The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1.&nbsp;

The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries.&nbsp;

In its coverage area -- which includes the European Union, Norway and Iceland -- the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) expected to see 420 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for the week ending on August 1, up from just under 90 last week, it said in a weekly report.

By the week after, the number of new cases is expected to rise above 620 per 100,000 inhabitants.

"The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC said in the report.

Hospitalisations and deaths are also expected, although at a slower pace, according to the ECDC, thanks to the rollout of vaccination campaigns.

Currently, hospitalisations remain stable in most countries but the number of deaths associated with Covid-19 is expected to exceed 10 per 1,000,000 inhabitants again, compared with 6.8 last week, the agency noted.

The ECDC said it was forecasting&nbsp;increasing cases in 20 countries and increased deaths in nine: Cyprus, Greece, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-proposes-second-phase-of-studies-into-the-origins-of-covid-19-in-china-398556">Also read |&nbsp;WHO proposes second phase of studies into the origins of COVID-19 in China</a>

"In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the ECDC said in a statement.

While these figures are projection the level is in line with that seen during the peaks in the second half of 2020 and April 2021, according to the EU agency's data.

Between July 5 and 11, the number of new cases in the European Union jumped by over 60 per cent, increasing for the second week in a row, according to the ECDC, due to "relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions and increasing spread of Delta variant" first detected in India.

Last month, the Stockholm-based agency warned that the Delta variant was on track to account for 90 per cent of new cases by the end of August.

The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1. The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries.

The EU's disease agency said Friday it was predicting a sharp increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1. The expected rise in cases was linked to the highly transmissible Delta variant, first identified in India, along with the relaxing of measures in European countries. In its coverage area -- which includes the European Union, Norway and Iceland -- the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) expected to see 420 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for the week ending on August 1, up from just under 90 last week, it said in a weekly report. By the week after, the number of new cases is expected to rise above 620 per 100,000 inhabitants. "The current continuing deterioration of the epidemiological situation in many countries is expected to continue given the rapid increase in the Delta variant," the ECDC said in the report. Hospitalisations and deaths are also expected, although at a slower pace, according to the ECDC, thanks to the rollout of vaccination campaigns. Currently, hospitalisations remain stable in most countries but the number of deaths associated with Covid-19 is expected to exceed 10 per 1,000,000 inhabitants again, compared with 6.8 last week, the agency noted. The ECDC said it was forecasting increasing cases in 20 countries and increased deaths in nine: Cyprus, Greece, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain. Also read | WHO proposes second phase of studies into the origins of COVID-19 in China "In the most affected countries, the steepest increases and highest notification rates were reported among 15 to 24-year-olds, with limited increases in persons aged over 65 years," the ECDC said in a statement. While these figures are projection the level is in line with that seen during the peaks in the second half of 2020 and April 2021, according to the EU agency's data. Between July 5 and 11, the number of new cases in the European Union jumped by over 60 per cent, increasing for the second week in a row, according to the ECDC, due to "relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions and increasing spread of Delta variant" first detected in India. Last month, the Stockholm-based agency warned that the Delta variant was on track to account for 90 per cent of new cases by the end of August.

EU disease agency predicts spike in COVID-19 cases by August 1

The Tokyo Olympics has registered its first COVID-19 case in the Olympic Village six days before the Games open. Watch this report to know more.

Organisers confirm first case of COVID-19 at Olympic Village

Researchers have found out that cholesterol-lowering statins and anti-hypertension medicines stabilise underlying diseases, making patients more likely to recover from COVID-19.

A study conducted by a researchers from the University of California's San Diego School of Medicine found that patients taking statin are at 41 per cent lower risk of an in-hospital death due to coronavirus disease.

Lead author Lori Daniels said, "When faced with this virus at the beginning of the pandemic, there was a lot of speculation surrounding certain medications that affect the body's ACE2 receptor, including statin, and whether they may influence Covid-19 risk. At the time we thought that statins may inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 infection through their known anti-inflammatory effects and binding capabilities, which may potentially stop the progression of the virus".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-pledge-to-redouble-pandemic-fight-at-special-apec-meeting-398599">Also read |&nbsp;World leaders pledge to redouble pandemic fight at special APEC meeting</a>

As a part of the study, the research team used data from the American Heart Association's COVID-19 Cardiovascular Registry. They then applied their original findings to 10,541 patients across the United States, who were hospitalised with the coronavirus disease.&nbsp;

It was conducted across 104 hospitals from January to September 2020.

Further speaking about the research, Daniels said, "We performed more advanced analyses as we attempted to control for comorbidities, socioeconomic status and hospital factors. The study confirmed our prior findings that statins reduce risk of death among patients hospitalised for Covid-19."

Researchers have found out that cholesterol-lowering statins and anti-hypertension medicines stabilise underlying diseases, making patients more likely to recover from COVID-19.

Researchers have found out that cholesterol-lowering statins and anti-hypertension medicines stabilise underlying diseases, making patients more likely to recover from COVID-19. A study conducted by a researchers from the University of California's San Diego School of Medicine found that patients taking statin are at 41 per cent lower risk of an in-hospital death due to coronavirus disease. Lead author Lori Daniels said, "When faced with this virus at the beginning of the pandemic, there was a lot of speculation surrounding certain medications that affect the body's ACE2 receptor, including statin, and whether they may influence Covid-19 risk. At the time we thought that statins may inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 infection through their known anti-inflammatory effects and binding capabilities, which may potentially stop the progression of the virus". Also read | World leaders pledge to redouble pandemic fight at special APEC meeting As a part of the study, the research team used data from the American Heart Association's COVID-19 Cardiovascular Registry. They then applied their original findings to 10,541 patients across the United States, who were hospitalised with the coronavirus disease. It was conducted across 104 hospitals from January to September 2020. Further speaking about the research, Daniels said, "We performed more advanced analyses as we attempted to control for comorbidities, socioeconomic status and hospital factors. The study confirmed our prior findings that statins reduce risk of death among patients hospitalised for Covid-19."

Patients taking cholesterol medicine statin at 41% lower risk of an in-hospital death due to COVID-19

Mexico City's government will speed up COVID-19 vaccinations to its more than 9 million inhabitants starting from next week as infections and hospitalizations see a rise, mostly among younger people, Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday.

The number of people in Mexico City hospitalized with COVID-19 rose by 650 from last week to 1,871.&nbsp;

Infections are hitting 18- to 39-year-olds, many of them unvaccinated.

Sheinbaum gave the green light for all residents over 30 years of age to get vaccinated anywhere in the city as of Tuesday.

Approximately 63 per cent of Mexico City residents have received at least one vaccine dose and 38.5 per cent have had the two doses.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-to-vaccinate-migrants-in-baja-california-under-new-border-initiative-392499">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico to vaccinate migrants in Baja California under new border initiative</a>

Sheinbaum's government aims to have at least one dose given to 74 per cent of residents and to have 41 per cent fully vaccinated by July 26.

Meanwhile, authorities in the Mexican border state of Baja California say they will include migrants in the new COVID-19 vaccination plan for border cities, which is aimed at accelerating the reopening of the shared land border with the United States.

The state, which lies just across from California, began vaccinating adults over the age of 18 this week as part of a new mass vaccination push across northern Mexico, which relies on over a million Johnson &amp; Johnson doses donated by the United States.

Baja California Health Secretary Alonso Óscar Pérez said on Friday that the agency has a plan to vaccinate migrants as part of this new border vaccination initiative. He added that the agency has allocated specific days for migrants, without providing additional details.

Despite the new surge, Sheinbaum said Mexico City was not planning to re-impose confinement measures or suspend activities.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mexico City's government will speed up COVID-19 vaccinations to its more than 9 million inhabitants starting from next week as infections and hospitalizations see a rise, mostly among younger people, Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday.

Mexico City's government will speed up COVID-19 vaccinations to its more than 9 million inhabitants starting from next week as infections and hospitalizations see a rise, mostly among younger people, Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday. The number of people in Mexico City hospitalized with COVID-19 rose by 650 from last week to 1,871. Infections are hitting 18- to 39-year-olds, many of them unvaccinated. Sheinbaum gave the green light for all residents over 30 years of age to get vaccinated anywhere in the city as of Tuesday. Approximately 63 per cent of Mexico City residents have received at least one vaccine dose and 38.5 per cent have had the two doses. Also read | Mexico to vaccinate migrants in Baja California under new border initiative Sheinbaum's government aims to have at least one dose given to 74 per cent of residents and to have 41 per cent fully vaccinated by July 26. Meanwhile, authorities in the Mexican border state of Baja California say they will include migrants in the new COVID-19 vaccination plan for border cities, which is aimed at accelerating the reopening of the shared land border with the United States. The state, which lies just across from California, began vaccinating adults over the age of 18 this week as part of a new mass vaccination push across northern Mexico, which relies on over a million Johnson & Johnson doses donated by the United States. Baja California Health Secretary Alonso Óscar Pérez said on Friday that the agency has a plan to vaccinate migrants as part of this new border vaccination initiative. He added that the agency has allocated specific days for migrants, without providing additional details. Despite the new surge, Sheinbaum said Mexico City was not planning to re-impose confinement measures or suspend activities. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico City to accelerate vaccinations as COVID-19 infections surge

First, there were&nbsp;fake&nbsp;vaccines. Now bogus coronavirus immunisation&nbsp;certificates&nbsp;are being offered for&nbsp;sale&nbsp;in the Mexican capital, aimed at people travelling to countries that require proof of inoculation.

In an area of the historic district known for its printers and counterfeiters, a new service has appeared alongside documents purporting to be birth&nbsp;certificates, driver's licenses and passports.

Customers for the&nbsp;fake&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;certificates&nbsp;are usually people who want to travel but have not been fully immunised, or who received vaccines not recognized in the country they plan to visit, a vendor said.

"If they were vaccinated with the Chinese shots, here we change it for Pfizer or Sputnik V," said the man, who gave his name as Cris.

Undeterred by the presence of police officers nearby, he told potential customers the price ranged from 1,100 to 2,000 Mexican pesos ($55-100), according to an AFP reporter.

"In two hours you'll have the document," he added, his face partly concealed by a face mask, as he worked in the Santo Domingo district.

Mexico's health ministry recently announced that people who have been vaccinated can download an immunisation certificate for free through an official website to use when travelling or in other situations.

Around 21 million people have been fully vaccinated in&nbsp;Mexico, a country of 126 million, which has used Pfizer/BioNTech, AstraZeneca, Sinovac, Cansino, Sputnik V and Johnson &amp; Johnson shots.

The official&nbsp;certificates&nbsp;have a QR code that redirects whoever scans it to a government page that confirms the holder is fully immunised.

The counterfeiters offer to tamper with that code, but whether it actually works is unclear.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/patients-taking-statin-are-at-41-lower-risk-of-an-in-hospital-death-due-to-covid-19-398625">Also read |&nbsp;Patients taking statin are at 41% lower risk of an in-hospital death due to COVID-19</a>

To cheat the system would require a certain level of technological know-how so that the person checking the certificate is redirected to a&nbsp;fake&nbsp;government website said cybersecurity specialist Carlos Ramirez.

In theory, he said, it would be possible to load each QR with the data requested by customers -- a challenging but not impossible task for cybercriminals.

The Mexican health ministry did not respond to a request for information about its digital security protocols and what measures it plans in response to the counterfeits.

It is not the first fraudulent activity linked to the pandemic in&nbsp;Mexico, where Pfizer said in April&nbsp;fake&nbsp;vaccines had been found for&nbsp;sale&nbsp;under its brand name.

In Santo Domingo, forged laboratory tests with a negative&nbsp;COVID-19 result are also on&nbsp;sale&nbsp;for about $30.

The falsification of official documents carries a prison sentence of four to eight years in&nbsp;Mexico, whose official coronavirus death toll of more than 235,000 is the world's fourth-highest.

First, there were fake vaccines. Now bogus coronavirus immunisation certificates are being offered for sale in the Mexican capital, aimed at people travelling to countries that require proof of inoculation.

First, there were fake vaccines. Now bogus coronavirus immunisation certificates are being offered for sale in the Mexican capital, aimed at people travelling to countries that require proof of inoculation. In an area of the historic district known for its printers and counterfeiters, a new service has appeared alongside documents purporting to be birth certificates, driver's licenses and passports. Customers for the fake COVID-19 vaccination certificates are usually people who want to travel but have not been fully immunised, or who received vaccines not recognized in the country they plan to visit, a vendor said. "If they were vaccinated with the Chinese shots, here we change it for Pfizer or Sputnik V," said the man, who gave his name as Cris. Undeterred by the presence of police officers nearby, he told potential customers the price ranged from 1,100 to 2,000 Mexican pesos ($55-100), according to an AFP reporter. "In two hours you'll have the document," he added, his face partly concealed by a face mask, as he worked in the Santo Domingo district. Mexico's health ministry recently announced that people who have been vaccinated can download an immunisation certificate for free through an official website to use when travelling or in other situations. Around 21 million people have been fully vaccinated in Mexico, a country of 126 million, which has used Pfizer/BioNTech, AstraZeneca, Sinovac, Cansino, Sputnik V and Johnson & Johnson shots. The official certificates have a QR code that redirects whoever scans it to a government page that confirms the holder is fully immunised. The counterfeiters offer to tamper with that code, but whether it actually works is unclear. Also read | Patients taking statin are at 41% lower risk of an in-hospital death due to COVID-19 To cheat the system would require a certain level of technological know-how so that the person checking the certificate is redirected to a fake government website said cybersecurity specialist Carlos Ramirez. In theory, he said, it would be possible to load each QR with the data requested by customers -- a challenging but not impossible task for cybercriminals. The Mexican health ministry did not respond to a request for information about its digital security protocols and what measures it plans in response to the counterfeits. It is not the first fraudulent activity linked to the pandemic in Mexico, where Pfizer said in April fake vaccines had been found for sale under its brand name. In Santo Domingo, forged laboratory tests with a negative COVID-19 result are also on sale for about $30. The falsification of official documents carries a prison sentence of four to eight years in Mexico, whose official coronavirus death toll of more than 235,000 is the world's fourth-highest.

Fake COVID-19 vaccination certificates for sale in Mexico

United States President Joe Biden said that social media misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccinations is 'killing people'. Watch this report to know more.

US President Joe Biden says COVID-19 misinformation killing people

France said Saturday it would require people not fully vaccinated and arriving from some European countries to show a negative COVID-19&nbsp;test taken within the previous 24 hours.&nbsp;

Arrivals from the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, Greece and the Netherlands will be subject to the new rule, which comes into effect at midnight Saturday into Sunday, Prime Minister Jean Castex said in a statement.&nbsp;

To date, people arriving from the United Kingdom are required to show a negative test taken within the past 48 hours.&nbsp;

Arrivals from Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands and Greece have had to show tests taken within 72 hours.&nbsp;

But Castex said that people who are fully vaccinated with a jab recognised by the European Medicines Agency -- Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson &amp; Johnson -- will not be required to show a test.&nbsp;

The statement said the exemption was in place because "vaccines are effective against the virus, and in particular its variant Delta".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/patients-taking-statin-are-at-41-lower-risk-of-an-in-hospital-death-due-to-covid-19-398625">Also read |&nbsp;Patients taking statin are at 41% lower risk of an in-hospital death due to COVID-19</a>

France will consider people fully vaccinated one week after they received the second dose of Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and AstraZeneca, instead of 14 days previously, and 28 days after their Johnson &amp; Johnson jab, Castex said.

France will now also accept vaccination by Covishield, a copy of the AstraZeneca vaccine made by the Serum Institute of India, for its health pass.&nbsp;

The government also said that Tunisia, Mozambique, Cuba and Indonesia will be added to France's so-called red list.

Travel from red-list countries is only allowed on pressing grounds and even then vaccinated travellers must self-isolate for seven days.&nbsp;

'Exponential' rise in cases

The new measures come as several European nations battle rising caseloads, blamed in part on the highly transmissible Delta variant which has taken hold on the continent.&nbsp;

New infections have ticked up in France in recent weeks, hitting nearly 11,000 on Friday, even as the government races to vaccinate the population.

President Emmanuel Macron said this week that vaccine health passes would be required for entry to most public places and that all healthcare workers must be fully inoculated, sparking a rush to book appointments for the jab. &nbsp;

Around 35.5 million people -- just over half of France's population -- have received at least one vaccine dose so far.&nbsp;

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said this week it expects a sharp increase in coronavirus cases on the continent, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1.

In an effort to control the rising numbers, France's region of Pyrenees-Orientales will require bars, restaurants, beach venues and food shops to close at 11:00 pm from Saturday until August 2, the prefecture announced on Saturday.&nbsp;

The move came after cases in the region shot up within a single week from 41.5 per 100,000 people to 258.8 per 100,000 people.

"This exponential progression is starting to translate into an equally rising number of hospitalisations," the prefecture warned in its statement announcing the measures.

The region had on Friday made masks mandatory in all public spaces except for beaches and large nature spaces and prohibited consumption of alcohol in public spaces outside of bars and restaurants.

France said Saturday it would require people not fully vaccinated and arriving from some European countries to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within the previous 24 hours.

France said Saturday it would require people not fully vaccinated and arriving from some European countries to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within the previous 24 hours. Arrivals from the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, Greece and the Netherlands will be subject to the new rule, which comes into effect at midnight Saturday into Sunday, Prime Minister Jean Castex said in a statement. To date, people arriving from the United Kingdom are required to show a negative test taken within the past 48 hours. Arrivals from Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, the Netherlands and Greece have had to show tests taken within 72 hours. But Castex said that people who are fully vaccinated with a jab recognised by the European Medicines Agency -- Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson -- will not be required to show a test. The statement said the exemption was in place because "vaccines are effective against the virus, and in particular its variant Delta". Also read | Patients taking statin are at 41% lower risk of an in-hospital death due to COVID-19 France will consider people fully vaccinated one week after they received the second dose of Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and AstraZeneca, instead of 14 days previously, and 28 days after their Johnson & Johnson jab, Castex said. France will now also accept vaccination by Covishield, a copy of the AstraZeneca vaccine made by the Serum Institute of India, for its health pass. The government also said that Tunisia, Mozambique, Cuba and Indonesia will be added to France's so-called red list. Travel from red-list countries is only allowed on pressing grounds and even then vaccinated travellers must self-isolate for seven days. 'Exponential' rise in cases The new measures come as several European nations battle rising caseloads, blamed in part on the highly transmissible Delta variant which has taken hold on the continent. New infections have ticked up in France in recent weeks, hitting nearly 11,000 on Friday, even as the government races to vaccinate the population. President Emmanuel Macron said this week that vaccine health passes would be required for entry to most public places and that all healthcare workers must be fully inoculated, sparking a rush to book appointments for the jab. Around 35.5 million people -- just over half of France's population -- have received at least one vaccine dose so far. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said this week it expects a sharp increase in coronavirus cases on the continent, with nearly five times as many new infections by August 1. In an effort to control the rising numbers, France's region of Pyrenees-Orientales will require bars, restaurants, beach venues and food shops to close at 11:00 pm from Saturday until August 2, the prefecture announced on Saturday. The move came after cases in the region shot up within a single week from 41.5 per 100,000 people to 258.8 per 100,000 people. "This exponential progression is starting to translate into an equally rising number of hospitalisations," the prefecture warned in its statement announcing the measures. The region had on Friday made masks mandatory in all public spaces except for beaches and large nature spaces and prohibited consumption of alcohol in public spaces outside of bars and restaurants.

France to require 24-hour negative COVID-19 test for some European arrivals

Six days before the opening ceremony, organisers said an unnamed person had tested positive for coronavirus in the Village, where thousands of athletes and officials will stay during the Game.

Tokyo Olympics: First case of Coronavirus in Olympic village

White House says Facebook and others are not doing enough to push back on fake news, as a spike in COVID-19 deaths is exclusively hitting the unvaccinated. Many people in the US are refuse vaccinations despite easy availability.

Joe Biden: COVID misinformation killing people

UK to ditch most COVID-19 curbs despite recording over 50,000 cases in 24 hours - its highest in six months. Nearly 1,200 health experts have slammed the unlocking plans, calling it "a threat to the world".

England's COVID unlocking is a threat to world, say experts

During a White House press event on Thursday, Indian-American US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy revealed that the coronavirus has claimed the lives of ten members of his family.

Murthy spoke openly about his own experience during the pandemic at the briefing, which he attended to encourage Americans to get their shots in the face of low vaccination rates.&nbsp;

"On a personal note, it's painful for me to know that nearly every death we are seeing now from COVID-19 could have been prevented. I say that as someone who has lost 10 family members to COVID-19 and who wishes every day that they had had the opportunity to get vaccinated," Dr Murthy said.

"I see that also as a concerned father of two young children who aren't yet eligible for the vaccine, but I know that our kids are depending on all of us to get vaccinated to shield them from this virus," he added.

Dr Murthy, who is serving in the position for the second time, said this at a White House briefing, emphasising the importance of individuals getting vaccinated against the deadly virus.&nbsp;

"We must confront misinformation as a nation. Every one of us has the power and the responsibility to make a difference in this fight. Lives are depending on it," said the top American doctor.

"But we are not out of the woods yet. Millions of Americans are still not protected against COVID-19, and we are seeing more infections among those who are unvaccinated," he said.

"Health misinformation is false, inaccurate, or misleading information about health, according to the best evidence at the time. And while it often appears innocuous on social media apps and retail sites or search engines, the truth is that misinformation takes away our freedom to make informed decisions about our health and the health of our loved ones," said Vivek Murthy. 
&nbsp; 
"During the COVID-19 pandemic, health misinformation has led people to resist wearing masks in high-risk settings. It’s led them to turn down proven treatments and to choose not to get vaccinated. This has led to avoidable illnesses and death. Simply put, health [mis]information has cost us lives."

(With inputs from agencies)

During a White House press event on Thursday, Indian-American US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy revealed that the coronavirus has claimed the lives of ten members of his family.

During a White House press event on Thursday, Indian-American US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy revealed that the coronavirus has claimed the lives of ten members of his family. Murthy spoke openly about his own experience during the pandemic at the briefing, which he attended to encourage Americans to get their shots in the face of low vaccination rates. "On a personal note, it's painful for me to know that nearly every death we are seeing now from COVID-19 could have been prevented. I say that as someone who has lost 10 family members to COVID-19 and who wishes every day that they had had the opportunity to get vaccinated," Dr Murthy said. "I see that also as a concerned father of two young children who aren't yet eligible for the vaccine, but I know that our kids are depending on all of us to get vaccinated to shield them from this virus," he added. Dr Murthy, who is serving in the position for the second time, said this at a White House briefing, emphasising the importance of individuals getting vaccinated against the deadly virus. "We must confront misinformation as a nation. Every one of us has the power and the responsibility to make a difference in this fight. Lives are depending on it," said the top American doctor. "But we are not out of the woods yet. Millions of Americans are still not protected against COVID-19, and we are seeing more infections among those who are unvaccinated," he said. "Health misinformation is false, inaccurate, or misleading information about health, according to the best evidence at the time. And while it often appears innocuous on social media apps and retail sites or search engines, the truth is that misinformation takes away our freedom to make informed decisions about our health and the health of our loved ones," said Vivek Murthy. "During the COVID-19 pandemic, health misinformation has led people to resist wearing masks in high-risk settings. It’s led them to turn down proven treatments and to choose not to get vaccinated. This has led to avoidable illnesses and death. Simply put, health [mis]information has cost us lives." (With inputs from agencies)

I have lost 10 family members to COVID-19, reveals Indian-American US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy

BCCI on Thursday confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

During the three-week break, Rishabh Pant was spotted enjoying a Euro 2020 match without a mask. Now, former Indian captain and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has defended the young southpaw saying that it is impossible to wear a mask all the time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-fear-for-the-100-the-indian-test-series-michael-vaughan-reacts-after-rishabh-pant-tests-positive-for-covid-19-398304" hreflang="en">'I fear for the 100 &amp; the Indian Test series': Michael Vaughan reacts after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19</a>

“We have seen Euro Championship and Wimbledon in England. Rules have changed (with the crowd being allowed inside venues). They were on leave and it’s physically impossible to wear mask all the time,” Ganguly told News18.

He was also asked if there were any concerns regarding the Indian squad set to take on five-match Test series against England. To which he replied, “No worries. They will be fine.”

"Wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant nears completion of his self-quarantine period while training assistant/net bowler Dayanand Garani has tested positive for Covid-19. Team India (Senior Men) were on a three-week break after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final held in Southampton against New Zealand," the BCCI said in a statement.

"Pant, who had not stayed in the team hotel during the break period, tested positive on 8th July. He is asymptomatic and currently undergoing self-isolation at the place where he reported positive. He is being closely monitored by the BCCI Medical Team and is on his way to recovery. He will be able to join the squad in Durham after returning two negative RT-PCR tests," it further said.

Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

The BCCI also informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani.

BCCI on Thursday confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus.

BCCI on Thursday confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus. During the three-week break, Rishabh Pant was spotted enjoying a Euro 2020 match without a mask. Now, former Indian captain and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has defended the young southpaw saying that it is impossible to wear a mask all the time. ALSO READ: 'I fear for the 100 & the Indian Test series': Michael Vaughan reacts after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19 “We have seen Euro Championship and Wimbledon in England. Rules have changed (with the crowd being allowed inside venues). They were on leave and it’s physically impossible to wear mask all the time,” Ganguly told News18. He was also asked if there were any concerns regarding the Indian squad set to take on five-match Test series against England. To which he replied, “No worries. They will be fine.” "Wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant nears completion of his self-quarantine period while training assistant/net bowler Dayanand Garani has tested positive for Covid-19. Team India (Senior Men) were on a three-week break after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final held in Southampton against New Zealand," the BCCI said in a statement. "Pant, who had not stayed in the team hotel during the break period, tested positive on 8th July. He is asymptomatic and currently undergoing self-isolation at the place where he reported positive. He is being closely monitored by the BCCI Medical Team and is on his way to recovery. He will be able to join the squad in Durham after returning two negative RT-PCR tests," it further said. Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The BCCI also informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani.

'Rules have changed': Sourav Ganguly defends Rishabh Pant after COVID-19 test

A member of the Indian cricket team in England has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is currently quarantined at his acquaintance's home. This has happened ahead of five-match Test series against England that will kick off in August.&nbsp; 
 
The infected player&nbsp;is expected to rejoin the squad in Durham later and not travel with the team on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Yes, one of the players has tested positive, although he is largely asymptomatic currently. He is in quarantine at an acquaintance's place and won't be travelling with the team to Durham on Thursday, " a BCCI source told PTI news agency on condition&nbsp;of anonymity.&nbsp;

The announcement follows BCCI secretary Jay Shah's recent email to the Indian contingent in the United Kingdom, in which he warned them about the escalating incidents of COVID-19.

The team will reconvene in a bio-bubble in Durham ahead of the England Test series next month.&nbsp;

The player who tested positive will not travel to Durham, where the Indian team will assemble on Thursday afternoon to prepare for a three-day warm-up game against a County Championship XI starting on July 20. 
 
The BCCI and ECB are now suspecting that other positive cases may exist in the Indian camp.

Earlier, sources close to the situation said that player was&nbsp;asymptomatic and showed slight signs of cough and cold when they were tested for COVID-19.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A member of the Indian cricket team in England has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is currently quarantined at his acquaintance's home. This has happened ahead of five-match Test series against England that will kick off in August.

A member of the Indian cricket team in England has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus and is currently quarantined at his acquaintance's home. This has happened ahead of five-match Test series against England that will kick off in August. The infected player is expected to rejoin the squad in Durham later and not travel with the team on Thursday. "Yes, one of the players has tested positive, although he is largely asymptomatic currently. He is in quarantine at an acquaintance's place and won't be travelling with the team to Durham on Thursday, " a BCCI source told PTI news agency on condition of anonymity. The announcement follows BCCI secretary Jay Shah's recent email to the Indian contingent in the United Kingdom, in which he warned them about the escalating incidents of COVID-19. The team will reconvene in a bio-bubble in Durham ahead of the England Test series next month. The player who tested positive will not travel to Durham, where the Indian team will assemble on Thursday afternoon to prepare for a three-day warm-up game against a County Championship XI starting on July 20. The BCCI and ECB are now suspecting that other positive cases may exist in the Indian camp. Earlier, sources close to the situation said that player was asymptomatic and showed slight signs of cough and cold when they were tested for COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian cricket team in England hit by Covid; one player quarantined

About 23 million children missed routine vaccinations last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the greatest number in more than a decade, fuelling outbreaks of measles, polio, and other avoidable diseases, UN agencies said.

The WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund said in an annual report that the worldwide vaccination coverage gap has created a "perfect storm," leaving more children vulnerable to infectious infections as many countries relax COVID-19 regulations.&nbsp;

Removing restrictions has the potential to increase not only COVID-19 transmission, but also the spread of diseases that are ordinarily vaccine-preventable.&nbsp; 
 
Watch: Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine for kids likely to get DCGI's nod

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zydus-cadila-covid-19-vaccine-for-kids-likely-to-get-dcgis-nod-397631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In 2021, we have potentially a perfect storm about to happen," Kate O'Brien, head of the WHO's vaccines and immunisation department said.

According to the World Health Organization, measles, one of the world's most contagious illnesses, can be fatal to children under the age of five, especially in African and Asian nations with weak health systems.

Polio can permanently disable a youngster.&nbsp;

Regarding a key indicator of childhood vaccination rates, ten countries, led by India and Nigeria, account for the majority of the 22.7 million children who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) in 2020 – 3.7 million more than in 2019 and the most since 2009.&nbsp;

There has been an “alarming increase” in “zero dose” children – those missing out on any vaccination – which rose to 17.1 million last year from 13.6 million, said Ephrem Lemango, UNICEF chief of immunisation. Many live in war-torn countries or slums, he said.

Sixty-six countries postponed at least one immunisation campaign against preventable diseases, although some including Mexico have begun catch-up programmes, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

About 23 million children missed routine vaccinations last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the greatest number in more than a decade, fuelling outbreaks of measles, polio, and other avoidable diseases, UN agencies said.

About 23 million children missed routine vaccinations last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the greatest number in more than a decade, fuelling outbreaks of measles, polio, and other avoidable diseases, UN agencies said. The WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund said in an annual report that the worldwide vaccination coverage gap has created a "perfect storm," leaving more children vulnerable to infectious infections as many countries relax COVID-19 regulations. Removing restrictions has the potential to increase not only COVID-19 transmission, but also the spread of diseases that are ordinarily vaccine-preventable. Watch: Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine for kids likely to get DCGI's nod "In 2021, we have potentially a perfect storm about to happen," Kate O'Brien, head of the WHO's vaccines and immunisation department said. According to the World Health Organization, measles, one of the world's most contagious illnesses, can be fatal to children under the age of five, especially in African and Asian nations with weak health systems. Polio can permanently disable a youngster. Regarding a key indicator of childhood vaccination rates, ten countries, led by India and Nigeria, account for the majority of the 22.7 million children who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) in 2020 – 3.7 million more than in 2019 and the most since 2009. There has been an “alarming increase” in “zero dose” children – those missing out on any vaccination – which rose to 17.1 million last year from 13.6 million, said Ephrem Lemango, UNICEF chief of immunisation. Many live in war-torn countries or slums, he said. Sixty-six countries postponed at least one immunisation campaign against preventable diseases, although some including Mexico have begun catch-up programmes, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Kids' future at risk: 23 million missed out on routine vaccinations due to COVID-19

Travellers returning to England from the&nbsp;Balearic&nbsp;Islands from next week will have to quarantine at home unless they have had both COVID-19 vaccines following a change in policy that could spell bad news for young holidaymakers.

Britain has one of the fastest vaccination programmes in the world but so far the government has effectively prevented travel to most countries through quarantine and testing rules.

It is slowly lifting restrictions and from July 19 it will allow fully vaccinated passengers to travel without quarantine to all countries except those with the highest COVID-19 risk, which are on a red list.

After a travel review, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said on Wednesday (July 14) Ibiza, Majorca and Minorca had been added to the amber list for travel from Monday (July 19), which means that those younger adults who have not yet had both shots would need to quarantine at home for 10 days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-you-crawl-back-under-the-rock-uk-pm-johnson-condemns-racial-abuse-of-england-football-stars-397699">Also read |&nbsp;I hope you crawl back under the rock, UK PM Johnson condemns racial abuse of England football stars</a>

Shapps said the status of the islands had changed due to a sharp rise in cases. The British Virgin Islands were also moved to amber.

The government also put Cuba, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sierra Leone on to its red list, meaning anyone travelling from there would need to quarantine in a hotel.

"Travel continues to be different from usual, and passengers should check latest travel advice from the Foreign Office and be prepared for longer wait times and more checks during their journey," the government said.

The government is adding Hong Kong and Bulgaria to the green list from July 19, the statement said.

Travellers returning to England from the Balearic Islands from next week will have to quarantine at home unless they have had both COVID-19 vaccines following a change in policy that could spell bad news for young holidaymakers.

Travellers returning to England from the Balearic Islands from next week will have to quarantine at home unless they have had both COVID-19 vaccines following a change in policy that could spell bad news for young holidaymakers. Britain has one of the fastest vaccination programmes in the world but so far the government has effectively prevented travel to most countries through quarantine and testing rules. It is slowly lifting restrictions and from July 19 it will allow fully vaccinated passengers to travel without quarantine to all countries except those with the highest COVID-19 risk, which are on a red list. After a travel review, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said on Wednesday (July 14) Ibiza, Majorca and Minorca had been added to the amber list for travel from Monday (July 19), which means that those younger adults who have not yet had both shots would need to quarantine at home for 10 days. Also read | I hope you crawl back under the rock, UK PM Johnson condemns racial abuse of England football stars Shapps said the status of the islands had changed due to a sharp rise in cases. The British Virgin Islands were also moved to amber. The government also put Cuba, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sierra Leone on to its red list, meaning anyone travelling from there would need to quarantine in a hotel. "Travel continues to be different from usual, and passengers should check latest travel advice from the Foreign Office and be prepared for longer wait times and more checks during their journey," the government said. The government is adding Hong Kong and Bulgaria to the green list from July 19, the statement said.

UK adds Balearic Islands to amber list in blow to younger tourists

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will vow on Thursday to "level up" the forgotten parts of Britain without damaging those areas that are already thriving when he sets out plans for the flagship policy that helped him win election.

Johnson, who won a 2019 national vote thanks largely to voters in struggling regions of&nbsp;England, will set out his vision which he hopes will also relieve pressure on other densely populated parts of the country.

The British economy is dominated by London and the southeast and a 2020 report for the government found that gaps in economic productivity between the capital and other regions of the United Kingdom were as wide as they were in 1901.

Many governments have vowed, and failed, to bring more jobs and prosperity to the areas around the former industrial towns in northern&nbsp;England, and Johnson has promised to "level up" in part through higher spending on infrastructure.

"We don't want to decapitate the tall poppies," he will say in a speech in the West Midlands, central&nbsp;England, according to excerpts released by his office. "We don't think you can make the poor parts of the country richer by making the rich parts poorer."

Johnson will argue that previous governments directed investment in areas where house prices were already high and transport already congested. He hopes that by investing in areas with lower growth, people there will not have to move to secure better jobs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-you-crawl-back-under-the-rock-uk-pm-johnson-condemns-racial-abuse-of-england-football-stars-397699">Also read |&nbsp;I hope you crawl back under the rock, UK PM Johnson condemns racial abuse of England football stars</a>

"We will have made progress in Levelling Up when we have begun to raise living standards, spread opportunity, improved our public services and restored people's sense of pride in their community," he will say.

Hit by a pandemic at the start of 2020, Johnson has so far given few concrete examples of how he hopes to transform the fortunes of the country's poorer towns, but the government is looking to invest in the green economy and attract foreign investment.

It has been given a boost in recent weeks with the news that Nissan and Stellantis both plan to invest more in Britain, to build a battery plant and electric vans in the north east and north west of the country respectively.

Even with that Britain is still lagging other big European countries in the race to produce batteries for the new cleaner vehicles of the future. Coventry Airport, in the West Midlands, is also vying to become the site for a gigafactory.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will vow on Thursday to "level up" the forgotten parts of Britain without damaging those areas that are already thriving when he sets out plans for the flagship policy that helped him win election.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will vow on Thursday to "level up" the forgotten parts of Britain without damaging those areas that are already thriving when he sets out plans for the flagship policy that helped him win election. Johnson, who won a 2019 national vote thanks largely to voters in struggling regions of England, will set out his vision which he hopes will also relieve pressure on other densely populated parts of the country. The British economy is dominated by London and the southeast and a 2020 report for the government found that gaps in economic productivity between the capital and other regions of the United Kingdom were as wide as they were in 1901. Many governments have vowed, and failed, to bring more jobs and prosperity to the areas around the former industrial towns in northern England, and Johnson has promised to "level up" in part through higher spending on infrastructure. "We don't want to decapitate the tall poppies," he will say in a speech in the West Midlands, central England, according to excerpts released by his office. "We don't think you can make the poor parts of the country richer by making the rich parts poorer." Johnson will argue that previous governments directed investment in areas where house prices were already high and transport already congested. He hopes that by investing in areas with lower growth, people there will not have to move to secure better jobs. Also read | I hope you crawl back under the rock, UK PM Johnson condemns racial abuse of England football stars "We will have made progress in Levelling Up when we have begun to raise living standards, spread opportunity, improved our public services and restored people's sense of pride in their community," he will say. Hit by a pandemic at the start of 2020, Johnson has so far given few concrete examples of how he hopes to transform the fortunes of the country's poorer towns, but the government is looking to invest in the green economy and attract foreign investment. It has been given a boost in recent weeks with the news that Nissan and Stellantis both plan to invest more in Britain, to build a battery plant and electric vans in the north east and north west of the country respectively. Even with that Britain is still lagging other big European countries in the race to produce batteries for the new cleaner vehicles of the future. Coventry Airport, in the West Midlands, is also vying to become the site for a gigafactory.

PM Johnson to set out plan to 'level up' Britain

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence.

Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population.

About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/greek-fm-nikos-dendias-says-india-greece-uae-to-establish-trilateral-dialogue-hits-out-turkey-397088">Also read |&nbsp;Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey</a>

"Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus.

Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza.

A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme. Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence. Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population. About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season. Also read | Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey "Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus. Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza. A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.

Thousands rally against COVID-19 vaccinations in Athens

At least eight staff at a Japanese hotel hosting Brazil's Olympic judo team have tested positive for coronavirus, local officials said Thursday.

Health and sports officials at Hamamatsu city, west of Tokyo, said virus screenings were done before the judo delegation of around 30 members arrived there on Saturday.

None of the infected individuals came in contact with the athletes, they said.

The news comes as Tokyo prepares to host the Olympic Games mostly behind closed doors, with strict anti-infection measures placed on athletes, officials and journalists.

"Only those who have proof of a negative test are working" with the judo team, said Yoshinobu Sawada, a sports official at the city.

"We explained to the team that only (healthy workers) are in the bubble. We think they have understood the situation and our counter-infection measures," he told AFP.

A family member of one of the infected hotel workers also tested positive, Hamamatsu officials added.

Tokyo is currently under a virus state of emergency, with infections surging. The city recorded 1,149 cases on Wednesday, the highest figure since January.

Several areas around the capital are under looser virus restrictions.

Olympic participants will be subject to strict virus rules and kept largely away from the Japanese public.

Separately, a staff member with the Russian rugby sevens team was hospitalised after testing positive, an official in their host town Munakata in western Japan told AFP.

The team, comprised of 16 athletes and 10 staff members, landed at a Tokyo airport on July 10, and has had no close contact with local officials or residents since then, he said.

The rest of the team is now quarantined in their accommodation, but if they test negative on Thursday, they will be able to resume training as early as Friday, the official added.

The International Olympic Committee said Wednesday that of over 8,000 people who arrived between July 1 and 13, just three tested positive after arrival and were isolated.

IOC chief Thomas Bach also pledged "not to bring any risk" to Japan with the Games, which open on July 23.

At least eight staff at a Japanese hotel hosting Brazil's Olympic judo team have tested positive for coronavirus, local officials said Thursday. Health and sports officials at Hamamatsu city, west of Tokyo, said virus screenings were done before the judo delegation of around 30 members arrived there on Saturday.

At least eight staff at a Japanese hotel hosting Brazil's Olympic judo team have tested positive for coronavirus, local officials said Thursday. Health and sports officials at Hamamatsu city, west of Tokyo, said virus screenings were done before the judo delegation of around 30 members arrived there on Saturday. None of the infected individuals came in contact with the athletes, they said. The news comes as Tokyo prepares to host the Olympic Games mostly behind closed doors, with strict anti-infection measures placed on athletes, officials and journalists. "Only those who have proof of a negative test are working" with the judo team, said Yoshinobu Sawada, a sports official at the city. "We explained to the team that only (healthy workers) are in the bubble. We think they have understood the situation and our counter-infection measures," he told AFP. A family member of one of the infected hotel workers also tested positive, Hamamatsu officials added. Tokyo is currently under a virus state of emergency, with infections surging. The city recorded 1,149 cases on Wednesday, the highest figure since January. Several areas around the capital are under looser virus restrictions. Olympic participants will be subject to strict virus rules and kept largely away from the Japanese public. Separately, a staff member with the Russian rugby sevens team was hospitalised after testing positive, an official in their host town Munakata in western Japan told AFP. The team, comprised of 16 athletes and 10 staff members, landed at a Tokyo airport on July 10, and has had no close contact with local officials or residents since then, he said. The rest of the team is now quarantined in their accommodation, but if they test negative on Thursday, they will be able to resume training as early as Friday, the official added. The International Olympic Committee said Wednesday that of over 8,000 people who arrived between July 1 and 13, just three tested positive after arrival and were isolated. IOC chief Thomas Bach also pledged "not to bring any risk" to Japan with the Games, which open on July 23.

Tokyo Olympics: COVID-19 cluster emerges at hotel hosting Brazilian Olympians

Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus during a 20-day break ahead of the England Test series that will begin in August. BCCI also released a statement on Thursday after the young southpaw had tested positive for the infectious virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-releases-statement-after-rishabh-pant-tests-positive-for-covid-19-398299" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI releases statement after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Now, former England skipper Michael Vaughan has reacted to Pant testing positive. He took to Twitter and wrote: "I fear for the 100 &amp; the Indian Test series unless the isolation laws change .. we are bound to have cases as is the case with @RishabhPant17.. plus further down the line I fear the Ashes could be hugely affected with players pulling out unless bubbles/quarantine rules change!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I fear for the 100 &amp; the Indian Test series unless the isolation laws change .. we are bound to have cases as is the case with <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> .. plus further down the line I fear the Ashes could be hugely affected with players pulling out unless bubbles/quarantine rules change !
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1415595397960151043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

BCCI also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus. They informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani.

"The BCCI Medical Team have identified B. Arun, Bowling Coach, Wriddhiman Saha and Abhimanyu Easwaran as close contacts of Garani, who was in the team hotel when he tested positive following RT-PCR tests on 14th July. The four personnel will undergo 10-day isolation and will remain in their respective rooms in the team hotel in London."

Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus during a 20-day break ahead of the England Test series that will begin in August.

Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus during a 20-day break ahead of the England Test series that will begin in August. BCCI also released a statement on Thursday after the young southpaw had tested positive for the infectious virus. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI releases statement after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19 Now, former England skipper Michael Vaughan has reacted to Pant testing positive. He took to Twitter and wrote: "I fear for the 100 & the Indian Test series unless the isolation laws change .. we are bound to have cases as is the case with @RishabhPant17.. plus further down the line I fear the Ashes could be hugely affected with players pulling out unless bubbles/quarantine rules change!" I fear for the 100 & the Indian Test series unless the isolation laws change .. we are bound to have cases as is the case with @RishabhPant17 .. plus further down the line I fear the Ashes could be hugely affected with players pulling out unless bubbles/quarantine rules change ! — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) July 15, 2021 × Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. BCCI also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus. They informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani. "The BCCI Medical Team have identified B. Arun, Bowling Coach, Wriddhiman Saha and Abhimanyu Easwaran as close contacts of Garani, who was in the team hotel when he tested positive following RT-PCR tests on 14th July. The four personnel will undergo 10-day isolation and will remain in their respective rooms in the team hotel in London."

'I fear for the 100 & the Indian Test series': Michael Vaughan reacts after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19

BCCI has released a statement on Thursday and confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-rishabh-pant-tests-positive-for-covid-19-in-england-reports-398195" hreflang="en">Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19 in England: Reports</a>

"Wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant nears completion of his self-quarantine period while training assistant/net bowler Dayanand Garani has tested positive for Covid-19. Team India (Senior Men) were on a three-week break after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final held in Southampton against New Zealand," the BCCI said in a statement.

"Pant, who had not stayed in the team hotel during the break period, tested positive on 8th July. He is asymptomatic and currently undergoing self-isolation at the place where he reported positive. He is being closely monitored by the BCCI Medical Team and is on his way to recovery. He will be able to join the squad in Durham after returning two negative RT-PCR tests," it further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-you-need-to-know-about-team-indias-warm-up-match-ahead-of-england-test-398291" hreflang="en">All you need to know about Team India's warm-up match ahead of England Test</a>

Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

The BCCI also informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani.

"The BCCI Medical Team have identified B. Arun, Bowling Coach, Wriddhiman Saha and Abhimanyu Easwaran as close contacts of Garani, who was in the team hotel when he tested positive following RT-PCR tests on 14th July. The four personnel will undergo 10-day isolation and will remain in their respective rooms in the team hotel in London."

BCCI has released a statement on Thursday and confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus.

BCCI has released a statement on Thursday and confirmed that Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has tested positive for COVID-19. They also confirmed that throwdown specialist Dayanand Garani has also tested for the dreaded virus. ALSO READ: Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19 in England: Reports "Wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant nears completion of his self-quarantine period while training assistant/net bowler Dayanand Garani has tested positive for Covid-19. Team India (Senior Men) were on a three-week break after the conclusion of the ICC World Test Championship final held in Southampton against New Zealand," the BCCI said in a statement. "Pant, who had not stayed in the team hotel during the break period, tested positive on 8th July. He is asymptomatic and currently undergoing self-isolation at the place where he reported positive. He is being closely monitored by the BCCI Medical Team and is on his way to recovery. He will be able to join the squad in Durham after returning two negative RT-PCR tests," it further said. ALSO READ: All you need to know about Team India's warm-up match ahead of England Test Pant will not travel to Durham along with the rest of the team for the practice match against County XI at the Emirates Riverside ahead of the five-Test series against England starting August 4 at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The BCCI also informed that three more members reserve batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha and bowling coach Bharat Arun are in isolation after coming in close contact with Garani. "The BCCI Medical Team have identified B. Arun, Bowling Coach, Wriddhiman Saha and Abhimanyu Easwaran as close contacts of Garani, who was in the team hotel when he tested positive following RT-PCR tests on 14th July. The four personnel will undergo 10-day isolation and will remain in their respective rooms in the team hotel in London."

Cricket: BCCI releases statement after Rishabh Pant tests positive for COVID-19

With just a week to go to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony, COVID infections are hitting the games. An athlete in Japan and 4 Olympic workers have tested positive for Coronavirus. Watch this report to know more.

Tokyo Olympics: Athlete and 4 workers test positive for COVID-19

Argentina on Wednesday&nbsp;reached a grim milestone in its fight to control the pandemic as deaths caused by COVID-19 crossed 100,000.

As per the data published by the health ministry, 19,697 new cases and 614 more deaths were recorded taking the total number of deaths to 100,250.

Jimena Blanco, director of Latin America research at consulting firm Verisk Maplecroft, was quoted by Bloomberg saying, "The structural, economic and political challenges that have made Argentina one of the worst performing countries in the world in terms of managing the health and economic crisis triggered by COVID-19, will also make it one of the slowest to recover".

Unable to broker agreements with US vaccine manufacturers initially, the government relied on a mix of Russia’s Sputnik V jab, China’s Sinopharm shot and AstraZeneca Plc’s dose while supply delays have crimped its inoculation campaign.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-pfizer-tried-to-bully-argentina-and-brazil-in-exchange-for-vaccines-366037">Also read |&nbsp;How Pfizer tried to bully Argentina and Brazil in exchange for vaccines</a>

Also, around 45 per cent of Argentines have received one jab, as the government favoured the strategy of inoculating as many people with their first dose as possible, while just 11% of the population has received both shots, reports Bloomberg’s Vaccine Tracker.

Talks between Argentina and Pfizer began in June 2020. In July, President Alberto Fernandez held a meeting with Pfizer's Argentina CEO.

Then, Pfizer asked to be compensated for the cost of any future civil lawsuits. If someone files a civil lawsuit against Pfizer in Argentina and wins that case, the government of Argentina and not Pfizer would pay the compensation. So, Argentina's parliament passed a new law in October 2020, but Pfizer was unhappy with its phrasing. The law said Pfizer needs to at least pay for negligence, for its own mistakes if it happens to make any in the future.

Pfizer rejected this, after which Argentina offered to amend the law to define negligence more clearly - to include only vaccine distribution and delivery under negligence.

Pfizer was still not happy and demanded the law be amended through a new decree, which Argentina refused. Pfizer then asked Argentina to buy international insurance to pay for potential future cases against Pfizer, to which the country agreed.

In December 2020, Pfizer came back with more demands and demanded sovereign assets as collateral. Pfizer wanted Argentina to put its bank reserves, military bases and embassy buildings at stake.&nbsp;

Argentina on Wednesday reached a grim milestone in its fight to control the pandemic as deaths caused by COVID-19 crossed 100,000. As per the data published by the health ministry, 19,697 new cases and 614 more deaths were recorded taking the total number of deaths to 100,250.

Argentina on Wednesday reached a grim milestone in its fight to control the pandemic as deaths caused by COVID-19 crossed 100,000. As per the data published by the health ministry, 19,697 new cases and 614 more deaths were recorded taking the total number of deaths to 100,250. Jimena Blanco, director of Latin America research at consulting firm Verisk Maplecroft, was quoted by Bloomberg saying, "The structural, economic and political challenges that have made Argentina one of the worst performing countries in the world in terms of managing the health and economic crisis triggered by COVID-19, will also make it one of the slowest to recover". Unable to broker agreements with US vaccine manufacturers initially, the government relied on a mix of Russia’s Sputnik V jab, China’s Sinopharm shot and AstraZeneca Plc’s dose while supply delays have crimped its inoculation campaign. Also read | How Pfizer tried to bully Argentina and Brazil in exchange for vaccines Also, around 45 per cent of Argentines have received one jab, as the government favoured the strategy of inoculating as many people with their first dose as possible, while just 11% of the population has received both shots, reports Bloomberg’s Vaccine Tracker. Talks between Argentina and Pfizer began in June 2020. In July, President Alberto Fernandez held a meeting with Pfizer's Argentina CEO. Then, Pfizer asked to be compensated for the cost of any future civil lawsuits. If someone files a civil lawsuit against Pfizer in Argentina and wins that case, the government of Argentina and not Pfizer would pay the compensation. So, Argentina's parliament passed a new law in October 2020, but Pfizer was unhappy with its phrasing. The law said Pfizer needs to at least pay for negligence, for its own mistakes if it happens to make any in the future. Pfizer rejected this, after which Argentina offered to amend the law to define negligence more clearly - to include only vaccine distribution and delivery under negligence. Pfizer was still not happy and demanded the law be amended through a new decree, which Argentina refused. Pfizer then asked Argentina to buy international insurance to pay for potential future cases against Pfizer, to which the country agreed. In December 2020, Pfizer came back with more demands and demanded sovereign assets as collateral. Pfizer wanted Argentina to put its bank reserves, military bases and embassy buildings at stake.

Argentina COVID-19 deaths surpass 100,000 in grim milestone

Israel&nbsp;is discussing&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shots with drug&nbsp;companies, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Wednesday, as the country grapples with an outbreak of the fast-spreading Delta variant.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday the Delta variant has been detected in at least 111 countries in the last two months and was likely to become the dominant variant globally over the coming months. In&nbsp;Israel, it makes up&nbsp;about&nbsp;90 per cent&nbsp;of confirmed cases, according to the Health Ministry.

"We are in a dialogue with the&nbsp;pharma&nbsp;companies&nbsp;about&nbsp;the&nbsp;booster&nbsp;issue, whether a&nbsp;booster&nbsp;of the original shot or an adapted&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shot," Bennett told a news conference in Jerusalem, where he detailed his cabinet's strategy for curbing the Delta outbreak.

In&nbsp;Israel,&nbsp;about&nbsp;60 per cent&nbsp;of the 9.3 million population has received at least one dose of the vaccine produced by Pfizer&nbsp;and partner BioNTech. Pfizer did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The variant, first identified in India, has led to a surge in cases worldwide and is setting back economic recovery plans.

Researchers and drugmakers are looking at tweaking vaccines quickly to prevent them from losing effectiveness against new, emerging variants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-orders-massive-reinforcement-of-forces-to-quell-unrest-in-cities-after-gaza-violence-384790">Also read |&nbsp;Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence</a>

Having driven down coronavirus infections to single-digit numbers and zero deaths,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;lifted its social-distancing restrictions by mid-June. But the sharp rise in daily infections presently stands at a weekly average of&nbsp;about&nbsp;500 and some curbs have been re-introduced.

Bennett appealed to the public and said Delta can be beaten back within five weeks without a costly lockdown if people act responsibly by getting vaccinated, wearing masks indoors and keeping social distancing.

His strategy rests on an approach that&nbsp;says&nbsp;the high vaccination rates among risk groups will see far less severe&nbsp;COVID-19 cases than in previous outbreaks, even as infections climb.

Pfizer/BioNTech plans to ask US&nbsp;regulators within weeks to authorise a&nbsp;booster&nbsp;dose of its&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine, citing thus far unpublished evidence of greater risk of infection six months after inoculation and Delta's spread.

US&nbsp;and European Union authorities have said it's unclear yet whether&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shots are needed. Scientists have said the&nbsp;companies' move was premature.

Israel's health ministry said on Monday&nbsp;there was still not enough unequivocal evidence for the necessity of a third&nbsp;booster&nbsp;shot for the wider public, though it has approved a third&nbsp;jab&nbsp;for people with compromised immune systems on a case by case basis.

Some studies have shown Pfizer's vaccine to be highly effective against Delta, though somewhat reduced in comparison with other coronavirus strains.

Israel is discussing COVID-19 booster shots with drug companies, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Wednesday, as the country grapples with an outbreak of the fast-spreading Delta variant.

Israel is discussing COVID-19 booster shots with drug companies, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Wednesday, as the country grapples with an outbreak of the fast-spreading Delta variant. The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday the Delta variant has been detected in at least 111 countries in the last two months and was likely to become the dominant variant globally over the coming months. In Israel, it makes up about 90 per cent of confirmed cases, according to the Health Ministry. "We are in a dialogue with the pharma companies about the booster issue, whether a booster of the original shot or an adapted booster shot," Bennett told a news conference in Jerusalem, where he detailed his cabinet's strategy for curbing the Delta outbreak. In Israel, about 60 per cent of the 9.3 million population has received at least one dose of the vaccine produced by Pfizer and partner BioNTech. Pfizer did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The variant, first identified in India, has led to a surge in cases worldwide and is setting back economic recovery plans. Researchers and drugmakers are looking at tweaking vaccines quickly to prevent them from losing effectiveness against new, emerging variants. Also read | Israel orders 'massive reinforcement' of forces to quell unrest in cities after Gaza violence Having driven down coronavirus infections to single-digit numbers and zero deaths, Israel lifted its social-distancing restrictions by mid-June. But the sharp rise in daily infections presently stands at a weekly average of about 500 and some curbs have been re-introduced. Bennett appealed to the public and said Delta can be beaten back within five weeks without a costly lockdown if people act responsibly by getting vaccinated, wearing masks indoors and keeping social distancing. His strategy rests on an approach that says the high vaccination rates among risk groups will see far less severe COVID-19 cases than in previous outbreaks, even as infections climb. Pfizer/BioNTech plans to ask US regulators within weeks to authorise a booster dose of its COVID-19 vaccine, citing thus far unpublished evidence of greater risk of infection six months after inoculation and Delta's spread. US and European Union authorities have said it's unclear yet whether booster shots are needed. Scientists have said the companies' move was premature. Israel's health ministry said on Monday there was still not enough unequivocal evidence for the necessity of a third booster shot for the wider public, though it has approved a third jab for people with compromised immune systems on a case by case basis. Some studies have shown Pfizer's vaccine to be highly effective against Delta, though somewhat reduced in comparison with other coronavirus strains.

Israel in talks with pharma companies about COVID-19 booster jab, says PM

Spain's Constitutional&nbsp;Court&nbsp;ruled on Wednesday that strict&nbsp;home&nbsp;confinement&nbsp;included in a national state of emergency to curb the first wave of&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;infections last year was&nbsp;unconstitutional.

Introduced last March, the state of emergency allowed the government to temporarily limit civil liberties, confining almost all Spaniards to their&nbsp;homes and shutting down all but essential industries.

The Constitutional&nbsp;Court&nbsp;said in a statement it had annulled by a simple majority some articles of the state of emergency decree related to the free movement of citizens. The complete ruling will be released in a few days.

By voiding the emergency decree, the ruling opens the door to the cancellation of fines for breaching lockdown restrictions imposed during the period.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-to-open-tourism-but-only-for-covid-passport-holders-381079">Also read |&nbsp;Spain to open tourism, but only for 'Covid passport' holders</a>

The&nbsp;court's decision comes in response to a petition filed by far-right party Vox, which argued the measures were overly harsh and constituted a suspension rather than a limitation of civil liberties.

Vox argued the restrictions required the passing of a "state of exception," which is one rung above a state of emergency and requires parliamentary approval rather than just a green light from the cabinet.

On Wednesday evening, Spain's Justice Minister Pilar Llop said that the government respected the criteria of the six judges of the Constitutional&nbsp;Court&nbsp;who ruled against the&nbsp;confinement&nbsp;but added that measures adopted were defended by five other judges of this&nbsp;court.

"The&nbsp;confinement&nbsp;measures had saved several hundred thousands of lives," Llop said.

During a deadly first wave of infection, Spain imposed one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe, only allowing people to leave their&nbsp;homes to go to work, buy food or visit a pharmacy or hospital.

Spain's Constitutional Court ruled on Wednesday that strict home confinement included in a national state of emergency to curb the first wave of COVID-19 infections last year was unconstitutional.

Spain's Constitutional Court ruled on Wednesday that strict home confinement included in a national state of emergency to curb the first wave of COVID-19 infections last year was unconstitutional. Introduced last March, the state of emergency allowed the government to temporarily limit civil liberties, confining almost all Spaniards to their homes and shutting down all but essential industries. The Constitutional Court said in a statement it had annulled by a simple majority some articles of the state of emergency decree related to the free movement of citizens. The complete ruling will be released in a few days. By voiding the emergency decree, the ruling opens the door to the cancellation of fines for breaching lockdown restrictions imposed during the period. Also read | Spain to open tourism, but only for 'Covid passport' holders The court's decision comes in response to a petition filed by far-right party Vox, which argued the measures were overly harsh and constituted a suspension rather than a limitation of civil liberties. Vox argued the restrictions required the passing of a "state of exception," which is one rung above a state of emergency and requires parliamentary approval rather than just a green light from the cabinet. On Wednesday evening, Spain's Justice Minister Pilar Llop said that the government respected the criteria of the six judges of the Constitutional Court who ruled against the confinement but added that measures adopted were defended by five other judges of this court. "The confinement measures had saved several hundred thousands of lives," Llop said. During a deadly first wave of infection, Spain imposed one of the strictest lockdowns in Europe, only allowing people to leave their homes to go to work, buy food or visit a pharmacy or hospital.

COVID-19 home confinement is unconstitutional, rules Spanish court

COVID-19 deaths and cases are on the rise again. The World Health Organization reported that deaths climbed last week after nine straight weeks of decline. It recorded more than 55,000 lives lost, which is a 3 per cent increase from the week before.

Dr David Dowdy, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University, warned, "Its important that we recognize that COVID-19 has the potential for explosive outbreaks".&nbsp;

As cases continue to surge, Argentina on Wednesday, July 14, reached a milestone in its fight to control the pandemic as deaths caused by COVID-19 crossed 100,000. As per the data published by the Health Ministry, 19,697 new cases and 614 more deaths were recorded taking the total number of deaths to 100,250.

Also, residents across Myanmar's biggest city are defying a military curfew in a desperate search for oxygen to keep their loved ones breathing as a new coronavirus wave crashes over the coup-wracked country.

The spike in cases is the latest blow to Myanmar, already suffering from a February coup and a bloody crackdown on dissent that has killed over 900 people and gutted the economy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-variant-getting-more-dangerous-and-can-soon-be-dominant-who-chief-warns-397933">Also read |&nbsp;Delta variant getting more dangerous and can soon be dominant, WHO Chief warns</a>

In the US, newly confirmed infections per day have doubled over the past two weeks to an average of about 24,000, though deaths are still on a downward trajectory at around 260 a day.&nbsp;

Tokyo is under the fourth state of emergency ahead of the Summer Games this month, with infections climbing fast and hospital beds filling up.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the WHO labelled the Delta variant of COVID-19 as a "variant of concern", the organisation’s chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had warned about the alarming increase of the ‘highly transmissible' variant.

Tedros warned that the Delta variant has now spread to 104 countries and will soon become the dominant variant of COVID-19 in the world. This will result in a deadly increase in the number of coronavirus infections and deaths.

"My message today is that we are experiencing a worsening public health emergency that further threatens lives, livelihoods and a sound global economic recovery. It is definitely worse in places that have very few vaccines, but the pandemic is not over anywhere," he said in a press briefing.

COVID-19 deaths and cases are on the rise again. The World Health Organization reported that deaths climbed last week after nine straight weeks of decline. It recorded more than 55,000 lives lost, which is a 3 per cent increase from the week before.

COVID-19 deaths and cases are on the rise again. The World Health Organization reported that deaths climbed last week after nine straight weeks of decline. It recorded more than 55,000 lives lost, which is a 3 per cent increase from the week before. Dr David Dowdy, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University, warned, "Its important that we recognize that COVID-19 has the potential for explosive outbreaks". As cases continue to surge, Argentina on Wednesday, July 14, reached a milestone in its fight to control the pandemic as deaths caused by COVID-19 crossed 100,000. As per the data published by the Health Ministry, 19,697 new cases and 614 more deaths were recorded taking the total number of deaths to 100,250. Also, residents across Myanmar's biggest city are defying a military curfew in a desperate search for oxygen to keep their loved ones breathing as a new coronavirus wave crashes over the coup-wracked country. The spike in cases is the latest blow to Myanmar, already suffering from a February coup and a bloody crackdown on dissent that has killed over 900 people and gutted the economy. Also read | Delta variant getting more dangerous and can soon be dominant, WHO Chief warns In the US, newly confirmed infections per day have doubled over the past two weeks to an average of about 24,000, though deaths are still on a downward trajectory at around 260 a day. Tokyo is under the fourth state of emergency ahead of the Summer Games this month, with infections climbing fast and hospital beds filling up. Meanwhile, the WHO labelled the Delta variant of COVID-19 as a "variant of concern", the organisation’s chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had warned about the alarming increase of the ‘highly transmissible' variant. Tedros warned that the Delta variant has now spread to 104 countries and will soon become the dominant variant of COVID-19 in the world. This will result in a deadly increase in the number of coronavirus infections and deaths. "My message today is that we are experiencing a worsening public health emergency that further threatens lives, livelihoods and a sound global economic recovery. It is definitely worse in places that have very few vaccines, but the pandemic is not over anywhere," he said in a press briefing.

COVID-19 deaths, cases rise again globally amid relaxed curbs

Despite surge in COVID-19 cases, Bangladesh is all set to lift its nationwide Coronavirus lockdown for the upcoming EID and other festival. Watch this report to know more.

Coronavirus Update: Bangladesh to ease restrictions despite record infections

The chief scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Monday warned against mixing and matching different COVID-19 vaccines, calling it a "dangerous trend".

She spoke about the lack of data about the safety of this process. “There are people who are thinking about mixing and matching. We receive a lot of queries from people who say they have taken one and are planning to take another one. It’s a little bit of a dangerous trend here. We are in a data-free, evidence-free zone as far as mix and match,” she said during an online briefing.

When vaccines are mixed and matched, two doses of two different vaccines are used to immunise people. Vaccines that are currently in wide use include Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Covishield, Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the Russian Sputnik V.

All of these vaccines are administered in two doses, with pre-decided intervals between both the shots. Sputnik V also has a single-dose iteration called Sputnik V Lite. The shot by Johnson &amp; Johnson is also a single-shot vaccine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/covid-19-johnson-johnson-vaccine-raises-risk-of-rare-neurological-complication-warns-us-fda-397718" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine raises risk of rare neurological complication, warns US FDA</a>

“There is limited data on mix and match. There are studies going on, we need to wait for that. Maybe it will be a very good approach. But, at the moment we only have data on the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, followed by Pfizer. It will be a chaotic situation in countries if citizens start deciding when and who will be taking a second, a third and a fourth dose,” she added during the briefing.

The organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has referred to the Covid vaccine supply as "hugely uneven and inequitable". "Some countries and regions are actually ordering millions of booster doses before other countries have had supplies to vaccinate their health workers and most vulnerable," Tedros said.

Building on this sentiment, Swaminathan stressed on the importance of equal distribution of vaccines around the globe. “We have four countries that have announced booster programs and a few more that are thinking about it. If 11 high and upper-middle-income countries decide that they will go for a booster for their population, or even sub-groups, this will require an additional 800 million doses of vaccine,” she added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-zydus-cadila-covid-vaccine-may-get-approval-says-report-397682" hreflang="en">India: Zydus Cadila Covid vaccine may get approval, says report</a>

Talking about booster shots, Swaminathan said that there is no evidence that one would be required. Instead, she said that the surplus vaccines should be sent to less-developed regions of the world where even their frontline workers and vulnerable populations haven't received the jabs.

The chief scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Monday warned against mixing and matching different COVID-19 vaccines, calling it a "dangerous trend".

The chief scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Monday warned against mixing and matching different COVID-19 vaccines, calling it a "dangerous trend". She spoke about the lack of data about the safety of this process. “There are people who are thinking about mixing and matching. We receive a lot of queries from people who say they have taken one and are planning to take another one. It’s a little bit of a dangerous trend here. We are in a data-free, evidence-free zone as far as mix and match,” she said during an online briefing. When vaccines are mixed and matched, two doses of two different vaccines are used to immunise people. Vaccines that are currently in wide use include Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Covishield, Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the Russian Sputnik V. All of these vaccines are administered in two doses, with pre-decided intervals between both the shots. Sputnik V also has a single-dose iteration called Sputnik V Lite. The shot by Johnson & Johnson is also a single-shot vaccine. Also read: COVID-19: Johnson & Johnson vaccine raises risk of rare neurological complication, warns US FDA “There is limited data on mix and match. There are studies going on, we need to wait for that. Maybe it will be a very good approach. But, at the moment we only have data on the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, followed by Pfizer. It will be a chaotic situation in countries if citizens start deciding when and who will be taking a second, a third and a fourth dose,” she added during the briefing. The organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has referred to the Covid vaccine supply as "hugely uneven and inequitable". "Some countries and regions are actually ordering millions of booster doses before other countries have had supplies to vaccinate their health workers and most vulnerable," Tedros said. Building on this sentiment, Swaminathan stressed on the importance of equal distribution of vaccines around the globe. “We have four countries that have announced booster programs and a few more that are thinking about it. If 11 high and upper-middle-income countries decide that they will go for a booster for their population, or even sub-groups, this will require an additional 800 million doses of vaccine,” she added. Also read: India: Zydus Cadila Covid vaccine may get approval, says report Talking about booster shots, Swaminathan said that there is no evidence that one would be required. Instead, she said that the surplus vaccines should be sent to less-developed regions of the world where even their frontline workers and vulnerable populations haven't received the jabs.

WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines

The US Food and Drug Administration warned on Monday that the Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccines may increase the risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological illness, after 100 early instances were identified among the 12.5 million doses given out.

According to a news report published on CNN, 95% of the instances were serious enough to necessitate hospitalisation and one person died, according to the organisation.

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological illness in which the immune system targets nerves, resulting in temporary but possibly life-threatening paralysis.

According to the CNN report, Johnson &amp; Johnson said that it was discussing the matter with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. 
 
Watch | Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine for kids likely to get DCGI's nod

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zydus-cadila-covid-19-vaccine-for-kids-likely-to-get-dcgis-nod-397631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We have been in discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other regulators about rare cases of the neurological disorder, Guillain-Barré syndrome, that have been reported following vaccination with the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.The chance of having this occur is very low, and the rate of reported cases exceeds the background rate by a small degree," the company said in a brief statement. 
 
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-ignore-these-new-oral-symptoms-of-covid-19-377054">Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19</a>

The majority of people who develop GBS symptoms do so after contracting a respiratory infection, such as the flu or becoming ill with diarrhoea, according to the CDC.

A pathogen linked to eating raw poultry is one of the most common causes.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Food and Drug Administration warned on Monday that the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines may increase the risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological illness, after 100 early instances were identified among the 12.

The US Food and Drug Administration warned on Monday that the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines may increase the risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological illness, after 100 early instances were identified among the 12.5 million doses given out. According to a news report published on CNN, 95% of the instances were serious enough to necessitate hospitalisation and one person died, according to the organisation. Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological illness in which the immune system targets nerves, resulting in temporary but possibly life-threatening paralysis. According to the CNN report, Johnson & Johnson said that it was discussing the matter with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. Watch | Zydus Cadila COVID-19 vaccine for kids likely to get DCGI's nod "We have been in discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other regulators about rare cases of the neurological disorder, Guillain-Barré syndrome, that have been reported following vaccination with the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.The chance of having this occur is very low, and the rate of reported cases exceeds the background rate by a small degree," the company said in a brief statement. Also Read | Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19 The majority of people who develop GBS symptoms do so after contracting a respiratory infection, such as the flu or becoming ill with diarrhoea, according to the CDC. A pathogen linked to eating raw poultry is one of the most common causes. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Johnson & Johnson vaccine can cause rare neurological complication, warns US FDA

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases.

Organizers last week announced that spectators would be banned from nearly all venues. Spectators from abroad were already banned months ago, and officials are now asking residents to watch the Games on TV to keep the movement of people, which could spread contagion, to a minimum.

Opinion polls have consistently shown the Japanese public is concerned about going ahead with the Games during the pandemic.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's handling of the pandemic - including an initially slow vaccination rollout - has eroded his support. The issue is especially sensitive ahead of a national election and a ruling party leadership race due later this year.

"We would ask people to support athletes from home," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said on a Sunday TV program.

The Games, postponed from last year because of the pandemic, run from July 23 to August 8, while the state of emergency - the capitals fourth - lasts until August 22, shortly before the Paralympics begin.

The government and organizers had long seen the Games as a chance to display Japan's recovery from a devastating 2011 earthquake and nuclear crisis.

On Saturday, the governor of Fukushima prefecture, the site of the nuclear disaster, said spectators would also be banned from softball and baseball games there, reversing an earlier decision.

RISING TOKYO INFECTIONS

World No. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic said on Sunday he was "50-50" about competing at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;following the organizers' decision to ban fans from attending and limits on the number of people he can take to the Games.

Some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Nick Kyrgios, Serena Williams, and Simona Halep have already said that they will skip the Games.

Japan has recorded more than 815,440 COVID-19 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths.

Recent rises in Tokyo have been particularly worrisome amid a vaccination rollout that got off to a slow start and has faced supply glitches after speeding up. Only about 28% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Tokyo recorded 502 new cases on Sunday, the 23rd straight day of week-on-week gains, and experts worry that the public has grown weary of restrictions, mostly voluntary, on activities.

The coronavirus curbs include asking restaurants to close early and to stop serving alcohol in exchange for a government subsidy, measures that have hit the eateries hard and caused many to complain of unfairness as the Games are set to go ahead.

Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is also in charge of the pandemic response, sparked outrage when he suggested late on Thursday he would ask banks to put pressure on eateries that do not comply with the stricter measures.

In an about-face, the government's top spokesperson Kato said on Friday it had decided banks would not be asked to press restaurants and bars that do not follow the government request to stop serving alcohol under the emergency restrictions.

On Monday, "Anyone but LDP or Komeito" was trending on Twitter, a reference to voting for political parties other than Suga's ruling Liberal Democratic Party or its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, in the coming parliamentary election.

"I'm not a restaurateur, but this administration that couldn't come up with effective anti-coronavirus steps despite having a year to get ready for the&nbsp;Olympics... is no good," said one angry Twitter user.

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases.

Olympic host city Tokyo entered a new state of emergency on Monday, less than two weeks before the Games begin amid worries about whether the measures can stem a rise in COVID-19 cases. Organizers last week announced that spectators would be banned from nearly all venues. Spectators from abroad were already banned months ago, and officials are now asking residents to watch the Games on TV to keep the movement of people, which could spread contagion, to a minimum. Opinion polls have consistently shown the Japanese public is concerned about going ahead with the Games during the pandemic. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's handling of the pandemic - including an initially slow vaccination rollout - has eroded his support. The issue is especially sensitive ahead of a national election and a ruling party leadership race due later this year. "We would ask people to support athletes from home," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said on a Sunday TV program. The Games, postponed from last year because of the pandemic, run from July 23 to August 8, while the state of emergency - the capitals fourth - lasts until August 22, shortly before the Paralympics begin. The government and organizers had long seen the Games as a chance to display Japan's recovery from a devastating 2011 earthquake and nuclear crisis. On Saturday, the governor of Fukushima prefecture, the site of the nuclear disaster, said spectators would also be banned from softball and baseball games there, reversing an earlier decision. RISING TOKYO INFECTIONS World No. 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic said on Sunday he was "50-50" about competing at the Tokyo Olympics following the organizers' decision to ban fans from attending and limits on the number of people he can take to the Games. Some of the sport's biggest names, including Rafa Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Stan Wawrinka, Nick Kyrgios, Serena Williams, and Simona Halep have already said that they will skip the Games. Japan has recorded more than 815,440 COVID-19 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths. Recent rises in Tokyo have been particularly worrisome amid a vaccination rollout that got off to a slow start and has faced supply glitches after speeding up. Only about 28% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine. Tokyo recorded 502 new cases on Sunday, the 23rd straight day of week-on-week gains, and experts worry that the public has grown weary of restrictions, mostly voluntary, on activities. The coronavirus curbs include asking restaurants to close early and to stop serving alcohol in exchange for a government subsidy, measures that have hit the eateries hard and caused many to complain of unfairness as the Games are set to go ahead. Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is also in charge of the pandemic response, sparked outrage when he suggested late on Thursday he would ask banks to put pressure on eateries that do not comply with the stricter measures. In an about-face, the government's top spokesperson Kato said on Friday it had decided banks would not be asked to press restaurants and bars that do not follow the government request to stop serving alcohol under the emergency restrictions. On Monday, "Anyone but LDP or Komeito" was trending on Twitter, a reference to voting for political parties other than Suga's ruling Liberal Democratic Party or its junior coalition partner, the Komeito, in the coming parliamentary election. "I'm not a restaurateur, but this administration that couldn't come up with effective anti-coronavirus steps despite having a year to get ready for the Olympics... is no good," said one angry Twitter user.

Tokyo enters 4th COVID-19 emergency as Olympics approach

Despite the largest economic decline in over 300 years, Britain's wealth levels increased for the first time in 70 years during a recession, according to thinktank the Resolution Foundation.

The new data reveals that most British individuals became wealthier during the COVID-19 epidemic, owing to greater savings and rising housing values.

During the pandemic, Britain's family wealth increased by 900 billion pounds ($1.3 trillion), with much of it going to the country's wealthiest citizens, according to the Resolution Foundation analysis, which was produced in collaboration with the Standard Life Foundation.

It was the first wealth bubble in the middle of a recession since the post-war mid-1940s.

“During lockdowns, many families have been forced to save rather than spend, while property prices have continued to rise even as working hours have decreased," said Jack Leslie, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation.

It was an "unlikely wealth boom," according to Leslie.

During the last four recessions, property values, which are a major source of wealth in the UK, have dropped by an average of 22%.

According to a report published by Bloomberg, Households increased nominal savings by about 125 billion pounds and reduced non-credit card debts by 10 billion pounds. The richest fifth of households is four times as likely to have increased their savings during the crisis when compared with the poorest fifth.

The gap between the wealthiest 10% and average households rose by 44,000 pounds. The gap between the average and the poorest 10th of households grew by 7,000 pounds.

(With inputs from agencies)

Despite the largest economic decline in over 300 years, Britain's wealth levels increased for the first time in 70 years during a recession, according to thinktank the Resolution Foundation.

Despite the largest economic decline in over 300 years, Britain's wealth levels increased for the first time in 70 years during a recession, according to thinktank the Resolution Foundation. The new data reveals that most British individuals became wealthier during the COVID-19 epidemic, owing to greater savings and rising housing values. During the pandemic, Britain's family wealth increased by 900 billion pounds ($1.3 trillion), with much of it going to the country's wealthiest citizens, according to the Resolution Foundation analysis, which was produced in collaboration with the Standard Life Foundation. It was the first wealth bubble in the middle of a recession since the post-war mid-1940s. “During lockdowns, many families have been forced to save rather than spend, while property prices have continued to rise even as working hours have decreased," said Jack Leslie, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation. It was an "unlikely wealth boom," according to Leslie. During the last four recessions, property values, which are a major source of wealth in the UK, have dropped by an average of 22%. According to a report published by Bloomberg, Households increased nominal savings by about 125 billion pounds and reduced non-credit card debts by 10 billion pounds. The richest fifth of households is four times as likely to have increased their savings during the crisis when compared with the poorest fifth. The gap between the wealthiest 10% and average households rose by 44,000 pounds. The gap between the average and the poorest 10th of households grew by 7,000 pounds. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: UK's rich enjoy wealth boom as savings rise by $1.3 trillion

Countries all across the globe have hit new pandemic highs and reimposed COVID-19 restrictions after the G20 finance ministers warned that the economic recovery was threatened by variants and uneven vaccination campaigns.

The highly transmissible Delta variant, which was first detected in India, is sweeping the world.

The deadly coronavirus broke out in the last months of 2019 and took over the world in the early months of 2020, sending almost every country around the globe in a complete lockdown. As the countries stopped functioning, economies took a huge hit and people struggled to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.

However, as 2021 began, people started to gain some hope, especially due to the commencement of vaccine drives all around the globe. Unfortunately, that ray of hope disappeared soon as new variants of COVID-19 started popping out in different cities of the world.

Delta Plus (B.1.617.2.1/(AY.1) is a new mutant strain of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, and has emerged as a new threat, especially in India. While the Delta variant, which was first detected by scientists in India, became a problem for the whole world, Delta Plus is currently limited to smaller areas in the country and is still under investigation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant</a>

"The recovery is characterised by great divergences across and within countries and remains exposed to downside risks, in particular the spread of new variants of the Covid-19 virus and different paces of vaccination," the G20 finance ministers said in a final statement.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "By tomorrow, some 500 million doses will have been distributed to all regions of Europe".

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the proportion of adults aged 18 years or over fully vaccinated in the EU and European Economic Area is still only 44.1 per cent.

Meanwhile, London police warned England football fans to not to gather in large numbers in the British capital for Euro 2020 final at Wembley. The police added that they would enforce "proportionately and as appropriate" nationwide virus restrictions not set to be lifted until July 19.&nbsp;

Countries all across the globe have hit new pandemic highs and reimposed COVID-19 restrictions after the G20 finance ministers warned that the economic recovery was threatened by variants and uneven vaccination campaigns.

Countries all across the globe have hit new pandemic highs and reimposed COVID-19 restrictions after the G20 finance ministers warned that the economic recovery was threatened by variants and uneven vaccination campaigns. The highly transmissible Delta variant, which was first detected in India, is sweeping the world. The deadly coronavirus broke out in the last months of 2019 and took over the world in the early months of 2020, sending almost every country around the globe in a complete lockdown. As the countries stopped functioning, economies took a huge hit and people struggled to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. However, as 2021 began, people started to gain some hope, especially due to the commencement of vaccine drives all around the globe. Unfortunately, that ray of hope disappeared soon as new variants of COVID-19 started popping out in different cities of the world. Delta Plus (B.1.617.2.1/(AY.1) is a new mutant strain of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, and has emerged as a new threat, especially in India. While the Delta variant, which was first detected by scientists in India, became a problem for the whole world, Delta Plus is currently limited to smaller areas in the country and is still under investigation. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant "The recovery is characterised by great divergences across and within countries and remains exposed to downside risks, in particular the spread of new variants of the Covid-19 virus and different paces of vaccination," the G20 finance ministers said in a final statement. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "By tomorrow, some 500 million doses will have been distributed to all regions of Europe". According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the proportion of adults aged 18 years or over fully vaccinated in the EU and European Economic Area is still only 44.1 per cent. Meanwhile, London police warned England football fans to not to gather in large numbers in the British capital for Euro 2020 final at Wembley. The police added that they would enforce "proportionately and as appropriate" nationwide virus restrictions not set to be lifted until July 19.

Delta variant hampers the return to post COVID-19 normality

covid-19-0

Covid 19, News on Covid 19, stories on Covid 19, articles on Covid 19, Covid 19 stories at Wion, Covid 19 news, Covid 19 latest news

covid 19-0