Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc said that their COVID-19 diagnostic tests can accurately detect the novel coronavirus variant Omicron, which has caused some nations to close their borders.

The TaqPath COVID-19 tests from Thermo Fisher can provide reliable findings even if one of the gene targets is affected by a mutation, according to the firm.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-halts-border-reopening-after-two-more-omicron-cases-detected-432736">Also Read:&nbsp;Australia halts border reopening after two more Omicron cases detected</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the Omicron variant as a "variant of concern" since it has more than 30 mutations in the spike protein alone.

Preliminary data shows an increased risk of transmission when compared to other variations of concern, according to the WHO. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-detects-six-omicron-variant-cases-as-uk-tightens-restrictions-432786">Also Read:&nbsp;Scotland detects six Omicron variant cases as UK tightens restrictions</a>

As a result of this classification and information, new travel restrictions have been imposed, as well as study into the variant's influence on the efficacy of existing vaccinations and testing.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | WION Developing Story: Fears of Omicron variant looms over the world

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"This assay can be used not only to successfully detect COVID-19 but… it can also be used as a proxy for the [Omicron] variant," Mark Stevenson, chief operating officer at Thermo Fisher Scientific, said in an interview.

Stevenson said this is the only COVID-19 diagnostic test that is both authorised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and can be used to indicate if a case is caused by the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc said that their COVID-19 diagnostic tests can accurately detect the novel coronavirus variant Omicron, which has caused some nations to close their borders.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc said that their COVID-19 diagnostic tests can accurately detect the novel coronavirus variant Omicron, which has caused some nations to close their borders. The TaqPath COVID-19 tests from Thermo Fisher can provide reliable findings even if one of the gene targets is affected by a mutation, according to the firm. Also Read: Australia halts border reopening after two more Omicron cases detected The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the Omicron variant as a "variant of concern" since it has more than 30 mutations in the spike protein alone. Preliminary data shows an increased risk of transmission when compared to other variations of concern, according to the WHO. Also Read: Scotland detects six Omicron variant cases as UK tightens restrictions As a result of this classification and information, new travel restrictions have been imposed, as well as study into the variant's influence on the efficacy of existing vaccinations and testing. Watch | WION Developing Story: Fears of Omicron variant looms over the world "This assay can be used not only to successfully detect COVID-19 but… it can also be used as a proxy for the [Omicron] variant," Mark Stevenson, chief operating officer at Thermo Fisher Scientific, said in an interview. Stevenson said this is the only COVID-19 diagnostic test that is both authorised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and can be used to indicate if a case is caused by the Omicron variant. (With inputs from agencies)

This company says its COVID-19 test accurately detects Omicron variant

Bharat Biotech, the maker of India's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, said on Tuesday that it was studying whether the vaccine would work against Omicron variant. The&nbsp;development follows&nbsp;warning from Moderna CEO about&nbsp;existing vaccines potentially being&nbsp;less effective against Omicron which is feared to be more transmissible and dangerous than previous coronavirus variants.

"Covaxin was developed against the original Wuhan variant," a Bharat Biotech spokesperson was quoted by Reuters.

"It has shown that it can work against other variants, including the Delta variant. We continue to research on new variants."

Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech has resumed export of Covaxin. It has executed long-pending orders in November.

The company also said exports to additional countries will commence from December, according to a statement it shared on Twitter.

It was not immediately clear whether or not these exports were made under the global vaccine-sharing facility COVAX.

Covaxin, which is 78% effective against severe cases of COVID-19, was approved for emergency use listing by the World Health Organization earlier this month.

It is the only homegrown vaccine being used in India's vaccination programme, although it accounts for only about 11% of the nearly 1.23 billion doses administered so far.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bharat Biotech, the maker of India's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, said on Tuesday that it was studying whether the vaccine would work against Omicron variant. The development follows warning from Moderna CEO about existing vaccines potentially being less effective against Omicron which is feared to be more transmissible and dangerous than previous coronavirus variants.

Bharat Biotech, the maker of India's COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin, said on Tuesday that it was studying whether the vaccine would work against Omicron variant. The development follows warning from Moderna CEO about existing vaccines potentially being less effective against Omicron which is feared to be more transmissible and dangerous than previous coronavirus variants. "Covaxin was developed against the original Wuhan variant," a Bharat Biotech spokesperson was quoted by Reuters. "It has shown that it can work against other variants, including the Delta variant. We continue to research on new variants." Meanwhile, Bharat Biotech has resumed export of Covaxin. It has executed long-pending orders in November. The company also said exports to additional countries will commence from December, according to a statement it shared on Twitter. It was not immediately clear whether or not these exports were made under the global vaccine-sharing facility COVAX. Covaxin, which is 78% effective against severe cases of COVID-19, was approved for emergency use listing by the World Health Organization earlier this month. It is the only homegrown vaccine being used in India's vaccination programme, although it accounts for only about 11% of the nearly 1.23 billion doses administered so far. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron threat: Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech studying if vaccine works against variant

China`s foreign ministry said on Tuesday the new Omicron COVID-19 variant will pose challenges for prevention and control, but it nonetheless believes the Winter Olympics will go smoothly. Beijing is set to host the Games from Feb. 4 to Feb. 20.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-lauds-pm-modi-as-india-ready-to-help-african-nations-amid-omicron-scare-432914">Kevin Pietersen lauds PM Modi as India ready to help African nations amid Omicron scare</a>

China`s foreign ministry said on Tuesday the new Omicron COVID-19 variant will pose challenges for prevention and control, but it nonetheless believes the Winter Olympics will go smoothly.

China`s foreign ministry said on Tuesday the new Omicron COVID-19 variant will pose challenges for prevention and control, but it nonetheless believes the Winter Olympics will go smoothly. Beijing is set to host the Games from Feb. 4 to Feb. 20. ALSO READ | Kevin Pietersen lauds PM Modi as India ready to help African nations amid Omicron scare

China claims Winter Olympics will go smoothly despite Omicron scare

Portugal detected 13 cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus on Monday, all involving players and staff members of Lisbon soccer club Belenenses SAD, after one player recently returned from South Africa, health authority DGS said.

The new variant, which according to the World Health Organization is likely to "spread internationally", was found after Belenenses played a Primeira Liga match against Benfica on Saturday.

The game started with only nine Belenenses players on the pitch because the rest were isolating and only seven returned to the field after halftime. The match was abandoned two minutes into the second half with Benfica leading 7-0.

A club spokesman said 44 players and staff, including himself, were self-isolating at home and waiting to repeat the tests.

"Two or three players and two or three staff have symptoms, but nothing too serious, the rest are asymptomatic," he added.

Benfica and Belenenses presidents told a news conference on Saturday they had no choice but to play the match or risked being punished for an "unjustified absence". They blamed the league and DGS for not allowing the game to be postponed.

DGS chief Maria da Graca Freitas told SIC broadcaster it was not up to the health authority to postpone the game but to assess the COVID-19 situation and implement measures such as putting people in isolation.

Nearly all the players had been vaccinated but still contracted the disease, she said, adding that it was good news that most were asymptomatic.

Portugal, which has one of the world`s highest vaccination rates against COVID-19, suspended flights to and from its former colony Mozambique from Monday to prevent the spread of the variant, which was first detected in southern Africa, and last week announced the return of restrictions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports-schedules-go-haywire-due-to-omicron-covid-variant-whats-cancelled-whats-postponed-432560">Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed</a>

Potentially more contagious than prior variants, Omicron has also been found in Australia, Belgium, Botswana, Britain, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy and the Netherlands.

Belenenses defender Cafu Phete tested positive for COVID-19 after returning on Nov. 17 from international duty in South Africa.

Belenenses, including Phete, played against third-division club Caldas on Nov. 21. A Caldas spokesman said they would test their players.

A Benfica spokesman said none of their players were in isolation as the Belenenses players they faced on Saturday were not considered high-risk contacts. Benfica`s next match is scheduled for Friday.

Portugal detected 13 cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus on Monday, all involving players and staff members of Lisbon soccer club Belenenses SAD, after one player recently returned from South Africa, health authority DGS said.

Portugal detected 13 cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus on Monday, all involving players and staff members of Lisbon soccer club Belenenses SAD, after one player recently returned from South Africa, health authority DGS said. The new variant, which according to the World Health Organization is likely to "spread internationally", was found after Belenenses played a Primeira Liga match against Benfica on Saturday. The game started with only nine Belenenses players on the pitch because the rest were isolating and only seven returned to the field after halftime. The match was abandoned two minutes into the second half with Benfica leading 7-0. A club spokesman said 44 players and staff, including himself, were self-isolating at home and waiting to repeat the tests. "Two or three players and two or three staff have symptoms, but nothing too serious, the rest are asymptomatic," he added. Benfica and Belenenses presidents told a news conference on Saturday they had no choice but to play the match or risked being punished for an "unjustified absence". They blamed the league and DGS for not allowing the game to be postponed. DGS chief Maria da Graca Freitas told SIC broadcaster it was not up to the health authority to postpone the game but to assess the COVID-19 situation and implement measures such as putting people in isolation. Nearly all the players had been vaccinated but still contracted the disease, she said, adding that it was good news that most were asymptomatic. Portugal, which has one of the world`s highest vaccination rates against COVID-19, suspended flights to and from its former colony Mozambique from Monday to prevent the spread of the variant, which was first detected in southern Africa, and last week announced the return of restrictions. Also Read: Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed Potentially more contagious than prior variants, Omicron has also been found in Australia, Belgium, Botswana, Britain, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy and the Netherlands. Belenenses defender Cafu Phete tested positive for COVID-19 after returning on Nov. 17 from international duty in South Africa. Belenenses, including Phete, played against third-division club Caldas on Nov. 21. A Caldas spokesman said they would test their players. A Benfica spokesman said none of their players were in isolation as the Belenenses players they faced on Saturday were not considered high-risk contacts. Benfica`s next match is scheduled for Friday.

Omicron hits Portugal as 13 members of Lisbon football club Belenenses SAD test positive

Omicron variant of coronavirus has governments across the world on alert. The variant, which was first found in South Africa has now spread to many other countries and nations all over the world are releasing guidelines or restricting air travel to try and ensure that the virus doesn't cross their borders.

India's health ministry on Sunday revised guidelines for international arrivals in India.

From December 1, passengers will have to submit the self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha Portal before the scheduled travel. They will have to submit details of journeys made in last 14 days.

It will also be mandatory to upload negative RT-PCR test reports on the Air Suvidha portal before the journey. The test should have been conducted within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey.&nbsp;

Health ministry has said that travellers from `countries at-risk` will need to take the COVID-19 test post-arrival and wait for results at the airport.If tested negative they will follow, home quarantine for seven days.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-returning-from-south-africa-tests-positive-in-maharashtra-strain-not-confirmed-432726">Indian man returning from South Africa tests positive in Maharashtra; strain not confirmed</a>

They will have to take a re-test on eight-day and if negative, further self-monitor for the next seven days. A sub-section (5 percent of the total flight passengers) shall undergo post-arrival testing at random at the airport on the arrival.&nbsp;

These are the countries-at-risk as per Indian health ministry

<ul>
	<li>United Kingdom</li>
	<li>South Africa</li>
	<li>Brazil</li>
	<li>Bangladesh</li>
	<li>Botswana</li>
	<li>China</li>
	<li>Mauritius</li>
	<li>New Zealand</li>
	<li>Zimbabwe</li>
	<li>Singapore</li>
	<li>Hong Kong</li>
	<li>Israel</li>
</ul>

The health ministry has revised the existing guidelines with a view to tackle the Omicron variant. The variant has already been described as a 'variant of concern' by World Health Organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant of coronavirus has governments across the world on alert. The variant, which was first found in South Africa has now spread to many other countries and nations all over the world are releasing guidelines or restricting air travel to try and ensure that the virus doesn't cross their borders.

Omicron variant of coronavirus has governments across the world on alert. The variant, which was first found in South Africa has now spread to many other countries and nations all over the world are releasing guidelines or restricting air travel to try and ensure that the virus doesn't cross their borders. India's health ministry on Sunday revised guidelines for international arrivals in India. From December 1, passengers will have to submit the self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha Portal before the scheduled travel. They will have to submit details of journeys made in last 14 days. It will also be mandatory to upload negative RT-PCR test reports on the Air Suvidha portal before the journey. The test should have been conducted within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey. Health ministry has said that travellers from `countries at-risk` will need to take the COVID-19 test post-arrival and wait for results at the airport.If tested negative they will follow, home quarantine for seven days. Also Read | Indian man returning from South Africa tests positive in Maharashtra; strain not confirmed They will have to take a re-test on eight-day and if negative, further self-monitor for the next seven days. A sub-section (5 percent of the total flight passengers) shall undergo post-arrival testing at random at the airport on the arrival. These are the countries-at-risk as per Indian health ministry United Kingdom South Africa Brazil Bangladesh Botswana China Mauritius New Zealand Zimbabwe Singapore Hong Kong Israel The health ministry has revised the existing guidelines with a view to tackle the Omicron variant. The variant has already been described as a 'variant of concern' by World Health Organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron threat: Here is 'countries-at-risk' list released by India

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries.

"Yes, it is transmissible, but for now, as medical practitioners, we do not know why so much hype is being driven as we are still looking into it,"&nbsp;Angelique Coetzee, the chairwoman of SAMA was quoted as saying by Sputnik news agency.

"We will only know after two to three weeks as there are some patients admitted and these are young people aged 40 and younger," Coetzee added. 
 
She criticised the decision by some countries to ban flights from South Africa as premature as there is not enough information on how dangerous it is.

World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday identified the new strain of coronavirus as Omicron. The WHO said that the new strain was 'a variant of concern.' The new strain was detected in South Africa. The virus has been seen to show more mutations - over 30 - than previous variants and is feared to be more dangerous.

"It presents mild disease with symptoms being sore muscles and tiredness for a day or two not feeling well. So far, we have detected that those infected do not suffer loss of taste or smell. They might have a slight cough. There are no prominent symptoms. Of those infected some are currently being treated at home," Coetzee said.

South Africa on Sunday said that it was being punished for reporting the virus.

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South Africa has some of the best virology facilities in the world. 
Graeme Codrington said this months ago when a previous variant was identified by South African virologists. A note to journalists who peddle myths on South African variants. These words still hold true.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a> <a href="https://t.co/KtYzlleX2r">pic.twitter.com/KtYzlleX2r</a>
— James Melville (@JamesMelville) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesMelville/status/1464615233964716040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said.&nbsp;

Just hours after such a reaction, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">praise for South Africa came from the US</a>.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised South Africa for quickly identifying the virus and presenting the details to the world so that precautions could be taken.

"The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries.

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries. "Yes, it is transmissible, but for now, as medical practitioners, we do not know why so much hype is being driven as we are still looking into it," Angelique Coetzee, the chairwoman of SAMA was quoted as saying by Sputnik news agency. "We will only know after two to three weeks as there are some patients admitted and these are young people aged 40 and younger," Coetzee added. She criticised the decision by some countries to ban flights from South Africa as premature as there is not enough information on how dangerous it is. World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday identified the new strain of coronavirus as Omicron. The WHO said that the new strain was 'a variant of concern.' The new strain was detected in South Africa. The virus has been seen to show more mutations - over 30 - than previous variants and is feared to be more dangerous. "It presents mild disease with symptoms being sore muscles and tiredness for a day or two not feeling well. So far, we have detected that those infected do not suffer loss of taste or smell. They might have a slight cough. There are no prominent symptoms. Of those infected some are currently being treated at home," Coetzee said. South Africa on Sunday said that it was being punished for reporting the virus. South Africa has some of the best virology facilities in the world. Graeme Codrington said this months ago when a previous variant was identified by South African virologists. A note to journalists who peddle myths on South African variants. These words still hold true.#Omicron pic.twitter.com/KtYzlleX2r — James Melville (@JamesMelville) November 27, 2021 × As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement. Also Read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant. The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said. Just hours after such a reaction, praise for South Africa came from the US. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised South Africa for quickly identifying the virus and presenting the details to the world so that precautions could be taken. "The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype 

French Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Sunday that Omicron variant of coronavirus may already be spreading in France. He said that government was taking measures to contain spread of the variant. Omicron variant had been first detected in South Africa and is potentially more contagious than previous variants.

Experts however, are yet to fully determine whether Omicron will cause &nbsp;more or less severe COVID-19 compared to other strains

"There is no identification yet, but it's a matter of hours," Olivier Veran told reporters at a vaccination centre in Paris.

"Once the variant is circulating in England, in Italy, in Belgium, it is probable that there are already cases in circulation here. We will identify them and (...) we will slow down its spread as much as possible."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-is-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-432552">Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association&nbsp;</a>

France is in the midst of a fifth wave of the virus.

The Health Ministry recommended on Saturday the isolation of any contact person at risk of a possible case or a confirmed case of the Omicron variant, even vaccinated, in documents sent to establishments and health professionals.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

Those people should be considered "high risk" and quarantined, the document said.

Until now, contact cases of an infected person had to be isolated only when they were not fully vaccinated or when they had weak immune systems.

(With inputs from agencies)

French Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Sunday that Omicron variant of coronavirus may already be spreading in France. He said that government was taking measures to contain spread of the variant.

French Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Sunday that Omicron variant of coronavirus may already be spreading in France. He said that government was taking measures to contain spread of the variant. Omicron variant had been first detected in South Africa and is potentially more contagious than previous variants. Experts however, are yet to fully determine whether Omicron will cause more or less severe COVID-19 compared to other strains "There is no identification yet, but it's a matter of hours," Olivier Veran told reporters at a vaccination centre in Paris. "Once the variant is circulating in England, in Italy, in Belgium, it is probable that there are already cases in circulation here. We will identify them and (...) we will slow down its spread as much as possible." Also Read | Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association France is in the midst of a fifth wave of the virus. The Health Ministry recommended on Saturday the isolation of any contact person at risk of a possible case or a confirmed case of the Omicron variant, even vaccinated, in documents sent to establishments and health professionals. Also Read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron Those people should be considered "high risk" and quarantined, the document said. Until now, contact cases of an infected person had to be isolated only when they were not fully vaccinated or when they had weak immune systems. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant is likely circulating in France: Health minister

Six Sri Lanka women cricketers who took part in a World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe have tested positive for COVID-19, the Asian country`s cricket board said on Sunday.

Cricket`s governing body ICC abandoned the qualifiers in Zimbabwe on Saturday after the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa, which prompted widespread travel curbs.

It was not known whether the Sri Lankan players` positive tests were for the new Omicron variant of the virus. 
The ICC took its decision after Saturday`s game between the West Indies and Sri Lanka was called off when a member of the Sri Lankan support staff tested positive for COVID-19.

"Steps will be taken to bring back the Sri Lanka women`s team from Zimbabwe," the Sri Lankan cricket board (SLC) said.

The detection of the Omicron variant in South Africa has prompted some countries to tighten border controls and impose curbs on travel from several southern African countries, including Zimbabwe.

After the cancellation of the qualifiers, the ICC said that Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will progress to next year`s World Cup in New Zealand by virtue of their rankings.

The three nations will join New Zealand, Australia, India, England and South Africa.

South African sport began to shut down on Friday as the travel bans forced rugby teams and golfers to scramble to try to leave the country.

Six Sri Lanka women cricketers who took part in a World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe have tested positive for COVID-19, the Asian country`s cricket board said on Sunday.

Six Sri Lanka women cricketers who took part in a World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe have tested positive for COVID-19, the Asian country`s cricket board said on Sunday. Cricket`s governing body ICC abandoned the qualifiers in Zimbabwe on Saturday after the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa, which prompted widespread travel curbs. It was not known whether the Sri Lankan players` positive tests were for the new Omicron variant of the virus. The ICC took its decision after Saturday`s game between the West Indies and Sri Lanka was called off when a member of the Sri Lankan support staff tested positive for COVID-19. "Steps will be taken to bring back the Sri Lanka women`s team from Zimbabwe," the Sri Lankan cricket board (SLC) said. The detection of the Omicron variant in South Africa has prompted some countries to tighten border controls and impose curbs on travel from several southern African countries, including Zimbabwe. After the cancellation of the qualifiers, the ICC said that Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will progress to next year`s World Cup in New Zealand by virtue of their rankings. The three nations will join New Zealand, Australia, India, England and South Africa. South African sport began to shut down on Friday as the travel bans forced rugby teams and golfers to scramble to try to leave the country.

Six Sri Lanka women players test positive for COVID-19 in Zimbabwe

Fifteen more countries have recognised India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate, taking the total number of such nations that have approved India`s vaccine certificate to 21, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). 
 
"Mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccination certificates continues! Fifteen more recognitions for India's vaccination certificate," said MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet. 
 
"Mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccination certificates with India: Australia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Mauritius, Mongolia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Palestine, Philippines, San Marino, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine," MEA said in a statement.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-emerges-india-to-tighten-covid-testing-for-international-tourists-432018">As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists &nbsp;&nbsp;</a> 
 
The Union ministry of health and family welfare said earlier that nearly 100 countries have agreed to the mutual acceptance of vaccination certificates of India's Covid&nbsp;vaccines and the vaccination process. 
 
The Minister in an event on Thursday said, "Mutual recognition of vaccinations increases ease of travel for tourism and business thereby boosting economic recovery the world so desperately needs,". 
 
Highlighting how India helped other countries throughout the Pandemic, he said, "Being the Pharmacy of the World, India has generously supplied HCQ tablets and other medical equipment to 27 countries. Under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, 6.63 crore doses were sent to 95 countries".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-variant-having-large-number-of-mutations-detected-in-south-africa-431892" hreflang="en">New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa</a>

Explaining India's strategy of curbing Covid pandemic, he said that six vaccines are approved in India, of which two are indigenously developed. Near 1.2 billion doses have been administered with 82 per cent Indians receiving at least one dose and 44 per cent being fully vaccinated. 
 
"India is willing to supply Covishield and Covaxin to all the countries", said Union Health Minister in a meeting with the ambassadors of Latin American and Caribbean nations on Thursday.

Fifteen more countries have recognised India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate, taking the total number of such nations that have approved India`s vaccine certificate to 21, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Fifteen more countries have recognised India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate, taking the total number of such nations that have approved India`s vaccine certificate to 21, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). "Mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccination certificates continues! Fifteen more recognitions for India's vaccination certificate," said MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a tweet. "Mutual recognition of Covid-19 vaccination certificates with India: Australia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Mauritius, Mongolia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Palestine, Philippines, San Marino, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine," MEA said in a statement. ALSO READ | As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists The Union ministry of health and family welfare said earlier that nearly 100 countries have agreed to the mutual acceptance of vaccination certificates of India's Covid vaccines and the vaccination process. The Minister in an event on Thursday said, "Mutual recognition of vaccinations increases ease of travel for tourism and business thereby boosting economic recovery the world so desperately needs,". Highlighting how India helped other countries throughout the Pandemic, he said, "Being the Pharmacy of the World, India has generously supplied HCQ tablets and other medical equipment to 27 countries. Under the Vaccine Maitri initiative, 6.63 crore doses were sent to 95 countries". Also Read: New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa Explaining India's strategy of curbing Covid pandemic, he said that six vaccines are approved in India, of which two are indigenously developed. Near 1.2 billion doses have been administered with 82 per cent Indians receiving at least one dose and 44 per cent being fully vaccinated. "India is willing to supply Covishield and Covaxin to all the countries", said Union Health Minister in a meeting with the ambassadors of Latin American and Caribbean nations on Thursday.

Fifteen more countries recognise India's COVID-19 vaccination certificate: MEA

Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) have mutually agreed to defer the three-match ODI series which began on Friday.The decision comes as a result of mounting anxiety and concern on the side of the visiting team around travel bans and restrictions on flights from South Africa being imposed by several countries around the world including the United Kingdom (UK), European Union (EU) and the United States of America (USA).

These actions are a result of Thursday`s announcement by the National Department of Health of South Africa of a new variant of the COVID-19 virus discovered in the country.

CSA Acting CEO, Pholetsi Moseki said: "We are disappointed by the unfortunate situation we find ourselves in, but the comfort of all visiting teams must always be paramount. The mental well-being of players is one of CSA`s top priorities, and we respect our visitors` position and point of view."

"CSA and KNCB will get into discussions around possibly rescheduling the tour within this cycle of the ICC Future Tours Programme ending in 2023," he added.

Chairman of the KNCB Jurgen Delfos said: "We are saddened by these circumstances, but are grateful to Cricket South Africa for their assistance and understanding of our team`s position. It must be made clear that the concerns are strictly over travel issues and how soon the team can get home and have nothing to do with the integrity of the Bio-Secure Environment (BSE) that CSA has successfully hosted. Our team has been pleased with every aspect of the organisation of the tour and have been well treated by our hosts."

"We have been looking forward to this series against the Proteas for some time and are keen on returning to South Africa in the near future," he added.

The Netherlands team will remain in the BSE hotel until their return flights have been finalised with the support of key CSA BSE staff.&nbsp;

Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) have mutually agreed to defer the three-match ODI series which began on Friday.The decision comes as a result of mounting anxiety and concern on the side of the visiting team around travel bans and restrictions on flights from South Africa being imposed by several countries around the world including the United Kingdom (UK), European Union (EU) and the United States of America (USA).

Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) have mutually agreed to defer the three-match ODI series which began on Friday.The decision comes as a result of mounting anxiety and concern on the side of the visiting team around travel bans and restrictions on flights from South Africa being imposed by several countries around the world including the United Kingdom (UK), European Union (EU) and the United States of America (USA). These actions are a result of Thursday`s announcement by the National Department of Health of South Africa of a new variant of the COVID-19 virus discovered in the country. CSA Acting CEO, Pholetsi Moseki said: "We are disappointed by the unfortunate situation we find ourselves in, but the comfort of all visiting teams must always be paramount. The mental well-being of players is one of CSA`s top priorities, and we respect our visitors` position and point of view." "CSA and KNCB will get into discussions around possibly rescheduling the tour within this cycle of the ICC Future Tours Programme ending in 2023," he added. Chairman of the KNCB Jurgen Delfos said: "We are saddened by these circumstances, but are grateful to Cricket South Africa for their assistance and understanding of our team`s position. It must be made clear that the concerns are strictly over travel issues and how soon the team can get home and have nothing to do with the integrity of the Bio-Secure Environment (BSE) that CSA has successfully hosted. Our team has been pleased with every aspect of the organisation of the tour and have been well treated by our hosts." "We have been looking forward to this series against the Proteas for some time and are keen on returning to South Africa in the near future," he added. The Netherlands team will remain in the BSE hotel until their return flights have been finalised with the support of key CSA BSE staff.

COVID-19 Omicron variant: Remaining two ODIs between South Africa-Netherlands postponed

The women`s cricket World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe has been abandoned after the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa that prompted travel curbs, the sport`s governing body (ICC) said on Saturday.

The detection of the new coronavirus variant called Omicron in South Africa forced a number of countries to tighten border controls and impose curbs on travel from several southern African countries, including Zimbabwe.

The ICC took the decision after Saturday`s game between the West Indies and Sri Lanka was called off when a member of the Sri Lankan support staff tested positive for COVID-19.

"We are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel the remainder of this event," Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, said in a statement https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/2372416.

"But with travel restrictions from a number of African countries being imposed at such short notice, there was a serious risk that teams would be unable to return home.

"We have explored a number of options to allow us to complete the event but it isn`t feasible and we will fly the teams out of Zimbabwe as soon as possible."

Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will progress to next year`s World Cup in New Zealand by virtue of their rankings, the ICC said. They will join hosts New Zealand, Australia, India, England and South Africa.

"We are disappointed for all the players and teams who are in Zimbabwe at the moment, but from a health and safety perspective this is the correct decision," said Richard Holdsworth, High Performance Director for Cricket Ireland.

South African sport began to shut down on Friday as the travel bans forced rugby teams and golfers to scramble to try to leave the country.

The women`s cricket World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe has been abandoned after the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa that prompted travel curbs, the sport`s governing body (ICC) said on Saturday.

The women`s cricket World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe has been abandoned after the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa that prompted travel curbs, the sport`s governing body (ICC) said on Saturday. The detection of the new coronavirus variant called Omicron in South Africa forced a number of countries to tighten border controls and impose curbs on travel from several southern African countries, including Zimbabwe. The ICC took the decision after Saturday`s game between the West Indies and Sri Lanka was called off when a member of the Sri Lankan support staff tested positive for COVID-19. "We are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel the remainder of this event," Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, said in a statement https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/2372416. "But with travel restrictions from a number of African countries being imposed at such short notice, there was a serious risk that teams would be unable to return home. "We have explored a number of options to allow us to complete the event but it isn`t feasible and we will fly the teams out of Zimbabwe as soon as possible." Bangladesh, Pakistan and the West Indies will progress to next year`s World Cup in New Zealand by virtue of their rankings, the ICC said. They will join hosts New Zealand, Australia, India, England and South Africa. "We are disappointed for all the players and teams who are in Zimbabwe at the moment, but from a health and safety perspective this is the correct decision," said Richard Holdsworth, High Performance Director for Cricket Ireland. South African sport began to shut down on Friday as the travel bans forced rugby teams and golfers to scramble to try to leave the country.

Omicron fear: Women's Cricket World Cup qualifiers called off in Zimbabwe; Pak, Bangladesh, WI qualify

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled.

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat&nbsp;from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17.

With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa.

"Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by India Today.

"We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source.

India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three&nbsp;unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relations-between-kohli-ex-coach-shastri-and-bcci-were-not-great-inzamam-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-432302">Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle</a>

When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa.

"It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told India Today.

COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled. Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17. With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa. "Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by India Today. "We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source. India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29. Also Read: Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa. "It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told India Today. COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.

BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat

World economies were slowly and gradually opening borders after facing the wrath of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the past two years. But a new variant with a large number of mutations poses a bigger threat to the world.

World economies were slowly and gradually opening borders after facing the wrath of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the past two years. But a new variant with a large number of mutations poses a bigger threat to the world. After the initial examination, the scientists have said that the new variant is the most worrying Covid variant since delta. The recently-discovered variant B.1.1.529, first detected in southern Africa has been termed as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organization (WHO). It has been renamed Omicron by WHO. The early evidence suggested a possible increased risk of reinfection, but scientists have made mere speculations as work is already underway to investigate the immune escape potential of the Omicron variant. WHO also said that it will take several weeks to understand it. IN PICS | Coronavirus: 'Variant of concern' Omicron raises fears globally; cases have been detected in these countries Whether the available vaccines work on the Omicron variant is one among other unanswered questions at the moment. However, it appears that it is too soon to know. What can be considered as a good news that mRNA vaccines such as Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are likely adaptable against most variants. But the massive roadblock in the coming days will be countries where very few people have received even a single vaccine dose of vaccines. Moderna The US pharmaceutical company Moderna said Friday (November 26) it will develop a booster shot against the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus. It is one of three strategies the company is working to address the new threat, including a higher dose of its existing vaccine, Moderna said. "The mutations in the Omicron variant are concerning and for several days, we have been moving as fast as possible to execute our strategy to address this variant," said Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel. Pfizer and BioNTech German vaccine manufacturer BioNTech expects data from tests "in two weeks at the latest". The company said in a statement said, "Pfizer and BioNTech have taken actions months ago to be able to adapt the mRNA vaccine within six weeks and ship initial batches within 100 days in the event of an escape variant." Sputnik V Head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) Kirill Dmitriev said in an interview with the RT TV channel that Sputnik V jab, if necessary, can be quickly adjusted to take on a new strain of coronavirus found in South Africa. "We can quickly adapt the vaccine to the new variant of the coronavirus if it is required. We do believe that Sputnik V is for the moment the most effective vaccine against mutations of the coronavirus," he said. IN PICS | New COVID-19 variant: From UK to France - countries that have imposed travel curbs Johnson & Johnson Johnson & Johnson on Friday (November 27) said they are closely monitoring the new variant and already testing their vaccine against it. "We are closely monitoring newly emerging COVID-19 virus strains with variations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and are already testing the effectiveness of our vaccine against the new and rapidly spreading variant first detected in southern Africa," Johnson & Johnson said. AstraZeneca AstraZeneca is also investigating the variant that was first detected in southern Africa. In a statement, the company said, "AstraZeneca is also already conducting research in locations where the variant has been identified, namely in Botswana and Eswatini." What do the experts say? As quoted by The Guardian, Prof Wendy Barclay, a virologist at Imperial College London, said, "Sometimes quantity [of antibodies] can compensate for the lack of a match. That is the only vaccine that's available to us at the moment. We need to make that work as best as we can." Vincent Enouf, from Paris's Institut Pasteur, said, "Based on its genetics, it's something very rare and could well be concerning. We need to remain calm, continue to monitor it and not completely alarm the public." He added, "We need to check if the antibodies produced by our current vaccines still work, and what level do they work and if they can still prevent serious cases." That requires a two-pronged approach of lab trials and looking at real-world data in affected countries. Virologist Etienne Decroly said on Twitter, "It is urgent to adapt RNA vaccines and vaccine boosts to the circulating variants," "The more this virus circulates, the more opportunities this virus has to change, the more mutations we will see," said the WHO's Maria Van Kerkhove. ×

COVID-19: Will vaccines work against the Omicron variant? Here's what experts say

Belgium became the first country in Europe to report the new case as global authorities reacted with alarm to a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant detected in South Africa.&nbsp;US lawmakers had arrived in Taiwan on Thursday for the second time this month angering China.

Here are top news stories, click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-supposedly-dangerous-than-delta-432075">New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

The new variant has a designation of B.1.1.529. It is still being ascertained whether it should be called a 'variant of concern' but high number of spike protein mutations has brought it on the radar of experts. It is likely that WHO will name it 'Nu variant'.

<img alt="COVID" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c62b4225-2b01-4b21-bbed-101ea5f6a773" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVID.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-virus-variant-detected-in-europe-as-belgium-reports-first-case-432173">New virus variant detected in Europe as Belgium reports first case</a>

After South Africa announced it had detected the new virus variant B.1.1.529, Belgium became the first country in Europe to report the new case. Belgium's health minister Frank Vandenbroucke reported the new case even as several countries in Europe have been battling the fourth wave.

<img alt="COVID" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0102503-724b-4ede-9424-1ab17d7fbd65" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVID-19%20%285%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-case-of-new-covid-variant-reported-in-israel-432171">First case of new Covid variant reported in Israel</a>

Israeli health ministry on Friday reported first case of the new Covid-19 variant. The new Covid variant has been designated B.1.1.529 and is being referred to as variant Nu. The variant was first detected in South Africa and other countries.

<img alt="Israeli health ministry" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f8f4f08-db74-4437-8c20-22a796f06f59" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Israeli%20health%20ministry.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-says-borders-to-remain-open-to-south-africa-despite-concerns-over-new-covid-variant-432156">Australia says borders to remain open to South Africa despite concerns over new Covid variant</a>

Even as several countries and the WHO is on their toes over the emergence of a new coronavirus variant, Australia on Friday said it has no plans to restrict flights from South Africa, from where the new strain has surfaced. Australia’s health minister Greg Hunt said the officials were assessing the threat posed by the strain and would not introduce restrictions on arrivals from southern Africa yet.

<img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0cb6e5a-263b-45b0-af2b-b971a747a78b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Australia%20%283%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-conducts-combat-readiness-patrol-as-us-lawmakers-visit-taiwan-432179">China conducts 'combat readiness patrol' as US lawmakers visit Taiwan</a>

China slammed the US directing it "not to play the Taiwan card" as another US delegation visited Taipei. US lawmakers had arrived in Taiwan on Thursday for the second time this month angering China.

The Chinese foreign ministry said the move "seriously violated the&nbsp;One-China&nbsp;principle" and it sent a "wrong signal to support the separatist forces for Taiwan independence."

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2981d5fd-ca3b-4332-8842-ff006b871261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_1.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/6-covid-cases-reported-in-three-chinese-cities-in-a-day-shanghai-cancels-flights-shuts-schools-432112">6 Covid cases reported in three Chinese cities in a day, Shanghai cancels flights, shuts schools</a>

Six COVID-19 cases were reported from three cities in China in a day, triggering fresh concerns of another coronavirus outbreak.The new cases have caused alarm as China’s strict zero-Covid policy had so far kept the highly-mutating virus at bay for a brief period of time.

<img alt="COVID" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c03278a5-f9e7-4bb8-bf25-f712c3ba8798" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/covid-19%20%286%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/expert-warns-of-impending-doomsday-says-us-vulnerable-to-chinas-electromagnetic-pulse-attack-432136">Expert warns of impending ‘doomsday’, says US vulnerable to China’s electromagnetic pulse attack</a>

The head of EMP Task Force has warned that the United States’ electric grid and other key infrastructure are vulnerable to electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks from countries like China and Russia and called for renewed efforts to upgrade the country’s defences to avoid a doomsday scenario.

<img alt="United States’ electric grid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ee797d1-c13c-46e2-9d59-ed4a764876d6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/United%20States%E2%80%99%20electric%20grid.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-debt-and-liabilities-increase-govt-doesnt-have-money-whats-next-for-the-debt-ridden-nation-432133">Pakistan's debt and liabilities increase; govt 'doesn't have money': What's next for the debt-ridden nation?</a>

For the first time ever, Pakistan's total debt and liabilities crossed 50.5 trillion Pakistani rupees (PKR) - approximately $283 billion. It is an addition of PKR 20.7 trillion under the current government alone, Pakistan-based newspaper Express Tribune reported citing SBP data.&nbsp;

<img alt="Pakistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="179b9325-8652-4701-bd8b-59507cfd9cfe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pakistan.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-hong-kong-restaurant-group-is-spending-650000-to-fly-off-250-staff-to-homes-432190">This Hong Kong restaurant group is spending $650,000 to fly off 250 staff to homes</a>

A Hong Kong restaurant group is splurging around US $650,000 to let their staff of 250 people fly off to their homes so that they can spend time with their families. The restaurant has employees from various parts of the world, including India, Nepal, England and Italy, reports CNN.&nbsp;

<img alt="Hong Kong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="068c3fd8-762a-4a21-8af3-8619d2559fa8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hong%20Kong.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-allows-international-flight-operations-from-december-15-432148">India allows international flight operations from December 15</a>

India's aviation ministry informed on Friday that scheduled international flight operations will resume from December 15 after it was suspended in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic. India has been operating special flights under the "air bubble" agreement with several countries.

<img alt="India's aviation ministry" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0e9aa31-dfd9-4a47-b41f-a9d2e8fb1c15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India%27s%20aviation%20ministry.jpg" />

Belgium became the first country in Europe to report the new case as global authorities reacted with alarm to a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant detected in South Africa.

Belgium became the first country in Europe to report the new case as global authorities reacted with alarm to a new coronavirus (COVID-19) variant detected in South Africa. US lawmakers had arrived in Taiwan on Thursday for the second time this month angering China. Here are top news stories, click on headlines to read more New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta The new variant has a designation of B.1.1.529. It is still being ascertained whether it should be called a 'variant of concern' but high number of spike protein mutations has brought it on the radar of experts. It is likely that WHO will name it 'Nu variant'. New virus variant detected in Europe as Belgium reports first case After South Africa announced it had detected the new virus variant B.1.1.529, Belgium became the first country in Europe to report the new case. Belgium's health minister Frank Vandenbroucke reported the new case even as several countries in Europe have been battling the fourth wave. First case of new Covid variant reported in Israel Israeli health ministry on Friday reported first case of the new Covid-19 variant. The new Covid variant has been designated B.1.1.529 and is being referred to as variant Nu. The variant was first detected in South Africa and other countries. Australia says borders to remain open to South Africa despite concerns over new Covid variant Even as several countries and the WHO is on their toes over the emergence of a new coronavirus variant, Australia on Friday said it has no plans to restrict flights from South Africa, from where the new strain has surfaced. Australia’s health minister Greg Hunt said the officials were assessing the threat posed by the strain and would not introduce restrictions on arrivals from southern Africa yet. China conducts 'combat readiness patrol' as US lawmakers visit Taiwan China slammed the US directing it "not to play the Taiwan card" as another US delegation visited Taipei. US lawmakers had arrived in Taiwan on Thursday for the second time this month angering China. The Chinese foreign ministry said the move "seriously violated the One-China principle" and it sent a "wrong signal to support the separatist forces for Taiwan independence." 6 Covid cases reported in three Chinese cities in a day, Shanghai cancels flights, shuts schools Six COVID-19 cases were reported from three cities in China in a day, triggering fresh concerns of another coronavirus outbreak.The new cases have caused alarm as China’s strict zero-Covid policy had so far kept the highly-mutating virus at bay for a brief period of time. Expert warns of impending ‘doomsday’, says US vulnerable to China’s electromagnetic pulse attack The head of EMP Task Force has warned that the United States’ electric grid and other key infrastructure are vulnerable to electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks from countries like China and Russia and called for renewed efforts to upgrade the country’s defences to avoid a doomsday scenario. Pakistan's debt and liabilities increase; govt 'doesn't have money': What's next for the debt-ridden nation? For the first time ever, Pakistan's total debt and liabilities crossed 50.5 trillion Pakistani rupees (PKR) - approximately $283 billion. It is an addition of PKR 20.7 trillion under the current government alone, Pakistan-based newspaper Express Tribune reported citing SBP data. This Hong Kong restaurant group is spending $650,000 to fly off 250 staff to homes A Hong Kong restaurant group is splurging around US $650,000 to let their staff of 250 people fly off to their homes so that they can spend time with their families. The restaurant has employees from various parts of the world, including India, Nepal, England and Italy, reports CNN. India allows international flight operations from December 15 India's aviation ministry informed on Friday that scheduled international flight operations will resume from December 15 after it was suspended in March 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic. India has been operating special flights under the "air bubble" agreement with several countries.

Top 10 world news: New virus variant detected in Europe, China conducts 'combat readiness patrol' and more

Israeli health ministry on Friday reported first case of the new Covid-19 variant. The new Covid variant has been designated B.1.1.529 and is being referred to as variant Nu. The variant was first detected in South Africa and other countries.

The strain was discovered in a genomic sequencing test that took an Israeli who returned from Malawi, the Ministry said.

There is also a suspicion of more cases of infection with the strain, of two Israelis who also returned from abroad, it added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-heres-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-likely-deadlier-than-delta-432075">New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

The Ministry said it waits for the results of their sequencing tests, and until then, the two are staying in quarantine.

The ministry said that the three Israelis have been vaccinated against coronavirus in the past.

It said the epidemiologic investigation is underway to detect more cases of the new strain, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israel has imposed travel ban on almost all African countries barring a few in north Africa.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli health ministry on Friday reported first case of the new Covid-19 variant. The new Covid variant has been designated B.1.1.529 and is being referred to as variant Nu.

Israeli health ministry on Friday reported first case of the new Covid-19 variant. The new Covid variant has been designated B.1.1.529 and is being referred to as variant Nu. The variant was first detected in South Africa and other countries. The strain was discovered in a genomic sequencing test that took an Israeli who returned from Malawi, the Ministry said. There is also a suspicion of more cases of infection with the strain, of two Israelis who also returned from abroad, it added. Also Read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta The Ministry said it waits for the results of their sequencing tests, and until then, the two are staying in quarantine. The ministry said that the three Israelis have been vaccinated against coronavirus in the past. It said the epidemiologic investigation is underway to detect more cases of the new strain, Xinhua news agency reported. Israel has imposed travel ban on almost all African countries barring a few in north Africa. (With inputs from agencies)

First case of new Covid variant reported in Israel

A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned. The new COVID-19 variant can also lead to the suspension of all sporting events in South Africa in the coming weeks.

With all sports likely to shut down, Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is also in jeopardy. Team India is scheduled to tour South Africa in December this year for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. However, the future of the tour now remains uncertain after the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country.

The cases are majorly rising in the northern part of South Africa with Johannesburg and Pretoria - which are the venues for the India Test series - vulnerable to the spread of the new variant of COVID-19. The Netherlands cricket team which is currently in South Africa for their ODI series which gets underway on Friday (November 26) are likely to travel back amid new travel restrictions being imposed in the UK in the aftermath of the detection of the new variant.

While the first ODI between South Arica and Netherlands is going ahead as per schedule, a decision on the remainder of the tour will be taken soon. The India A team is also currently on their tour of South Africa for two unofficial Test matches.

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As per news agency PTI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) will wait for the ground report from Cricket South Africa before taking a call on the future of India's tour of the country which gets underway from December 17 with the first Test in Johannesburg.

Indian players are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of Decemeber. However, the new COVID-19 variant might delay their travelling plans.

A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned.

A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned. The new COVID-19 variant can also lead to the suspension of all sporting events in South Africa in the coming weeks. With all sports likely to shut down, Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is also in jeopardy. Team India is scheduled to tour South Africa in December this year for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. However, the future of the tour now remains uncertain after the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country. The cases are majorly rising in the northern part of South Africa with Johannesburg and Pretoria - which are the venues for the India Test series - vulnerable to the spread of the new variant of COVID-19. The Netherlands cricket team which is currently in South Africa for their ODI series which gets underway on Friday (November 26) are likely to travel back amid new travel restrictions being imposed in the UK in the aftermath of the detection of the new variant. While the first ODI between South Arica and Netherlands is going ahead as per schedule, a decision on the remainder of the tour will be taken soon. The India A team is also currently on their tour of South Africa for two unofficial Test matches. Also Read: IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchanges As per news agency PTI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) will wait for the ground report from Cricket South Africa before taking a call on the future of India's tour of the country which gets underway from December 17 with the first Test in Johannesburg. Indian players are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of Decemeber. However, the new COVID-19 variant might delay their travelling plans.

India's cricket tour in jeopardy as South Africa likely to suspend all sports due to new COVID-19 variant

Israel on Friday issued a travel ban that barred travellers from almost all African countries from coming to Israel. The move was taken in the wake of the occurrence of a new coronavirus variant which is considered to be more contagious than the dreaded Delta strain.

Under the travel restrictions, all African countries, except those in North Africa were added to Israel's "red list" of high-risk countries.

"We are currently on the verge of a state of emergency," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said, according to a statement from his office, before expanding a ban he announced on Thursday on the entry of foreigners from seven African countries and Israelis' travel to them.

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Bennett, who met Israeli health experts before the edicts were announced, said there were a few cases of the new variant reported in Israel.

The new Covid variant, being referred to as 'Nu' variant, has created panic across the world. Even World Health Organisation (WHO) has gone into a huddle to decide next course of action.

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The infection for the Nu variant was first detected in South Africa.&nbsp;

The coronavirus variant which has got the designation of B.1.1.529 has been reported to have shown more mutations than previously identified variants. Since it was mutations that created obstacles in the path of developing vaccines, the Nu variant has made scientists around the world take notice.

Israel on Friday issued a travel ban that barred travellers from almost all African countries from coming to Israel. The move was taken in the wake of the occurrence of a new coronavirus variant which is considered to be more contagious than the dreaded Delta strain.

Israel on Friday issued a travel ban that barred travellers from almost all African countries from coming to Israel. The move was taken in the wake of the occurrence of a new coronavirus variant which is considered to be more contagious than the dreaded Delta strain. Under the travel restrictions, all African countries, except those in North Africa were added to Israel's "red list" of high-risk countries. "We are currently on the verge of a state of emergency," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said, according to a statement from his office, before expanding a ban he announced on Thursday on the entry of foreigners from seven African countries and Israelis' travel to them. Also Read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta Bennett, who met Israeli health experts before the edicts were announced, said there were a few cases of the new variant reported in Israel. The new Covid variant, being referred to as 'Nu' variant, has created panic across the world. Even World Health Organisation (WHO) has gone into a huddle to decide next course of action. Also Read | 6 Covid cases reported in three Chinese cities in a day, Shanghai cancels flights, shuts schools The infection for the Nu variant was first detected in South Africa. The coronavirus variant which has got the designation of B.1.1.529 has been reported to have shown more mutations than previously identified variants. Since it was mutations that created obstacles in the path of developing vaccines, the Nu variant has made scientists around the world take notice.

New Covid variant: Israel imposes travel ban on passengers from most of Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million as cases in some of the countries continue to increase. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said.&nbsp;

In a published report, WHO also stated that last week, reported deaths due to the deadly virus increased to close to 4200 a day, doubling from 2100 deaths a day at the end of September.&nbsp;

The world health governing body also said that it is expected that there will be high or extreme stress on hospital beds in 25 countries, and high or extreme stress in intensive care units in 49 out of 53 countries between now and 1 March 2022.&nbsp;

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Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines."

"Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added.&nbsp;

WHO also highlighted possible reasons for the surge in cases as the reports mentioned that the European region is "Delta dominant" and the Delta variant of the virus is highly transmissible, with no country reporting more than one per cent of any other variant.&nbsp;

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Easing of measures with no caution is another reason for the spread of virus and a large number of people who are still not vaccinated are left vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp;

World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday said Europe is once again the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic amid a "false sense of security" over the protection offered by vaccines.&nbsp;

"In many countries and communities, we are concerned about a false sense of security that vaccines have ended the pandemic, and that people who are vaccinated do not need to take any other precautions," he said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday (November 23) has warned that 700,000 more people could die from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Europe by March 2022, taking the total to above 2.2 million as cases in some of the countries continue to increase. The 53 countries of the WHO's European regions have already surpassed 1.5 million cumulative deaths from respiratory disease, WHO said. In a published report, WHO also stated that last week, reported deaths due to the deadly virus increased to close to 4200 a day, doubling from 2100 deaths a day at the end of September. The world health governing body also said that it is expected that there will be high or extreme stress on hospital beds in 25 countries, and high or extreme stress in intensive care units in 49 out of 53 countries between now and 1 March 2022. ALSO READ | Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe said, "In order to live with this virus and continue our daily lives, we need to take a 'vaccine plus' approach. This means getting the standard doses of vaccine, taking a booster if offered, as well as incorporating preventive measures into our normal routines." "Taken together, wearing a mask, washing hands, ventilating indoor spaces, keeping physical distance and sneezing into your elbow are simple, effective ways of gaining control over the virus and keeping societies going. All of us have the opportunity and responsibility to help avert unnecessary tragedy and loss of life, and limit further disruption to society and businesses over this winter season," he added. WHO also highlighted possible reasons for the surge in cases as the reports mentioned that the European region is "Delta dominant" and the Delta variant of the virus is highly transmissible, with no country reporting more than one per cent of any other variant. ALSO READ | Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China Easing of measures with no caution is another reason for the spread of virus and a large number of people who are still not vaccinated are left vulnerable to the virus. World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday said Europe is once again the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic amid a "false sense of security" over the protection offered by vaccines. "In many countries and communities, we are concerned about a false sense of security that vaccines have ended the pandemic, and that people who are vaccinated do not need to take any other precautions," he said.

WHO warns as Europe could hit over 2 million COVID-19 deaths by March 2022

Singapore&nbsp;and Malaysia will next week launch a quarantine-free travel lane at their land border crossing, one of the world's busiest, for people vaccinated against COVID-19, the two countries said on Wednesday.

The plan, effective Nov. 29, expands an already announced move to start a travel lane for flights&nbsp;between Changi Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport from next week.

The land travel lane in the first phase will apply to citizens, permanent residents or long-term pass holders of the country they are entering, to allow people to visit families on the other side of the border, the office of&nbsp;Singapore's prime minister said in a statement.

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The lane will be progressively expanded.

Malaysia announced the creation of the land border travel lane separately on Wednesday.

Singapore, with a population of 5.45 million, relies heavily on Malaysians living in the southern state of Johor to staff businesses ranging from restaurants to semiconductor manufacturing.

Many Malaysians used to commute daily from across the border prior to the pandemic.

Singapore and Malaysia will next week launch a quarantine-free travel lane at their land border crossing, one of the world's busiest, for people vaccinated against COVID-19, the two countries said on Wednesday.

Singapore and Malaysia will next week launch a quarantine-free travel lane at their land border crossing, one of the world's busiest, for people vaccinated against COVID-19, the two countries said on Wednesday. The plan, effective Nov. 29, expands an already announced move to start a travel lane for flights between Changi Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport from next week. The land travel lane in the first phase will apply to citizens, permanent residents or long-term pass holders of the country they are entering, to allow people to visit families on the other side of the border, the office of Singapore's prime minister said in a statement. ALSO READ | IAEA chief says time running out to end stand-off over Iran workshop The lane will be progressively expanded. Malaysia announced the creation of the land border travel lane separately on Wednesday. Singapore, with a population of 5.45 million, relies heavily on Malaysians living in the southern state of Johor to staff businesses ranging from restaurants to semiconductor manufacturing. Many Malaysians used to commute daily from across the border prior to the pandemic.

COVID-19: Singapore and Malaysia to open land border for vaccinated travellers

India is witnessing decrease in the new COVID-19 cases. India logged 7,579 new coronavirus infections, the lowest in 543 days, taking the country's total tally of COVID-19 cases to 3,45,26,480.

COVID-19: India sees a decline in new cases

Surging numbers of coronavirus infections in Europe have prompted US officials to advise citizens against traveling to Germany or Denmark.

COVID-19: U.S. issues travel warning for Germany, Denmark

Just as France is witnessing a spike in the number of infections in the whole country, Prime Minister Jean Castex tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This comes as the leader returned from a visit to neighbouring Belgium, as per his office. &nbsp;

For the next 10 days, the French prime minister will carry out activities in isolation, his office said. &nbsp;

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At the prime minister's headquarters, the officials did not elaborate on whether Castex has any symptoms. &nbsp;

One of the Castex's daughters has also tested positive on Monday. &nbsp;

Castex had just met Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo in Brussels. The French PM took two tests and both were positive, his office said. &nbsp;

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According to the De Croo's office, he will be get tested on Tuesday. Till the results come in, de Croo will self-isolate, the Belgian state broadcaster RTBF said. &nbsp;

Although 75% of population in France is vaccinated, the number of virus infections has risen quickly in some weeks. Hospitalisations and deaths linked to the coronavirus are also rising in the nation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last December, French President Emmanuel Macron had also contracted COVID-19, and other government ministers have also had the virus. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Just as France is witnessing a spike in the number of infections in the whole country, Prime Minister Jean Castex tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. This comes as the leader returned from a visit to neighbouring Belgium, as per his office.

Just as France is witnessing a spike in the number of infections in the whole country, Prime Minister Jean Castex tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday. This comes as the leader returned from a visit to neighbouring Belgium, as per his office. For the next 10 days, the French prime minister will carry out activities in isolation, his office said. Also Read: Vaccine fully effective among children after 4 months: Pfizer At the prime minister's headquarters, the officials did not elaborate on whether Castex has any symptoms. One of the Castex's daughters has also tested positive on Monday. Castex had just met Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo in Brussels. The French PM took two tests and both were positive, his office said. Also Read: Russian President Putin gets booster shot, revaccinated with Sputnik Light According to the De Croo's office, he will be get tested on Tuesday. Till the results come in, de Croo will self-isolate, the Belgian state broadcaster RTBF said. Although 75% of population in France is vaccinated, the number of virus infections has risen quickly in some weeks. Hospitalisations and deaths linked to the coronavirus are also rising in the nation. Last December, French President Emmanuel Macron had also contracted COVID-19, and other government ministers have also had the virus. (With inputs from agencies)

France's Prime Minister Jean Castex tests positive for COVID-19   

China has inoculated 76.3 per cent of its population with the Covid-19 vaccine as a total of 1.076 billion people in the country have received the required number of doses, the NHC spokesperson informed in a news briefing.

China has inoculated 76.3 per cent of its population with the Covid-19 vaccine as a total of 1.076 billion people in the country have received the required number of doses, the NHC spokesperson informed in a news briefing. China is now experiencing a new wave of coronavirus cases as the new Covid-19 flareups have affected 21 provinces, accounting to two-thirds of the country. The Chinese daily had quoted the spokesman of China's NHC who said that the country's "zero COVID" strategy will continue. The infection cases on China's border with Russia and Mongolia has surged in the past month. Also read | China's coronavirus 'flareups' surge in provinces The newspaper said the virus situation in China's northeast Liaoning province is "complex" with "community transmission" detected in towns and streets. Chinese authorities have imposed a lockdown in several areas and cities in the past two months. They have also restricted domestic travel in an attempt to combat the new virus wave. In Wuhan, reports claimed authorities have detained three organisers for allowing people to congregate during an eSports event. (With inputs from agencies)

China has vaccinated over 75% of its population amid a surge in cases

In order to curb a violent protest against COVID-19 measures, Dutch police fired shots leading to injuries to some people, authorities said on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the incident, three people were being treated in hospital in Rotterdam. &nbsp;

The crowd, which included several hundred rioters, went on rampage during the protests on Friday evening. It set off fireworks, torched cars and threw rocks at police personnel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The police were also forced to respond with warning shots and water canons. &nbsp;

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On Twitter, Rotterdam police said on Saturday that 51 people were arrested, half of whom were under 18. &nbsp;

"Three rioters were wounded when they were hit by bullets, they remain in hospital," police added. &nbsp;

The authorities are also investigating the shootings, including whether the wounded people were hit by police bullets, they added. &nbsp;

Ahmed Aboutaleb, city's mayor, said the protest had turned into "an orgy of violence." &nbsp;

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"Police were forced to draw their weapons and even fire direct shots," Aboutaleb told a news conference on Saturday. &nbsp;

In a statement, Dutch Justice Minister Ferd Grapperhaus said the "extreme violence" against police and firefighters in Rotterdam was "repulsive." &nbsp;

"The right to protest is very important in our society but what we saw last night was simply criminal behaviour," Grapperhaus said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In order to curb a violent protest against COVID-19 measures, Dutch police fired shots leading to injuries to some people, authorities said on Saturday. In the incident, three people were being treated in hospital in Rotterdam.

In order to curb a violent protest against COVID-19 measures, Dutch police fired shots leading to injuries to some people, authorities said on Saturday. In the incident, three people were being treated in hospital in Rotterdam. The crowd, which included several hundred rioters, went on rampage during the protests on Friday evening. It set off fireworks, torched cars and threw rocks at police personnel. The police were also forced to respond with warning shots and water canons. Also Read: When can the COVID-19 masks finally come off? On Twitter, Rotterdam police said on Saturday that 51 people were arrested, half of whom were under 18. "Three rioters were wounded when they were hit by bullets, they remain in hospital," police added. The authorities are also investigating the shootings, including whether the wounded people were hit by police bullets, they added. Ahmed Aboutaleb, city's mayor, said the protest had turned into "an orgy of violence." Also Read: 'Very worried': WHO warns of 500,000 deaths by March amid new wave in Europe "Police were forced to draw their weapons and even fire direct shots," Aboutaleb told a news conference on Saturday. In a statement, Dutch Justice Minister Ferd Grapperhaus said the "extreme violence" against police and firefighters in Rotterdam was "repulsive." "The right to protest is very important in our society but what we saw last night was simply criminal behaviour," Grapperhaus said. (With inputs from agencies)

Police fire shots after anti-Covid curb protesters go on rampage

Across the world, over 40% of COVID-19 survivors have had lingering after-effects of the illness based on their review of 40 earlier studies from 17 countries. Researchers from the university of Michigan estimate that patients' experiences with so-called long COVID which is defined as new or persistent symptoms at four or more weeks after infection.

Over 40% of COVID-19 survivors face lingering after-effects of the illness

Nearly six weeks after being put on a ventilator, a woman miraculously woke from COVID-19 -induced coma on the day she was going to be taken off life support. &nbsp;

The family and doctors catering to the 69-year-old woman, Bettina Lerman, were in for a shocking surprise when she woke up on her own just hours before they were going to pull the plug.

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The family had also picked up a headstone and casket. &nbsp;

Andrew Lerman, son of the woman, said, “We had a family meeting with the hospital because my mother wasn’t waking up. No matter what they (did), they couldn’t get her to wake up. They said that her lungs are completely destroyed. There’s irreversible damage — that it’s just not going to happen.” &nbsp;

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In a call on October 29, Andrew learnt from the doctor at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine, that his mother had unexpectedly woken up. She did not suffer organ failure and was also aware of her surroundings. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bettina had contracted the coronavirus disease in early September. The woman is unvaccinated and may get the vaccine after she recovers. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Nearly six weeks after being put on a ventilator, a woman miraculously woke from COVID-19 -induced coma on the day she was going to be taken off life support. The family and doctors catering to the 69-year-old woman, Bettina Lerman, were in for a shocking surprise when she woke up on her own just hours before they were going to pull the plug.

Nearly six weeks after being put on a ventilator, a woman miraculously woke from COVID-19 -induced coma on the day she was going to be taken off life support. The family and doctors catering to the 69-year-old woman, Bettina Lerman, were in for a shocking surprise when she woke up on her own just hours before they were going to pull the plug. Also Read: Nearly 100 million people worldwide have suffered from long Covid: Study The family had also picked up a headstone and casket. Andrew Lerman, son of the woman, said, “We had a family meeting with the hospital because my mother wasn’t waking up. No matter what they (did), they couldn’t get her to wake up. They said that her lungs are completely destroyed. There’s irreversible damage — that it’s just not going to happen.” Also Read: COVID-19 ups risk of stillbirth by nearly twice, says study in US In a call on October 29, Andrew learnt from the doctor at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine, that his mother had unexpectedly woken up. She did not suffer organ failure and was also aware of her surroundings. Bettina had contracted the coronavirus disease in early September. The woman is unvaccinated and may get the vaccine after she recovers. (With inputs from agencies)

On day to be taken off life support, woman wakes up from COVID-19-induced coma

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday. &nbsp;

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Carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States, the analysis was based on over 1.2 million deliveries, which were conducted between March 2020 and September 2021, from a large hospital database of the country. &nbsp;

Accounting for 0.65 per cent or 8,154 deliveries, stillbirths were highly rare overall. &nbsp;

After using statistical methods to account for the effect of other variables that might change the result, stillbirths were 1.47 times more common in Covid-positive mothers pre-Delta, 4.04 times higher after and 1.90 times higher overall.&nbsp;

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The previous research indicated a potential biological cause for the increased risk that could be the result of inflammation or decreased blood flow to the placenta, wrote authors. &nbsp;

Among deliveries with Covid, conditions, such as heart injury, having more than one baby, life-threatening lung injury, sepsis, poor blood flow resulting in shock, separation of the placenta from the uterus, chronic high blood pressure and having to go on a ventilator or being admitted to ICU, were linked to higher rates of stillbirth. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday.

If a new study is to be believed, the risk of stillbirth is about twice as high for women with Covid compared to those without. When the Delta variant had become dominant, the risk of stillbirth had grown to about quadruple, a large US government study said on Friday. Also Read: Nearly 100 million people worldwide have suffered from long Covid: Study Carried out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States, the analysis was based on over 1.2 million deliveries, which were conducted between March 2020 and September 2021, from a large hospital database of the country. Accounting for 0.65 per cent or 8,154 deliveries, stillbirths were highly rare overall. After using statistical methods to account for the effect of other variables that might change the result, stillbirths were 1.47 times more common in Covid-positive mothers pre-Delta, 4.04 times higher after and 1.90 times higher overall. Also Read: 'A major milestone': Canada approves Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine for kids aged 5-11 The previous research indicated a potential biological cause for the increased risk that could be the result of inflammation or decreased blood flow to the placenta, wrote authors. Among deliveries with Covid, conditions, such as heart injury, having more than one baby, life-threatening lung injury, sepsis, poor blood flow resulting in shock, separation of the placenta from the uterus, chronic high blood pressure and having to go on a ventilator or being admitted to ICU, were linked to higher rates of stillbirth. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 ups risk of stillbirth by nearly twice, says study in US

The United States authorised the&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;and Moderna Covid vaccine boosters to all people aged 18 and older on Friday,&nbsp;as the world's hardest-hit country enters a new winter wave of the pandemic.

Boosters were previously available to the immune compromised, over 65s, people at high risk of severe disease and people in high risk occupations.

The new decision "helps to provide continued protection against Covid-19, including the serious consequences that can occur, such as hospitalization and death," said acting FDA commissioner Janet Woodcock in a statement.

"This emergency use authorization comes at a critical time as we enter the winter months and face increasing Covid-19 case counts and hospitalizations across the country," added Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel.

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The FDA said it based its decision on strong immune response data from hundreds of people dosed with the two vaccines.&nbsp;

Pfizer&nbsp;also carried out a clinical trial involving 10,000 people aged over 16 which found that the booster showed an efficacy against symptomatic infection of more than 95 percent compared to those who did not receive a booster.

This study was not cited by the FDA in making its decision, but it could nevertheless indicate the&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;vaccine works best as a three-dose shot -- or that the three-week time interval between first and second dose was never long enough to induce the best immune response.

Both vaccines are available to people six months after completing their primary series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-to-bar-promotion-re-enlistment-for-soldiers-who-refuse-to-take-covid-vaccine-430505">US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine</a>

Pfizer's vaccine is dosed at 30 micrograms, the same as the primary series, while Moderna's is 50 micrograms, half the primary series.

People who received the Johnson &amp; Johnson one dose vaccine were already eligible for a booster two months after their first shot.

The booster decision comes as cases are rapidly rising nationally, reaching 88,000 new infections per day on average as the country enters its fifth wave, according to the latest data.&nbsp;

Misgivings&nbsp;

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will hold a meeting later Friday to discuss clinical recommendations for who should now seek a vaccine.

The meeting should provide greater insight into the thinking of top federal advisors, some of whom have expressed misgivings about a "booster bonanza."

The vast majority of those people becoming hospitalized or dying with Covid are unvaccinated, and thus the best way to control the winter wave would be to reach those people, rather than topping up the vaccinated, the critics say.

A potential downside, they argue, is that vaccine holdouts might conclude the shots are ineffective.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Another risk is a greater number of cases of vaccine-linked heart inflammation (myocarditis), especially among younger males.&nbsp;

Both companies are conducting post authorization studies to assess the risks of myocarditis.

Experts are in broad agreement that boosters alone can't resolve the pandemic while the poorest countries, especially in Africa, remain stuck in the single digit percentages for people covered by their primary vaccination series.&nbsp;

Last week, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus decried the fact that rich countries are administering six times more vaccine doses everyday than low-income countries are delivering primary doses.

This increases the risk of new variants of concern emerging in those regions, which could eventually evade the protective action of current vaccines.

The United States authorised the Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccine boosters to all people aged 18 and older on Friday, as the world's hardest-hit country enters a new winter wave of the pandemic.

The United States authorised the Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccine boosters to all people aged 18 and older on Friday, as the world's hardest-hit country enters a new winter wave of the pandemic. Boosters were previously available to the immune compromised, over 65s, people at high risk of severe disease and people in high risk occupations. The new decision "helps to provide continued protection against Covid-19, including the serious consequences that can occur, such as hospitalization and death," said acting FDA commissioner Janet Woodcock in a statement. "This emergency use authorization comes at a critical time as we enter the winter months and face increasing Covid-19 case counts and hospitalizations across the country," added Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel. ALSO READ | Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge The FDA said it based its decision on strong immune response data from hundreds of people dosed with the two vaccines. Pfizer also carried out a clinical trial involving 10,000 people aged over 16 which found that the booster showed an efficacy against symptomatic infection of more than 95 percent compared to those who did not receive a booster. This study was not cited by the FDA in making its decision, but it could nevertheless indicate the Pfizer vaccine works best as a three-dose shot -- or that the three-week time interval between first and second dose was never long enough to induce the best immune response. Both vaccines are available to people six months after completing their primary series. ALSO READ | US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine Pfizer's vaccine is dosed at 30 micrograms, the same as the primary series, while Moderna's is 50 micrograms, half the primary series. People who received the Johnson & Johnson one dose vaccine were already eligible for a booster two months after their first shot. The booster decision comes as cases are rapidly rising nationally, reaching 88,000 new infections per day on average as the country enters its fifth wave, according to the latest data. Misgivings The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will hold a meeting later Friday to discuss clinical recommendations for who should now seek a vaccine. The meeting should provide greater insight into the thinking of top federal advisors, some of whom have expressed misgivings about a "booster bonanza." The vast majority of those people becoming hospitalized or dying with Covid are unvaccinated, and thus the best way to control the winter wave would be to reach those people, rather than topping up the vaccinated, the critics say. A potential downside, they argue, is that vaccine holdouts might conclude the shots are ineffective. Another risk is a greater number of cases of vaccine-linked heart inflammation (myocarditis), especially among younger males. Both companies are conducting post authorization studies to assess the risks of myocarditis. Experts are in broad agreement that boosters alone can't resolve the pandemic while the poorest countries, especially in Africa, remain stuck in the single digit percentages for people covered by their primary vaccination series. Last week, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus decried the fact that rich countries are administering six times more vaccine doses everyday than low-income countries are delivering primary doses. This increases the risk of new variants of concern emerging in those regions, which could eventually evade the protective action of current vaccines.

COVID-19: US authorises boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for all adults

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains.

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-deploys-bomber-along-border-with-india-report-430463">China deploys bomber along border with India: Report</a>

Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), reports claim the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains.

<img alt="China deploys bomber" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1cb3916-e4b3-4a9e-8fb9-08ebbe8d680d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China%20deploys%20bomber.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-to-impose-lockdown-as-europe-grapples-with-virus-surge-430542">Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge</a>

The Austrian government announced it will impose&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in the country from next Monday amid a surge in coronavirus cases. Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced that everyone in the country should be&nbsp;vaccinated&nbsp;by February 1.

<img alt="Austrian government" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="801bbe67-d94c-4f41-b361-d91a8bdef09e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Austrian%20government.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-to-bar-promotion-re-enlistment-for-soldiers-who-refuse-to-take-covid-vaccine-430505">US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine</a>

The US Army has warned thousands of soldiers that they would not be permitted to continue their service if they persist with their resistance against getting Covid vaccine.

<img alt="US Army" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0e7e9e79-4580-411c-ae57-003ba0459216" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20Army.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-brushes-aside-reports-of-tensions-with-biden-administration-says-excited-about-the-work-430540">Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration</a>

US Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kamala Harris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c41cdb5b-172c-4141-aa07-a361f47faef2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kamala%20Harris.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-announces-490-billion-stimulus-package-to-tackle-covid-knockdown-430557">Japan announces $490 billion stimulus package to tackle Covid knockdown</a>

Japan's government announced a record $490 billion spending package on Friday to cushion the economic blow from the COVID-19 pandemic, bucking a global trend towards withdrawing crisis-mode stimulus measures and adding strains to its already tattered finances.

<img alt="Japan's government" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="94d06fd5-0f11-4968-a88b-d2c9bf7047a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Japan%27s%20government.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-warns-los-angeles-police-not-to-create-fake-accounts-stop-collecting-user-data-430563">Facebook warns Los Angeles police not to create fake accounts, stop collecting user data</a>

Reports claim&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;has asked the Los Angeles police to stop making fake accounts and halt attempts to collect data of users. Facebook in a letter reportedly told the Los Angles Police Department (LAPD) that it had set up fake accounts to carry out surveillance as it directed the department not to undertake such activities.

<img alt="Facebook" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be68dcee-8eab-4cab-879e-0c1028fb2fa5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Facebook_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wrong-identification-of-tea-as-drugs-forces-mother-daughter-to-spend-months-in-australian-jail-430537">Wrong identification of tea as drugs forces mother, daughter to spend months in Australian jail</a>

In a tormenting tale, a mother and daughter duo were forced to spend around four months in Australian jail after authorities mistakenly identified tea as drugs. One little mix-up has cost huge agony to the victims.

<img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="750d6c4e-f3cd-4535-a62b-e47756fe6767" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Australia%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/red-dots-over-delhi-nasa-shares-satellite-images-of-dangerous-pollution-levels-in-indian-capital-430548">Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital</a>

Nasa&nbsp;has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution.&nbsp;

<img alt="pollution levels" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c3a66c5-96bb-451e-92e3-ed6e3718cf82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nasa%20images.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-hales-apologises-for-wearing-blackface-days-after-denying-racial-connotation-behind-dogs-name-430504">Alex Hales apologises for wearing blackface, days after denying 'racial connotation' behind dog's name</a>

England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party.

<img alt="Alex Hales" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="788b967a-7247-4fb5-9c1e-d477e6f5516b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alex%20Hales%20%282%29.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-rights-group-casts-suspicion-over-chinese-media-reports-claiming-tennis-player-peng-shuai-is-safe-430447">US Rights group casts suspicion over Chinese media reports claiming tennis player Peng Shuai is 'safe'</a>

A US-based rights group has cast suspicion over Chinese media reports which claim that Chinese star Peng Shuai is 'safe'. Peng has been incommunicado since she accused a former ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader of pressuring her into a sexual relationship, Radio Free Asia reported.

<img alt="Peng Shuai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48c39bed-4e55-4e62-ad91-5df798e31bd6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Peng%20Shuai.jpg" />

&nbsp;

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India.

Rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Europe as Austria to impose lockdown. A report claims that the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains. Here are the top 10 stories from across the world: China deploys bomber along border with India: Report Amid tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), reports claim the Chinese Air Force has deployed the H-6K bomber along the border with India. Reports said China's state-run television had shown footage of the H-6K bomber flying over mountains. Austria to impose lockdown as Europe grapples with virus surge The Austrian government announced it will impose lockdown in the country from next Monday amid a surge in coronavirus cases. Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced that everyone in the country should be vaccinated by February 1. US Army to bar promotion, re-enlistment for soldiers who refuse to take Covid vaccine The US Army has warned thousands of soldiers that they would not be permitted to continue their service if they persist with their resistance against getting Covid vaccine. Kamala Harris brushes aside reports of tensions with Biden administration US Vice President Kamala Harris has brushed aside reports that she feels “frustrated and underutilised” in the Biden administration. "I am very, very excited about the work that we have accomplished," she said during an interview to ABC's Good Morning America programme. Japan announces $490 billion stimulus package to tackle Covid knockdown Japan's government announced a record $490 billion spending package on Friday to cushion the economic blow from the COVID-19 pandemic, bucking a global trend towards withdrawing crisis-mode stimulus measures and adding strains to its already tattered finances. Facebook warns Los Angeles police not to create fake accounts, stop collecting user data Reports claim Facebook has asked the Los Angeles police to stop making fake accounts and halt attempts to collect data of users. Facebook in a letter reportedly told the Los Angles Police Department (LAPD) that it had set up fake accounts to carry out surveillance as it directed the department not to undertake such activities. Wrong identification of tea as drugs forces mother, daughter to spend months in Australian jail In a tormenting tale, a mother and daughter duo were forced to spend around four months in Australian jail after authorities mistakenly identified tea as drugs. One little mix-up has cost huge agony to the victims. Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital Nasa has released satellite images that show dangerous pollution levels in the Indian capital as smoke from crop fires blanketed the city and contributed to an alarming increase in the levels of air pollution. Alex Hales apologises for wearing blackface, days after denying 'racial connotation' behind dog's name England cricketer Alex Hales has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy after old pictures of him wearing 'blackface' during a party emerged on social media. Hales has apologised for 'blacking up' calling his decision 'incredibly direspectful' while clarifying that he was trying to impersonate rapper Tupac Shakur at the party. US Rights group casts suspicion over Chinese media reports claiming tennis player Peng Shuai is 'safe' A US-based rights group has cast suspicion over Chinese media reports which claim that Chinese star Peng Shuai is 'safe'. Peng has been incommunicado since she accused a former ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader of pressuring her into a sexual relationship, Radio Free Asia reported.

Top 10 world news: Austria to impose lockdown, Harris on reports of tensions with Biden administration & more

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections.

On Thursday (November 18) Germany's parliament voted in favour of a new Infection Protection Act, that will look for approval at the federal state level on Friday.

Among rules being touted are that Germany should demand proof of vaccination or recent recovery from COVID-19 for all indoor leisure activities, and require vaccinated people to also present a negative test for risky environments.

Signs were already popping up in Berlin restaurants and cafes introducing the so-called 2G rule where it is no longer enough to bring a negative test.

"When we were given the option of 2G or 3G (3G is the option vaccinated, recovered or tested) we pretty quickly went for the 2G option because it gives everyone a lot more protection," said cafe manager Tuelin Duman.

"The rules that we have introduced match what our customers feel and that's a good thing. So we aren't having to face disappointed faces at the door of people who aren't being allowed in, that hasn't hardly happened with any of our regulars since we have the new rule," she added.

Similar rules have been put in place in Austrian hotspots where police have also reported a general acceptance of the rule.

Germany recorded 32,048 new infections at the beginning of the week, a rise of 47% compared to a week ago, and another 265 deaths, bringing Germany's total during the pandemic to 97,980.

Several German regions, including the capital Berlin, have already introduced the 2G rule, in effect excluding non-vaccinated people from places such as cinemas, hairdressers, restaurants and fitness studios.

It is not clear who should be responsible for policing the new rules. Berlin mayor Michael Mueller called on city officials to check vaccine passports rather than issue parking tickets.

On Thursday Germany's vaccine advisory committee recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18 as the number of coronavirus infections hits a new record in Europe's largest economy.

The committee, known as STIKO, said it also recommends booster shots to be administered with an mRNA vaccine and that a booster should be given six months after the last vaccine dose.

A shortening of the vaccination interval to five months can be considered in individual cases or if there is enough capacity, it added.

Vaccine centres, which had been winding down were experiencing long queues as the coming winter and the fear of being locked out of leisure activities lured people in.

The new wave of infections is challenging a government in transition, with three parties negotiating to form the next cabinet after September's federal election.

Germany's vaccination rate, at 68%, is among the lowest in western Europe.

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections.

With less than two months to go before Christmas, Germany is preparing for tighter restrictions and stricter vaccine rules as the country faces a steep rise in corona infections. On Thursday (November 18) Germany's parliament voted in favour of a new Infection Protection Act, that will look for approval at the federal state level on Friday. Among rules being touted are that Germany should demand proof of vaccination or recent recovery from COVID-19 for all indoor leisure activities, and require vaccinated people to also present a negative test for risky environments. Signs were already popping up in Berlin restaurants and cafes introducing the so-called 2G rule where it is no longer enough to bring a negative test. "When we were given the option of 2G or 3G (3G is the option vaccinated, recovered or tested) we pretty quickly went for the 2G option because it gives everyone a lot more protection," said cafe manager Tuelin Duman. "The rules that we have introduced match what our customers feel and that's a good thing. So we aren't having to face disappointed faces at the door of people who aren't being allowed in, that hasn't hardly happened with any of our regulars since we have the new rule," she added. Similar rules have been put in place in Austrian hotspots where police have also reported a general acceptance of the rule. Germany recorded 32,048 new infections at the beginning of the week, a rise of 47% compared to a week ago, and another 265 deaths, bringing Germany's total during the pandemic to 97,980. Several German regions, including the capital Berlin, have already introduced the 2G rule, in effect excluding non-vaccinated people from places such as cinemas, hairdressers, restaurants and fitness studios. It is not clear who should be responsible for policing the new rules. Berlin mayor Michael Mueller called on city officials to check vaccine passports rather than issue parking tickets. On Thursday Germany's vaccine advisory committee recommended COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for all people aged over 18 as the number of coronavirus infections hits a new record in Europe's largest economy. The committee, known as STIKO, said it also recommends booster shots to be administered with an mRNA vaccine and that a booster should be given six months after the last vaccine dose. A shortening of the vaccination interval to five months can be considered in individual cases or if there is enough capacity, it added. Vaccine centres, which had been winding down were experiencing long queues as the coming winter and the fear of being locked out of leisure activities lured people in. The new wave of infections is challenging a government in transition, with three parties negotiating to form the next cabinet after September's federal election. Germany's vaccination rate, at 68%, is among the lowest in western Europe.

Germany gets tough on unvaccinated as new rules come into force

Ahead of the Australian Open, the world number one Novak Djokovic has reiterated his stand about freedom of choice over getting the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine shot.&nbsp;

Djokovic has reused to disclose his vaccination status as speculations over his participation at the Australian Open grow. The government officials of the state of Victoria have said unvaccinated players will be barred.&nbsp;

Recently, Nick Kyrgios, who has criticised Djokovic on a number of occasions said on his 'No Boundaries' podcast this week that he did not think it was right to force anyone, let alone athletes, to get vaccinated against the virus. However, Kyrgios confirmed that he was "double-vaxxed".&nbsp;

In a recent press conference, the Serbian was asked about Kyrgios’ comments, to which Djokovic, who replied, "That was unexpected knowing what was coming from him towards me in the last couple of years."&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-letter-from-chinese-tennis-player-peng-shuai-claiming-she-is-fine-and-resting-at-home-raises-concerns-430184">A letter from Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai claiming she is 'fine' and 'resting at home' raises concerns</a>

"But this time I must agree with him that the freedom of choice is essential for everyone, whether it's me or somebody else," the 34-year-old added.&nbsp;

"Doesn't really matter whether it's vaccination or anything else in life. You should have the freedom to choose, to decide what you want to do. In this particular case, what you want to put in your body."

"I have been always a proponent of that and always a supporter of freedom of choice, and I will be always supporting that because freedom is essential for I'd say a happy and prosperous life," added Djokovic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-in-shock-naomi-osaka-concerned-over-missing-chinese-tennis-player-peng-shuais-whereabouts-430046">'I'm in shock': Naomi Osaka concerned over missing Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai's whereabouts</a>

Novak Djokovic celebrates winning his group stage match against Russia’s Andrey Rublev on November 17, 2021.

Ahead of the Australian Open, the world number one Novak Djokovic has reiterated his stand about freedom of choice over getting the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine shot. Djokovic has reused to disclose his vaccination status as speculations over his participation at the Australian Open grow. The government officials of the state of Victoria have said unvaccinated players will be barred. Recently, Nick Kyrgios, who has criticised Djokovic on a number of occasions said on his 'No Boundaries' podcast this week that he did not think it was right to force anyone, let alone athletes, to get vaccinated against the virus. However, Kyrgios confirmed that he was "double-vaxxed". In a recent press conference, the Serbian was asked about Kyrgios’ comments, to which Djokovic, who replied, "That was unexpected knowing what was coming from him towards me in the last couple of years." ALSO READ | A letter from Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai claiming she is 'fine' and 'resting at home' raises concerns "But this time I must agree with him that the freedom of choice is essential for everyone, whether it's me or somebody else," the 34-year-old added. "Doesn't really matter whether it's vaccination or anything else in life. You should have the freedom to choose, to decide what you want to do. In this particular case, what you want to put in your body." "I have been always a proponent of that and always a supporter of freedom of choice, and I will be always supporting that because freedom is essential for I'd say a happy and prosperous life," added Djokovic. ALSO READ | 'I'm in shock': Naomi Osaka concerned over missing Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai's whereabouts

'Freedom of choice': Tennis star Novak Djokovic reiterates stand on COVID-19 vaccination

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