<p>UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday cancelled a trip to northern England after a relative was found positive with Covid. The cancellation has come a day after Johnson apologised over a party he had when lockdown was in effect.</p>

<p>"The prime minister will no longer be visiting Lancashire today due to a family member testing positive for coronavirus," a Downing Street spokesperson said.</p>

<p>"He will follow the guidance for vaccinated close contacts, including daily testing and limiting contact with others."</p>

<p>In Britain, self-isolation is no longer required for fully vaccinated people after they come into contact with infected person. However, they are advised to "limit close contact with other people outside your household".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-was-a-forced-apology-netizens-slam-boris-johnson-for-bring-your-own-booze-party-at-downing-street-444329lso">'It was a forced apology': Netizens slam Boris Johnson for 'bring your own booze' party at Downing Street</a></strong></p>

<p>Johnson lives in a Downing Street flat with his wife Carrie and their two small children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For his critics, Johnson's scrupulous adherence to the rules now will contrast with his attendance at a party in the Downing Street garden in May 2020, when Britain was under a strict lockdown.</p>

<p>After days of stonewalling the scandal, on Wednesday he issued "heartfelt apologies", conceding that millions had observed the lockdown even at the cost of missing final farewells to dying relatives.</p>

<p>But opposition parties and even some Conservatives are demanding Johnson resign.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday cancelled a trip to northern England after a relative was found positive with Covid. The cancellation has come a day after Johnson apologised over a party he had when lockdown was in effect.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday cancelled a trip to northern England after a relative was found positive with Covid. The cancellation has come a day after Johnson apologised over a party he had when lockdown was in effect. "The prime minister will no longer be visiting Lancashire today due to a family member testing positive for coronavirus," a Downing Street spokesperson said. "He will follow the guidance for vaccinated close contacts, including daily testing and limiting contact with others." In Britain, self-isolation is no longer required for fully vaccinated people after they come into contact with infected person. However, they are advised to "limit close contact with other people outside your household". Also Read | 'It was a forced apology': Netizens slam Boris Johnson for 'bring your own booze' party at Downing Street Johnson lives in a Downing Street flat with his wife Carrie and their two small children. For his critics, Johnson's scrupulous adherence to the rules now will contrast with his attendance at a party in the Downing Street garden in May 2020, when Britain was under a strict lockdown. After days of stonewalling the scandal, on Wednesday he issued "heartfelt apologies", conceding that millions had observed the lockdown even at the cost of missing final farewells to dying relatives. But opposition parties and even some Conservatives are demanding Johnson resign. (With inputs from agencies)

A day after lockdown party apology, UK PM cancels trip as family member tests positive for Covid

<p>The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022.</p>

<p>As per reports, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is monitoring the Covid-19 situation in India and have Plan B in mind as well. While BCCI wants the IPL to be held in India itself, the third wave of Covid-19 virus is knocking on the door and no one can predict how things pan out with regard to the virus spread in the coming days. Though BCCI have also been contemplating the idea of organising the cash-rich league in Maharashtra, the state is reporting the highest number of Covid cases at present. Hence, as per a report in Indian Express, the board will go ahead and organise the league in Sri Lanka or South Africa (as per their Plan B).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-in-bengaluru-as-dates-confirmed-after-governing-council-meeting-443975"><strong>IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting</strong></a></p>

<p><em>“We can’t be dependent on UAE all the time so we decided to explore more options, South Africa’s time difference also works out well for the players,”</em>&nbsp;said a BCCI official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>“The place where the team was staying for the second Test is spread over several acres. There were walking tracks and even a pond on the property and that has made things easier for the players who for the last couple of years or so have been confined to their rooms on several overseas tours,”</em>&nbsp;said an official.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tata-to-be-new-title-sponsor-of-indian-premier-league-after-vivo-pulls-out-443830"><strong>Tata to be new title sponsor of Indian Premier League after Vivo pulls out</strong></a></p>

<p>The last two editions of IPL have majorily been held in the UAE. IPL 2020 was entirely held in the Middle East whereas last year's edition's second leg was hosted in UAE. While Sri Lanka have never hosted an IPL season, SA were the hosts for IPL 2009.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BCCI is willing to take the IPL to SA seeing how smoothly the ongoing India-Proteas Test series has gone by despite many doubting if the tour would go on, in early December 2021, after the Omicron spread in the rainbow nation.</p>

<p>For the unversed, the Omicron threat has already been nullified in the African nation, with the country also lifting restrictions that were imposed about a month ago.</p>


The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, 2021. During the recent IPL General Council meeting, on Tuesday (January 11), some big decisions were made, such as Tata group becoming the title sponsor for the cash-rich league, auction dates and venues being confirmed, however, nothing was revealed about the schedule and venues for IPL 2022. As per reports, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is monitoring the Covid-19 situation in India and have Plan B in mind as well. While BCCI wants the IPL to be held in India itself, the third wave of Covid-19 virus is knocking on the door and no one can predict how things pan out with regard to the virus spread in the coming days. Though BCCI have also been contemplating the idea of organising the cash-rich league in Maharashtra, the state is reporting the highest number of Covid cases at present. Hence, as per a report in Indian Express, the board will go ahead and organise the league in Sri Lanka or South Africa (as per their Plan B). ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting “We can’t be dependent on UAE all the time so we decided to explore more options, South Africa’s time difference also works out well for the players,” said a BCCI official. “The place where the team was staying for the second Test is spread over several acres. There were walking tracks and even a pond on the property and that has made things easier for the players who for the last couple of years or so have been confined to their rooms on several overseas tours,” said an official. ALSO READ | Tata to be new title sponsor of Indian Premier League after Vivo pulls out The last two editions of IPL have majorily been held in the UAE. IPL 2020 was entirely held in the Middle East whereas last year's edition's second leg was hosted in UAE. While Sri Lanka have never hosted an IPL season, SA were the hosts for IPL 2009. BCCI is willing to take the IPL to SA seeing how smoothly the ongoing India-Proteas Test series has gone by despite many doubting if the tour would go on, in early December 2021, after the Omicron spread in the rainbow nation. For the unversed, the Omicron threat has already been nullified in the African nation, with the country also lifting restrictions that were imposed about a month ago.

Not UAE? BCCI contemplating staging IPL 2022 in Sri Lanka or South Africa as Plan B: Report

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="20">The global economy is facing a dramatic downturn due to new dangers from COVID-19 variants, as well as rising inflation, debt, and income inequality, which might jeopardise the recovery in emerging and developing economies, according to the World Bank.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="23">As pent-up demand fades, fiscal and monetary assistance is removed around the world, and supply disruptions linger, global growth is predicted to slow to 4.1 percent in 2022 and 3.2 percent in 2023, according to the Washington-based lender's Global Economic Prospects report released on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="24">Following a strong rebound in 2021, the global economy is entering a pronounced slowdown amid fresh threats from COVID-19 variants and a rise in inflation, debt, and income inequality that could endanger the recovery in emerging and developing economies.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-was-in-canadian-wastewater-in-november-before-it-was-found-in-south-africa-443845"><strong>Also read | Omicron was in Canadian wastewater in November before it was found in South Africa</strong></a><br />
<br />
The World Bank said that global growth is expected to decelerate markedly from 5.5 percent in 2021 to 4.1 percent in 2022 and 3.2 percent in 2023 as pent-up demand dissipates and as fiscal and monetary support is unwound across the world.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="25">The World Bank said economic growth in Europe and Central Asia will slow to 3 percent in 2022 and decline further to 2.9 percent in 2023, the World Bank said.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Gravitas: Omicron ushers in another supply chain crisis</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-omicron-ushers-in-another-supply-chain-crisis-443995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="26">ECA growth is expected to slow to 3% in 2022, roughly half of what it was in 2021, as tighter macroeconomic policy and recurring COVID-19 outbreaks, including from Omicron, weigh on demand.Regional growth is forecast to continue to ease in 2023, reaching 2.9 per cent, as fiscal support continues to be withdrawn, "the report said.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="27">According to a World Bank report released in 2020, the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic — which triggered the worst recession since the Great Depression in the 1930s — was greater in middle-income and poor countries, reversing gains made in reducing poverty levels over the previous two decades.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus returns to China</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-returns-to-china-443992/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="28">New COVID-19 outbreaks, persistent supply chain bottlenecks, and inflationary pressures could increase the risk of a hard landing in emerging markets and developing economies, according to the lender, at a time when many governments in developing economies lack the policy space to support activity if needed.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="29">According to the report, the downturn will correspond with a widening gap in growth rates between advanced and emerging nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="30"><strong>India to grow at 8.3%</strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="31">India, on the other hand, is a relative bright spot in the South Asian picture.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="32">The bank's forecast for India's growth in 2021-22 remains unchanged from its June forecast.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="33">However, the forecasts for 2022-23 and 2023-24 have been revised to 8.7% and 6.8%, respectively, "indicating higher private sector and infrastructure investment, as well as dividends from continuing reforms."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="34">According to preliminary estimates from the country's statistics office, India's GDP will increase 9.2 percent this fiscal year, ensuring that the economy will surpass its pre-pandemic level (2019–20).</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="35">In December, most high frequency indicators were at or above pre-pandemic levels, while limits imposed by the Omicron-driven third wave of the coronavirus pandemic caused increased disruptions in January.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="36"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The global economy is facing a dramatic downturn due to new dangers from COVID-19 variants, as well as rising inflation, debt, and income inequality, which might jeopardise the recovery in emerging and developing economies, according to the World Bank.

The global economy is facing a dramatic downturn due to new dangers from COVID-19 variants, as well as rising inflation, debt, and income inequality, which might jeopardise the recovery in emerging and developing economies, according to the World Bank. As pent-up demand fades, fiscal and monetary assistance is removed around the world, and supply disruptions linger, global growth is predicted to slow to 4.1 percent in 2022 and 3.2 percent in 2023, according to the Washington-based lender's Global Economic Prospects report released on Tuesday. Following a strong rebound in 2021, the global economy is entering a pronounced slowdown amid fresh threats from COVID-19 variants and a rise in inflation, debt, and income inequality that could endanger the recovery in emerging and developing economies. Also read | Omicron was in Canadian wastewater in November before it was found in South Africa The World Bank said that global growth is expected to decelerate markedly from 5.5 percent in 2021 to 4.1 percent in 2022 and 3.2 percent in 2023 as pent-up demand dissipates and as fiscal and monetary support is unwound across the world. The World Bank said economic growth in Europe and Central Asia will slow to 3 percent in 2022 and decline further to 2.9 percent in 2023, the World Bank said. Watch | Gravitas: Omicron ushers in another supply chain crisis ECA growth is expected to slow to 3% in 2022, roughly half of what it was in 2021, as tighter macroeconomic policy and recurring COVID-19 outbreaks, including from Omicron, weigh on demand.Regional growth is forecast to continue to ease in 2023, reaching 2.9 per cent, as fiscal support continues to be withdrawn, "the report said. According to a World Bank report released in 2020, the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic — which triggered the worst recession since the Great Depression in the 1930s — was greater in middle-income and poor countries, reversing gains made in reducing poverty levels over the previous two decades. Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus returns to China New COVID-19 outbreaks, persistent supply chain bottlenecks, and inflationary pressures could increase the risk of a hard landing in emerging markets and developing economies, according to the lender, at a time when many governments in developing economies lack the policy space to support activity if needed. According to the report, the downturn will correspond with a widening gap in growth rates between advanced and emerging nations. India to grow at 8.3% India, on the other hand, is a relative bright spot in the South Asian picture. The bank's forecast for India's growth in 2021-22 remains unchanged from its June forecast. However, the forecasts for 2022-23 and 2023-24 have been revised to 8.7% and 6.8%, respectively, "indicating higher private sector and infrastructure investment, as well as dividends from continuing reforms." According to preliminary estimates from the country's statistics office, India's GDP will increase 9.2 percent this fiscal year, ensuring that the economy will surpass its pre-pandemic level (2019–20). In December, most high frequency indicators were at or above pre-pandemic levels, while limits imposed by the Omicron-driven third wave of the coronavirus pandemic caused increased disruptions in January. (With inputs from agencies)

Global GDP growth to slow through 2023 amid COVID-19, inflation: World Bank

<p>As the unprecedented rise in the number of coronavirus cases continues, India recorded 1,79,723 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The count is 12.5 per cent higher than the previous day's figure. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-starts-administering-precaution-dose-of-covid-jab-to-60-age-group-healthcare-frontline-workers-443489" hreflang="en">India starts administering 'precaution dose' of Covid jab to 60+ age group, healthcare, frontline workers</a></strong></p>

<p>With 146 new fatalities in 24 hours, the nationwide death toll has reached 4,83,936, the Ministry said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The active caseload has touched 7,23,619. It accounts for 1.66 per cent of the nation's total positive cases. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The resurgence of Covid cases seems to have been fuelled by the spread of Omicron variant.</p>

<p>The tally of Omicron cases in the country has also gone up and reached 4,033. Of these, 1,552 have been either recovered or discharged from hospitals. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virus-is-evolving-continuously-indian-pm-narendra-modi-holds-a-covid-review-meet-as-cases-surge-443428" hreflang="en">'Virus is evolving continuously': Indian PM Narendra Modi holds a Covid review meet as cases surge</a></strong></p>

<p>Till now, a total of 27 states have reported the cases of the new variant of coronavirus, as per the Ministry. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last 24 hours, the recovery of 46,569 patients has increased the cumulative tally to 3,45,00,172. Now, the recovery rate in the nation is 96.62 per cent. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The spike in cases has risen the weekly positivity rate to 7.92 per cent. The daily positivity rate is 13.29 per cent. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


As the unprecedented rise in the number of coronavirus cases continues, India recorded 1,79,723 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday.

As the unprecedented rise in the number of coronavirus cases continues, India recorded 1,79,723 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday. The count is 12.5 per cent higher than the previous day's figure. Also Read: India starts administering 'precaution dose' of Covid jab to 60+ age group, healthcare, frontline workers With 146 new fatalities in 24 hours, the nationwide death toll has reached 4,83,936, the Ministry said. The active caseload has touched 7,23,619. It accounts for 1.66 per cent of the nation's total positive cases. The resurgence of Covid cases seems to have been fuelled by the spread of Omicron variant. The tally of Omicron cases in the country has also gone up and reached 4,033. Of these, 1,552 have been either recovered or discharged from hospitals. Also Read: 'Virus is evolving continuously': Indian PM Narendra Modi holds a Covid review meet as cases surge Till now, a total of 27 states have reported the cases of the new variant of coronavirus, as per the Ministry. In the last 24 hours, the recovery of 46,569 patients has increased the cumulative tally to 3,45,00,172. Now, the recovery rate in the nation is 96.62 per cent. The spike in cases has risen the weekly positivity rate to 7.92 per cent. The daily positivity rate is 13.29 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

India records 1,79,723 fresh COVID-19 cases, 146 new deaths in 24 hours

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidc2j24qEiUWdj" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>India has started the administration of the 'precaution dose' of coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine to healthcare workers, frontline workers and those above 60 years from Monday (January 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'precaution dose' given to the healthcare, frontline workers and senior citizens with co-morbidities will be the same as given previously, the Indian Ministry of Health and Welfare has said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What's the process?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Those who are eligible for the 'precaution dose' can register online on the Co-WIN platform. The registration had started on Friday (January 8) itself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Important to note that the precaution dose can only be taken after 9 months from the date of administration of the second dose of COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, while taking the precaution jab, the senior citizens with co-morbidities will not be required to show a doctor's certificate or prescription.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virus-is-evolving-continuously-indian-pm-narendra-modi-holds-a-covid-review-meet-as-cases-surge-443428">'Virus is evolving continuously': Indian PM Narendra Modi holds a Covid review meet as cases surge</a></strong></p>

<p>India's Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya that alert text messages have been sent to more than ten million health and frontline workers and 60+ citizens for their precaution dose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The government is ensuring the security of the health army that secures the country. Reminder SMS have been sent to more than 1 crore health and frontline workers and 60+ citizens for their #PrecautionDose. Appointments on COWIN are already open. The dosing program is being started from tomorrow," the health minister tweeted on Sunday (January 9).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-ray-of-light-amid-pandemic-here-is-what-an-expert-says-443406">Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>COVID-19 cases in India</strong></p>

<p>As per the health ministry data updated on Monday, India had reported 1,79,723 fresh cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Active case tally reaches 7,23,619 and daily positivity rate at 13.29 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Omicron case tally is at 4,033.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;When will the Omicron wave end? A learning for the world</strong></p>

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India has started the administration of the 'precaution dose' of coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine to healthcare workers, frontline workers and those above 60 years from Monday (January 10).

India has started the administration of the 'precaution dose' of coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine to healthcare workers, frontline workers and those above 60 years from Monday (January 10). The 'precaution dose' given to the healthcare, frontline workers and senior citizens with co-morbidities will be the same as given previously, the Indian Ministry of Health and Welfare has said. What's the process? Those who are eligible for the 'precaution dose' can register online on the Co-WIN platform. The registration had started on Friday (January 8) itself. Important to note that the precaution dose can only be taken after 9 months from the date of administration of the second dose of COVID-19. Also, while taking the precaution jab, the senior citizens with co-morbidities will not be required to show a doctor's certificate or prescription. ALSO READ | 'Virus is evolving continuously': Indian PM Narendra Modi holds a Covid review meet as cases surge India's Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya that alert text messages have been sent to more than ten million health and frontline workers and 60+ citizens for their precaution dose. "The government is ensuring the security of the health army that secures the country. Reminder SMS have been sent to more than 1 crore health and frontline workers and 60+ citizens for their #PrecautionDose. Appointments on COWIN are already open. The dosing program is being started from tomorrow," the health minister tweeted on Sunday (January 9). ALSO READ | Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says COVID-19 cases in India As per the health ministry data updated on Monday, India had reported 1,79,723 fresh cases and 146 deaths in the last 24 hours. Active case tally reaches 7,23,619 and daily positivity rate at 13.29 per cent. Meanwhile, the Omicron case tally is at 4,033. WATCH: When will the Omicron wave end? A learning for the world ×

India starts administering 'precaution dose' of Covid jab to 60+ age group, healthcare, frontline workers

<p>Before he took office as mayor of New York City, Eric Adams repeatedly said that his top priority was to serve as the city’s cheerleader and promote its recovery.</p>

<p>Adams has quickly begun to fulfill that vow. In his first week in office, he moved to buttress the city’s health system during a surge in coronavirus hospitalizations. He fought to keep schools open even as they closed in other cities like Chicago.</p>

<p>And Sunday, he faced a devastating new challenge when the city had its deadliest fire in decades, and at least 19 people died, including nine children. He held two news conferences at the site of the fire in the Bronx and called for unity at a time of horrific loss. “During a tragedy, we’re going to be here for each other,” he said.</p>

<p>Adams, a Democrat and former police captain, confronts the most daunting challenges to face a mayor since Michael Bloomberg was inaugurated after the Sept. 11 attacks. New York City had started to recover from the economic devastation of the pandemic this fall, but the omicron surge last month led to the cancellation of some Broadway shows and emptied offices once again just as the new mayor took office.</p>

<p>Much of his first week focused on keeping public schools open and sending a message that the city is ready to move forward. He said he decided shortly before taking office that he would do everything he could to keep the school system open after reviewing low transmission rates in schools.</p>

<p>“It was clear to me that no matter what the heat was and the pressure was, unless the doctors said, ‘Eric, it’s dangerous to have these children in school,’ then I was going to push forward and be very clear so that parents wouldn’t have a level of uncertainty,” he said in a recent interview.</p>

<p>But to do that, Adams needs the numbers to back his optimism. So each day, he convenes an 8:30 a.m. video briefing with his top health advisers to review the latest COVID-related data.</p>

<p>“We say, ‘Where are we, give us the counts, are the hospitals stabilized, what do the numbers look like, what are the fatalities? How many schools were closed the day before?’” Adams said. “Then we decide, are we staying the course? How are we pivoting?”</p>

<p>His administration distributed more than 1 million coronavirus home tests in recent days so that students could test at home. He filmed a video of himself taking a home test Thursday to show families how to do it. A day earlier, he announced additional funding for hospitals to shore up staffing.</p>

<p>In his first week, Adams was seemingly everywhere — riding an electric Citi Bike in Manhattan, announcing 17 arrests in a gang crackdown in Brooklyn and sliding down a pole at a fire station in Queens. On Sunday, he delivered remarks at a church, held a news conference with Sen. Chuck Schumer, visited a Burger King where someone was killed during a robbery, and then headed twice to the Bronx to the scene of the deadly fire. The Bronx building is owned by Camber Property Group, a developer whose co-founder, Rick Gropper, was a member of the Adams transition team for housing issues.</p>

<p>In doing so, the mayor exhibited a tireless energy many found lacking in his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, leaving Gracie Mansion in the darkened predawn to make a 6:45 a.m. news conference on a snowstorm Friday, and visiting hospital workers at 9:30 p.m. to thank nurses working the night shift Tuesday.</p>

<p>He also traded barbs with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez after she took issue with his calling cooks and Dunkin’ Donuts employees “low-skill workers,” and then found himself on the defensive for making two personnel moves: He named Philip Banks, a former police chief, as his deputy mayor for public safety, despite ethical concerns over Banks’ past as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal corruption investigation; he also took steps to give his brother a job as a deputy police commissioner to run the mayor’s security detail.</p>

<p>Adams, the city’s second Black mayor, said Sunday that he wanted his brother to oversee his security because of concerns over white supremacy and hate crimes; he said his brother was qualified for the job, adding, “I need someone that I trust.”</p>

<p>The mayor said that Banks acknowledged that he had made mistakes, but he had not been accused of a crime.</p>

<p>“I need the best person for the job,” Adams said on CNN, in one of two Sunday national news show appearances. The mayor also returned to another of his first-week themes: He intends to keep schools open.</p>

<p>But as coronavirus cases and hospitalizations are surging, some elected officials, union leaders and health experts have urged Adams to do even more to stop the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>The city has recorded more than 40,000 cases per day, and more than 5,700 people are hospitalized with the virus, including 620 patients in intensive care units — the highest levels since the spring of 2020. Some working-class neighborhoods like South Jamaica in Queens, where Adams was born, have alarming test positivity rates higher than 40%.</p>

<p>The teachers union called for a temporary return to remote learning. The largest municipal union called for nonessential city employees to work from home.</p>

<p>Instead, Adams pushed for the city to reopen, urging private employers to bring workers back to offices.</p>

<p>“I met with a number of business leaders,” Adams said in the interview. “Instead of going to a five-day week all at once, let’s do two days a week or three days a week — let people get over their fear that we can come back.”</p>

<p>Asked about the criticism that his upbeat tone did not match difficult realities, Adams said that the omicron variant was less severe and it was “just as dangerous not to open the city.”</p>

<p>Denis Nash, a public health researcher at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, said that Adams should do more to rein in the virus.</p>

<p>“I certainly agree that we need to learn to live with COVID — that is what New York City has been doing as much, if not more, than any other city in the country,” Nash said. “But from an epidemiologic perspective, we do not have to learn to live with unbridled surges in community transmission that overwhelm the health care system, like the one we are going through right now.”</p>

<p>Adams’ push for New Yorkers to return to offices led to his first public spat with Ocasio-Cortez, the left-leaning congresswoman who endorsed Adams’ competitor, Maya Wiley, in the Democratic primary last year. Adams said the city must remain open because “low-skill workers” could not work remotely.</p>

<p>Ocasio-Cortez and a like-minded ally, Tiffany Cabán, a new City Council member, criticized his choice of words.</p>

<p>“The suggestion that any job is ‘low skill’ is a myth perpetuated by wealthy interests to justify inhumane working conditions, little/no health care, and low wages,” Ocasio-Cortez posted on Twitter.</p>

<p>Adams said he should have used the term “low-wage workers,” noting that he had been one himself, washing dishes, shining shoes and working in a mailroom. He said Ocasio-Cortez was acting as “word police” and that he sometimes made mistakes.</p>

<p>“I would rather be authentic and make errors than be robotic and not be sincere in what they’re doing,” he said, adding: “I know they’re perfect, and there’s not much I can do about that. I can only aspire one day to be as perfect as they are.”</p>

<p>Adams said he nonetheless wanted to work with progressives like Ocasio-Cortez. But he encouraged them to reach out to him directly.</p>

<p>“I can sit there and work with any group,” he said. “But you don’t work with a group by just tweeting. ”</p>

<p>With Adams newly elected and at the peak of his political power, Democratic leaders have seemed reluctant to get in a public spat with him. Michael Mulgrew, the teachers union president who often plays the role of mayoral antagonist, has shown unusual deference to the mayor.</p>

<p>The mayor has also moved to quickly cement a positive relationship with Gov. Kathy Hochul, putting an end to the feud that typified the tenures of their predecessors, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and de Blasio.</p>

<p>Adams and Hochul appeared together again Sunday evening at the site of the fire and vowed to work together to help the victims.</p>


Before he took office as mayor of New York City, Eric Adams repeatedly said that his top priority was to serve as the city’s cheerleader and promote its recovery.

Before he took office as mayor of New York City, Eric Adams repeatedly said that his top priority was to serve as the city’s cheerleader and promote its recovery. Adams has quickly begun to fulfill that vow. In his first week in office, he moved to buttress the city’s health system during a surge in coronavirus hospitalizations. He fought to keep schools open even as they closed in other cities like Chicago. And Sunday, he faced a devastating new challenge when the city had its deadliest fire in decades, and at least 19 people died, including nine children. He held two news conferences at the site of the fire in the Bronx and called for unity at a time of horrific loss. “During a tragedy, we’re going to be here for each other,” he said. Adams, a Democrat and former police captain, confronts the most daunting challenges to face a mayor since Michael Bloomberg was inaugurated after the Sept. 11 attacks. New York City had started to recover from the economic devastation of the pandemic this fall, but the omicron surge last month led to the cancellation of some Broadway shows and emptied offices once again just as the new mayor took office. Much of his first week focused on keeping public schools open and sending a message that the city is ready to move forward. He said he decided shortly before taking office that he would do everything he could to keep the school system open after reviewing low transmission rates in schools. “It was clear to me that no matter what the heat was and the pressure was, unless the doctors said, ‘Eric, it’s dangerous to have these children in school,’ then I was going to push forward and be very clear so that parents wouldn’t have a level of uncertainty,” he said in a recent interview. But to do that, Adams needs the numbers to back his optimism. So each day, he convenes an 8:30 a.m. video briefing with his top health advisers to review the latest COVID-related data. “We say, ‘Where are we, give us the counts, are the hospitals stabilized, what do the numbers look like, what are the fatalities? How many schools were closed the day before?’” Adams said. “Then we decide, are we staying the course? How are we pivoting?” His administration distributed more than 1 million coronavirus home tests in recent days so that students could test at home. He filmed a video of himself taking a home test Thursday to show families how to do it. A day earlier, he announced additional funding for hospitals to shore up staffing. In his first week, Adams was seemingly everywhere — riding an electric Citi Bike in Manhattan, announcing 17 arrests in a gang crackdown in Brooklyn and sliding down a pole at a fire station in Queens. On Sunday, he delivered remarks at a church, held a news conference with Sen. Chuck Schumer, visited a Burger King where someone was killed during a robbery, and then headed twice to the Bronx to the scene of the deadly fire. The Bronx building is owned by Camber Property Group, a developer whose co-founder, Rick Gropper, was a member of the Adams transition team for housing issues. In doing so, the mayor exhibited a tireless energy many found lacking in his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, leaving Gracie Mansion in the darkened predawn to make a 6:45 a.m. news conference on a snowstorm Friday, and visiting hospital workers at 9:30 p.m. to thank nurses working the night shift Tuesday. He also traded barbs with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez after she took issue with his calling cooks and Dunkin’ Donuts employees “low-skill workers,” and then found himself on the defensive for making two personnel moves: He named Philip Banks, a former police chief, as his deputy mayor for public safety, despite ethical concerns over Banks’ past as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal corruption investigation; he also took steps to give his brother a job as a deputy police commissioner to run the mayor’s security detail. Adams, the city’s second Black mayor, said Sunday that he wanted his brother to oversee his security because of concerns over white supremacy and hate crimes; he said his brother was qualified for the job, adding, “I need someone that I trust.” The mayor said that Banks acknowledged that he had made mistakes, but he had not been accused of a crime. “I need the best person for the job,” Adams said on CNN, in one of two Sunday national news show appearances. The mayor also returned to another of his first-week themes: He intends to keep schools open. But as coronavirus cases and hospitalizations are surging, some elected officials, union leaders and health experts have urged Adams to do even more to stop the spread of the virus. The city has recorded more than 40,000 cases per day, and more than 5,700 people are hospitalized with the virus, including 620 patients in intensive care units — the highest levels since the spring of 2020. Some working-class neighborhoods like South Jamaica in Queens, where Adams was born, have alarming test positivity rates higher than 40%. The teachers union called for a temporary return to remote learning. The largest municipal union called for nonessential city employees to work from home. Instead, Adams pushed for the city to reopen, urging private employers to bring workers back to offices. “I met with a number of business leaders,” Adams said in the interview. “Instead of going to a five-day week all at once, let’s do two days a week or three days a week — let people get over their fear that we can come back.” Asked about the criticism that his upbeat tone did not match difficult realities, Adams said that the omicron variant was less severe and it was “just as dangerous not to open the city.” Denis Nash, a public health researcher at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, said that Adams should do more to rein in the virus. “I certainly agree that we need to learn to live with COVID — that is what New York City has been doing as much, if not more, than any other city in the country,” Nash said. “But from an epidemiologic perspective, we do not have to learn to live with unbridled surges in community transmission that overwhelm the health care system, like the one we are going through right now.” Adams’ push for New Yorkers to return to offices led to his first public spat with Ocasio-Cortez, the left-leaning congresswoman who endorsed Adams’ competitor, Maya Wiley, in the Democratic primary last year. Adams said the city must remain open because “low-skill workers” could not work remotely. Ocasio-Cortez and a like-minded ally, Tiffany Cabán, a new City Council member, criticized his choice of words. “The suggestion that any job is ‘low skill’ is a myth perpetuated by wealthy interests to justify inhumane working conditions, little/no health care, and low wages,” Ocasio-Cortez posted on Twitter. Adams said he should have used the term “low-wage workers,” noting that he had been one himself, washing dishes, shining shoes and working in a mailroom. He said Ocasio-Cortez was acting as “word police” and that he sometimes made mistakes. “I would rather be authentic and make errors than be robotic and not be sincere in what they’re doing,” he said, adding: “I know they’re perfect, and there’s not much I can do about that. I can only aspire one day to be as perfect as they are.” Adams said he nonetheless wanted to work with progressives like Ocasio-Cortez. But he encouraged them to reach out to him directly. “I can sit there and work with any group,” he said. “But you don’t work with a group by just tweeting. ” With Adams newly elected and at the peak of his political power, Democratic leaders have seemed reluctant to get in a public spat with him. Michael Mulgrew, the teachers union president who often plays the role of mayoral antagonist, has shown unusual deference to the mayor. The mayor has also moved to quickly cement a positive relationship with Gov. Kathy Hochul, putting an end to the feud that typified the tenures of their predecessors, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and de Blasio. Adams and Hochul appeared together again Sunday evening at the site of the fire and vowed to work together to help the victims.

Eric Adams' first days: Battling Omicron, then a deadly fire

<p>After reports emerged that a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant 'Deltacron' has been detected by a scientist in Cyprus, a UK-based virologist has refuted the claims, terming it a "lab contamination" and not a new strain. So far, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not commented on this development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tom Peacock, who is a virologist at the Imperial College London, said that the Cypriot 'Deltacron' appears to be quite clearly "contaminated".&nbsp;</p>

<p>COVID-19 cases are rising globally, largely fuelled by the 'variant of concern' Omicron, which was detected last year in late November.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-ray-of-light-amid-pandemic-here-is-what-an-expert-says-443406">Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says</a></strong></p>

<p>Some countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, some European and South African countries have seen a sharp rise in hospitalisation due to the Omicron variant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, some scientists have termed it as a "mild variant" because the death rate is low as compared to previously known lethal variants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on the reports of 'Deltacron', Peacock said in a Twitter thread on Sunday (January 9), "When new variants come through sequencing lab contamination isn't that uncommon (very very tiny volumes of liquid can cause this) - just usually these fairly clearly contaminated sequences are not reported by major media outlets."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-more-infectious-than-delta-experts-reveal-why-the-variant-is-affecting-kids-442963">Omicron more infectious than Delta? Experts reveal why the variant is affecting kids</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I should add as well - this is not really related to 'quality of the lab' or anything similar - this literally happens to every sequencing lab occasionally! This is particularly true with high ct value swabs (ie low levels of virus) and using older primer sets.</p>
— Tom Peacock (@PeacockFlu) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeacockFlu/status/1480248875264925711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Peacock said that Omicron has likely not circulated for long enough, in a large enough population, to produce a true recombinant. He explained that true recombinants don't tend to appear until a few weeks/months after there's been substantial co-circulation.</p>

<p>"We're only a couple of weeks into Omicron - I really doubt there are any prevalent recombinants yet," he said, adding that the genetic details of 'Deltacron' published on the GISAID database also do not resemble a recombinant.</p>

<p><strong>Reports of 'Deltacron'</strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Leondios Kostrikis, the head of the laboratory of biotechnology and molecular virology at the University of Cyprus, claimed that his team has detected a new variant "Deltacron" in 25 people.</p>

<p>According to Kostrikis, of the 25 samples taken in Cyprus, 11 were hospitalised due to the virus, while 14 were from the general population.</p>

<p>However, the new variant was not something to worry about at the moment, Cyprus Health Minister Michalis Hadjipandelas was quoted as saying.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After reports emerged that a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant 'Deltacron' has been detected by a scientist in Cyprus, a UK-based virologist has refuted the claims, terming it a "lab contamination" and not a new strain.

After reports emerged that a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant 'Deltacron' has been detected by a scientist in Cyprus, a UK-based virologist has refuted the claims, terming it a "lab contamination" and not a new strain. So far, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not commented on this development. Tom Peacock, who is a virologist at the Imperial College London, said that the Cypriot 'Deltacron' appears to be quite clearly "contaminated". COVID-19 cases are rising globally, largely fuelled by the 'variant of concern' Omicron, which was detected last year in late November. ALSO READ | Omicron 'ray of light' amid pandemic? Here is what an expert says Some countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, some European and South African countries have seen a sharp rise in hospitalisation due to the Omicron variant. However, some scientists have termed it as a "mild variant" because the death rate is low as compared to previously known lethal variants. Commenting on the reports of 'Deltacron', Peacock said in a Twitter thread on Sunday (January 9), "When new variants come through sequencing lab contamination isn't that uncommon (very very tiny volumes of liquid can cause this) - just usually these fairly clearly contaminated sequences are not reported by major media outlets." ALSO READ | Omicron more infectious than Delta? Experts reveal why the variant is affecting kids I should add as well - this is not really related to 'quality of the lab' or anything similar - this literally happens to every sequencing lab occasionally! This is particularly true with high ct value swabs (ie low levels of virus) and using older primer sets. — Tom Peacock (@PeacockFlu) January 9, 2022 × Peacock said that Omicron has likely not circulated for long enough, in a large enough population, to produce a true recombinant. He explained that true recombinants don't tend to appear until a few weeks/months after there's been substantial co-circulation. "We're only a couple of weeks into Omicron - I really doubt there are any prevalent recombinants yet," he said, adding that the genetic details of 'Deltacron' published on the GISAID database also do not resemble a recombinant. Reports of 'Deltacron' Earlier, Leondios Kostrikis, the head of the laboratory of biotechnology and molecular virology at the University of Cyprus, claimed that his team has detected a new variant "Deltacron" in 25 people. According to Kostrikis, of the 25 samples taken in Cyprus, 11 were hospitalised due to the virus, while 14 were from the general population. However, the new variant was not something to worry about at the moment, Cyprus Health Minister Michalis Hadjipandelas was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Is 'Deltacron' a new variant? A UK virologist explains what it could possibly be

<p>Nick Kyrgios said on Monday that he had pulled out of the Sydney Tennis Classic after testing positive for COVID-19, but hoped to be at the Australian Open next week "if all goes well".</p>

<p>Australian Kyrgios had withdrawn from the Melbourne Summer Set ATP tournament last week due to asthma, according to the organisers, and pulled out of his clash with Italian seventh seed Fabio Fognini on Monday.</p>

<p>"I just want to be open and transparent with everyone, the reason I have had to pull out of Sydney is because I tested positive for COVID," Kyrgios said on Instagram.</p>

<p>"I am feeling healthy at the moment with no symptoms. I wish everyone all the best and to stay safe where you can. If all goes well I will see you all at the Australian Open."</p>

<p>Kyrgios, a crowd favourite at Melbourne Park, has not played since late September due to knee issues and has slipped to 114th in the rankings.</p>

<p>He was ruled out of contention for the Australian team for the season-opening ATP Cup in Sydney this month.<br />
The 26-year-old has played only 15 matches in 2021, winning seven of them and heads into the year`s first Grand Slam with no tune-up matches under his belt.</p>

<p>The Australian Open begins on Jan. 17.</p>


Nick Kyrgios said on Monday that he had pulled out of the Sydney Tennis Classic after testing positive for COVID-19, but hoped to be at the Australian Open next week "if all goes well".

Nick Kyrgios said on Monday that he had pulled out of the Sydney Tennis Classic after testing positive for COVID-19, but hoped to be at the Australian Open next week "if all goes well". Australian Kyrgios had withdrawn from the Melbourne Summer Set ATP tournament last week due to asthma, according to the organisers, and pulled out of his clash with Italian seventh seed Fabio Fognini on Monday. "I just want to be open and transparent with everyone, the reason I have had to pull out of Sydney is because I tested positive for COVID," Kyrgios said on Instagram. "I am feeling healthy at the moment with no symptoms. I wish everyone all the best and to stay safe where you can. If all goes well I will see you all at the Australian Open." Kyrgios, a crowd favourite at Melbourne Park, has not played since late September due to knee issues and has slipped to 114th in the rankings. He was ruled out of contention for the Australian team for the season-opening ATP Cup in Sydney this month. The 26-year-old has played only 15 matches in 2021, winning seven of them and heads into the year`s first Grand Slam with no tune-up matches under his belt. The Australian Open begins on Jan. 17.

Nick Kyrgios reveals he pulled out of Sydney Tennis Classic after testing positive for COVID-19

<p>A snow leopard has died at a zoo in Bloomington, Illinois after contracting coronavirus (COVID-19), the zoo informed in an Instagram post on Thursday (January 6).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the post, the zoo stated that Rilu, an 11-year-old snow leopard has died at the Miller Park Zoo after struggling with Covid-induced pneumonia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The zoo also informed that Rilu had arrived there in 2011 from the Oklahoma City Zoo and during his time here, he produced seven living offspring that are now part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whats-that-mysterious-ring-of-teeth-mark-this-rare-mark-on-a-giant-great-white-shark-baffles-experts-442721">What's that mysterious ring of teeth mark? This rare mark on a giant great white shark baffles experts</a></strong></p>

<p>The Instagram post said that Rilu made the Miller Park Zoo one of the leading institutions in the world in producing Snow Leopard cubs. Rilu's personality and beauty will be missed but he will not be forgotten, the zoo said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rilu's pictures have been shown all over the world, including on the Empire State Building in New York. He is captured on film in Joel Sartore's project The Photo Ark. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I love that the legacy of Rilu will live on in the Photo Ark. Rilu will engage and astonish the world for many years to come," zoo superintendent Jay Tetzloff said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>COVID-19 in animals</strong></p>

<p>The United States reported evidence of transfer of coronavirus (COVID-19) from humans to wild white-tailed deer, with subsequent spread of the virus among deer. After the US, Canada also found confirmed cases of coronavirus in wildlife, in three white-tailed deer.</p>

<p>The spread of the COVID-19 virus in deer is not unique as reports have emerged that the virus has infected multiple species of animals globally, including farmed mink, companion animals such as cats and dogs and also some zoo animals.&nbsp;</p>


A snow leopard has died at a zoo in Bloomington, Illinois after contracting coronavirus (COVID-19), the zoo informed in an Instagram post on Thursday (January 6).

A snow leopard has died at a zoo in Bloomington, Illinois after contracting coronavirus (COVID-19), the zoo informed in an Instagram post on Thursday (January 6). In the post, the zoo stated that Rilu, an 11-year-old snow leopard has died at the Miller Park Zoo after struggling with Covid-induced pneumonia. The zoo also informed that Rilu had arrived there in 2011 from the Oklahoma City Zoo and during his time here, he produced seven living offspring that are now part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP). ALSO READ | What's that mysterious ring of teeth mark? This rare mark on a giant great white shark baffles experts The Instagram post said that Rilu made the Miller Park Zoo one of the leading institutions in the world in producing Snow Leopard cubs. Rilu's personality and beauty will be missed but he will not be forgotten, the zoo said. Rilu's pictures have been shown all over the world, including on the Empire State Building in New York. He is captured on film in Joel Sartore's project The Photo Ark. "I love that the legacy of Rilu will live on in the Photo Ark. Rilu will engage and astonish the world for many years to come," zoo superintendent Jay Tetzloff said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miller Park Zoo (@millerparkzoo) × COVID-19 in animals The United States reported evidence of transfer of coronavirus (COVID-19) from humans to wild white-tailed deer, with subsequent spread of the virus among deer. After the US, Canada also found confirmed cases of coronavirus in wildlife, in three white-tailed deer. The spread of the COVID-19 virus in deer is not unique as reports have emerged that the virus has infected multiple species of animals globally, including farmed mink, companion animals such as cats and dogs and also some zoo animals.

Snow leopard dies after contracting COVID-19 at Miller Park Zoo in US

<p>According to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a sharp increase in the number of children being hospitalised in the United States due to coronavirus (COVID-19) has been recorded amid a rise in cases globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hospitalisation rate in the kids, who are not even eligible for the vaccination, had increased with an average of 4.3 children under 5 per 100,000 hospitalised with an infection as of the week ending January 1, up from 2.6 children the previous week, as per the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CDC report mentioned that rates are higher again in these pediatric populations than seen previously but they are also higher in many of our other populations, even vaccinated ones.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-meet-again-60-year-old-becomes-first-in-colombia-to-undergo-euthanasia-for-non-terminal-illness-443134">'We will meet again': 60-year-old becomes first in Colombia to undergo euthanasia for non-terminal illness</a></strong></p>

<p>"For our youngest children, those who are not yet eligible for vaccination, it's critically important that we surround them with people who are vaccinated to provide them protection," CDC director Dr Rochelle Walensky said on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said, "There's a lot of pediatric admissions associated with many things and other respiratory viruses. We're seeing more than that than we generally do, and that some of these are coming in and they're completely asymptomatic, and we didn't expect to find them."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-parenting-law-court-directs-divorced-mother-to-live-with-child-443074">China's parenting law: Court directs divorced mother to live with child</a></strong></p>

<p>As mentioned, the pediatric infection rate under the Omicron variant is unprecedented - and while the vast majority of cases are mild, the sheer number of cases means hospitalisations are also at an all-time high.</p>


According to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a sharp increase in the number of children being hospitalised in the United States due to coronavirus (COVID-19) has been recorded amid a rise in cases globally.

According to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a sharp increase in the number of children being hospitalised in the United States due to coronavirus (COVID-19) has been recorded amid a rise in cases globally. The hospitalisation rate in the kids, who are not even eligible for the vaccination, had increased with an average of 4.3 children under 5 per 100,000 hospitalised with an infection as of the week ending January 1, up from 2.6 children the previous week, as per the report. The CDC report mentioned that rates are higher again in these pediatric populations than seen previously but they are also higher in many of our other populations, even vaccinated ones. ALSO READ | 'We will meet again': 60-year-old becomes first in Colombia to undergo euthanasia for non-terminal illness "For our youngest children, those who are not yet eligible for vaccination, it's critically important that we surround them with people who are vaccinated to provide them protection," CDC director Dr Rochelle Walensky said on Friday. She also said, "There's a lot of pediatric admissions associated with many things and other respiratory viruses. We're seeing more than that than we generally do, and that some of these are coming in and they're completely asymptomatic, and we didn't expect to find them." ALSO READ | China's parenting law: Court directs divorced mother to live with child As mentioned, the pediatric infection rate under the Omicron variant is unprecedented - and while the vast majority of cases are mild, the sheer number of cases means hospitalisations are also at an all-time high.

US: Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases caused by Omicron variant, child hospitalisation rates hit record highs

<p>Lawyers of tennis world number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday (January 8) said that the player was granted a vaccine exemption to enter Australia as he was contracted with coronavirus (COVID-19) infection on December 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the court documents, the Serbian tennis star was tested positive for the virus in mid-December. The lawyers said that the infection allowed him an exemption from Australia's strict Covid rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, new pictures have emerged on social media of his appearances at public events without wearing a face mask. The pictures are allegedly have been taken during the same time when his lawyers stated that he had a Covid infection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court documents have revealed that Djokovic’s Covid infection was recorded by the Institute of Public Health of Serbia on December 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-novak-djokovics-medical-exemption-and-the-australian-open-visa-saga-443167">Explained: Novak Djokovic's 'medical exemption' and the Australian Open visa saga</a></strong></p>

<p>The documents added that the positive test provided the basis for the medical exemption he got from the Tennis Australia and Victorian state government medical panels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His official Twitter handle had tweeted images of him attening some event in mid-December at the Serbian National Postal Service to commemorate his own Serbian stamp. It's not clear when exacty the pictures were taken but they were posted by Novak's Twitter handle on December 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by The Guardian stated that Djokovic had attended a Euroleague basketball match between Red Star and Barcelona.</p>

<p>Important to note that in Serbia,&nbsp;the rules require&nbsp;14 days of self-isolation in case COVID-19 positive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovics-lawyers-reveal-he-had-covid-19-a-month-ago-had-recieved-clearance-to-enter-australia-443121">Djokovic's lawyers reveal he had COVID-19 a month ago, had recieved clearance to enter Australia</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An honor to receive my very own Serbian stamp. Thank you to my generous country for this rare gift! I’m humbled!! Excited to share we’ll partner with the Serbian National Postal Service on <a href="https://twitter.com/novakfoundation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@novakfoundation</a> projects for every child to have the opportunity to attend preschool 🙏🏼 <a href="https://t.co/Ww8Zma95NU">pic.twitter.com/Ww8Zma95NU</a></p>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1471843717271150592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">. <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> entering the court to support @crvenazvezdakk 👏🥰<a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@euroleague</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kkcz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kkcz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ovation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ovation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/novakdjokovic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#novakdjokovic</a> <a href="https://t.co/J8au1YaPl9">pic.twitter.com/J8au1YaPl9</a></p>
— NovakDjokovicFanClub (@NovakFanClub) <a href="https://twitter.com/NovakFanClub/status/1470824276567592960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Novak Djokovic tested positive for covid-19 on December 16, the day he attended a maskless ceremony for the launch of a stamp in his honor — and after being in attendance for KK Crvena Zvezda’s Euroleague basketball match in the previous night: <a href="https://t.co/cKAo8GnC6e">pic.twitter.com/cKAo8GnC6e</a></p>
— Gaspar Ribeiro Lança (@gasparlanca) <a href="https://twitter.com/gasparlanca/status/1479733154910982144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 34-year-old Djokovic was held at the airport on Wednesday after the authorities revoked a visa granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia's strict vaccination requirements.<br />
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So far, he has opposed mandatory vaccinations and was widely criticised in 2020 for hosting a tournament as the pandemic was first raging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Djokovic on Friday took to Instagram to thank his supporters. "Thank you to people around the world for your continuous support. I can feel it and it is greatly appreciated," he wrote.</p>

<p>The Australian Open begins on January 17. The Serbian player look to defend his Aus Open title and also bid to win an unprecedented 21st Grand Slam. &nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lawyers of tennis world number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday (January 8) said that the player was granted a vaccine exemption to enter Australia as he was contracted with coronavirus (COVID-19) infection on December 16.

Lawyers of tennis world number one Novak Djokovic on Saturday (January 8) said that the player was granted a vaccine exemption to enter Australia as he was contracted with coronavirus (COVID-19) infection on December 16. As per the court documents, the Serbian tennis star was tested positive for the virus in mid-December. The lawyers said that the infection allowed him an exemption from Australia's strict Covid rules. Meanwhile, new pictures have emerged on social media of his appearances at public events without wearing a face mask. The pictures are allegedly have been taken during the same time when his lawyers stated that he had a Covid infection. The court documents have revealed that Djokovic’s Covid infection was recorded by the Institute of Public Health of Serbia on December 16. ALSO READ | Explained: Novak Djokovic's 'medical exemption' and the Australian Open visa saga The documents added that the positive test provided the basis for the medical exemption he got from the Tennis Australia and Victorian state government medical panels. His official Twitter handle had tweeted images of him attening some event in mid-December at the Serbian National Postal Service to commemorate his own Serbian stamp. It's not clear when exacty the pictures were taken but they were posted by Novak's Twitter handle on December 17. A report by The Guardian stated that Djokovic had attended a Euroleague basketball match between Red Star and Barcelona. Important to note that in Serbia, the rules require 14 days of self-isolation in case COVID-19 positive. ALSO READ | Djokovic's lawyers reveal he had COVID-19 a month ago, had recieved clearance to enter Australia An honor to receive my very own Serbian stamp. Thank you to my generous country for this rare gift! I’m humbled!! Excited to share we’ll partner with the Serbian National Postal Service on @novakfoundation projects for every child to have the opportunity to attend preschool 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/Ww8Zma95NU — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) December 17, 2021 × . @DjokerNole entering the court to support @crvenazvezdakk 👏🥰@euroleague #kkcz #ovation #novakdjokovic pic.twitter.com/J8au1YaPl9 — NovakDjokovicFanClub (@NovakFanClub) December 14, 2021 × Novak Djokovic tested positive for covid-19 on December 16, the day he attended a maskless ceremony for the launch of a stamp in his honor — and after being in attendance for KK Crvena Zvezda’s Euroleague basketball match in the previous night: pic.twitter.com/cKAo8GnC6e — Gaspar Ribeiro Lança (@gasparlanca) January 8, 2022 × The 34-year-old Djokovic was held at the airport on Wednesday after the authorities revoked a visa granted on the basis of a medical exemption from Australia's strict vaccination requirements. So far, he has opposed mandatory vaccinations and was widely criticised in 2020 for hosting a tournament as the pandemic was first raging. Meanwhile, Djokovic on Friday took to Instagram to thank his supporters. "Thank you to people around the world for your continuous support. I can feel it and it is greatly appreciated," he wrote. The Australian Open begins on January 17. The Serbian player look to defend his Aus Open title and also bid to win an unprecedented 21st Grand Slam. ×

Did Novak Djokovic attend social events despite being COVID-19 positive? See these pictures

<p>Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his virtual address on Sunday (January 9), he urged people to not panic and follow the necessary measures, such as wearing face masks, regular sanitisation, social distancing, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He expressed his concerns over the rising Covid cases in the Indian capital and said that he is constantly monitoring the situation and also said that on Sunday the city is likely to report 22,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-greets-indian-diaspora-on-pravasi-bharatiya-diwas-know-its-history-and-significance-443304">PM Narendra Modi greets Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Know its history and significance</a></strong></p>

<p>"Rising COVID-19 cases is a matter of concern but there is no need to panic. Very few people are getting hospitalised. Wearing mask is very important. There will be no lockdown if you continue to wear mask. There is no plan to impose lockdown as of now," Kejriwal said in a virtual press conference.</p>

<p>The CM said that he along with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and the Centre are keeping a close eye on the Covid situation. "Our attempt is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected," Kejriwal said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covids-rise-continues-india-records-159632-fresh-cases-327-deaths-in-24-hours-443293">Covid’s rise continues: India records 1,59,632 fresh cases, 327 deaths in 24 hours &nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Kejriwal's health</strong></p>

<p>Kejriwal also informed that he has recovered from the Covid infection and is now at common people's service. "After recovering from Corona, I am back at your service," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi.</p>

<p>New Delhi CM, who is a member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor had informed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, he had said that he has mild symptoms and is isolated at home.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Addressing an important press conference on COVID-19 situation in Delhi | LIVE <a href="https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM">https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM</a></p>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1480064578050355201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected.

Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the Indian capital New Delhi said that his government is not intending to impose coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown as of now. He said that the Delhi government is attempting is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected. During his virtual address on Sunday (January 9), he urged people to not panic and follow the necessary measures, such as wearing face masks, regular sanitisation, social distancing, etc. He expressed his concerns over the rising Covid cases in the Indian capital and said that he is constantly monitoring the situation and also said that on Sunday the city is likely to report 22,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours. ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi greets Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Know its history and significance "Rising COVID-19 cases is a matter of concern but there is no need to panic. Very few people are getting hospitalised. Wearing mask is very important. There will be no lockdown if you continue to wear mask. There is no plan to impose lockdown as of now," Kejriwal said in a virtual press conference. The CM said that he along with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and the Centre are keeping a close eye on the Covid situation. "Our attempt is to impose minimum restrictions so livelihoods are not affected," Kejriwal said. ALSO READ | Covid’s rise continues: India records 1,59,632 fresh cases, 327 deaths in 24 hours Kejriwal's health Kejriwal also informed that he has recovered from the Covid infection and is now at common people's service. "After recovering from Corona, I am back at your service," Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi. New Delhi CM, who is a member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor had informed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, he had said that he has mild symptoms and is isolated at home. Addressing an important press conference on COVID-19 situation in Delhi | LIVE https://t.co/iIPa3FZdHM — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 9, 2022 ×

New Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says 'no plan to impose lockdown' in Indian capital, urges people to not panic

<p>"My name is Kovid and I'm not a virus": This witty Twitter bio is of a 31-year-old Indian entrepreneur Kovid Kapoor, who has become an internet sensation just because of his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Can you recall anything remotely similar to 'Kovid'? If you say no, then you might be from another planet because as far as Earth is concerned, it has been facing the wrath of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic since late 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world is not the same (may be in a little funny way) for the Indian travel start-up founder Kovid, whose name is quite similar to the deadly virus that caused the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-over-141900-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-443065">India reports over 1,41,900 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours</a></strong></p>

<p>He recently narrated the story when he had travelled outside India for the first time since the onset of the pandemic. He revealed that he "got a bunch of people amused" by his name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reflecting on his name, Kovid as quoted by India Today said, "It's funny. We started laughing about it long back. We had these jokes going on in our circle for almost two years and it's surprising that it is going viral now."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also told the media outlet that his mother named him Kovid, and on being asked about how his mother reacted to the social media buzz, he said, "She is amused like everyone else. People keep sharing screenshots of these viral tweets to her on WhatsApp. We talk about it, she laughs."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-makes-7-day-quarantine-mandatory-for-all-international-passengers-442955">India makes 7-day quarantine mandatory for all international passengers</a></strong></p>

<p>The co-founder of Holidify recently tweeted: "Future foreign trips are going to be fun!" The post had been liked 40,000 times and received 4,000 retweets by Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides the witty post, the comment section&nbsp;was even more hilarious as it triggered a barrage of jokes, memes, messages and interview requests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kapoor has joined in himself, declaring that he was been "Kovid positive since 1990" and posting a picture holding a bottle of Corona beer. "I am Kovid that wants more travel."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Went outside India for the first time since COVID and got a bunch of people amused by my name. 😂<br />
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Future foreign trips are going to be fun!</p>
— Kovid Kapoor (@kovidkapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/kovidkapoor/status/1478413742727569415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yes! The only good "positive" news that I could get right now. <a href="https://t.co/kWrHuZH4Z3">https://t.co/kWrHuZH4Z3</a></p>
— Kovid Kapoor (@kovidkapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/kovidkapoor/status/1479363922519945216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The sudden spurt of attention was "totally unexpected" but he hoped it would bring some publicity to his business during a "very difficult time" for the sector, he told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kovid is a highly unusual name in India but means a scholar or a learned individual in Hindi and Sanskrit, with the 'd' pronounced with a very soft emphasis. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a memorable name with a beautiful meaning," he said. "It makes for a striking introduction with anyone. I'd never change it."</p>


"My name is Kovid and I'm not a virus": This witty Twitter bio is of a 31-year-old Indian entrepreneur Kovid Kapoor, who has become an internet sensation just because of his name.

"My name is Kovid and I'm not a virus": This witty Twitter bio is of a 31-year-old Indian entrepreneur Kovid Kapoor, who has become an internet sensation just because of his name. Can you recall anything remotely similar to 'Kovid'? If you say no, then you might be from another planet because as far as Earth is concerned, it has been facing the wrath of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic since late 2019. The world is not the same (may be in a little funny way) for the Indian travel start-up founder Kovid, whose name is quite similar to the deadly virus that caused the pandemic. ALSO READ | India reports over 1,41,900 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours He recently narrated the story when he had travelled outside India for the first time since the onset of the pandemic. He revealed that he "got a bunch of people amused" by his name. Reflecting on his name, Kovid as quoted by India Today said, "It's funny. We started laughing about it long back. We had these jokes going on in our circle for almost two years and it's surprising that it is going viral now." He also told the media outlet that his mother named him Kovid, and on being asked about how his mother reacted to the social media buzz, he said, "She is amused like everyone else. People keep sharing screenshots of these viral tweets to her on WhatsApp. We talk about it, she laughs." ALSO READ | India makes 7-day quarantine mandatory for all international passengers The co-founder of Holidify recently tweeted: "Future foreign trips are going to be fun!" The post had been liked 40,000 times and received 4,000 retweets by Friday. Besides the witty post, the comment section was even more hilarious as it triggered a barrage of jokes, memes, messages and interview requests. Kapoor has joined in himself, declaring that he was been "Kovid positive since 1990" and posting a picture holding a bottle of Corona beer. "I am Kovid that wants more travel." Went outside India for the first time since COVID and got a bunch of people amused by my name. 😂 Future foreign trips are going to be fun! — Kovid Kapoor (@kovidkapoor) January 4, 2022 × Yes! The only good "positive" news that I could get right now. https://t.co/kWrHuZH4Z3 — Kovid Kapoor (@kovidkapoor) January 7, 2022 × The sudden spurt of attention was "totally unexpected" but he hoped it would bring some publicity to his business during a "very difficult time" for the sector, he told AFP. Kovid is a highly unusual name in India but means a scholar or a learned individual in Hindi and Sanskrit, with the 'd' pronounced with a very soft emphasis. "It's a memorable name with a beautiful meaning," he said. "It makes for a striking introduction with anyone. I'd never change it."

'I am not Covid virus': This Indian entrepreneur is now an internet sensation, find out why

<p>Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The returned underwear will be used by the next conscripts as per the plan. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Norway, which is a NATO member, recruits around 8,000 young men and women for military service every year. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-effect-arctic-region-witnesses-massive-7278-lightning-strikes-in-2021-443105" hreflang="en">Climate crisis effect? Arctic region witnesses massive 7,278 lightning strikes in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>The country, which shares a border with Russia, till recently used to allow discharged recruits to leave barracks with the undergarments they were issued. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The dwindling supplies during the pandemic seems to have forced the Norwegian military to ask the conscripts to hand over their underwear, which include bras and socks. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-members-express-solidarity-ahead-of-russia-talks-we-are-also-consulting-with-other-key-partners-443099" hreflang="en">NATO members express solidarity ahead of Russia talks: 'We are also consulting with other key partners'</a></strong></p>

<p>Although it was voluntary originally, it has been made mandatory now, public broadcaster NRK reported on Friday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now that we have chosen to reuse this part of the kit, it helps us. … We don’t have enough in stock,” the defence logistics spokesman Hans Meisingset told NRK. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“The textiles are washed, cleaned and checked. What we distribute is in good condition,” Meisingset said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em> &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic.

Coronavirus pandemic has forced numerous people to take drastic measures in the last two years. But the decision taken by Norway is the next level. Well, we are not kidding, the recruits in the country have been told to return their underwear after completing military service as the army has been facing supply issues due to the pandemic. The returned underwear will be used by the next conscripts as per the plan. Norway, which is a NATO member, recruits around 8,000 young men and women for military service every year. Also Read: Climate crisis effect? Arctic region witnesses massive 7,278 lightning strikes in 2021 The country, which shares a border with Russia, till recently used to allow discharged recruits to leave barracks with the undergarments they were issued. The dwindling supplies during the pandemic seems to have forced the Norwegian military to ask the conscripts to hand over their underwear, which include bras and socks. Also Read | NATO members express solidarity ahead of Russia talks: 'We are also consulting with other key partners' Although it was voluntary originally, it has been made mandatory now, public broadcaster NRK reported on Friday. “Now that we have chosen to reuse this part of the kit, it helps us. … We don’t have enough in stock,” the defence logistics spokesman Hans Meisingset told NRK. “The textiles are washed, cleaned and checked. What we distribute is in good condition,” Meisingset said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Return underwear’, Norway army tells outgoing recruits as COVID-19 pandemic hits supplies

<p>After a pregnant woman reportedly lost her unborn baby due to COVID-19 restrictions that delayed her admittance into a Xi'an hospital, Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan warned on Thursday that medical facilities should prioritise providing treatment and that no patient should be turned away for any reason.</p>

<p>At a meeting organised to address the enhancement of medical services for people in need, Sun stated that the protection of human life is of the utmost importance.</p>

<p>Sun expressed her guilt and heartbreak over the woman's miscarriage.</p>

<p>The South China Morning Post quoted her as stating, "That this problem arose was incredibly heart-wrenching, and I felt deeply ashamed."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-makes-7-day-quarantine-mandatory-for-all-international-passengers-442955"><strong>Also read | India makes 7-day quarantine mandatory for all international passengers</strong></a></p>

<p>A pregnant woman with contractions was denied admittance to a Xi'an hospital on the evening of January 1 because her negative COVID-19 test result had expired four hours earlier.</p>

<p>She was only admitted after significant haemorrhaging occurred outside the hospital, but it was too late to preserve the unborn baby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sun Chunlan admits that pandemic prevention work has 'issues,' but believes that medical institutions should not refuse patients for whatever reason.</p>

<p>According to reports, the woman was denied admission to Xian Gaoxin Hospital because her COVID-19 test result had expired by four hours.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Gravitas: Covid-19 in fruit? China shuts supermarkets</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-covid-19-in-fruit-china-shuts-supermarkets-442762/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The terrible incident sparked outrage among Chinese internet users.</p>

<p>An official investigation was conducted, and the accident was determined to be the result of negligence.</p>

<p>Several hospital employees have been sacked or placed on leave.</p>

<p>Liu Shunzhi, Director of the Xi'an Health Commission, publicly apologised to the woman and vowed to learn from the experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After a pregnant woman reportedly lost her unborn baby due to COVID-19 restrictions that delayed her admittance into a Xi'an hospital, Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan warned on Thursday that medical facilities should prioritise providing treatment and that no patient should be turned away for any reason.

After a pregnant woman reportedly lost her unborn baby due to COVID-19 restrictions that delayed her admittance into a Xi'an hospital, Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan warned on Thursday that medical facilities should prioritise providing treatment and that no patient should be turned away for any reason. At a meeting organised to address the enhancement of medical services for people in need, Sun stated that the protection of human life is of the utmost importance. Sun expressed her guilt and heartbreak over the woman's miscarriage. The South China Morning Post quoted her as stating, "That this problem arose was incredibly heart-wrenching, and I felt deeply ashamed." Also read | India makes 7-day quarantine mandatory for all international passengers A pregnant woman with contractions was denied admittance to a Xi'an hospital on the evening of January 1 because her negative COVID-19 test result had expired four hours earlier. She was only admitted after significant haemorrhaging occurred outside the hospital, but it was too late to preserve the unborn baby. Sun Chunlan admits that pandemic prevention work has 'issues,' but believes that medical institutions should not refuse patients for whatever reason. According to reports, the woman was denied admission to Xian Gaoxin Hospital because her COVID-19 test result had expired by four hours. Watch | Gravitas: Covid-19 in fruit? China shuts supermarkets The terrible incident sparked outrage among Chinese internet users. An official investigation was conducted, and the accident was determined to be the result of negligence. Several hospital employees have been sacked or placed on leave. Liu Shunzhi, Director of the Xi'an Health Commission, publicly apologised to the woman and vowed to learn from the experience. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Deeply ashamed’: Chinese vice-premier says no patient should be turned away over COVID-19 restrictions

<p>Paramount+ series 'Star Trek: Picard' production has been suspended after the cast and crew&nbsp;of the team tested positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Sources say more than 50 members of the large production tested positive, which was the first day of work after the Christmas break. The Patrick Stewart-led series has one of television’s biggest crews with over 450 staffers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/feeling-like-march-2020-heres-how-covid-omicron-is-affecting-entertainment-again-438366">Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again</a><br />
<br />
The virus has “impacted multiple zones, including cast in zone A” on the set. Although production is expected to start up again early next week already.<br />
<br />
Production had been underway on Season 3 of the series, which follows Stewart’s titular character into the next chapter of his life. &nbsp;The show was formally renewed for a third season in September, with seasons two and three being filmed back to back.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-kanye-west-and-julia-fox-confirm-they-are-dating-with-a-steamy-photo-shoot-442842" hreflang="en">Kanye West and Julia Fox confirm they are dating with a steamy photo shoot&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The series also stars Alison Pill, Isa Briones, Evan Evagora, Michelle Hurd, Santiago Cabrera, Jeri Ryan, Orla Brady and Brent Spiner also star.<br />
<br />
Numerous shows production has been postponed due to the Covid-19 new variant Omicorn surge.&nbsp;</p>


Paramount+ series 'Star Trek: Picard' production has been suspended after the cast and crew of the team tested positive for Covid-19. Sources say more than 50 members of the large production tested positive, which was the first day of work after the Christmas break.

Paramount+ series 'Star Trek: Picard' production has been suspended after the cast and crew of the team tested positive for Covid-19. Sources say more than 50 members of the large production tested positive, which was the first day of work after the Christmas break. The Patrick Stewart-led series has one of television’s biggest crews with over 450 staffers. Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again The virus has “impacted multiple zones, including cast in zone A” on the set. Although production is expected to start up again early next week already. Production had been underway on Season 3 of the series, which follows Stewart’s titular character into the next chapter of his life. The show was formally renewed for a third season in September, with seasons two and three being filmed back to back. Kanye West and Julia Fox confirm they are dating with a steamy photo shoot The series also stars Alison Pill, Isa Briones, Evan Evagora, Michelle Hurd, Santiago Cabrera, Jeri Ryan, Orla Brady and Brent Spiner also star. Numerous shows production has been postponed due to the Covid-19 new variant Omicorn surge.

'Star Trek: Picard’ production paused after 50 test positive for Covid-19

<p>As <strong>Los Angeles </strong>grapples with the virus wave, a child tested positive for "flurona". The family of the child had visited&nbsp;Mexico, US authorities said.</p>

<p>It is the first case of <strong>"flurona"</strong> detected in Los Angeles.</p>

<p><strong>What is "flurona"?</strong></p>

<p>"Flurona" is described as a co-infection of flu and coronavirus. The first case of the "flurona"&nbsp;was reportedly detected in a pregnant woman in Israel who had mild symptoms. The woman who wasn't vaccinated earlier received her shots and was later released from the hospital.</p>

<p>The World Health Organisation(WHO) terms the combination of flu and coronavirus as a respiratory disease.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-shuts-supermarkets-after-virus-traces-found-in-dragon-fruit-from-vietnam-442545">Also Read:&nbsp;China shuts supermarkets after virus traces found in dragon fruit from Vietnam</a></p>

<p><strong>What are the symptoms of "flurona"?</strong></p>

<p>Health officials are still trying to find more about the new health condition. Reports say "flurona" symptoms include soar throat, fever, headache, fatigue and cough which is similar to COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Is it a virus variant?</strong></p>

<p>"Flurona" is not a virus variant but a dual infection. Flu is known as a bad cold. Health officials in Los Angles have warned flu and COVID-19 will be circulating in the area while recommending people to get flu immunization.</p>

<p>Health officials recommend tests to be conducted if a person detects symptoms of "flurona". US health officials say flu onset usually take 1-4 days.&nbsp;COVID-19 comparatively takes less time with 1-14 days as a person loses taste and red swollen eyes. There is vaccine available for both flu and COVID-19.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


As Los Angeles grapples with the virus wave, a child tested positive for "flurona". The family of the child had visited Mexico, US authorities said. It is the first case of "flurona" detected in Los Angeles.

As Los Angeles grapples with the virus wave, a child tested positive for "flurona". The family of the child had visited Mexico, US authorities said. It is the first case of "flurona" detected in Los Angeles. What is "flurona"? "Flurona" is described as a co-infection of flu and coronavirus. The first case of the "flurona" was reportedly detected in a pregnant woman in Israel who had mild symptoms. The woman who wasn't vaccinated earlier received her shots and was later released from the hospital. The World Health Organisation(WHO) terms the combination of flu and coronavirus as a respiratory disease. Also Read: China shuts supermarkets after virus traces found in dragon fruit from Vietnam What are the symptoms of "flurona"? Health officials are still trying to find more about the new health condition. Reports say "flurona" symptoms include soar throat, fever, headache, fatigue and cough which is similar to COVID-19. Is it a virus variant? "Flurona" is not a virus variant but a dual infection. Flu is known as a bad cold. Health officials in Los Angles have warned flu and COVID-19 will be circulating in the area while recommending people to get flu immunization. Health officials recommend tests to be conducted if a person detects symptoms of "flurona". US health officials say flu onset usually take 1-4 days. COVID-19 comparatively takes less time with 1-14 days as a person loses taste and red swollen eyes. There is vaccine available for both flu and COVID-19. (With inputs from Agencies)

Child in Los Angeles detected with 'flurona'; what are the symptoms?

Ireland will no longer require vaccinated travelling and arriving travellers to present a negative COVID test report. The change will take effect today. Unvaccinated travellers will still be required to show a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

Ireland won't require COVID-19 test report from vaccinated travellers

<p>Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths.</p>

<p>Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-fda-amends-emergency-use-of-pfizer-booster-dose-for-more-teens-442035"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens</strong></a></p>

<p>She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide.</p>

<p>Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer.</p>

<p>In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shuts-market-due-to-virus-found-in-fruits-dragon-fruit-omicron-442738/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability."</p>

<p>According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID.</p>

<p>According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks.</p>

<p>While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories. Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID. In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients." Also read | Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide. Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer. In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability." According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID. According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks. While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mystery of long COVID-19 is solved! This scientist believes so

<p>Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases.</p>

<p>The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned.</p>

<p>Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid."</p>

<p>Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.</p>


Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled.

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases. The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa. The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned. Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis. Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid." Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.

Omicron crisis: Indian as well as global diplomatic engagements impacted

<p>Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo.</p>

<p>"Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-returns-to-paris-after-testing-negative-for-covid-19-to-resume-training-in-coming-days-442682"><strong>Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp.</p>

<p>Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.</p>


Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo. "Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp. Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.

Pep Guardiola to sit out of Man City's FA Cup clash against Swindon Town after positive COVID test

<p>Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.</p>

<p>However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with&nbsp;his PSG squad members in the next few days.&nbsp;<iframe aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="8" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however,&nbsp;his return to France got&nbsp;delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-arsenal-vs-liverpool-semi-final-first-leg-postponed-due-to-covid-19-revised-dates-out-442486"><strong>League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out</strong></a></p>

<p>Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from&nbsp;Presnel Kimpembe.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentine-dj-responds-after-being-labelled-murderer-by-fans-over-lionel-messis-positive-covid-19-test-442031"><strong>Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with&nbsp;46 points after 19 matches.&nbsp;PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.</p>


Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2. However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with his PSG squad members in the next few days. He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however, his return to France got delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol." "Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added. Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from Presnel Kimpembe. ALSO READ | Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with 46 points after 19 matches. PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days

<p>More than 100 passengers, travelling from Italy to India have been tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on arrival on Thursday (January 6), India-based news agency ANI reported citing the government officials.</p>

<p>VK Seth, who is the airport director said that as many as 125 passengers tested positive, who were flying in a chartered flight from Milan and landed in Amritsar, a city in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the officials, there were a total of 179 passengers on the charter flight YU-661 that landed at the Amritsar airport at around 1.30pm local time on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is important to note that Italy is one of the "at risk" countries according to the Indian Health Ministry. The news agency stated that all eligible passengers - 160 in this case - were tested for Covid and 125 of them were found to be positive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-president-ram-nath-kovind-expresses-concern-over-pm-narendra-modis-security-breach-442642">Indian President Ram Nath Kovind expresses concern over PM Narendra Modi's security breach</a></strong></p>

<p>Officials were quoted as saying that out of total 179 passengers, 19 were children or infants so they were exempt from on-arrival RT-PCR testing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials mentioned that the charter flight between Milan in Italy and Amritsar in Punjab was operated by Portuguese company EuroAtlantic Airways.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Correction | 125 passengers of an international chartered flight from Italy have tested positive for Covid-19 on arrival at Amritsar airport. Total passengers on the flight were 179: VK Seth, Amritsar Airport Director <a href="https://t.co/AOVtkYmQiy">pic.twitter.com/AOVtkYmQiy</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1479028595909541891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>COVID-19 in India</strong></p>

<p>India on Thursday reported over 90,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours including 325 deaths. The health ministry said the daily positivity rate is currently at 6.43 per cent with 2,85,401 active cases in the country with the total number of cases reaching 90,928.</p>

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More than 100 passengers, travelling from Italy to India have been tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on arrival on Thursday (January 6), India-based news agency ANI reported citing the government officials.

More than 100 passengers, travelling from Italy to India have been tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) on arrival on Thursday (January 6), India-based news agency ANI reported citing the government officials. VK Seth, who is the airport director said that as many as 125 passengers tested positive, who were flying in a chartered flight from Milan and landed in Amritsar, a city in the northwestern Indian state of Punjab. As per the officials, there were a total of 179 passengers on the charter flight YU-661 that landed at the Amritsar airport at around 1.30pm local time on Wednesday. It is important to note that Italy is one of the "at risk" countries according to the Indian Health Ministry. The news agency stated that all eligible passengers - 160 in this case - were tested for Covid and 125 of them were found to be positive. ALSO READ | Indian President Ram Nath Kovind expresses concern over PM Narendra Modi's security breach Officials were quoted as saying that out of total 179 passengers, 19 were children or infants so they were exempt from on-arrival RT-PCR testing. Officials mentioned that the charter flight between Milan in Italy and Amritsar in Punjab was operated by Portuguese company EuroAtlantic Airways. Correction | 125 passengers of an international chartered flight from Italy have tested positive for Covid-19 on arrival at Amritsar airport. Total passengers on the flight were 179: VK Seth, Amritsar Airport Director pic.twitter.com/AOVtkYmQiy — ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2022 × COVID-19 in India India on Thursday reported over 90,000 COVID-19 cases in 24 hours including 325 deaths. The health ministry said the daily positivity rate is currently at 6.43 per cent with 2,85,401 active cases in the country with the total number of cases reaching 90,928. ×

India: 125 passengers on charter flight from Italy to Amritsar test positive for COVID-19

<p>Amid fast-rising COVID-19 cases, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a night curfew (from 10pm to 5am) across the state starting from Thursday (6th Jan) and a full lockdown on Sundays. During these hours, only public transport, private bus services, fuel stations, ATMs, and essentials such as delivery of milk, newspapers would be permitted to function.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Those working night shifts in essential industries have been advised to carry company-issued ID cards and vaccination certificates. The government has advised flight, bus, and train passengers travelling during the curfew/lockdown hours to carry their ticket copies to prove their credentials. Those who have valid travel tickets can use autos and taxis to get around during the curfew hours.</p>

<p>On Sunday lockdowns, only essential services would be permitted, besides online food delivery services and take-aways at hotels, which can function between 7 a.m. and 10 pm. During Sunday lockdowns, even public transportation would be inoperable.</p>

<p>Only classes in grades 9–12th grade will be permitted to have in-person schooling. Training and coaching centres are not permitted to function. Buses, metros, and local trains can accommodate only up to 50% of their seating capacity. All colleges, other than medical and paramedical colleges, have been asked to remain closed till January 20th.</p>

<p>Government and private celebratory events for Pongal festivities are cancelled. All entertainment and amusement parks are closed. However, the public will be able to visit beaches alone for walking. All places of worship will be closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hotels, lodges, restaurants, clothing and jewellery stores, gyms, yoga centers, clubs, cinema halls, indoor stadiums, salons, spas, and beauty parlours will be limited to 50% occupancy.</p>


Amid fast-rising COVID-19 cases, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a night curfew (from 10pm to 5am) across the state starting from Thursday (6th Jan) and a full lockdown on Sundays.

Amid fast-rising COVID-19 cases, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a night curfew (from 10pm to 5am) across the state starting from Thursday (6th Jan) and a full lockdown on Sundays. During these hours, only public transport, private bus services, fuel stations, ATMs, and essentials such as delivery of milk, newspapers would be permitted to function. Those working night shifts in essential industries have been advised to carry company-issued ID cards and vaccination certificates. The government has advised flight, bus, and train passengers travelling during the curfew/lockdown hours to carry their ticket copies to prove their credentials. Those who have valid travel tickets can use autos and taxis to get around during the curfew hours. On Sunday lockdowns, only essential services would be permitted, besides online food delivery services and take-aways at hotels, which can function between 7 a.m. and 10 pm. During Sunday lockdowns, even public transportation would be inoperable. Only classes in grades 9–12th grade will be permitted to have in-person schooling. Training and coaching centres are not permitted to function. Buses, metros, and local trains can accommodate only up to 50% of their seating capacity. All colleges, other than medical and paramedical colleges, have been asked to remain closed till January 20th. Government and private celebratory events for Pongal festivities are cancelled. All entertainment and amusement parks are closed. However, the public will be able to visit beaches alone for walking. All places of worship will be closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Hotels, lodges, restaurants, clothing and jewellery stores, gyms, yoga centers, clubs, cinema halls, indoor stadiums, salons, spas, and beauty parlours will be limited to 50% occupancy.

COVID-19: Night curfew in Tamil Nadu from January 6; full lockdown on Sundays 

<p>After the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly, his four family members including daughter Sana Ganguly have been tested positive for COVID-19. Sana Ganguly and the other members are asymptomatic and is in isolation at their residence.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-postpones-ranji-trophy-and-other-domestic-tournaments-amid-covid-19-surge-442269"><strong>BCCI postpones Ranji Trophy and other domestic tournaments amid COVID-19 surge</strong></a></p>

<p>Ganguly's wife Dona Ganguly has been tested negative for COVID-19. Earlier, Ganguly was himself tested positive for COVID-19 and got admitted into Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital. He later got discharged on December 31, after testing negative for the Omicron variant. Ganguly was in a hemodynamically stable condition and was maintaining oxygen saturation of 99 per cent on room air.</p>


After the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly, his four family members including daughter Sana Ganguly have been tested positive for COVID-19.

After the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly, his four family members including daughter Sana Ganguly have been tested positive for COVID-19. Sana Ganguly and the other members are asymptomatic and is in isolation at their residence. ALSO READ | BCCI postpones Ranji Trophy and other domestic tournaments amid COVID-19 surge Ganguly's wife Dona Ganguly has been tested negative for COVID-19. Earlier, Ganguly was himself tested positive for COVID-19 and got admitted into Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital. He later got discharged on December 31, after testing negative for the Omicron variant. Ganguly was in a hemodynamically stable condition and was maintaining oxygen saturation of 99 per cent on room air.

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's daughter, 3 other family members test positive for Covid-19

In China, three cases of Covid 19 were enough for the Chinese authorities to lock down an entire city of almost 1.2 million people. Now in China's Yuzhou city, people are being confined to their homes in a bid to mitigate the recent local Covid 19 outbreak.

China: Over 1.2 Million residents in Yuzhou city ordered not to leave home

<p>Barcelona players Ferran Torres and Pedri tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, the latest cases confirmed by the club after an outbreak at the LaLiga side.</p>

<p>"The first team players Pedri and Ferran Torres have tested positive for COVID-19. The players are in good health and self-isolating at home. The Club has reported the cases to the relevant authorities," Barcelona said on their website on Monday.</p>

<p>The Catalans beat Mallorca 1-0 in the league on Sunday in a match where they were missing 14 players, eight of them due to COVID-19: Sergino Dest, Philippe Coutinho, Ez Abde, Jordi Alba, Alex Balde, Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Dani Alves.</p>

<p>Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet also tested positive during the week but were cleared after their latest test came back negative on Sunday morning.</p>

<p>LaLiga confirmed at least 90 COVID-19 cases among players and coaching staff last week as Spain recorded 372,000 new coronavirus cases since Thursday.</p>

<p>Barcelona will play at third tier side Linares on Wednesday in the Spanish Cup round of 32 and return to LaLiga action at Granada on Saturday.</p>


Barcelona players Ferran Torres and Pedri tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, the latest cases confirmed by the club after an outbreak at the LaLiga side. "The first team players Pedri and Ferran Torres have tested positive for COVID-19.

Barcelona players Ferran Torres and Pedri tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, the latest cases confirmed by the club after an outbreak at the LaLiga side. "The first team players Pedri and Ferran Torres have tested positive for COVID-19. The players are in good health and self-isolating at home. The Club has reported the cases to the relevant authorities," Barcelona said on their website on Monday. The Catalans beat Mallorca 1-0 in the league on Sunday in a match where they were missing 14 players, eight of them due to COVID-19: Sergino Dest, Philippe Coutinho, Ez Abde, Jordi Alba, Alex Balde, Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Dani Alves. Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet also tested positive during the week but were cleared after their latest test came back negative on Sunday morning. LaLiga confirmed at least 90 COVID-19 cases among players and coaching staff last week as Spain recorded 372,000 new coronavirus cases since Thursday. Barcelona will play at third tier side Linares on Wednesday in the Spanish Cup round of 32 and return to LaLiga action at Granada on Saturday.

Ferran Torres and Pedri latest to test positive for COVID-19 as Barcelona deal with virus outbreak

<p>Worries of food shortages have led to some residents of Xian, the Chinese city under Covid lockdown resorting to barter to secure essential supplies, as per BBC.</p>

<p>Images on social media are showing residents swapping supplies and even tech gadgets in exchange for food, the report said.</p>

<p>The city has seen a COVID-19 resurgence and about 13 million citizens have been forced to stay indoors sinche December 23, 2021</p>

<p>In recent days many have taken to social media with numerous complaints.</p>

<p>Authorities have been providing free food to households, but some have said their supplies are running low or that they had yet to receive aid.</p>

<p>Videos and photos on social media site Weibo showed people exchanging cigarettes for cabbage, dishwashing liquid for apples, and sanitary pads for a small pile of vegetables, the report said.</p>

<p>One video showed a resident appearing to trade his Nintendo Switch console for a packet of instant noodles and two steamed buns.</p>

<p>"Helpless citizens have arrived at the era of bartering - potatoes are exchanged for cotton swabs," one Weibo user said, while another described it as a "return to primitive society".</p>

<p>Xi'an is at the epicentre of China's current Covid outbreak, and local authorities have enacted drastic measures which have attracted significant criticism online.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, authorities moved to put a second city into full lockdown after the detection of three asymptomatic cases.</p>

<p>Around 1.1 million residents in Yuzhou, a city located 500 km away from Xi'an, will now have to stay in their homes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Worries of food shortages have led to some residents of Xian, the Chinese city under Covid lockdown resorting to barter to secure essential supplies, as per BBC.

Worries of food shortages have led to some residents of Xian, the Chinese city under Covid lockdown resorting to barter to secure essential supplies, as per BBC. Images on social media are showing residents swapping supplies and even tech gadgets in exchange for food, the report said. The city has seen a COVID-19 resurgence and about 13 million citizens have been forced to stay indoors sinche December 23, 2021 In recent days many have taken to social media with numerous complaints. Authorities have been providing free food to households, but some have said their supplies are running low or that they had yet to receive aid. Videos and photos on social media site Weibo showed people exchanging cigarettes for cabbage, dishwashing liquid for apples, and sanitary pads for a small pile of vegetables, the report said. One video showed a resident appearing to trade his Nintendo Switch console for a packet of instant noodles and two steamed buns. "Helpless citizens have arrived at the era of bartering - potatoes are exchanged for cotton swabs," one Weibo user said, while another described it as a "return to primitive society". Xi'an is at the epicentre of China's current Covid outbreak, and local authorities have enacted drastic measures which have attracted significant criticism online. On Tuesday, authorities moved to put a second city into full lockdown after the detection of three asymptomatic cases. Around 1.1 million residents in Yuzhou, a city located 500 km away from Xi'an, will now have to stay in their homes. (With inputs from agencies)

Residents in Chinese city under Covid lockdown resort to barter to secure food

Sri Lanka may be on a brink of bankruptcy as the island country faces an acute financial crisis topped by a blow to a food supply. As 2022 begins, Sri Lanka is looking to face record-high inflation, financial crisis, exorbitant food prices, humanitarian crisis, and pandemic-induced disruptions. The Sri Lankan government had decided to temporarily ban the use of chemical fertilizers in May 2021. The ban led to protest by farmers ultimately leading to a drastic drop in cultivation in Sri Lanka. Moreover, long queues were seen outside shops for bare necessities lie milk, sugar, and rice. Also, several shops in the markets were shut. Opposition MP Harsha de Silva told Sri Lankan parliament that the country would go bankrupt.

Sri Lanka may go bankrupt in 2022? From financial to food crisis Sri Lanka’s woes amid Covid

<p>A recent survey on coronavirus (COVID-19) showed that 28 per cent of Pakistanis think that the pandemic had already come to an end, as reported by Pakistan-based media outlet The Dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The above-mentioned survey was conducted by a market research company in 34 countries. The result of the survey shows that Pakistan had the highest share of those who thought the pandemic was over as compared with a mere nine per cent of people in other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media report also added that while replying to another question, at least 14 per cent believed that the pandemic may never end.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/this-is-imran-khans-new-pakistan-reham-khan-says-she-escaped-gun-attack-in-islamabad-slams-government-441985">'This is Imran Khan's New Pakistan?': Reham Khan says she escaped gun attack in Islamabad, slams government</a></strong></p>

<p>The survey, titled 'Covid-19: Will The Pandemic Ever End and How Will We Know?' was conducted by Ipsos and it sampled 22,023 adults aged between 18-74 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was conducted in Pakistan, the United States, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Spain, Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Hungary, India, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Sweden and Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/due-to-covid-19-sri-lanka-faces-economic-crisis-and-high-food-inflation-441955">Due to COVID-19, Sri Lanka faces economic crisis and high food inflation</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>COVID-19 situation in Pakistan</strong></p>

<p>The country is witnessing a surge in Covid cases as Pakistani authorities have warned that Omicron-driven fifth wave has started.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) held a meeting on Monday and discussed the epidemic curve chart data, national vaccine strategy and disease prevalence across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NCOC is the main body governing the policies and implementation of the national COVID-19 effort of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting was held after 708 cases were recorded in a single day - the highest since October 30 when 733 infections were detected, The News International reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting also reviewed the spread of disease and it is revealed that "the fifth wave of COVID-19 which is Omicron-driven is spreading at a great pace."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Has the Wuhan Virus weakened?</strong></p>

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A recent survey on coronavirus (COVID-19) showed that 28 per cent of Pakistanis think that the pandemic had already come to an end, as reported by Pakistan-based media outlet The Dawn.

A recent survey on coronavirus (COVID-19) showed that 28 per cent of Pakistanis think that the pandemic had already come to an end, as reported by Pakistan-based media outlet The Dawn. The above-mentioned survey was conducted by a market research company in 34 countries. The result of the survey shows that Pakistan had the highest share of those who thought the pandemic was over as compared with a mere nine per cent of people in other countries. The media report also added that while replying to another question, at least 14 per cent believed that the pandemic may never end. ALSO READ | 'This is Imran Khan's New Pakistan?': Reham Khan says she escaped gun attack in Islamabad, slams government The survey, titled 'Covid-19: Will The Pandemic Ever End and How Will We Know?' was conducted by Ipsos and it sampled 22,023 adults aged between 18-74 years. It was conducted in Pakistan, the United States, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Spain, Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Hungary, India, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Sweden and Switzerland. ALSO READ | Due to COVID-19, Sri Lanka faces economic crisis and high food inflation COVID-19 situation in Pakistan The country is witnessing a surge in Covid cases as Pakistani authorities have warned that Omicron-driven fifth wave has started. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) held a meeting on Monday and discussed the epidemic curve chart data, national vaccine strategy and disease prevalence across the country. NCOC is the main body governing the policies and implementation of the national COVID-19 effort of Pakistan. The meeting was held after 708 cases were recorded in a single day - the highest since October 30 when 733 infections were detected, The News International reported. The meeting also reviewed the spread of disease and it is revealed that "the fifth wave of COVID-19 which is Omicron-driven is spreading at a great pace." WATCH | Gravitas: Has the Wuhan Virus weakened? ×

Survey shows 28 per cent Pakistanis think that COVID-19 pandemic has ended

For the Chinese city of Xi'an 2022 is not much different from 2020. The city of 13 million is under a lockdown as it became the latest epicenter of covid-19 in mainland china. In the latest china has removed two senior officials in Xi'an a move to bolster the city's covid-19 response.

China sacks two officials in Xi'an to bolster the city's covid-19 response

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