New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for&nbsp;COVID-19 with moderate symptoms, her office said in a statement on Saturday.

She will not be in parliament for the government's emissions reduction plan on Monday and the budget on Thursday, but "travel arrangements for her trade mission to the United States are unaffected at this stage," the statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-welcomes-australian-visitors-with-warm-hugs-tears-and-maori-performers-475644">New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors with warm hugs, tears and Maori performers</a>

Ardern&nbsp;had been symptomatic since Friday evening, returning a weak&nbsp;positive&nbsp;at night and a clear&nbsp;positive&nbsp;on Saturday morning on a rapid antigen test, it said.

She has been in isolation since Sunday, when her partner Clarke Gayford tested&nbsp;positive, it said.

Due to the&nbsp;positive&nbsp;test,&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;will be required to isolate until the morning of May 21, undertaking what duties she can remotely.

Watch |&nbsp;New Zealand Jacinda Ardern meets Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong on Climate Change

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Deputy&nbsp;Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Grant Robertson will address media in her place on Monday.

"This is a milestone week for the Government and I'm gutted I can't be there for it,"&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said in the statement.

"Our emissions reduction plan sets the path to achieve our carbon zero goal and the budget addresses the long-term future and security of&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's health system," she said. "But as I said earlier in the week isolating with&nbsp;COVID-19 is a very kiwi experience this year and my family is no different."

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Ardern&nbsp;also said on Saturday that her daughter Neve had tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;on Wednesday.

"Despite best efforts, unfortunately I’ve joined the rest of my family and have tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;19,"&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;posted on her official Instagram page.

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New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tested positive for COVID-19 with moderate symptoms, her office said in a statement on Saturday. She will not be in parliament for the government's emissions reduction plan on Monday and the budget on Thursday, but "travel arrangements for her trade mission to the United States are unaffected at this stage," the statement said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tested positive for COVID-19 with moderate symptoms, her office said in a statement on Saturday. She will not be in parliament for the government's emissions reduction plan on Monday and the budget on Thursday, but "travel arrangements for her trade mission to the United States are unaffected at this stage," the statement said. Also read | New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors with warm hugs, tears and Maori performers Ardern had been symptomatic since Friday evening, returning a weak positive at night and a clear positive on Saturday morning on a rapid antigen test, it said. She has been in isolation since Sunday, when her partner Clarke Gayford tested positive, it said. Due to the positive test, Ardern will be required to isolate until the morning of May 21, undertaking what duties she can remotely. Watch | New Zealand Jacinda Ardern meets Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong on Climate Change Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson will address media in her place on Monday. "This is a milestone week for the Government and I'm gutted I can't be there for it," Ardern said in the statement. "Our emissions reduction plan sets the path to achieve our carbon zero goal and the budget addresses the long-term future and security of New Zealand's health system," she said. "But as I said earlier in the week isolating with COVID-19 is a very kiwi experience this year and my family is no different." Also read | This New Zealand-based company allows employees to take unlimited leaves Ardern also said on Saturday that her daughter Neve had tested positive on Wednesday. "Despite best efforts, unfortunately I’ve joined the rest of my family and have tested positive for COVID 19," Ardern posted on her official Instagram page. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

COVID-19: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tests positive for infection

Shanghai&nbsp;was tightening its&nbsp;COVID-19 lockdown&nbsp;for what it hoped would be the&nbsp;final&nbsp;week of its&nbsp;battle&nbsp;with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;kept fighting its much smaller but persistent&nbsp;outbreak.

China's commercial hub of 25 million hoped to come out of its painful six-week-old lockdown&nbsp;later this month. Authorities on Saturday were hoping one last round of tightening would eradicate the last infections of the country's worst covid outbreak&nbsp;of the pandemic.

Many residents of the nation's most populous city, allowed to leave their housing compounds about a week ago for short walks or quick grocery trips, have more recently received notices to stay indoors for a three-day "silent" period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-silences-criticism-over-zero-covid-policy-by-erasing-videos-of-excesses-by-authorities-477549">China silences criticism over zero-Covid policy by erasing videos of excesses by authorities &nbsp;</a>

Many buildings were told overnight that restriction would be extended until Friday. Going silent usually means residents cannot leave home and, in some cases, it can mean no deliveries.

Linette Lim, who has spent more than 40 days under lockdown, said her community received such a notice on Friday, a day after its official risk levels was lowered to a grade that in theory should have led to looser restrictions.

"It's very frustrating because everyone has been asked to make sacrifices, to overcome the present difficulties for the collective good, and people have been consistently complying and coping with whatever is thrown at them," she said.

"But somehow the goalposts keep shifting," said Lim. "Nerves are frayed and people have no end goal to look forward to."

Closing quarantine centres

Hundreds of millions in dozens of Chinese cities live under covid&nbsp;curbs of various degrees. The measures are hurting consumption and manufacturing in the world's second-biggest economy, and disrupting global trade and supply chains.

Some analysts expect the economy to shrink this quarter. Officials have promised more stimulus measures.

Watch |&nbsp;No end to COVID-19 woes in China’s capital city of Beijing

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China will offer subsidies, tax breaks and easier loans to boost prospects for college graduates, the cabinet said on Friday, as a record 10.76 million are set to finish college and enter the workforce this year in a weaker economy.

China's jobless rate hit its highest in nearly two years in March at 5.8 per cent, while youth unemployment was 16 per cent, the highest since July 2021.

Shanghai&nbsp;city official Ding Bo said on Saturday the number of patients in quarantine hospitals dropped to 50,000, one-fifth of the peak recorded last month. Authorities therefore closed five quarantine centres, he said.

The city reported more than 1,500 daily coronavirus cases,&nbsp;down&nbsp;from more than 2,000 the day before - all in areas under the tightest controls.

Cases found in relatively freer communities are being closely watched for clues on where the&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;is heading. There was one such case detected on Friday,&nbsp;down&nbsp;from four the previous day.

Beijing&nbsp;reported 56 daily cases, up from 50. The capital has been detecting a few dozen new cases almost every day since the first infections of its&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;were discovered on April 22.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-think-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-is-sustainable-who-477949">Don't think China's 'zero Covid' strategy is sustainable: WHO</a>

Officials in the capital this week denied rumours of an imminent lockdown, urging people not to panic-buy but to stay at home. Residents seemed to be heeding the advice as many of&nbsp;Beijing's streets were eerily quiet.

Mass testing across most of the city has become an almost daily routine.

Authorities in the capital had already banned dine-in services at restaurants, closed some malls, entertainment and tourist venues, suspended sections of the bus, subway and taxi systems and imposed lockdowns on some residential buildings.

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Shanghai was tightening its COVID-19 lockdown for what it hoped would be the final week of its battle with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while Beijing kept fighting its much smaller but persistent outbreak.

Shanghai was tightening its COVID-19 lockdown for what it hoped would be the final week of its battle with the virus before it could gradually begin to ease restrictions, while Beijing kept fighting its much smaller but persistent outbreak. China's commercial hub of 25 million hoped to come out of its painful six-week-old lockdown later this month. Authorities on Saturday were hoping one last round of tightening would eradicate the last infections of the country's worst covid outbreak of the pandemic. Many residents of the nation's most populous city, allowed to leave their housing compounds about a week ago for short walks or quick grocery trips, have more recently received notices to stay indoors for a three-day "silent" period. Also read | China silences criticism over zero-Covid policy by erasing videos of excesses by authorities Many buildings were told overnight that restriction would be extended until Friday. Going silent usually means residents cannot leave home and, in some cases, it can mean no deliveries. Linette Lim, who has spent more than 40 days under lockdown, said her community received such a notice on Friday, a day after its official risk levels was lowered to a grade that in theory should have led to looser restrictions. "It's very frustrating because everyone has been asked to make sacrifices, to overcome the present difficulties for the collective good, and people have been consistently complying and coping with whatever is thrown at them," she said. "But somehow the goalposts keep shifting," said Lim. "Nerves are frayed and people have no end goal to look forward to." Closing quarantine centres Hundreds of millions in dozens of Chinese cities live under covid curbs of various degrees. The measures are hurting consumption and manufacturing in the world's second-biggest economy, and disrupting global trade and supply chains. Some analysts expect the economy to shrink this quarter. Officials have promised more stimulus measures. Watch | No end to COVID-19 woes in China’s capital city of Beijing China will offer subsidies, tax breaks and easier loans to boost prospects for college graduates, the cabinet said on Friday, as a record 10.76 million are set to finish college and enter the workforce this year in a weaker economy. China's jobless rate hit its highest in nearly two years in March at 5.8 per cent, while youth unemployment was 16 per cent, the highest since July 2021. Shanghai city official Ding Bo said on Saturday the number of patients in quarantine hospitals dropped to 50,000, one-fifth of the peak recorded last month. Authorities therefore closed five quarantine centres, he said. The city reported more than 1,500 daily coronavirus cases, down from more than 2,000 the day before - all in areas under the tightest controls. Cases found in relatively freer communities are being closely watched for clues on where the outbreak is heading. There was one such case detected on Friday, down from four the previous day. Beijing reported 56 daily cases, up from 50. The capital has been detecting a few dozen new cases almost every day since the first infections of its outbreak were discovered on April 22. Also read | Don't think China's 'zero Covid' strategy is sustainable: WHO Officials in the capital this week denied rumours of an imminent lockdown, urging people not to panic-buy but to stay at home. Residents seemed to be heeding the advice as many of Beijing's streets were eerily quiet. Mass testing across most of the city has become an almost daily routine. Authorities in the capital had already banned dine-in services at restaurants, closed some malls, entertainment and tourist venues, suspended sections of the bus, subway and taxi systems and imposed lockdowns on some residential buildings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shanghai hunkers down for final covid battle, Beijing outbreak stubborn

China has relinquished its rights to host the 2023 Asian Cup finals due to the COVID-19 situation in the country, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Saturday. The event, which is played every four years and features 24 national teams from across the continent, was due to be held in 10 cities from June 16 to July 16 next year.

"Following extensive discussions with the Chinese Football Association (CFA), the Asian Football Confederation has been officially informed by the CFA that it would not be able to host the AFC Asian Cup 2023," the confederation said in a statement.

"The AFC acknowledges the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the relinquishment by China PR of its hosting rights."

The AFC said a decision about the hosting of the tournament would be revealed in due course. The Asian Cup is the latest international sporting event to be affected by China`s attempts to tackle the pandemic.

Earlier this month, Asian Games organisers the Olympic Council of Asia postponed the next edition of the multi-sport event, due to be held in the Chinese city of Hangzhou in September, until 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-mohamed-salah-man-city-midfielder-kevin-de-bruyne-among-nominees-for-player-of-the-season-478687">Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne among nominees for Player of the Season</a>

China continues to implement a zero-COVID policy and cities across the country have faced tight restrictions as a result of a recent outbreak of the Omicron variant.

Shanghai has been under lockdown for more than a month while other cities, including the capital Beijing, are facing a wave of additional curbs, frequent testing and targeted lockdowns.

Most international sporting events in China have been postponed or cancelled since the start of the pandemic, with the notable exception of the Winter Olympics, which went ahead in Beijing under strict health controls in February.

The Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix has been not been held since 2019, while WTA events have been suspended due to a standoff over concerns relating to the safety of Chinese player Peng Shuai.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajax-amsterdam-announce-alfred-schreuder-as-new-coach-to-replace-manchester-united-bound-erik-ten-hag-478454">Ajax announce Alfred Schreuder as new coach, to replace Manchester United-bound Erik ten Hag</a>

China is scheduled to host four ATP events this year, including the Shanghai Masters and the China Open in October. The Chinese Super League yet to announce when the new football season will begin.

The Chinese Football Association also gave up the right to host July`s East Asian Championships, with that tournament now taking place in Japan.

China had been due to host the Asian Cup for the first time since 2004, when the national team lost in the final in Beijing`s Workers` Stadium to Japan.

China has relinquished its rights to host the 2023 Asian Cup finals due to the COVID-19 situation in the country, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Saturday.

China has relinquished its rights to host the 2023 Asian Cup finals due to the COVID-19 situation in the country, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Saturday. The event, which is played every four years and features 24 national teams from across the continent, was due to be held in 10 cities from June 16 to July 16 next year. "Following extensive discussions with the Chinese Football Association (CFA), the Asian Football Confederation has been officially informed by the CFA that it would not be able to host the AFC Asian Cup 2023," the confederation said in a statement. "The AFC acknowledges the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the relinquishment by China PR of its hosting rights." The AFC said a decision about the hosting of the tournament would be revealed in due course. The Asian Cup is the latest international sporting event to be affected by China`s attempts to tackle the pandemic. Earlier this month, Asian Games organisers the Olympic Council of Asia postponed the next edition of the multi-sport event, due to be held in the Chinese city of Hangzhou in September, until 2023. Also Read: Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, Man City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne among nominees for Player of the Season China continues to implement a zero-COVID policy and cities across the country have faced tight restrictions as a result of a recent outbreak of the Omicron variant. Shanghai has been under lockdown for more than a month while other cities, including the capital Beijing, are facing a wave of additional curbs, frequent testing and targeted lockdowns. Most international sporting events in China have been postponed or cancelled since the start of the pandemic, with the notable exception of the Winter Olympics, which went ahead in Beijing under strict health controls in February. The Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix has been not been held since 2019, while WTA events have been suspended due to a standoff over concerns relating to the safety of Chinese player Peng Shuai. Also Read: Ajax announce Alfred Schreuder as new coach, to replace Manchester United-bound Erik ten Hag China is scheduled to host four ATP events this year, including the Shanghai Masters and the China Open in October. The Chinese Super League yet to announce when the new football season will begin. The Chinese Football Association also gave up the right to host July`s East Asian Championships, with that tournament now taking place in Japan. China had been due to host the Asian Cup for the first time since 2004, when the national team lost in the final in Beijing`s Workers` Stadium to Japan.

China gives up 2023 Asian Cup hosting rights due to COVID-19, confirms AFC

The White House announced on Thursday that the number of COVID-19 related deaths in the United States has crossed the one million mark. While the situation has improved in the recent past, the cases are once again on the rise and a number of states are looking to introduce new regulations.

"Today, we mark a tragic milestone: one million American lives lost to Covid," President Joe Biden said in a statement. Biden also asked the citizens to "remain vigilant against this pandemic" and urged the Congress to increase funding for resources like vaccines, testing and vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-launches-probe-into-russias-alleged-human-rights-violations-in-ukraine-478477">UN launches probe into Russia's alleged human rights violations in Ukraine</a>

The cases are on the rise once again around the world but the United States has lifted a number of restrictions. In the last few weeks, the cases have gone up once again due to the Omicron subvariant and with the mask mandate no longer in practice, the rise in cases is extremely worrying.

"I think we are in a place where psychologically and socially and economically, people are largely done with the pandemic," said Celine Gounder, an infectious disease expert at New York University.

"(But) the pandemic is not over. So, you have a disconnect between what is happening epidemiologically and what's happening in terms of how people are responding," she told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-ease-abortion-rules-for-over-16-women-introduce-menstrual-leave-up-to-five-days-478384">Spain to ease abortion rules for over-16 women, introduce menstrual leave</a>

In related news, the death toll in Europe has passed two million, according to World Health Organization (WHO). According to the official data, 2,002,058 people have died from COVID-19.

"A devastating milestone has passed as reported confirmed Covid-19 deaths from countries in the WHO European Region have exceeded more than 2 million people," WHO said in their statement.

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(With agency inputs)

The White House announced on Thursday that the number of COVID-19 related deaths in the United States has crossed the one million mark. While the situation has improved in the recent past, the cases are once again on the rise and a number of states are looking to introduce new regulations.

The White House announced on Thursday that the number of COVID-19 related deaths in the United States has crossed the one million mark. While the situation has improved in the recent past, the cases are once again on the rise and a number of states are looking to introduce new regulations. "Today, we mark a tragic milestone: one million American lives lost to Covid," President Joe Biden said in a statement. Biden also asked the citizens to "remain vigilant against this pandemic" and urged the Congress to increase funding for resources like vaccines, testing and vaccines. Also read | UN launches probe into Russia's alleged human rights violations in Ukraine The cases are on the rise once again around the world but the United States has lifted a number of restrictions. In the last few weeks, the cases have gone up once again due to the Omicron subvariant and with the mask mandate no longer in practice, the rise in cases is extremely worrying. "I think we are in a place where psychologically and socially and economically, people are largely done with the pandemic," said Celine Gounder, an infectious disease expert at New York University. "(But) the pandemic is not over. So, you have a disconnect between what is happening epidemiologically and what's happening in terms of how people are responding," she told AFP. Also read | Spain to ease abortion rules for over-16 women, introduce menstrual leave In related news, the death toll in Europe has passed two million, according to World Health Organization (WHO). According to the official data, 2,002,058 people have died from COVID-19. "A devastating milestone has passed as reported confirmed Covid-19 deaths from countries in the WHO European Region have exceeded more than 2 million people," WHO said in their statement. WATCH WION LIVE TV HERE - (With agency inputs)

COVID-19 related deaths cross one million in the US, two million in Europe

According to a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, becomes virtually instantly nonviable when deposited on a cash banknote, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The study shows that using credit and debit cards instead of cash as a virus prevention strategy is not recommended. The researchers also discovered that the virus is more stable on plastic money or cards, with live viral detection 48 hours after its initial deposition.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-tested-oral-vaccines-protects-against-the-virus-and-reduces-its-transmission-says-study-477614">New oral vaccine protects against Covid and reduces its transmission, says Study</a>

According to the researchers, no viable virus was found on the cash or cards that were randomly collected for the sample.&nbsp;

The researchers collected a collection of $1 bills, quarters, pennies and credit cards and inoculated them with SARS-CoV-2. After that, samples of cash, and coins were taken and analysed for virus detection at four different times: 30 minutes, 4 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Another setback for Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID vaccine jab as FDA limits its use

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After 30 mins after being placed on the dollar bills, the researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 was difficult to detect. The virus was decreased by 99.9993 per cent within 30 minutes, as per the study. The researchers tested the banknotes again after 24 and 48 hours and still no virus was detected.&nbsp;

The researchers were surprised that after putting nearly one million viruses on the banknotes, they still couldn’t find any after 24 hours.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explainer-what-is-egg-freezing-that-south-korean-women-are-opting-for-478572">Explainer: What is egg freezing that South Korean women are opting for? &nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

However, in the case of cards, the virus was only reduced by 90 per cent on money cards in 30 minutes and was detected even after the span of 48 hours later, even though the decrease rate had climbed to 99.6 per cent after four hours and 99.96 per cent after 24 hours.&nbsp;

The coin somewhat had similar results to the plastic money cards with a significant reduction in virus and still tested positive for the live virus after 24 and 48 hours.

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(With inputs from agencies)

According to a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, becomes virtually instantly nonviable when deposited on a cash banknote, news agency PTI reported.

According to a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, becomes virtually instantly nonviable when deposited on a cash banknote, news agency PTI reported. The study shows that using credit and debit cards instead of cash as a virus prevention strategy is not recommended. The researchers also discovered that the virus is more stable on plastic money or cards, with live viral detection 48 hours after its initial deposition. Also read | New oral vaccine protects against Covid and reduces its transmission, says Study According to the researchers, no viable virus was found on the cash or cards that were randomly collected for the sample. The researchers collected a collection of $1 bills, quarters, pennies and credit cards and inoculated them with SARS-CoV-2. After that, samples of cash, and coins were taken and analysed for virus detection at four different times: 30 minutes, 4 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours. Watch | Another setback for Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine jab as FDA limits its use After 30 mins after being placed on the dollar bills, the researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 was difficult to detect. The virus was decreased by 99.9993 per cent within 30 minutes, as per the study. The researchers tested the banknotes again after 24 and 48 hours and still no virus was detected. The researchers were surprised that after putting nearly one million viruses on the banknotes, they still couldn’t find any after 24 hours. Also read | Explainer: What is egg freezing that South Korean women are opting for? However, in the case of cards, the virus was only reduced by 90 per cent on money cards in 30 minutes and was detected even after the span of 48 hours later, even though the decrease rate had climbed to 99.6 per cent after four hours and 99.96 per cent after 24 hours. The coin somewhat had similar results to the plastic money cards with a significant reduction in virus and still tested positive for the live virus after 24 and 48 hours. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Virus survives longer on credit cards as compared to cash, says study

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave.

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With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year.

During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave.

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According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy.

Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year. According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave. Also read | Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year. During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave. Also read | UAE President and ruler Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan passes away According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy. Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January

The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress. There were a number of reports from Shanghai depicting the poor living conditions of the citizens and with Beijing also facing an alarming number of cases, the people of the city are also worried about resources.

With ‘rumours’ suggesting that Beijing could be headed for a lockdown, people rushed to the supermarkets in order to stock up on necessary items, but it seems that the ‘rumours’ were not true.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-deal-temporarily-on-hold-says-elon-musk-478601" hreflang="en">Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk</a>

Chinese police are currently investigating a woman for starting the rumours which resulted in a widespread panic. The information appeared first on social media and was quicky shared by a huge number of people. The woman can also be tried for causing disruption as the alleged rumour resulted in a number of people breaking the prevalent rules and regulations set by the authorities.

According to the official police statement, the woman surnamed Yao “fabricated and published the relevant rumours" and also stated that the police have taken “criminal compulsory measures" against her. Although, it is not clear what measures were taken against the accused.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-practising-missile-strikes-on-targets-in-taiwan-and-guam-report-478577">China practising missile strikes on targets in Taiwan and Guam: Report</a>

The trend remains worrisome in China as 2,400 cases reported on Friday with 50 of them in Beijing.

Although there has not been a formal announcement of any lockdown, restrictions are in place who does not allow people to roam around freely and also makes testing compulsory.

WATCH WION LIVE TV HERE -

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress.

The rise in COVID-19 cases has been a major source of concern for the Chinese authorities and with Shanghai already under lockdown, the people of the country are in great distress. There were a number of reports from Shanghai depicting the poor living conditions of the citizens and with Beijing also facing an alarming number of cases, the people of the city are also worried about resources. With ‘rumours’ suggesting that Beijing could be headed for a lockdown, people rushed to the supermarkets in order to stock up on necessary items, but it seems that the ‘rumours’ were not true. Also read | Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk Chinese police are currently investigating a woman for starting the rumours which resulted in a widespread panic. The information appeared first on social media and was quicky shared by a huge number of people. The woman can also be tried for causing disruption as the alleged rumour resulted in a number of people breaking the prevalent rules and regulations set by the authorities. According to the official police statement, the woman surnamed Yao “fabricated and published the relevant rumours" and also stated that the police have taken “criminal compulsory measures" against her. Although, it is not clear what measures were taken against the accused. Also read | China practising missile strikes on targets in Taiwan and Guam: Report The trend remains worrisome in China as 2,400 cases reported on Friday with 50 of them in Beijing. Although there has not been a formal announcement of any lockdown, restrictions are in place who does not allow people to roam around freely and also makes testing compulsory. WATCH WION LIVE TV HERE -

Chinese police investigate woman for spreading 'rumours' about lockdown in Beijing

Bill Gates, a co-founder of Microsoft, said on Tuesday that he has tested positive with COVID-19 and is suffering from minor symptoms.

The billionaire philanthropist announced on Twitter that he will isolate himself until he is healthy again.

“I’m fortunate to be vaccinated and boosted and have access to testing and great medical care,” Gates wrote.

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The Gates Foundation is coming together today for the first time in two years, and I am lucky to be on Teams to see everyone and thank them for their hard work.
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates/status/1524142710994571264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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With a $65 billion endowment, the Seattle-based Bill and Melinda Gates Charity is the world's most powerful private foundation.

Bill Gates has been an outspoken supporter of pandemic preparedness measures, particularly vaccination and drug access for poorer countries.

The Gates Foundation said in October that it will pay $120 million to expand lower-income countries' access to generic versions of Merck's antiviral COVID-19 tablet.

In 2014, a Microsoft co-founder warned of a pandemic, and in 2020 the world will be hit by COVID-19, which is still impacting lives.

Gates recently stated that the world may face another pandemic in the next 20 years.

Bill Gates, a co-founder of Microsoft, said on Tuesday that he has tested positive with COVID-19 and is suffering from minor symptoms. The billionaire philanthropist announced on Twitter that he will isolate himself until he is healthy again.

Bill Gates, a co-founder of Microsoft, said on Tuesday that he has tested positive with COVID-19 and is suffering from minor symptoms. The billionaire philanthropist announced on Twitter that he will isolate himself until he is healthy again. “I’m fortunate to be vaccinated and boosted and have access to testing and great medical care,” Gates wrote. The Gates Foundation is coming together today for the first time in two years, and I am lucky to be on Teams to see everyone and thank them for their hard work. — Bill Gates (@BillGates) May 10, 2022 × With a $65 billion endowment, the Seattle-based Bill and Melinda Gates Charity is the world's most powerful private foundation. Bill Gates has been an outspoken supporter of pandemic preparedness measures, particularly vaccination and drug access for poorer countries. The Gates Foundation said in October that it will pay $120 million to expand lower-income countries' access to generic versions of Merck's antiviral COVID-19 tablet. In 2014, a Microsoft co-founder warned of a pandemic, and in 2020 the world will be hit by COVID-19, which is still impacting lives. Gates recently stated that the world may face another pandemic in the next 20 years.

Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing  'mild symptoms'

Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw will be missing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday after he was hospitalised with intense fever.

Shaw posted a picture of himself in the hospital on Instagram with the caption – "Admitted in hospital and recovering from fever. Thank you all for your good wishes. Will be back in action soon”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-22-runs-in-4-balls-dinesh-karthik-plays-a-blinder-for-rcb-against-srh-watch-477376" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: 22 runs in 4 balls! Dinesh Karthik plays a blinder for RCB against SRH - WATCH</a>

Shah did not take part in their previous IPL match against Sunrisers Hyderabad and according to the ESPNCricinfo report, the intense fever was the reason why he was removed from the DC bio-bubble.

Mandeep Singh replaced Shaw in the playing XI for the match against SRH and although he did not score much, DC were able to register a comprehensive victory. David Warner was the top scorer for the side as he narrowly missed his century while Rovman Powell scored a brilliant fifty.

Khaleel Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers as DC got their campaign back on track.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-finding-new-ways-to-get-out-shoaib-akhtar-on-rcb-stars-struggles-in-ipl-2022-477369" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli is finding new ways to get out: Shoaib Akhtar on RCB star's struggles in IPL 2022</a>

Earlier in the day, the DC contingent was forced into isolation once again after a team member tested positive for COVID-19. During the daily testing, a net bowler tested positive and the team was kept in isolation as predominantly a precautionary measure, according to a report on Cricbuzz.

DC has suffered a lot due to COVID-19 cases this season with six members of the squad testing positive towards the start of the season including overseas talents like Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert. Physio Patrick Farhat also tested positive along with three other support staff.

Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw will be missing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday after he was hospitalised with intense fever.

Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw will be missing the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday after he was hospitalised with intense fever. Shaw posted a picture of himself in the hospital on Instagram with the caption – "Admitted in hospital and recovering from fever. Thank you all for your good wishes. Will be back in action soon”. Also read | IPL 2022: 22 runs in 4 balls! Dinesh Karthik plays a blinder for RCB against SRH - WATCH Shah did not take part in their previous IPL match against Sunrisers Hyderabad and according to the ESPNCricinfo report, the intense fever was the reason why he was removed from the DC bio-bubble. Mandeep Singh replaced Shaw in the playing XI for the match against SRH and although he did not score much, DC were able to register a comprehensive victory. David Warner was the top scorer for the side as he narrowly missed his century while Rovman Powell scored a brilliant fifty. Khaleel Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers as DC got their campaign back on track. Also read | Virat Kohli is finding new ways to get out: Shoaib Akhtar on RCB star's struggles in IPL 2022 Earlier in the day, the DC contingent was forced into isolation once again after a team member tested positive for COVID-19. During the daily testing, a net bowler tested positive and the team was kept in isolation as predominantly a precautionary measure, according to a report on Cricbuzz. DC has suffered a lot due to COVID-19 cases this season with six members of the squad testing positive towards the start of the season including overseas talents like Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert. Physio Patrick Farhat also tested positive along with three other support staff.

IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw admitted to hospital with intense fever ahead of CSK clash

COVID-19 is back to haunt the Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. The ongoing 15th edition of the league has already seen a few hiccups due to the virus but none of the matches has been affected so far despite cases being detected inside the bio-bubbles.

Delhi Capitals (DC) contingent has once again been forced into isolation after a positive case was detected in the latest round of testing on Sunday (May 08). DC are the only team that has been affected by COVID-19 so far this season as earlier several members of their contingent had tested positive for the virus.

As per a report in Cricbuzz, Delhi Capitals' sources revealed that a net bowler with the team has tested positive for COVID-19. As a precautionary measure, the entire DC squad has been asked to stay in isolation. The case was detected after a fresh round of testing on Sunday morning.

The development comes just hours ahead of DC's clash against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. It remains to be seen if the match will go ahead as per schedule or if it will have to be rescheduled due to the positive case in the DC contingent.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-led-mumbai-indians-become-1st-team-to-be-knocked-out-of-ipl-2022-after-rr-beat-pbks-477196">Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians become 1st team to be knocked out of IPL 2022 after RR beat PBKS</a>&nbsp;

Earlier this season, as many as six mebres of the DC contingent had tested positive for COVID-19, including players Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert. Physio Patrick Farhat had also returned positive along with three other staff members. Marsh and Seifert had recently returned to the camp after recovering fully from the virus.

While the detection of another positive COVID-19 case is a huge concern for BCCI, it also raises questions on the integrity of the bio-bubbles that the teams are staying in during the ongoing tournament. As per Cricbuzz, the match is likely to remain unaffected but the final decision will stay with the BCCI.

COVID-19 is back to haunt the Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. The ongoing 15th edition of the league has already seen a few hiccups due to the virus but none of the matches has been affected so far despite cases being detected inside the bio-bubbles.

COVID-19 is back to haunt the Indian Premier League (IPL) once again. The ongoing 15th edition of the league has already seen a few hiccups due to the virus but none of the matches has been affected so far despite cases being detected inside the bio-bubbles. Delhi Capitals (DC) contingent has once again been forced into isolation after a positive case was detected in the latest round of testing on Sunday (May 08). DC are the only team that has been affected by COVID-19 so far this season as earlier several members of their contingent had tested positive for the virus. As per a report in Cricbuzz, Delhi Capitals' sources revealed that a net bowler with the team has tested positive for COVID-19. As a precautionary measure, the entire DC squad has been asked to stay in isolation. The case was detected after a fresh round of testing on Sunday morning. The development comes just hours ahead of DC's clash against MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. It remains to be seen if the match will go ahead as per schedule or if it will have to be rescheduled due to the positive case in the DC contingent. Also Read: Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians become 1st team to be knocked out of IPL 2022 after RR beat PBKS Earlier this season, as many as six mebres of the DC contingent had tested positive for COVID-19, including players Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert. Physio Patrick Farhat had also returned positive along with three other staff members. Marsh and Seifert had recently returned to the camp after recovering fully from the virus. While the detection of another positive COVID-19 case is a huge concern for BCCI, it also raises questions on the integrity of the bio-bubbles that the teams are staying in during the ongoing tournament. As per Cricbuzz, the match is likely to remain unaffected but the final decision will stay with the BCCI.

IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals squad in isolation after another COVID-19 case detected in their camp - Report

The lockdown in Shanghai due to the rising COVID-19 cases has been a cause of concern for both the authorities and the citizens of the Chinese city. The lack of proper healthcare and food shortages have made life difficult for the people and the issues have even resulted in a number of protests.

However, Matthew Mitchener and Janelle Nuyts were able to brave the situation to get married in the car park of their housing compound thanks to an easing of the lockdown rules.

According to an AFP report, the ceremony took place with Nuyts dressed in a hazmat suit and blue surgical mask along with her wedding dress. The new rules allowed some people to come out of their houses and as a result, the wedding was attended by their friends who were social distancing.'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-1000-times-likely-to-spread-through-air-than-surfaces-study-finds-476860">COVID-19 virus 1000 times likely to spread through air than surfaces - Study</a>

Although the couple decided to get married in March after they found that they were expecting a baby, it was not possible as situation got worse, and the lockdown continued without an end in sight.

According to the report, Mitchener had his share of doubts about arranging the wedding in the present condition, but the couple decided to go through with it along with some of their friends.

China enforced a law that prevented foreigners to get married in the country and as a result, the wedding was officiated by a US celebrant who conducted the ceremony through a Zoom call.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-uk-pms-conservative-party-pays-for-long-slew-of-scandals-loses-strongholds-in-local-polls-476864" hreflang="en">Finally, UK PM's party pays for scandals with setbacks in local polls</a>

"It kind of snowballed," said Mitchener according to the AFP report. "The next thing we knew, we had a wedding dress arrive from our friend, and a wedding cake, a bouquet of flowers."

"Once I put the dress on, everything changed," the 33-year-old Nuyts added.

"We didn't really expect it was going to be so romantic."

The lockdown in Shanghai due to the rising COVID-19 cases has been a cause of concern for both the authorities and the citizens of the Chinese city. The lack of proper healthcare and food shortages have made life difficult for the people and the issues have even resulted in a number of protests.

The lockdown in Shanghai due to the rising COVID-19 cases has been a cause of concern for both the authorities and the citizens of the Chinese city. The lack of proper healthcare and food shortages have made life difficult for the people and the issues have even resulted in a number of protests. However, Matthew Mitchener and Janelle Nuyts were able to brave the situation to get married in the car park of their housing compound thanks to an easing of the lockdown rules. According to an AFP report, the ceremony took place with Nuyts dressed in a hazmat suit and blue surgical mask along with her wedding dress. The new rules allowed some people to come out of their houses and as a result, the wedding was attended by their friends who were social distancing.' Also read | COVID-19 virus 1000 times likely to spread through air than surfaces - Study Although the couple decided to get married in March after they found that they were expecting a baby, it was not possible as situation got worse, and the lockdown continued without an end in sight. According to the report, Mitchener had his share of doubts about arranging the wedding in the present condition, but the couple decided to go through with it along with some of their friends. China enforced a law that prevented foreigners to get married in the country and as a result, the wedding was officiated by a US celebrant who conducted the ceremony through a Zoom call. Also read | Finally, UK PM's party pays for scandals with setbacks in local polls "It kind of snowballed," said Mitchener according to the AFP report. "The next thing we knew, we had a wedding dress arrive from our friend, and a wedding cake, a bouquet of flowers." "Once I put the dress on, everything changed," the 33-year-old Nuyts added. "We didn't really expect it was going to be so romantic."

Shanghai couple braves COVID-19 lockdown to get married in car park of their building

A recent study, which was published in the Journal of Exposure Science &amp; Environmental Epidemiology, states that people are most likely to contract COVID-19 from air particles.

The study found that&nbsp;the chances of a person contracting the COVID-19 virus from air particles is 1000 times more than them contracting the virus from touching any surface.

According to the study, the scientists from the University of Michigan in the United States collected air and surface samples in the period between August 2020 and April 2021 from different locations around them like classrooms, gyms, cafeterias, air ducts, activity buildings and buses.

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"The risk of surface transmission was 1,000 times lower than airborne transmission," Chuanwu Xi, a professor at the University of Michigan, said according to a report on Associated Press.

"We also found that the total case number of campus was significantly higher in weeks with positive environmental samples than in non-positive weeks," Xi added in the official statement.

While carrying out tests on the collected samples, the researchers found that the positivity rate for air samples was 1.6 per cent while for the surface samples, it was 1.4 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-proof-of-extraterrestrial-photosynthesis-heres-what-it-is-how-it-can-help-us-476821" hreflang="en">Scientists find proof of 'extraterrestrial photosynthesis'. Here's what it is, how it can help us</a>

It also found that while the probability of infection is around 1 per 100 exposures in case of inhalation, it falls drastically to 1 in 100,000 when it affects the human body from touching a contaminated surface.

"Our results are a valuable addition to our understanding of infectious diseases and mitigation efforts during this pandemic and can help prepare us for future outbreaks of respiratory diseases with similar transmission mechanisms," said Rick Neitzel, a part of the University of Michigan study.

WATCH |&nbsp;India objects to WHO's mathematics model

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-latest-news-updates-india-objects-to-whos-mathematics-model-476827/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

A recent study, which was published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, states that people are most likely to contract COVID-19 from air particles.

A recent study, which was published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, states that people are most likely to contract COVID-19 from air particles. The study found that the chances of a person contracting the COVID-19 virus from air particles is 1000 times more than them contracting the virus from touching any surface. According to the study, the scientists from the University of Michigan in the United States collected air and surface samples in the period between August 2020 and April 2021 from different locations around them like classrooms, gyms, cafeterias, air ducts, activity buildings and buses. Also read | If Roe vs Wade is overturned, abortion pills may become the new debate "The risk of surface transmission was 1,000 times lower than airborne transmission," Chuanwu Xi, a professor at the University of Michigan, said according to a report on Associated Press. "We also found that the total case number of campus was significantly higher in weeks with positive environmental samples than in non-positive weeks," Xi added in the official statement. While carrying out tests on the collected samples, the researchers found that the positivity rate for air samples was 1.6 per cent while for the surface samples, it was 1.4 per cent. Also read | Scientists find proof of 'extraterrestrial photosynthesis'. Here's what it is, how it can help us It also found that while the probability of infection is around 1 per 100 exposures in case of inhalation, it falls drastically to 1 in 100,000 when it affects the human body from touching a contaminated surface. "Our results are a valuable addition to our understanding of infectious diseases and mitigation efforts during this pandemic and can help prepare us for future outbreaks of respiratory diseases with similar transmission mechanisms," said Rick Neitzel, a part of the University of Michigan study. WATCH | India objects to WHO's mathematics model (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 virus 1000 times likely to spread through air than surfaces, study finds

According to its estimates released on Thursday, the Covid virus has killed 13.3 million to 16.6 million people in excess in 2020 and 2021. The WHO said that most of the excess deaths —84 per cent —were concentrated in southeast Asia, Europe and the Americas. In other news, billionaire Elon Musk has already raised $7.14 billion from investors in an attempt to accumulate $44 billion to buy Twitter

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<img alt="WHO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92803256-206a-4477-91ad-b6ecc2d62ff3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_0.png" />

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday said that the death count associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is actually three times more than the official toll attributed to the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inching-closer-to-buy-twitter-for-44-billion-elon-musk-raises-714-billion-from-investors-476557">To buy Twitter for $44 billion, Elon Musk raises $7.14 billion from investors</a>

<img alt="Elon Musk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="28bf6c11-7187-4a5d-940d-9f612752617b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_1.png" />

The investors include crypto exchange Binance, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, asset management firms, Brookfield, Fidelity and Sequoia Capital, said media reports.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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<img alt="Amber Heard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c763f2be-7412-4389-83af-fcf311b8b4eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_2.png" />

Amber Heard took to the stands in the third week of the trial that has seen her former husband Johnny Depp testifying against her and claiming that he had never hit her or any other woman in his life.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-forces-foil-attack-on-amarnath-yatra-detect-150m-long-tunnel-connecting-pakistan-476553">Indian forces foil attack on Amarnath Yatra, detect tunnel connecting Pak</a>

<img alt="India-Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cad05189-fb99-4afa-a6b8-ca86dd697208" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_3.png" />

India’s Border Security Force (BSF) on Wednesday said they have foiled plans of the Pakistani-based terror groups to attack Amarnath Yatra after detecting a cross-border tunnel along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-medicines-agency-assessing-moderna-covid-19-vaccine-for-children-under-five-476597">EU regulator assessing Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children under five</a>

<img alt="Moderna" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4034a70-41ed-496d-a23a-4d4aa2a89a81" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_4.png" />

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Thursday that they are going to evaluate Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children between the age of six months and five years.

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<img alt="Drug Lord" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2e488ef5-de18-4441-8897-afb8432ef124" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_5.png" />

Dairo Usuga led the drug cartel known as ‘Clan del Golfo’ who used to control cocaine routes through Mexico, will be facing multiple charges in both New York and Florida district courts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-rebuild-ukraine-win-war-against-russia-zelensky-launches-a-crowdfunding-platform-476590">To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform</a>

<img alt="Zelensky" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30bae639-5414-4cce-b8d1-f533f807c21a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_6.png" />

According to the Kyiv School of Economics, Russian aggression costs Ukraine $4.5 billion per week, as bombs destroy thousands of buildings, public infrastructure, and kilometres of road.

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<img alt="De Villiers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="346268df-17a6-40cf-a53c-05c9bf63f6f9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_7.png" />

AB de Villiers will return as a golfer as he is set to team up with former tennis star Ashleigh Barty, who recently announced her retirement, in a top-flight golf tournament called the Icon Series.

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<img alt="Jack Ma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab7bb7e3-dcbd-4d6f-91af-27314090115a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_8.png" />

The Global Times' former Editor-in-Chief Hu Xijin clarified on China's Twitter-like platform Weibo that the person detained was a random guy with the surname 'Ma' and NOT Jack Ma, the tycoon.

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<img alt="Forest fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c82d6f3-0804-45a2-b496-fbe53f0a62a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic_9.png" />

Thousands of residents of a historic Old West town in New Mexico face evacuation as fierce winds drove the largest active US wildfire through drought-parched forests.

According to its estimates released on Thursday, the Covid virus has killed 13.3 million to 16.6 million people in excess in 2020 and 2021. The WHO said that most of the excess deaths —84 per cent —were concentrated in southeast Asia, Europe and the Americas.

According to its estimates released on Thursday, the Covid virus has killed 13.3 million to 16.6 million people in excess in 2020 and 2021. The WHO said that most of the excess deaths —84 per cent —were concentrated in southeast Asia, Europe and the Americas. In other news, billionaire Elon Musk has already raised $7.14 billion from investors in an attempt to accumulate $44 billion to buy Twitter World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday said that the death count associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is actually three times more than the official toll attributed to the virus. To buy Twitter for $44 billion, Elon Musk raises $7.14 billion from investors The investors include crypto exchange Binance, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, asset management firms, Brookfield, Fidelity and Sequoia Capital, said media reports. Key highlights of Amber Heard's testimony against Johnny Depp Amber Heard took to the stands in the third week of the trial that has seen her former husband Johnny Depp testifying against her and claiming that he had never hit her or any other woman in his life. Indian forces foil attack on Amarnath Yatra, detect tunnel connecting Pak India’s Border Security Force (BSF) on Wednesday said they have foiled plans of the Pakistani-based terror groups to attack Amarnath Yatra after detecting a cross-border tunnel along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district. EU regulator assessing Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children under five The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Thursday that they are going to evaluate Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children between the age of six months and five years. Colombian drug lord Dairo Usuga 'Otoniel' extradited to the US Dairo Usuga led the drug cartel known as ‘Clan del Golfo’ who used to control cocaine routes through Mexico, will be facing multiple charges in both New York and Florida district courts. To rebuild Ukraine, win war against Russia, Zelensky launches a crowdfunding platform According to the Kyiv School of Economics, Russian aggression costs Ukraine $4.5 billion per week, as bombs destroy thousands of buildings, public infrastructure, and kilometres of road. 'Golfer' AB de Villiers to team up with ex-tennis star Barty in Icon Series AB de Villiers will return as a golfer as he is set to team up with former tennis star Ashleigh Barty, who recently announced her retirement, in a top-flight golf tournament called the Icon Series. Random guy named Ma gets detained, Alibaba loses USD 26 billion The Global Times' former Editor-in-Chief Hu Xijin clarified on China's Twitter-like platform Weibo that the person detained was a random guy with the surname 'Ma' and NOT Jack Ma, the tycoon. Gallery | In Pics: New Mexico battles United States largest active wildfire Thousands of residents of a historic Old West town in New Mexico face evacuation as fierce winds drove the largest active US wildfire through drought-parched forests.

Top 10 world news: World’s Covid death toll, Elon Musk raises $7.14 billion from investors and more

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Thursday that they are going to evaluate Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children between the age of six months and five years.

This is the only age group not eligible for vaccination in any country and if the Moderna vaccine is authorised, it will be a huge step considering the rise in Covid cases all around the world in the recent past.

"We have just started the evaluation of an application from Moderna to extend the use of Spikevax to children from six months of age to five years," said senior EMA official Marco Cavaleri.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-covid-death-toll-tripled-than-actually-reported-in-2020-21-says-who-476572" hreflang="en">World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO</a>

"This is the first application for this young age group," he added.

The EMA also said that they are looking to approve vaccines which will be able to combat the latest variants of the Coronavirus - mainly Omicron – by September this year, according to Reuters.

"Our priority is to ensure that adaptive vaccines are possibly approved by September at the latest to be ready for the rollout of new immunisation campaigns in the EU in the autumn."

"This would allow manufacturers to adjust their production lines accordingly," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-woman-pinned-down-as-healthcare-workers-forcibly-conduct-covid-19-test-watch-476497">Chinese woman pinned down as COVID-19 test conducted forcibly - WATCH</a>

The mRNA vaccines, made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, are currently undergoing clinical trials.

In related news, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said that the death count related to the pandemic is three times more than the official toll. “New estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the full death toll associated directly or indirectly with #COVID19 pandemic (described as “excess mortality”) between 1 Jan 2020 and 31 Dec 2021 was approximately 14.9 million (range 13.3 million to 16.6 million),” the official statement from WHO stated.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Thursday that they are going to evaluate Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children between the age of six months and five years.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Thursday that they are going to evaluate Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children between the age of six months and five years. This is the only age group not eligible for vaccination in any country and if the Moderna vaccine is authorised, it will be a huge step considering the rise in Covid cases all around the world in the recent past. "We have just started the evaluation of an application from Moderna to extend the use of Spikevax to children from six months of age to five years," said senior EMA official Marco Cavaleri. Also read | World’s Covid death toll triple than actually reported in 2020-21, says WHO "This is the first application for this young age group," he added. The EMA also said that they are looking to approve vaccines which will be able to combat the latest variants of the Coronavirus - mainly Omicron – by September this year, according to Reuters. "Our priority is to ensure that adaptive vaccines are possibly approved by September at the latest to be ready for the rollout of new immunisation campaigns in the EU in the autumn." "This would allow manufacturers to adjust their production lines accordingly," he added. Also read | Chinese woman pinned down as COVID-19 test conducted forcibly - WATCH The mRNA vaccines, made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, are currently undergoing clinical trials. In related news, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said that the death count related to the pandemic is three times more than the official toll. “New estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that the full death toll associated directly or indirectly with #COVID19 pandemic (described as “excess mortality”) between 1 Jan 2020 and 31 Dec 2021 was approximately 14.9 million (range 13.3 million to 16.6 million),” the official statement from WHO stated.

European Medicines Agency assessing Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children under five

The rising COVID-19 cases in Shanghai and Beijing has been the cause of major concern for the authorities and in the past few months, a number of videos have emerged from the regions showing the acute food shortage and shocking living conditions of the people amid the ongoing lockdown.

In a video that has gone viral on Twitter, a woman can be seen pinned down by a man while conducting a Covid test. In the video, the woman can be seen lying on the floor as a man restrains her and forcibly opens her mouth while a&nbsp;healthcare worker takes a swab&nbsp;sample for a COVID-19 test.

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The woman was forced to do COVID-test in China. <a href="https://t.co/2E5Ba0nf15">https://t.co/2E5Ba0nf15</a>
— Dr. Ware Fong_美国方博士 (@WeisheJiang) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeisheJiang/status/1520012599907205120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The video has gained a lot of attention on social media with many users criticising the action.

The internet is filled with such videos as another video on Weibo showed healthcare workers entering the house of an old man by force to conduct mandatory COVID-19 tests.

Earlier, China Central Television reported that a Shanghai resident was mistakenly taken to the city’s Xinchangzheng Welfare Hospital morgue in Putuo district while the person was still alive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-as-severe-as-previous-covid-variants-large-study-finds-476450">Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds</a>

The lockdown in Shanghai has been going on for more than a month and the city government has faced a lot of criticism regarding their handling of the pandemic. Reports suggested that the death toll numbers were not reported properly, and people were not receiving proper healthcare.

Since the lockdown was enforced on March 1, Shanghai has also seen a number of protests with the citizens asking for better healthcare service and proper supply of essential resources.

WATCH |&nbsp;Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cognitive-abilities-can-decline-due-to-severe-covid-reports-476440/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The rising COVID-19 cases in Shanghai and Beijing has been the cause of major concern for the authorities and in the past few months, a number of videos have emerged from the regions showing the acute food shortage and shocking living conditions of the people amid the ongoing lockdown.

The rising COVID-19 cases in Shanghai and Beijing has been the cause of major concern for the authorities and in the past few months, a number of videos have emerged from the regions showing the acute food shortage and shocking living conditions of the people amid the ongoing lockdown. In a video that has gone viral on Twitter, a woman can be seen pinned down by a man while conducting a Covid test. In the video, the woman can be seen lying on the floor as a man restrains her and forcibly opens her mouth while a healthcare worker takes a swab sample for a COVID-19 test. The woman was forced to do COVID-test in China. https://t.co/2E5Ba0nf15 — Dr. Ware Fong_美国方博士 (@WeisheJiang) April 29, 2022 × The video has gained a lot of attention on social media with many users criticising the action. The internet is filled with such videos as another video on Weibo showed healthcare workers entering the house of an old man by force to conduct mandatory COVID-19 tests. Earlier, China Central Television reported that a Shanghai resident was mistakenly taken to the city’s Xinchangzheng Welfare Hospital morgue in Putuo district while the person was still alive. Also read | Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds The lockdown in Shanghai has been going on for more than a month and the city government has faced a lot of criticism regarding their handling of the pandemic. Reports suggested that the death toll numbers were not reported properly, and people were not receiving proper healthcare. Since the lockdown was enforced on March 1, Shanghai has also seen a number of protests with the citizens asking for better healthcare service and proper supply of essential resources. WATCH | Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

Chinese woman pinned down as healthcare workers forcibly conduct COVID-19 test - WATCH

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection.

A press briefing on Tuesday announced that schools in Beijing will reopen at least one week after the labour day holiday. The decision was taken keeping the growing rate of cases in mind.

The date when schools can resume will be decided after studying the COVID situation in the city, Li Yi, spokesperson with Beijing municipal education commission, said according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-hong-kong-plummeted-68-places-in-the-recent-press-freedom-rankings-476076">Why Hong Kong plummeted 68 places in the recent press freedom rankings</a>

Earlier, all the schools in the region were closed one day ahead of schedule for their May Day holidays. There are a number of schools who have already transitioned to online classes and Xinhua news agency reported that students and teachers will need negative tests in order to return.

The testing process is a time-inducing one and Beijing implementing mass testing in some of the areas, the teachers and students will take time to return to the classrooms after the holidays.

53 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Beijing on Wednesday as the city continued to impose strict rules regarding testing and masks. The new directive states that all medical workers and delivery personnel will have to wear masks in closed control areas and temporary control areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-killed-as-al-shabaab-militants-attack-african-union-camp-in-somalia-476036">Three killed as Al-Shabaab militants attack African Union camp in Somalia</a>

Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of the Beijing municipal disease prevention and control centre, said in a press conference that mass testing will be conducted all over the provinces.

WATCH |&nbsp;EU prepares next Russia sanctions including German-backed oil ban

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(With inputs from agencies)

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection.

The rising COVID-19 cases has been the source of major concern for the Chinese authorities and after a serious situation in Shanghai, Beijing has become the epicentre of the pandemic and lockdown was imposed on a number of areas in the capital to contain the infection. A press briefing on Tuesday announced that schools in Beijing will reopen at least one week after the labour day holiday. The decision was taken keeping the growing rate of cases in mind. The date when schools can resume will be decided after studying the COVID situation in the city, Li Yi, spokesperson with Beijing municipal education commission, said according to Reuters. Also read | Why Hong Kong plummeted 68 places in the recent press freedom rankings Earlier, all the schools in the region were closed one day ahead of schedule for their May Day holidays. There are a number of schools who have already transitioned to online classes and Xinhua news agency reported that students and teachers will need negative tests in order to return. The testing process is a time-inducing one and Beijing implementing mass testing in some of the areas, the teachers and students will take time to return to the classrooms after the holidays. 53 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Beijing on Wednesday as the city continued to impose strict rules regarding testing and masks. The new directive states that all medical workers and delivery personnel will have to wear masks in closed control areas and temporary control areas. Also read | Three killed as Al-Shabaab militants attack African Union camp in Somalia Pang Xinghuo, deputy director of the Beijing municipal disease prevention and control centre, said in a press conference that mass testing will be conducted all over the provinces. WATCH | EU prepares next Russia sanctions including German-backed oil ban (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing to postpone school reopening for at least one week after labour day holiday as cases rise

The rising number of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai has been a major concern for the authorities in the last few months and with the city going into lockdown in order to control the pandemic, stories of people facing acute food shortages and poor living conditions have become quite common.

However, in a bizarre incident, China Central Television reported that a Shanghai resident was mistakenly taken to the Shanghai Xinchangzheng Welfare Hospital morgue in Putuo district while the person was still alive. The incident has caused a great deal of anger among the Chinese people.

A video on the social media shows two men carrying a yellow body bag outside the hospital but after opening the bag, they seem to be insisting to a hospital staff that the person is alive.

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This is the video everyone's talking about today, showing how a Shanghai nursing home resident is taken away to the morgue in a body bag. At around 38 sec in the video, the staff member backs away and says: "He's alive. He's alive, I saw it. Don't cover him anymore." <a href="https://t.co/Y3HzRRpxUl">pic.twitter.com/Y3HzRRpxUl</a>
— Manya Koetse (@manyapan) <a href="https://twitter.com/manyapan/status/1521081899644604417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In the aftermath of the incident, the report claimed that the hospital has apologised and an investigation has been launched by the city authorities. It also said that that ​​four people were dismissed from their posts including the director of the Shanghai hospital.

The city government has already faced a lot of criticism for their handling of the pandemic as a number of reports claimed that the hospitals are not reporting the deaths correctly and a large of people were unable to receive essential medical care as the lockdown continued in the city.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-draft-shows-us-court-set-to-strike-down-abortion-rights-politico-475914" hreflang="en">Leaked draft shows US Supreme Court will strike down abortion law: Politico&nbsp;</a>

There have also been a number of protests since the lockdown was enforced on March 1 with the people demanding better healthcare and proper supply of essential resources.

The rising number of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai has been a major concern for the authorities in the last few months and with the city going into lockdown in order to control the pandemic, stories of people facing acute food shortages and poor living conditions have become quite common.

The rising number of COVID-19 cases in Shanghai has been a major concern for the authorities in the last few months and with the city going into lockdown in order to control the pandemic, stories of people facing acute food shortages and poor living conditions have become quite common. However, in a bizarre incident, China Central Television reported that a Shanghai resident was mistakenly taken to the Shanghai Xinchangzheng Welfare Hospital morgue in Putuo district while the person was still alive. The incident has caused a great deal of anger among the Chinese people. A video on the social media shows two men carrying a yellow body bag outside the hospital but after opening the bag, they seem to be insisting to a hospital staff that the person is alive. This is the video everyone's talking about today, showing how a Shanghai nursing home resident is taken away to the morgue in a body bag. At around 38 sec in the video, the staff member backs away and says: "He's alive. He's alive, I saw it. Don't cover him anymore." pic.twitter.com/Y3HzRRpxUl — Manya Koetse (@manyapan) May 2, 2022 × In the aftermath of the incident, the report claimed that the hospital has apologised and an investigation has been launched by the city authorities. It also said that that four people were dismissed from their posts including the director of the Shanghai hospital. The city government has already faced a lot of criticism for their handling of the pandemic as a number of reports claimed that the hospitals are not reporting the deaths correctly and a large of people were unable to receive essential medical care as the lockdown continued in the city. Also read | Leaked draft shows US Supreme Court will strike down abortion law: Politico There have also been a number of protests since the lockdown was enforced on March 1 with the people demanding better healthcare and proper supply of essential resources.

Chinese man declared dead by Shanghai nursing home, found alive in morgue - WATCH

No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”.

The apex court has also asked the Centre to make public data on the possible adverse effects of these immunisations public. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The court gave the judgement in a plea filed by Jacob Puliyel, who had sought directions for the disclosure of the data on clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines and post-jab cases. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-move-coal-fast-by-freeing-tracks-indian-railways-cancels-753-passenger-trains-amid-shortage-475511" hreflang="en">To move coal fast by freeing tracks, Indian Railways cancels 753 passenger trains amid shortage&nbsp;</a>

The current policy of COVID-19 vaccine cannot be said to be manifestly arbitrary and unreasonable, said a bench of Justices, L Nageswara Rao and B R Gavai, who were hearing the case. &nbsp;

Bodily autonomy and integrity are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution, the top court said. &nbsp;

"Till numbers are low, we suggest that relevant orders are followed and no restriction is imposed on unvaccinated individuals on access to public areas or recall the same if already not done," the bench added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani

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As far as the segregation of vaccine trial data, subject to privacy of individuals, is concerned, all trials conducted and to be subsequently conducted, all the data must be available to the public without any delay, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Centre was also directed by the apex court to publish any report on adverse events of vaccines from the public and doctors on a publicly accessible system without compromising on the data of individuals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”.

No person can be forced to get vaccinated against COVID-19, India’s Supreme Court said on Monday, while noting that the central government's Covid-19 vaccination policy “cannot be said to be unreasonable or manifestly arbitrary”. The apex court has also asked the Centre to make public data on the possible adverse effects of these immunisations public. The court gave the judgement in a plea filed by Jacob Puliyel, who had sought directions for the disclosure of the data on clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccines and post-jab cases. Also Read: To move coal fast by freeing tracks, Indian Railways cancels 753 passenger trains amid shortage The current policy of COVID-19 vaccine cannot be said to be manifestly arbitrary and unreasonable, said a bench of Justices, L Nageswara Rao and B R Gavai, who were hearing the case. Bodily autonomy and integrity are protected under Article 21 of the Constitution, the top court said. "Till numbers are low, we suggest that relevant orders are followed and no restriction is imposed on unvaccinated individuals on access to public areas or recall the same if already not done," the bench added. Watch: Indians are people with a lot of humility, says Indian-origin German politician Dr Bala S Ramani × As far as the segregation of vaccine trial data, subject to privacy of individuals, is concerned, all trials conducted and to be subsequently conducted, all the data must be available to the public without any delay, it said. The Centre was also directed by the apex court to publish any report on adverse events of vaccines from the public and doctors on a publicly accessible system without compromising on the data of individuals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: India's Supreme Court against restrictions on unvaccinated in public places

Even after a month-long citywide lockdown, the highly transmissible Omicron variant's daily new Covid-19 cases reappeared in unsecured low-risk zones, highlighting the problems in stamping out the highly transmissible Omicron variant.

According to official data issued on Monday, new cases fell for the ninth day in a row, dropping 6.8% to 7,333 in the preceding 24 hours. The number of symptomatic cases declined by 7.7% to 727, while the mortality toll dropped by 16% to 32 from the day before.

On a May Day vacation few were celebrating, authorities reported 58 new COVID-19 cases outside quarantine regions, while Beijing continued to test millions of its citizens.

In Shanghai, tough anti-coronavirus measures have sparked unusual public outrage, with millions of the city's 25 million residents locked indoors for more than a month, some confined to fenced-in residential areas, and many unable to obtain basic supplies.

Residents of Shanghai breathed a sigh of relief over the weekend when it was announced that no cases had been confirmed outside of quarantine regions for two days, but bad news arrived on Monday with the announcement of 58 new illnesses.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Even after a month-long citywide lockdown, the highly transmissible Omicron variant's daily new Covid-19 cases reappeared in unsecured low-risk zones, highlighting the problems in stamping out the highly transmissible Omicron variant.

Even after a month-long citywide lockdown, the highly transmissible Omicron variant's daily new Covid-19 cases reappeared in unsecured low-risk zones, highlighting the problems in stamping out the highly transmissible Omicron variant. According to official data issued on Monday, new cases fell for the ninth day in a row, dropping 6.8% to 7,333 in the preceding 24 hours. The number of symptomatic cases declined by 7.7% to 727, while the mortality toll dropped by 16% to 32 from the day before. On a May Day vacation few were celebrating, authorities reported 58 new COVID-19 cases outside quarantine regions, while Beijing continued to test millions of its citizens. In Shanghai, tough anti-coronavirus measures have sparked unusual public outrage, with millions of the city's 25 million residents locked indoors for more than a month, some confined to fenced-in residential areas, and many unable to obtain basic supplies. Residents of Shanghai breathed a sigh of relief over the weekend when it was announced that no cases had been confirmed outside of quarantine regions for two days, but bad news arrived on Monday with the announcement of 58 new illnesses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19 battle in Shanghai: City posts 58 new cases in low-risk zones 

US infectious disease expert, Anthony Fauci has now issued a grim warning that the pandemic is far from over. He added that it is impossible for US to completely eliminate COVID but they should strive to control the spread of the virus

US can't eliminate the COVID-19 virus completely : Anthony Fauci

China's Zero-tolerance COVID policies is facing wrath from its own people. The residents of Shanghai are protesting against the month-long lockdown and difficulties in obtaining provisions by banging pots and pans.

People in Shanghai bang pans and pots against China's COVID policy

As China is reeling under the Covid-19 wave, with its cities facing strict restrictions, this couple’s plan was put on hold due to Covid. The couple in Shanghai went ahead with what they had in mind with a different approach.

Love during Covid: What this Shanghai coupled did during lockdown

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different. There has been an increase in cases lately and officials fear that the African nation may be entering the fifth wave of the pandemic.

According to the scientists in South Africa, the country has seen a huge rise in case due to the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants and that can result into the beginning of the fifth wave. There has been some variation to Omicron, but the experts are not worried with the slight changes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-guyana-is-looking-towards-india-as-a-global-leader-says-foreign-minister-hugh-hilton-todd-474928">Exclusive | Guyana is looking towards India as a global leader, says FM</a>

In an official health briefing, health minister Joe Phaahla said that the experts have not found any new variant and although hospitalisation has gone up, the death rate has remained constant.

South Africa had the worst case and death numbers in Africa during the fourth wave of COVID-19 and the experts are fearing a similar issue if they experience the fifth wave around May-June.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-regulatory-crackdown-china-to-hold-symposium-with-the-countrys-big-tech-firms-474875">End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms</a>

Overall, around 3.7 million Covid cases have been reported in South Africa till now with the death toll crossing 100,000. It was pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that South Africa was partly responsible for the surge of COVID-19 cases in the African continent.

The last few months have seen a resurgence of COVID-19 cases all around the world. China and South Korea have reported record number of cases with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going into lockdown and the government conducting mass testing in various parts of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different.

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different. There has been an increase in cases lately and officials fear that the African nation may be entering the fifth wave of the pandemic. According to the scientists in South Africa, the country has seen a huge rise in case due to the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants and that can result into the beginning of the fifth wave. There has been some variation to Omicron, but the experts are not worried with the slight changes. Also read | Exclusive | Guyana is looking towards India as a global leader, says FM In an official health briefing, health minister Joe Phaahla said that the experts have not found any new variant and although hospitalisation has gone up, the death rate has remained constant. South Africa had the worst case and death numbers in Africa during the fourth wave of COVID-19 and the experts are fearing a similar issue if they experience the fifth wave around May-June. Also read | End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms Overall, around 3.7 million Covid cases have been reported in South Africa till now with the death toll crossing 100,000. It was pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that South Africa was partly responsible for the surge of COVID-19 cases in the African continent. The last few months have seen a resurgence of COVID-19 cases all around the world. China and South Korea have reported record number of cases with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going into lockdown and the government conducting mass testing in various parts of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa on the verge of COVID-19 fifth wave as cases and hospitalisations continue to rise

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-more-than-3000-new-cases-and-39-deaths-474526">&nbsp;COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

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India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

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The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra.

A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-fourth-covid-19-wave-fears-india-reports-3303-new-cases-active-cases-increase-to-16980-474564">Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases</a>

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also read | COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore. Watch | Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra. A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal. Also read | Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India's active cases rise to 17,801

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is not even close to being over. It wreaked havoc across the world since it was first identified in late 2019 in China. The world is not at all ready for another pandemic? However, researchers have issued a warning about future pandemics.&nbsp;

A recent study, published in Nature journal stated that because of climate change, thousands of new and emerging viruses might jump from animals to humans in the coming years.&nbsp;

The peer-reviewed paper titled "Climate change increases cross-species viral transmission risk" predicts that if global temperatures rise by 2 Celsius, at least 15,000 new cross-species viral transmissions to happen by 2070.&nbsp;

The study explained that due to fast environmental change, several species will move from one place to another to track shifting climates.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/you-think-videoconferencing-is-the-new-normal-but-it-hinders-creativity-study-tells-474459">You think videoconferencing is the new normal? But it hinders creativity, study claims</a>

In the process of shifting they will bring their parasites and pathogens into new environments, which poses threat to global health, particularly given several "recent epidemics and pandemics of viruses that originate in wildlife".&nbsp;

Part of the study read: "Climate and land use change will produce novel opportunities for viral sharing among previously geographically-isolated species of wildlife."&nbsp;

Gregory Albery, who is an expert in disease ecology at Georgetown University and also the co-author of the paper, said that "as the world changes, the face of disease will change too."&nbsp;

"This work provides more incontrovertible evidence that the coming decades will not only be hotter, but sicker. We have demonstrated a novel and potentially devastating mechanism for disease emergence that could threaten the health of animals in the future and will likely have ramifications for us, too," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fascinating-fact-giant-moon-of-saturn-has-a-earth-like-landscape-474452">Fascinating fact: Saturn Moon Titan has Earth-like landscape</a>

Albery further added that said that climate change is "shaking ecosystems to their core". The process is apparently causing alarming interactions between species that are prone to spreading viruses.&nbsp;

Albery said, "This is happing, it’s not preventable even in the best case climate change scenarios and we need to put measures in place to build health infrastructure to protect animal and human populations."&nbsp;

Will be able to stop it? Well, Albery noted that even drastic action to address the temperature rise now won't be enough to halt the risks.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

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The mass movement of species will lead to encountering among species, may for the first time. The process might create unique opportunities for viruses to transmit.&nbsp;

As per the study, areas of high human population density in Asia and Africa are highlighted by the authors as it will drive the novel cross-species transmission of their viruses an estimated 4,000 times.&nbsp;

"We predict that species will aggregate in new combinations at high elevations, in biodiversity hotspots, and in areas of high human population density in Asia and Africa, driving the novel cross-species transmission of their viruses an estimated 4,000 times," the study mentions.&nbsp;

As per the study, bats account for the majority of novel viral sharing because of their unique dispersal capacity.&nbsp;

They are likely to share viruses along evolutionary pathways that will facilitate future emergence in humans.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;

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The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is not even close to being over. It wreaked havoc across the world since it was first identified in late 2019 in China. The world is not at all ready for another pandemic?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is not even close to being over. It wreaked havoc across the world since it was first identified in late 2019 in China. The world is not at all ready for another pandemic? However, researchers have issued a warning about future pandemics. A recent study, published in Nature journal stated that because of climate change, thousands of new and emerging viruses might jump from animals to humans in the coming years. The peer-reviewed paper titled "Climate change increases cross-species viral transmission risk" predicts that if global temperatures rise by 2 Celsius, at least 15,000 new cross-species viral transmissions to happen by 2070. The study explained that due to fast environmental change, several species will move from one place to another to track shifting climates. ALSO READ | You think videoconferencing is the new normal? But it hinders creativity, study claims In the process of shifting they will bring their parasites and pathogens into new environments, which poses threat to global health, particularly given several "recent epidemics and pandemics of viruses that originate in wildlife". Part of the study read: "Climate and land use change will produce novel opportunities for viral sharing among previously geographically-isolated species of wildlife." Gregory Albery, who is an expert in disease ecology at Georgetown University and also the co-author of the paper, said that "as the world changes, the face of disease will change too." "This work provides more incontrovertible evidence that the coming decades will not only be hotter, but sicker. We have demonstrated a novel and potentially devastating mechanism for disease emergence that could threaten the health of animals in the future and will likely have ramifications for us, too," he added. ALSO READ | Fascinating fact: Saturn Moon Titan has Earth-like landscape Albery further added that said that climate change is "shaking ecosystems to their core". The process is apparently causing alarming interactions between species that are prone to spreading viruses. Albery said, "This is happing, it’s not preventable even in the best case climate change scenarios and we need to put measures in place to build health infrastructure to protect animal and human populations." Will be able to stop it? Well, Albery noted that even drastic action to address the temperature rise now won't be enough to halt the risks. WATCH | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed × The mass movement of species will lead to encountering among species, may for the first time. The process might create unique opportunities for viruses to transmit. As per the study, areas of high human population density in Asia and Africa are highlighted by the authors as it will drive the novel cross-species transmission of their viruses an estimated 4,000 times. "We predict that species will aggregate in new combinations at high elevations, in biodiversity hotspots, and in areas of high human population density in Asia and Africa, driving the novel cross-species transmission of their viruses an estimated 4,000 times," the study mentions. As per the study, bats account for the majority of novel viral sharing because of their unique dispersal capacity. They are likely to share viruses along evolutionary pathways that will facilitate future emergence in humans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

What's next after COVID-19? Global heating may cause 'potentially devastating' future pandemics

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further

Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population.

As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-guangzhou-city-orders-flight-cancellation-mass-testing-after-suspected-covid-19-case-474576">China's Guangzhou city orders flight cancellation, mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case</a>

Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park.

Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative.

On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case.

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"I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school.

(With inputs from agencies)

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown. Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population. As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university. Also Read | China's Guangzhou city orders flight cancellation, mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park. Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative. On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × "I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing steps up Covid screening to avoid Shanghai-like fate

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693.

The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-three-arrested-for-trafficking-arms-for-terrorists-474521" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists</a>

Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab.

According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-fight-against-cybercrime-indian-govt-makes-strenuous-efforts-to-spread-awareness-474445" hreflang="en">In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness</a>

Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts.

However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours.

WATCH |&nbsp;LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

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The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health.

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693. The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab. According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April. Also read | In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts. However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. WATCH | LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases

An autopsy-based study was undertaken by Indian researchers to understand and analyse the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who lost their lives to the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Several other studies have also found signs of the subclinical impact of Covid across the body. From cardiovascular to pulmonary and renal function, the impact&nbsp;is seen with uncertain long-term effects.&nbsp;

The study aimed at understanding to what extent the organs like lungs, kidneys, heart, etc were damaged and understanding the pathophysiology of the disease.&nbsp;

Later correlating with the histopathological and virological findings with the antemortem clinical and biochemical determinants.&nbsp;

The study titled "Clinical, Virological, and Pathological Profile of Patients Who Died of COVID-19: An Autopsy-Based Study From India" was published in March 2022 in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-coronavirus-pandemic-contributed-to-the-risk-of-drug-overdose-474156">How coronavirus pandemic contributed to the risk of drug overdose</a>

As per the results, it has been established that in 90.4 per cent of cases, the presence of viral RNA was observed in all the organs including the liver (57.1%) and kidney (66.6%).&nbsp;

"Our team took the lead to carry out the first autopsy-based study in India. Until then, ICMR and the ministry of health were advising not to carry out autopsies on Covid-19 patients," former AIIMS-Bhopal director Dr Sarman Singh was quoted by Times Of India as saying.&nbsp;

"The important finding is that the virus goes to almost all the organs, besides the lungs and liver," added Dr Singh, who is currently at IISER Bhopal and is an adjunct professor (biological sciences).&nbsp;

To carry out the study, a complete autopsy was performed on 21 cases including 15 males and six females who had succumbed to COVID-19 infection. All the patients had been admitted for the treatment of the deadly disease.&nbsp;

WATCH | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

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The age of the patients ranged from 25-84 years and of these patients, 20 (95.2%) had presented with comorbidities at the time of hospital admission.&nbsp;

The study further added that five cases (23.8%) had presented with single comorbidity whereas 15 cases (71.4%) had presented with multiple comorbidities.&nbsp;

The study also found that "no correlation between the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score recorded clinically and lung histopathology was observed; nor was there any correlation between blood urea-creatinine levels and kidney histopathology."&nbsp;

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An autopsy-based study was undertaken by Indian researchers to understand and analyse the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who lost their lives to the deadly virus.

An autopsy-based study was undertaken by Indian researchers to understand and analyse the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who lost their lives to the deadly virus. Several other studies have also found signs of the subclinical impact of Covid across the body. From cardiovascular to pulmonary and renal function, the impact is seen with uncertain long-term effects. The study aimed at understanding to what extent the organs like lungs, kidneys, heart, etc were damaged and understanding the pathophysiology of the disease. Later correlating with the histopathological and virological findings with the antemortem clinical and biochemical determinants. The study titled "Clinical, Virological, and Pathological Profile of Patients Who Died of COVID-19: An Autopsy-Based Study From India" was published in March 2022 in Cureus Journal of Medical Science. ALSO READ | How coronavirus pandemic contributed to the risk of drug overdose As per the results, it has been established that in 90.4 per cent of cases, the presence of viral RNA was observed in all the organs including the liver (57.1%) and kidney (66.6%). "Our team took the lead to carry out the first autopsy-based study in India. Until then, ICMR and the ministry of health were advising not to carry out autopsies on Covid-19 patients," former AIIMS-Bhopal director Dr Sarman Singh was quoted by Times Of India as saying. "The important finding is that the virus goes to almost all the organs, besides the lungs and liver," added Dr Singh, who is currently at IISER Bhopal and is an adjunct professor (biological sciences). To carry out the study, a complete autopsy was performed on 21 cases including 15 males and six females who had succumbed to COVID-19 infection. All the patients had been admitted for the treatment of the deadly disease. WATCH | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed × ALSO READ | Covid pandemic increased antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections: Study The age of the patients ranged from 25-84 years and of these patients, 20 (95.2%) had presented with comorbidities at the time of hospital admission. The study further added that five cases (23.8%) had presented with single comorbidity whereas 15 cases (71.4%) had presented with multiple comorbidities. The study also found that "no correlation between the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score recorded clinically and lung histopathology was observed; nor was there any correlation between blood urea-creatinine levels and kidney histopathology." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Autopsy-based Indian study reveals deadly coronavirus 'goes to almost all the organs'

The unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) impacted the lives of people across the world. The deadly virus left millions dead and others grieving. People also suffered from long Covid that led to a range of ill impacts on the health of people people.

The pandemic disrupted the lives of people who use drugs in ways that hurt their mental health. According to a study, Covid changed behaviours of drug use, increasing the risk for overdose.&nbsp;

The US study 'Trends in Drug Overdose Deaths Among US Adolescents, January 2010 to June 2021', published this month in JAMA Network analysed drug use.&nbsp;

It noted that the drug supply has increasingly become "contaminated with illicitly manufactured fentanyls and other synthetic opioid and benzodiazepine analogues".&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-pandemic-increased-antibiotic-resistant-bacterial-infections-study-473991">Covid pandemic increased antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections: Study</a>

"Adolescent drug use rates remained generally stable between 2010 and 2020, with 30.2% and 30.4%, respectively, of 10th-graders reporting any illicit drug use in the past 12 months, which declined to 18.7% of 10th-graders in 2021," the study noted, referring US-based data.&nbsp;

Drug overdoses have soared during the Covid-19 pandemic, with US overdose deaths topping 100,000 during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, India-based news agency IANS reported, quoting a study published in the journal Addiction Science and Clinical Practice.&nbsp;

As per researchers, the pandemic and strategies for preventing the spread of the virus, such as stay-at-home orders, may have contributed to this increase in deaths.&nbsp;

"We know that there has been a tragic increase in overdose deaths during the pandemic. Our study provides insight into why and how there have been more overdose deaths," said Suzan Walters, research assistant professor at New York University's School of Global Public Health.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dangerous-superbugs-may-get-transmitted-from-pigs-to-humans-say-scientists-473502">Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists </a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

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The study mentioned that people who use drugs and live in rural areas may be impacted by changes brought on during the pandemic. The reason is many rural areas have higher rates of opioid and methamphetamine use.&nbsp;

Between August 2020 and May 2021, the researchers conducted surveys with 50 individuals who use opioids (without a prescription) or inject drugs, and did in-depth interviews with a subset of 17 participants.&nbsp;

Only 38 per cent of participants felt confident that they could maintain a stable income during the pandemic. Three-quarters of the survey respondents felt more anxious or on edge during the pandemic. More than half felt more depressed and nearly half felt lonelier.&nbsp;

Such issues lead to anxiety and depression, which is associated with increased substance use, which in turn can increase the risk for overdose.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) impacted the lives of people across the world. The deadly virus left millions dead and others grieving. People also suffered from long Covid that led to a range of ill impacts on the health of people people.

The unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) impacted the lives of people across the world. The deadly virus left millions dead and others grieving. People also suffered from long Covid that led to a range of ill impacts on the health of people people. The pandemic disrupted the lives of people who use drugs in ways that hurt their mental health. According to a study, Covid changed behaviours of drug use, increasing the risk for overdose. The US study 'Trends in Drug Overdose Deaths Among US Adolescents, January 2010 to June 2021', published this month in JAMA Network analysed drug use. It noted that the drug supply has increasingly become "contaminated with illicitly manufactured fentanyls and other synthetic opioid and benzodiazepine analogues". ALSO READ | Covid pandemic increased antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections: Study "Adolescent drug use rates remained generally stable between 2010 and 2020, with 30.2% and 30.4%, respectively, of 10th-graders reporting any illicit drug use in the past 12 months, which declined to 18.7% of 10th-graders in 2021," the study noted, referring US-based data. Drug overdoses have soared during the Covid-19 pandemic, with US overdose deaths topping 100,000 during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, India-based news agency IANS reported, quoting a study published in the journal Addiction Science and Clinical Practice. As per researchers, the pandemic and strategies for preventing the spread of the virus, such as stay-at-home orders, may have contributed to this increase in deaths. "We know that there has been a tragic increase in overdose deaths during the pandemic. Our study provides insight into why and how there have been more overdose deaths," said Suzan Walters, research assistant professor at New York University's School of Global Public Health. ALSO READ | Dangerous superbugs may get transmitted from pigs to humans, say scientists WATCH | If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed × The study mentioned that people who use drugs and live in rural areas may be impacted by changes brought on during the pandemic. The reason is many rural areas have higher rates of opioid and methamphetamine use. Between August 2020 and May 2021, the researchers conducted surveys with 50 individuals who use opioids (without a prescription) or inject drugs, and did in-depth interviews with a subset of 17 participants. Only 38 per cent of participants felt confident that they could maintain a stable income during the pandemic. Three-quarters of the survey respondents felt more anxious or on edge during the pandemic. More than half felt more depressed and nearly half felt lonelier. Such issues lead to anxiety and depression, which is associated with increased substance use, which in turn can increase the risk for overdose. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × (With inputs from agencies)

How coronavirus pandemic contributed to the risk of drug overdose

Delhi Capitals (DC) have received a huge boost ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert have rejoined the DC camp after recovering from COVID-19. The two players were forced into isolation after testing positive for the virus last week.

While Marsh had to be admitted to a hospital after testing positive for the virus, Seifert tested positive after the Australian all-rounder. The duo has now recovered and also completed their mandatory quarantine period to train with the rest of the squad once again.

Marsh and Seifert were spotted training with the DC squad ahead of their clash against KKR on Wednesday. "We are feeling Good. Great to have you back at the training, boys," DC wrote in a social media post while welcoming the duo.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We are feeling GOOD 
 
Great to have you back at the training, boys <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiCapitals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/k9XLbx44qd">pic.twitter.com/k9XLbx44qd</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1519313420658479104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-head-coach-stephen-fleming-explains-why-rajvardhan-hangargekar-is-yet-to-feature-in-ipl-2022-474377">CSK head coach Stephen Fleming explains why Rajvardhan Hangargekar is yet to feature in IPL 2022</a>

Despite a string of positive cases in their camp, Delhi Capitals had taken the field in their clash against Punjab Kings on April 20 before locking horns with Rajasthan Royals in their last game on April 22. DC head coach Ricky Ponting had to miss the clash against RR as he was placed in quarantine after one of his family members also tested positive.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/broke-3-4-tv-remotes-threw-water-bottles-ricky-ponting-recalls-watching-dcs-dramatic-clash-against-rr-474298">'Broke 3-4 TV remotes, threw water bottles':&nbsp;Ponting recalls watching DC's dramatic clash against RR</a>

Delhi Capitals lost their game against Rajasthan Royals by 15 runs after the last-over drama at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. DC came close to chasing down 223 runs but fell short after a dramatic final over. They will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways when they go up against KKR on Thursday.

With just three wins in eight matches so far this season, Delhi Capitals are currently placed at the seventh spot on the points table.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have received a huge boost ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert have rejoined the DC camp after recovering from COVID-19.

Delhi Capitals (DC) have received a huge boost ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Both Mitchell Marsh and Tim Seifert have rejoined the DC camp after recovering from COVID-19. The two players were forced into isolation after testing positive for the virus last week. While Marsh had to be admitted to a hospital after testing positive for the virus, Seifert tested positive after the Australian all-rounder. The duo has now recovered and also completed their mandatory quarantine period to train with the rest of the squad once again. Marsh and Seifert were spotted training with the DC squad ahead of their clash against KKR on Wednesday. "We are feeling Good. Great to have you back at the training, boys," DC wrote in a social media post while welcoming the duo. We are feeling GOOD Great to have you back at the training, boys #YehHaiNayiDilli | #IPL2022#TATAIPL | #IPL | #DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/k9XLbx44qd — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) April 27, 2022 × Also Read: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming explains why Rajvardhan Hangargekar is yet to feature in IPL 2022 Despite a string of positive cases in their camp, Delhi Capitals had taken the field in their clash against Punjab Kings on April 20 before locking horns with Rajasthan Royals in their last game on April 22. DC head coach Ricky Ponting had to miss the clash against RR as he was placed in quarantine after one of his family members also tested positive. Also Read: 'Broke 3-4 TV remotes, threw water bottles': Ponting recalls watching DC's dramatic clash against RR Delhi Capitals lost their game against Rajasthan Royals by 15 runs after the last-over drama at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. DC came close to chasing down 223 runs but fell short after a dramatic final over. They will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways when they go up against KKR on Thursday. With just three wins in eight matches so far this season, Delhi Capitals are currently placed at the seventh spot on the points table.

Huge boost for Delhi Capitals as Mitchell Marsh, Tim Seifert rejoin camp after recovering from COVID-19

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-through-taiwan-strait-china-calls-it-provocative-action-474306">US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action'</a>

There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population.

"This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-putin-unwell-videos-of-russian-prez-appearing-fidgety-at-easter-cathedral-service-sparks-health-rumours-474293">Videos of Putin appearing fidgety at Easter service sparks health rumours</a>

The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms.

Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases.

WATCH |&nbsp;China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-surge-mandatory-mass-testing-enters-3rd-day-in-beijing-474308/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters. The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population. "This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters. Also read | Videos of Putin appearing fidgety at Easter service sparks health rumours The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms. Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases. WATCH | China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing (With inputs from agencies)

EU set to embrace new COVID-19 pandemic phase with steady decrease in cases - Report

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