully, I remembered everyone I knew - I don't know how Scott would have coped if I'd thought he was a stranger." She still cannot remember how Scott proposed. "It is kind of all or gone. It is horrible, I am not going to lie," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Memory loss from cold? This is how a UK woman lost 20 years of her memory

Extreme cold weather has gripped Western Canada, with the temperature falling below -51° Celsius. The experts warn that low temperatures will last for a few days.

Extreme cold weather hits Western Canada with the temperature falling below -51° Celsius

As cases of Omicron surge in the UK, researchers have warned that people who are suffering from sore throat and runny nose might have Covid. The Zoe Covid study team estimated that half of the people with cold-like symptoms actually have Covid.&nbsp;

Deeming it as an "explosion" of Covid cases, the researchers say that 144,000 people each day are catching the deadly virus and&nbsp;feeling unwell.

Lead scientist Prof Tim Spector, in a report by BBC, said, "The number of new symptomatic cases has exploded over the last week. For most people, an Omicron positive case will feel much more like the common cold, starting with a sore throat, runny nose and a headache. You only need to ask a friend who has recently tested positive to find this out. We need to change public messaging urgently to save lives."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/booster-efficacy-against-symptomatic-omicron-reduces-within-10-weeks-439513">Also read |&nbsp;Booster efficacy against symptomatic Omicron reduces within 10 weeks</a>

Even after a surge in Covid cases, UK's Health Minister Sajid Javid has confirmed that the ministers are not planning to announce any new restrictions after Christmas. "We're clear that there's no need for any further restrictions of any type before Christmas but of course, we will keep the situation under review," he said.

Javid further informed that the situation will be kept under review. "We will keep analysing that data and if we need to do anything more we will, but nothing more is going to happen before Christmas," he said.&nbsp;

The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant as it has confirmed that over 10,000 new Omicron cases so far. This is fueling the Covid surge in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As cases of Omicron surge in the UK, researchers have warned that people who are suffering from sore throat and runny nose might have Covid. The Zoe Covid study team estimated that half of the people with cold-like symptoms actually have Covid.

As cases of Omicron surge in the UK, researchers have warned that people who are suffering from sore throat and runny nose might have Covid. The Zoe Covid study team estimated that half of the people with cold-like symptoms actually have Covid. Deeming it as an "explosion" of Covid cases, the researchers say that 144,000 people each day are catching the deadly virus and feeling unwell. Lead scientist Prof Tim Spector, in a report by BBC, said, "The number of new symptomatic cases has exploded over the last week. For most people, an Omicron positive case will feel much more like the common cold, starting with a sore throat, runny nose and a headache. You only need to ask a friend who has recently tested positive to find this out. We need to change public messaging urgently to save lives." Also read | Booster efficacy against symptomatic Omicron reduces within 10 weeks Even after a surge in Covid cases, UK's Health Minister Sajid Javid has confirmed that the ministers are not planning to announce any new restrictions after Christmas. "We're clear that there's no need for any further restrictions of any type before Christmas but of course, we will keep the situation under review," he said. Javid further informed that the situation will be kept under review. "We will keep analysing that data and if we need to do anything more we will, but nothing more is going to happen before Christmas," he said. The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant as it has confirmed that over 10,000 new Omicron cases so far. This is fueling the Covid surge in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Cold or Covid? 50% of people with cold in UK likely to have Covid

Now after conflict displaced civilians are battling extreme weather. A lack of crucial facilities is making it very difficult for them to tackle winter months.

Displaced Syrians battle extreme cold

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