India has seen a slight decline in fresh Covid-19 cases where 10,093 infections were reported on Sunday. With this number of active infections in the country stands at 57,542 cases with daily positivity rate of 2.8% and a weekly positivity rate of 3.82%.

India Covid-19 cases drop slightly; 57,542 total active cases across country

A new Covid subvariant is under the radar of the World Health Organization (WHO) and is also causing concern in India. This Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.16, dubbed as Arcturus has caused a surge in new cases in India in the last few weeks. Indian central government has asked people not to panic as they have made all the preparations and conducted mock drills in hospitals as a refresher course for doctors to help Covid patients. Cases linked to this variant are also rising in Singapore, the US and Australia among others.&nbsp;

Arcturus has been reported in several states in the US, including California, Washington, New Jersey, New York, Virginia and Texas, a tracker run by Rajendram Rajnarayanan, MSc, PhD, of the New York Institute of Technology shows.

Actrurus subvariant may be 1.2 times more infectious than the Kraken strain&nbsp;

The XBB.1.16 subvariant is a combination of two subvariants of the Omicron variant. A University of Tokyo preprint study also suggested the subvariant spreads around 1.17 to 1.27 times more efficiently than the XBB.1 and XBB.1.5 or Kraken subvariants. "We first show that XBB.1.16 had an effective reproductive number (Re) that was 1.27- and 1.17-fold higher than the parental XBB.1 and XBB.1.5, respectively, suggesting that XBB.1.16 will spread worldwide in the near future," the preprint study read.&nbsp;

The name Arcturus has been popularised by the former Indian Academy of Paediatrics Committee on Immunisation convenor Vipin M Vashishtha. He used it as a hashtag in a tweet in March to warn about the rising COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

He said in a tweet, “All eyes should be on India! If XBB.1.16 aka Arcturus could succeed to wade through the ‘sturdy’ population immunity of Indians that successfully resisted the onslaught of variants like BA.285, BA.5, BQs, XBB.1.5, then the whole world must be seriously worried!”

<h2>Symptoms of COVID-19 subvariant Arcturus</h2>

Symptoms of this subvariant in children are:

1. High fever

2. Cough

3. Itchy conjunctivitis or pink eye without pus but with sticky eyes

4. Nasal discharge

Pediatrician Dr Rahul Nagpal told India Today that doctors have seen rising COVID-19 cases in children with conjunctivitis. He added, "Usually, these children come with simple respiratory infections of cough, cold, and fever, and when tested they turn out to be positive."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A new Covid subvariant is under the radar of the World Health Organization (WHO) and is also causing concern in India. This Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.16, dubbed as Arcturus has caused a surge in new cases in India in the last few weeks.

A new Covid subvariant is under the radar of the World Health Organization (WHO) and is also causing concern in India. This Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.16, dubbed as Arcturus has caused a surge in new cases in India in the last few weeks. Indian central government has asked people not to panic as they have made all the preparations and conducted mock drills in hospitals as a refresher course for doctors to help Covid patients. Cases linked to this variant are also rising in Singapore, the US and Australia among others. Arcturus has been reported in several states in the US, including California, Washington, New Jersey, New York, Virginia and Texas, a tracker run by Rajendram Rajnarayanan, MSc, PhD, of the New York Institute of Technology shows. Actrurus subvariant may be 1.2 times more infectious than the Kraken strain The XBB.1.16 subvariant is a combination of two subvariants of the Omicron variant. A University of Tokyo preprint study also suggested the subvariant spreads around 1.17 to 1.27 times more efficiently than the XBB.1 and XBB.1.5 or Kraken subvariants. "We first show that XBB.1.16 had an effective reproductive number (Re) that was 1.27- and 1.17-fold higher than the parental XBB.1 and XBB.1.5, respectively, suggesting that XBB.1.16 will spread worldwide in the near future," the preprint study read. The name Arcturus has been popularised by the former Indian Academy of Paediatrics Committee on Immunisation convenor Vipin M Vashishtha. He used it as a hashtag in a tweet in March to warn about the rising COVID-19 cases. He said in a tweet, “All eyes should be on India! If XBB.1.16 aka Arcturus could succeed to wade through the ‘sturdy’ population immunity of Indians that successfully resisted the onslaught of variants like BA.285, BA.5, BQs, XBB.1.5, then the whole world must be seriously worried!” Symptoms of COVID-19 subvariant Arcturus Symptoms of this subvariant in children are: 1. High fever 2. Cough 3. Itchy conjunctivitis or pink eye without pus but with sticky eyes 4. Nasal discharge Pediatrician Dr Rahul Nagpal told India Today that doctors have seen rising COVID-19 cases in children with conjunctivitis. He added, "Usually, these children come with simple respiratory infections of cough, cold, and fever, and when tested they turn out to be positive." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19 update: New Arcturus subvariant likely more infectious than Kraken strain- Check its symptoms

India has reported a surge in Covid cases. The new COVID-19 cases jump 30% to 10,158; active tally nears 45,000-mark. Watch the video to know more.

India's new COVID-19 cases jump 30% to 10,158

Covid-19 cases are on a rise in India once again. The country has recorded over 10,000 cases in the last 24 hours, this is a 30% rise since yesterday. According to the Health Ministry data, the active infections stand at 45,000 and the daily positivity rate is currently at 4.42%.

India witnesses rise in Covid cases; 10,158 new cases in last 24 hours

India&nbsp;on Monday (April 10) has recorded 5,880 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the last 24 hours, health ministry's data revealed. The active caseload has risen to 35,199. The daily positivity rate is 6.91 per cent and the weekly positivity rate stood at 3.67 per cent.&nbsp;

The nation also reported 14 deaths in the last 24 hours, which took the overall death tally to 53,09,79. India has conducted 85,076 tests in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

In India, the recovery rate is currently at 98.73 per cent and the health ministry's data also revealed that there were 3,481 recoveries in the last 24 hours increases, leading to a total recovery of 4,41,96,318.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a nationwide mock drill will also be conducted on Monday and Tuesday to check the preparedness of both public and private hospitals against the deadly Covid amid a significant rise in cases across the nation.&nbsp;

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News agency PTI reported citing officials that Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Haryana's Jhajjar on Monday to personally assess the mock drill aimed at the handling of Covid patients.&nbsp;

As reported by news agencies, in the meeting with state health ministers, and principal and additional chief secretaries held virtually, Mandaviya urged states to identify emerging hotspots by monitoring trends of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases and sending sufficient samples for testing of COVID-19 and Influenza. He also asked to ramp up whole genome sequencing of positive samples.&nbsp;

<h2>Fourth Covid wave in India?&nbsp;</h2>

Amid a rise in cases, rumours start to circulate over the possibilities of Covid fourth wave in India. While responding to the rumours, the health minister said there's a need to be alert.&nbsp;

As reported by agencies, a health ministry statement had said that during the meeting, states and union territories were informed that currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) is closely tracking a variant of interest (VOI), XBB.1.5, and six other variants are under monitoring (BQ.1, BA.2.75, CH.1.1, XBB, XBF and XBB.1.16).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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India on Monday (April 10) has recorded 5,880 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the last 24 hours, health ministry's data revealed. The active caseload has risen to 35,199.

India on Monday (April 10) has recorded 5,880 new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the last 24 hours, health ministry's data revealed. The active caseload has risen to 35,199. The daily positivity rate is 6.91 per cent and the weekly positivity rate stood at 3.67 per cent. The nation also reported 14 deaths in the last 24 hours, which took the overall death tally to 53,09,79. India has conducted 85,076 tests in the last 24 hours. In India, the recovery rate is currently at 98.73 per cent and the health ministry's data also revealed that there were 3,481 recoveries in the last 24 hours increases, leading to a total recovery of 4,41,96,318. Meanwhile, a nationwide mock drill will also be conducted on Monday and Tuesday to check the preparedness of both public and private hospitals against the deadly Covid amid a significant rise in cases across the nation. #AmritMahotsav#Unite2FightCorona#LargestVaccineDrive 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗 𝗙𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗛https://t.co/pT0dYBmsvE pic.twitter.com/TCmMhg185l — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) April 10, 2023 × A two day nationwide mock drill will be conducted across all the health facilities from tomorrow to assess the preparedness of #COVID management. Health Minister will visit #AIIMSJhajjar to oversee mock drill & preparedness of hospital with regard to handling of Covid patients. pic.twitter.com/ZkdLirnXwe — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) April 9, 2023 × News agency PTI reported citing officials that Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya will visit the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Haryana's Jhajjar on Monday to personally assess the mock drill aimed at the handling of Covid patients. As reported by news agencies, in the meeting with state health ministers, and principal and additional chief secretaries held virtually, Mandaviya urged states to identify emerging hotspots by monitoring trends of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases and sending sufficient samples for testing of COVID-19 and Influenza. He also asked to ramp up whole genome sequencing of positive samples. Fourth Covid wave in India? Amid a rise in cases, rumours start to circulate over the possibilities of Covid fourth wave in India. While responding to the rumours, the health minister said there's a need to be alert. As reported by agencies, a health ministry statement had said that during the meeting, states and union territories were informed that currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) is closely tracking a variant of interest (VOI), XBB.1.5, and six other variants are under monitoring (BQ.1, BA.2.75, CH.1.1, XBB, XBF and XBB.1.16). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: India records 5,880 new cases. Nationwide mock drill in hospitals to check preparedness

A new study sheds light on how, in some rare cases, coronavirus may have caused brain damage in babies, who apparently got the infection inside the womb of their mothers who got infected during pregnancy. Experts have often raised suspicion but the researchers claim that it was the first study to confirm cross-placental SARS-Cov-2 transmission leading to brain injury in the newborn.

A study published by the University of Miami in the journal Pediatrics on Thursday reported two confirmed cases in which the SARS-CoV-2 virus crossed a mother's placenta and caused brain damage in the babies.&nbsp;

The young mothers, who gave birth to the babies, had tested positive for the virus during their second trimester at the height of the pandemic's Delta wave in 2020. This was even before the Covid vaccines were available.&nbsp;

The evidence presented in the study, titled "<a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/doi/10.1542/peds.2022-058271/191033/Maternal-SARS-CoV-2-Placental-Changes-and-Brain?searchresult=1?autologincheck=redirected">Maternal SARS-CoV-2, Placental Changes and Brain Injury in 2 Neonates</a>", also "raises the possibility" that the coronavirus may be able to directly infect the fetal brain.&nbsp;

<h2>Babies had&nbsp;SARS-CoV-2 antibodies </h2>

The study shared details about the case. It revealed that the babies, who were admitted to Holtz Children's Hospital at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Centre, had tested negative for the virus at birth.&nbsp;

However, their reports showed a significant rise of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies detectable in blood. The reports indicate that either the antibodies crossed the placenta, or passage of the virus occurred and it was the baby's immune response.&nbsp;

The study further revealed that both infants experienced seizures, had small head sizes and developmental delays, and one infant died at 13 months of age.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Dr Michael Paidas, chair of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Miami, told the briefing: "This is the first time that we have been able to demonstrate the virus in a fetal organ with the transplacental passage. That's why we think this is so important."&nbsp;

As quoted by Inventum, Shahnaz Duara, who is the professor of paediatrics at the Miller School of Medicine, and medical director of the NICU at Holtz Children's Hospital said, "Many women are affected by COVID-19 during pregnancy, but to see these kinds of problems in their infants at birth was clearly unusual."&nbsp;

Duara, who is also the senior author of the study, further noted: "We are trying to understand what made these two pregnancies different so we can direct research toward protecting vulnerable babies."&nbsp;

Several viruses, such as Cytomegalovirus, Rubella, HIV and Zika, are capable of crossing the placenta and causing fetal brain damage.&nbsp; 
 
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A new study sheds light on how, in some rare cases, coronavirus may have caused brain damage in babies, who apparently got the infection inside the womb of their mothers who got infected during pregnancy.

A new study sheds light on how, in some rare cases, coronavirus may have caused brain damage in babies, who apparently got the infection inside the womb of their mothers who got infected during pregnancy. Experts have often raised suspicion but the researchers claim that it was the first study to confirm cross-placental SARS-Cov-2 transmission leading to brain injury in the newborn. A study published by the University of Miami in the journal Pediatrics on Thursday reported two confirmed cases in which the SARS-CoV-2 virus crossed a mother's placenta and caused brain damage in the babies. The young mothers, who gave birth to the babies, had tested positive for the virus during their second trimester at the height of the pandemic's Delta wave in 2020. This was even before the Covid vaccines were available. The evidence presented in the study, titled "Maternal SARS-CoV-2, Placental Changes and Brain Injury in 2 Neonates", also "raises the possibility" that the coronavirus may be able to directly infect the fetal brain. Babies had SARS-CoV-2 antibodies The study shared details about the case. It revealed that the babies, who were admitted to Holtz Children's Hospital at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Centre, had tested negative for the virus at birth. However, their reports showed a significant rise of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies detectable in blood. The reports indicate that either the antibodies crossed the placenta, or passage of the virus occurred and it was the baby's immune response. The study further revealed that both infants experienced seizures, had small head sizes and developmental delays, and one infant died at 13 months of age. As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Dr Michael Paidas, chair of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Miami, told the briefing: "This is the first time that we have been able to demonstrate the virus in a fetal organ with the transplacental passage. That's why we think this is so important." As quoted by Inventum, Shahnaz Duara, who is the professor of paediatrics at the Miller School of Medicine, and medical director of the NICU at Holtz Children's Hospital said, "Many women are affected by COVID-19 during pregnancy, but to see these kinds of problems in their infants at birth was clearly unusual." Duara, who is also the senior author of the study, further noted: "We are trying to understand what made these two pregnancies different so we can direct research toward protecting vulnerable babies." Several viruses, such as Cytomegalovirus, Rubella, HIV and Zika, are capable of crossing the placenta and causing fetal brain damage. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Coronavirus caused brain damage in two infants after moms got infected during pregnancy: Study

India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year.&nbsp;

<h2>Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19&nbsp;</h2>

With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness.&nbsp;The country presently has 25,587 active cases.

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“The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States &amp; UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States &amp; UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar.

Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India.&nbsp;

<h2>COVID-19 deaths in India&nbsp;</h2>

According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943.&nbsp;

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Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala.

The&nbsp;daily positive rate&nbsp;is at&nbsp;3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%.

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Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged.

A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered.&nbsp;

<h2>Delhi COVID-19 cases&nbsp;</h2>

According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. &nbsp;The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August.

On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday.

India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year. Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19 With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness. The country presently has 25,587 active cases. Also Read | King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery “The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States & UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States & UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar. Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India. COVID-19 deaths in India According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943. Also Read | Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala. The daily positive rate is at 3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged. A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered. Delhi COVID-19 cases According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August. On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India records over 6,000 new Covid cases, Centre to hold high-level meet

India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday.

The abrupt increase in India's Covid graph is due to the spread of Omicron variant XBB.1.16, according to the experts. Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 is being closely monitored by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

On March 22, the Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 was added by WHO to its list of variants.

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"In India, XBB.1.16 has replaced the other variants that are in circulation. So this is one to watch," stated WHO's COVID-19 technical lead Maria Van Kerkhove during a media conference.

Symptoms of Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 include a fever that gradually increases and continues for 1-2 days, headaches, bodily soreness, abdominal discomfort and sore throat.

As of now, XBB.1.16 has not been seen causing any severe health issues to patients. However, people with respiratory conditions and underlying health concerns are advised to use extreme caution.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's circular, patients suffering from COVID-19 must remain in home isolation.

For those infected with the virus, hand hygiene, symptomatic management (hydration, antipyretics, antitussive), physical distancing and indoor mask use are some of the must-dos. Furthermore, the patients must continuously monitor their oxygen saturation and temperature.

Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) Director Dr SK Sarin, while speaking to NDTV, said that traces of the XBB.1.16 variant have been found in at least 98 per cent of the samples taken from COVID-19 patients in New Delhi.

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He added that the XBB.1.16 variant is not very lethal, however, it is quickly spreading.

"Despite the rise in infections, deaths have been low. Cough and cold are among the common symptoms found in patients infected with the XBB.1.16 variant," he stated.

Dr Sarin further advised people who are overweight or with comorbidities to take proper precautions so that they do not catch the virus. He further advised that those who have not yet taken their booster dosage must get the jab.

"Those who have been infected with the virus may face lung, heart, kidney and brain may face complications for a long time," he said.

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(With inputs from agencies)

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India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday.

India is recording a steep increase in COVID-19 cases every day with 6,050 fresh cases reported on Friday, marking a 13 per cent increase from 5,335 cases that were recorded on Thursday. The abrupt increase in India's Covid graph is due to the spread of Omicron variant XBB.1.16, according to the experts. Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 is being closely monitored by the World Health Organisation (WHO). On March 22, the Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 was added by WHO to its list of variants. ALSO READ | India: New Covid cases cross 5,000 mark in last 24 hours, highest in 195 days "In India, XBB.1.16 has replaced the other variants that are in circulation. So this is one to watch," stated WHO's COVID-19 technical lead Maria Van Kerkhove during a media conference. Symptoms of Covid subvariant XBB.1.16 include a fever that gradually increases and continues for 1-2 days, headaches, bodily soreness, abdominal discomfort and sore throat. As of now, XBB.1.16 has not been seen causing any severe health issues to patients. However, people with respiratory conditions and underlying health concerns are advised to use extreme caution. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's circular, patients suffering from COVID-19 must remain in home isolation. For those infected with the virus, hand hygiene, symptomatic management (hydration, antipyretics, antitussive), physical distancing and indoor mask use are some of the must-dos. Furthermore, the patients must continuously monitor their oxygen saturation and temperature. Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) Director Dr SK Sarin, while speaking to NDTV, said that traces of the XBB.1.16 variant have been found in at least 98 per cent of the samples taken from COVID-19 patients in New Delhi. WATCH | Chinese Government scientists claim infamous Wuhan market may NOT be source of Covid pandemic He added that the XBB.1.16 variant is not very lethal, however, it is quickly spreading. "Despite the rise in infections, deaths have been low. Cough and cold are among the common symptoms found in patients infected with the XBB.1.16 variant," he stated. Dr Sarin further advised people who are overweight or with comorbidities to take proper precautions so that they do not catch the virus. He further advised that those who have not yet taken their booster dosage must get the jab. "Those who have been infected with the virus may face lung, heart, kidney and brain may face complications for a long time," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Covid variant XBB1.16 leads to spike in cases. Know its symptoms and precautions

Several claims and counterclaims have been made over the origin of coronavirus (COVID-19) ever since the spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020. The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks&nbsp;that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid.

Researchers in China have now published reports that&nbsp;quash unproven theories linking the spread of the virus to lab leaks. The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) researchers have published an analysis of swabs, which were collected at a wet market in Wuhan, a place in China where Covid is said to have originated.

The detailed report, which is published in Nature on April 5, has been produced after analysing the samples that were collected in the early weeks of the Covid spread in Wuhan.&nbsp;

This is also the first peer-reviewed analysis of the Chinese swabs of the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, which the world had been asking China to publish.&nbsp;

The crucial point is that it confirms animal DNA was present in samples that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The market has been long linked to the start of the pandemic.&nbsp;

It means that an animal could have been an intermediate host of a virus that spilt over to infect humans. 
 
However, the researchers still say that the findings are not enough to provide definitive proof that SARS-CoV-2 originated from an animal-to-human spillover event.&nbsp;

Despite the doubts, the analysis based on genomic data is crucial as it offered some proof of how the deadly pandemic began and Covid's much-debated theories.

As quoted by Nature, Florence Débarre, an evolutionary biologist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research in Paris, said: "It's one of the most important data sets we've had since the emergence of the pandemic. They exist because at the time the right things were done."&nbsp;

Débarre is an evolutionary biologist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research in the French capital and was also part of a team that caused controversy by publishing their own analysis of the China CDC data last month.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a virologist Jesse Bloom said that even earlier samples are needed to find the pandemic’s origins. Bloom, who is at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre in Seattle, said, "If we ever learn the exact origins of SARS-CoV-2, I suspect it will come from new information about cases or events in early December or November of 2019, or earlier."&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Several claims and counterclaims have been made over the origin of coronavirus (COVID-19) ever since the spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020.

Several claims and counterclaims have been made over the origin of coronavirus (COVID-19) ever since the spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020. The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid. Researchers in China have now published reports that quash unproven theories linking the spread of the virus to lab leaks. The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) researchers have published an analysis of swabs, which were collected at a wet market in Wuhan, a place in China where Covid is said to have originated. The detailed report, which is published in Nature on April 5, has been produced after analysing the samples that were collected in the early weeks of the Covid spread in Wuhan. This is also the first peer-reviewed analysis of the Chinese swabs of the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, which the world had been asking China to publish. The crucial point is that it confirms animal DNA was present in samples that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The market has been long linked to the start of the pandemic. It means that an animal could have been an intermediate host of a virus that spilt over to infect humans. However, the researchers still say that the findings are not enough to provide definitive proof that SARS-CoV-2 originated from an animal-to-human spillover event. Despite the doubts, the analysis based on genomic data is crucial as it offered some proof of how the deadly pandemic began and Covid's much-debated theories. As quoted by Nature, Florence Débarre, an evolutionary biologist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research in Paris, said: "It's one of the most important data sets we've had since the emergence of the pandemic. They exist because at the time the right things were done." Débarre is an evolutionary biologist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research in the French capital and was also part of a team that caused controversy by publishing their own analysis of the China CDC data last month. Meanwhile, a virologist Jesse Bloom said that even earlier samples are needed to find the pandemic’s origins. Bloom, who is at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre in Seattle, said, "If we ever learn the exact origins of SARS-CoV-2, I suspect it will come from new information about cases or events in early December or November of 2019, or earlier." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Animal DNA in Wuhan’s positive samples ‘confirms’ origin of COVID-19: Report

Margaret Ferrier, a Scottish politician, is facing a 30-day suspension from the House of Commons or taking a train from London to Glasgow despite being tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) when the pandemic had begun.&nbsp;

In September 2020, Ferrier admitted she broke Covid rules. Her test results were awaited but spoke in Parliament. She also took the train home to Glasgow after testing positive.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom media outlets reported that the standards committee has recommended Ferrier should be suspended from the House of Commons which could lead to a possibility of a by-election Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency.&nbsp;

Ferrier has also been asked to complete 270 hours of community service as she admits exposing the public "to the risk of infection, illness and death".&nbsp;

If she gets the suspension, it would lead to a recall petition, opening up the possibility of a byelection in a seat which was won by the Scottish National party in 2019 and by Labour in 2017.&nbsp;

The UK-based media outlets chalked out what might happen next. It is noted that the MPs will vote on whether or not to follow the recommendations of the committee.&nbsp;

If suspended, the MP will be removed from the Commons for at least 10 days and can be recalled and a by-election held if at least 10 per cent of the registered voters in their constituency sign a petition calling for it to happen.&nbsp;

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Margaret Ferrier, a Scottish politician, is facing a 30-day suspension from the House of Commons or taking a train from London to Glasgow despite being tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) when the pandemic had begun.

Margaret Ferrier, a Scottish politician, is facing a 30-day suspension from the House of Commons or taking a train from London to Glasgow despite being tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) when the pandemic had begun. In September 2020, Ferrier admitted she broke Covid rules. Her test results were awaited but spoke in Parliament. She also took the train home to Glasgow after testing positive. The United Kingdom media outlets reported that the standards committee has recommended Ferrier should be suspended from the House of Commons which could lead to a possibility of a by-election Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency. Ferrier has also been asked to complete 270 hours of community service as she admits exposing the public "to the risk of infection, illness and death". If she gets the suspension, it would lead to a recall petition, opening up the possibility of a byelection in a seat which was won by the Scottish National party in 2019 and by Labour in 2017. The UK-based media outlets chalked out what might happen next. It is noted that the MPs will vote on whether or not to follow the recommendations of the committee. If suspended, the MP will be removed from the Commons for at least 10 days and can be recalled and a by-election held if at least 10 per cent of the registered voters in their constituency sign a petition calling for it to happen. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Margaret Ferrier: MP faces Commons suspension for 30 days for breaking Covid rules

A fugitive billionaire from China has been planning to auction "unvaccinated sperm" on a web platform filled with misinformation – a sale that is being billed optimistically by vaccine sceptics as an opportunity to buy the "next Bitcoin."

The sales pitch which speaks about uninoculated men's sperms being in high demand and hence, will fetch dollars, comes from a widely debunked conspiracy theory that mass infertility is caused by Covid-19 jabs.

Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui, who is exiled in the United States and was arrested recently for alleged fraud, has placed the sales pitch to test along with the much-hyped auction which will take place in June on the online platform Gettr.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-guo-wengui-steve-bannon-pal-arrested-in-us-for-fraud-know-his-wife-net-worth-other-details-573010">Who is Guo Wengui, Steve Bannon pal arrested in US for fraud? Know about his wife, net worth, other details</a>

"Sperm and eggs from our fellow fighters will be auctioned on our Gettr platform between June 1 and June 6," said Guo, in a live stream in February.

The tycoon, who is among the people wanted in China and has close ties with Donald Trump's former political advisor Steve Bannon, said that he stored around 6,000 eggs already and a "few million sperm" from unvaccinated people.

"We will auction off the best sperm and eggs, including of course my own sperm," he stated, adding that they will allow trading in digital currencies and will keep it open to all ethnicities and races.

It is still unclear if the auction will go ahead following Guo's arrest earlier this month, who is facing federal charges of defrauding thousands of followers online by some $1 billion.

However, his planned sale has created a buzz on Gettr, where the supporters of the tycoon are calling it a "new era for humanity".

"Giving unvaccinated sperms or eggs not only is an honourable way to gain wealth but also will save the future of humanity," stated a Gettr post endorsing Guo.

WATCH | U.S. charges exiled Chinese businessman with $1 bn fraud

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The post included a photo with a hand-scrawled message which read, "Unvaxxed sperm is the next Bitcoin."

"This auction plays off a broader false narrative that Covid-19 vaccines have harmed fertility," said John Gregory, health editor at NewsGuard.

"Anti-vaccine misinformers pushed that claim even in the face of an abundance of medical studies showing that the vaccines don't hurt male or female fertility,” he added.

With inputs from agencies)

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A fugitive billionaire from China has been planning to auction "unvaccinated sperm" on a web platform filled with misinformation – a sale that is being billed optimistically by vaccine sceptics as an opportunity to buy the "next Bitcoin.

A fugitive billionaire from China has been planning to auction "unvaccinated sperm" on a web platform filled with misinformation – a sale that is being billed optimistically by vaccine sceptics as an opportunity to buy the "next Bitcoin." The sales pitch which speaks about uninoculated men's sperms being in high demand and hence, will fetch dollars, comes from a widely debunked conspiracy theory that mass infertility is caused by Covid-19 jabs. Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui, who is exiled in the United States and was arrested recently for alleged fraud, has placed the sales pitch to test along with the much-hyped auction which will take place in June on the online platform Gettr. ALSO READ | Who is Guo Wengui, Steve Bannon pal arrested in US for fraud? Know about his wife, net worth, other details "Sperm and eggs from our fellow fighters will be auctioned on our Gettr platform between June 1 and June 6," said Guo, in a live stream in February. The tycoon, who is among the people wanted in China and has close ties with Donald Trump's former political advisor Steve Bannon, said that he stored around 6,000 eggs already and a "few million sperm" from unvaccinated people. "We will auction off the best sperm and eggs, including of course my own sperm," he stated, adding that they will allow trading in digital currencies and will keep it open to all ethnicities and races. It is still unclear if the auction will go ahead following Guo's arrest earlier this month, who is facing federal charges of defrauding thousands of followers online by some $1 billion. However, his planned sale has created a buzz on Gettr, where the supporters of the tycoon are calling it a "new era for humanity". "Giving unvaccinated sperms or eggs not only is an honourable way to gain wealth but also will save the future of humanity," stated a Gettr post endorsing Guo. WATCH | U.S. charges exiled Chinese businessman with $1 bn fraud The post included a photo with a hand-scrawled message which read, "Unvaxxed sperm is the next Bitcoin." "This auction plays off a broader false narrative that Covid-19 vaccines have harmed fertility," said John Gregory, health editor at NewsGuard. "Anti-vaccine misinformers pushed that claim even in the face of an abundance of medical studies showing that the vaccines don't hurt male or female fertility,” he added. With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Auction of billionaire's 'unvaxxed sperm' taps into conspiracies

The new COVID-19 cases in India have jumped by 40 per cent in the past 24 hours as the nation recorded 3,016 new cases on Thursday. According to the Union Health Ministry Data, the daily positivity rate is 2.

The new COVID-19 cases in India have jumped by 40 per cent in the past 24 hours as the nation recorded 3,016 new cases on Thursday. According to the Union Health Ministry Data, the daily positivity rate is 2.7 per cent, and the weekly positivity rate is 1.71 per cent. India’s active caseload now stands at 13,509, more than double what it was 10 days ago, with 14 deaths also recorded on Thursday. Let's take a look at the situation of COVID-19 in India. Is COVID-19 back in India? The number of COVID-19 cases reported on Thursday, March 30, 2023, was the highest in nearly six months. In 2022, the country reported 3,375 cases in October. The sudden surge in coronavirus cases has raised questions about the return of the COVID-19 pandemic to India. Furthermore, the COVID-19 death count has grown to 5,30,862. In the last 24 hours, the authorities have reported 14 deaths, including 3 in Maharashtra, 2 in Delhi, 1 in Himachal Pradesh and 8 in Kerala. A deeper dive into the numbers shows that active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of total infections. According to the official website of the Ministry of Health, the latest recovery rate is 98.78 per cent. Indian states on alert as coronavirus cases increase The alarming rise in coronavirus cases has pushed Indian states to hold emergency meetings. The administration in India's capital city, Delhi, requested the people not to panic. Delhi, which reported zero infection count on January 16, recorded 300 in the past day. The government has urged people to wear masks when visiting hospitals. Populated cities of Maharashtra, like Mumbai, Pune, Thane and Sangli, have reported a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases. The Maharashtra government stated that around one crore citizens did not take the booster dose in the state. The Uttar Pradesh state government has alerted all the frontline workers of government and private hospitals. The administration has also given instructions to take necessary actions and asked the officials to monitor the situation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: India reports 3,016 new cases, highest in nearly six months

The Union health ministry's updated data on Wednesday (March 29) showed that India recorded a single-day rise of 2,151 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, which is the highest in five months. The active cases increased to 11,903.&nbsp;

In India, the Covid death toll has increased to 5,30,848 with seven latest fatalities. Maharashtra recorded three fatalities, one was recorded in Karnataka and three were reconciled by Kerala.&nbsp;

The daily positivity was recorded at 1.51 per cent, while the weekly positivity was pegged at 1.53 per cent, the data which was updated at 8:00am (IST), showed that the total tally of Covid cases was recorded at 4,47,09,676.&nbsp;

The website of health ministry showed that 220.65 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-blocks-over-500-apps-over-spoofing-and-fraud-fears-amit-shah-576940">India blocks over 500 apps over spoofing and fraud fears: Amit Shah</a>&nbsp;

At the leader-level plenary of the second Summit for Democracy on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that during Covid outbreak, India's response was people-driven and it's they who made it possible to administer over two billion doses of Made in India vaccines.&nbsp;

PM Modi said, "Under our 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative, millions of vaccine doses were shared with the world. It was also guided by the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - One Earth, One Family, One Future."&nbsp;

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During COVID-19, India's response was people driven. 
 
Our Vaccine Maitri initiative shared millions of vaccines with the world. 
 
This was also guided by the spirits of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', that is One Earth, One Family, One Future: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> Ji <a href="https://t.co/cUyIxfNGtn">pic.twitter.com/cUyIxfNGtn</a>
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1641057132631199744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritMahotsav</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Unite2FightCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Unite2FightCorona</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LargestVaccineDrive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LargestVaccineDrive</a> 
 
𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗 𝗙𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗛<a href="https://t.co/Th2FANiUDT">https://t.co/Th2FANiUDT</a> <a href="https://t.co/W2FBZOubI8">pic.twitter.com/W2FBZOubI8</a>
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA/status/1640949530865844224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As reported by media outlets, five states have been contributing maximum to the tally.&nbsp;On Tuesday Maharashtra recorded 450 cases, and Delhi recorded 214.

Karnataka recorded 135 new cases in the last 24 hours, While Kerala reported 191 cases on Monday. A total of 105 people were found positive for Covid in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The Union health ministry's updated data on Wednesday (March 29) showed that India recorded a single-day rise of 2,151 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, which is the highest in five months.

The Union health ministry's updated data on Wednesday (March 29) showed that India recorded a single-day rise of 2,151 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, which is the highest in five months. The active cases increased to 11,903. In India, the Covid death toll has increased to 5,30,848 with seven latest fatalities. Maharashtra recorded three fatalities, one was recorded in Karnataka and three were reconciled by Kerala. The daily positivity was recorded at 1.51 per cent, while the weekly positivity was pegged at 1.53 per cent, the data which was updated at 8:00am (IST), showed that the total tally of Covid cases was recorded at 4,47,09,676. The website of health ministry showed that 220.65 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. ALSO READ | India blocks over 500 apps over spoofing and fraud fears: Amit Shah At the leader-level plenary of the second Summit for Democracy on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that during Covid outbreak, India's response was people-driven and it's they who made it possible to administer over two billion doses of Made in India vaccines. PM Modi said, "Under our 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative, millions of vaccine doses were shared with the world. It was also guided by the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - One Earth, One Family, One Future." During COVID-19, India's response was people driven. Our Vaccine Maitri initiative shared millions of vaccines with the world. This was also guided by the spirits of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', that is One Earth, One Family, One Future: PM @NarendraModi Ji pic.twitter.com/cUyIxfNGtn — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) March 29, 2023 × #AmritMahotsav#Unite2FightCorona#LargestVaccineDrive 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗 𝗙𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗛https://t.co/Th2FANiUDT pic.twitter.com/W2FBZOubI8 — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) March 29, 2023 × As reported by media outlets, five states have been contributing maximum to the tally. On Tuesday Maharashtra recorded 450 cases, and Delhi recorded 214. Karnataka recorded 135 new cases in the last 24 hours, While Kerala reported 191 cases on Monday. A total of 105 people were found positive for Covid in Tamil Nadu. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: India records 2,151 new cases in last 24 hours. These five states contribute maximum

India on Thursday (March 23) reported 1,300 new active COVID-19 cases, the highest in 140 days, with the active cases rising to 7,605, as per the updated data on Union Health Ministry, PTI reported.&nbsp;The death toll rose to 530,816 with three new fatalities reported. One death each was reported in Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra. the national capital, New Delhi on March 22 reported 84 cases. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.46 per cent while the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.08 per cent. The COVID-19 case tally stands at 44. 46 million.&nbsp;

This comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a brief meeting, directing officials to enhance the whole sequencing of Covid samples to support timely tracking of the virus. The meeting chaired by Modi was held to assess the spread of COVID-19 and Influenza.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, he said, "Chaired a meeting to review the preparedness on COVID-19 and Influenza. Discussed ramping up genome sequencing, improving preparedness of hospitals and importance of Covid appropriate behaviour. It is important to remain vigilant and take all precautions."

A statement issued by the PMO said that the prime minister stressed on wearing masks is advisable when senior citizens and those with comorbidities visit crowded places."

The ministry said the active cases comprise 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national recovery rate was recorded at 98.79 per cent.&nbsp;

It added that some 89,078 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in the last 24 hours. Till now, a total of 920 tests for Covid have been conducted.&nbsp;

According to the ministry's website, some 2.2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the country.&nbsp;

India on Thursday (March 23) reported 1,300 new active COVID-19 cases, the highest in 140 days, with the active cases rising to 7,605, as per the updated data on Union Health Ministry, PTI reported.

India on Thursday (March 23) reported 1,300 new active COVID-19 cases, the highest in 140 days, with the active cases rising to 7,605, as per the updated data on Union Health Ministry, PTI reported. The death toll rose to 530,816 with three new fatalities reported. One death each was reported in Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra. the national capital, New Delhi on March 22 reported 84 cases. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.46 per cent while the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.08 per cent. The COVID-19 case tally stands at 44. 46 million. This comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a brief meeting, directing officials to enhance the whole sequencing of Covid samples to support timely tracking of the virus. The meeting chaired by Modi was held to assess the spread of COVID-19 and Influenza. Taking to Twitter, he said, "Chaired a meeting to review the preparedness on COVID-19 and Influenza. Discussed ramping up genome sequencing, improving preparedness of hospitals and importance of Covid appropriate behaviour. It is important to remain vigilant and take all precautions." A statement issued by the PMO said that the prime minister stressed on wearing masks is advisable when senior citizens and those with comorbidities visit crowded places." The ministry said the active cases comprise 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national recovery rate was recorded at 98.79 per cent. It added that some 89,078 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in the last 24 hours. Till now, a total of 920 tests for Covid have been conducted. According to the ministry's website, some 2.2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the country.

COVID-19 cases in India: Highest number of infections recorded in 140 days, check data here

New research is claiming to be the strongest proof that the Covid virus jumped from animals to humans. The study is based on analysis of samples collected from an animal market in Wuhan, China, from the initial days of the pandemic.&nbsp;

The samples discovered evidence of the novel coronavirus' presence along with genetic material in various animals, including raccoon dogs which are highly susceptible to the virus, as per a report published on the Zenodo.org open science website on Monday. &nbsp;

According to the report, in a few samples, more animal genetic material was found compared to human genetic material which indicates the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals.&nbsp;

"The sequences showed that raccoon dogs and other animals susceptible to the coronavirus were present in the market and may have been infected, providing a new clue in the chain of transmission that eventually reached humans," the report stated.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-calls-icc-to-avoid-double-standards-after-putins-arrest-warrant-573942">China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant</a>

"This adds to the body of evidence identifying the Huanan market as the spillover location of Sars-CoV-2 and the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic," it added.&nbsp;

The virus was identified for the first time in Wuhan in December 2019 as many suspected the Huanan live animal market can be the source of pandemic. 
The study has till now not been reviewed by the scientific community. China has been called out by the World Health Organization for fully sharing the genetic data which was analysed by the researchers.&nbsp;

“I worry a lot about our jumping on tidbits that are incomplete and cannot be verified,” stated David Relman, who works as a professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford University. “I think we need to take a deep breath and insist on the kind of process and science that any important issue, especially this one, deserves," he added.&nbsp;

This is the latest report that has emerged from the researchers' frantic search for answers on how the pandemic started. On Monday, a bill was signed into law by US President Joe Biden to declassify intelligence on COVID-19's origin.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Wary West tries to decode China's motives in Ukraine-Russia war

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In a press conference on Friday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, “These data do not provide a definitive answer to the question of how the pandemic began but every piece of data is important in moving us closer to that answer.”

Meanwhile, Stephen Goldstein, a virologist at the University of Utah who participated in the analysis, said, “It’s the first time we’ve been able to identify a genetic fingerprint of the virus and a potential intermediate host in the exact same place. It’s completely consistent and expected from what you’d see in a zoonotic spillover event.”&nbsp;

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that the country has "always supported and participated in global scientific co-operation on origin tracing" and it will continue to do so, but added that the international scientific community should also share "their research on the virus originating from other regions of the world with China".

(With inputs from agencies)

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New research is claiming to be the strongest proof that the Covid virus jumped from animals to humans. The study is based on analysis of samples collected from an animal market in Wuhan, China, from the initial days of the pandemic.

New research is claiming to be the strongest proof that the Covid virus jumped from animals to humans. The study is based on analysis of samples collected from an animal market in Wuhan, China, from the initial days of the pandemic. The samples discovered evidence of the novel coronavirus' presence along with genetic material in various animals, including raccoon dogs which are highly susceptible to the virus, as per a report published on the Zenodo.org open science website on Monday. According to the report, in a few samples, more animal genetic material was found compared to human genetic material which indicates the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals. "The sequences showed that raccoon dogs and other animals susceptible to the coronavirus were present in the market and may have been infected, providing a new clue in the chain of transmission that eventually reached humans," the report stated. ALSO READ | China calls ICC to avoid 'double standards' after Putin's arrest warrant "This adds to the body of evidence identifying the Huanan market as the spillover location of Sars-CoV-2 and the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic," it added. The virus was identified for the first time in Wuhan in December 2019 as many suspected the Huanan live animal market can be the source of pandemic. The study has till now not been reviewed by the scientific community. China has been called out by the World Health Organization for fully sharing the genetic data which was analysed by the researchers. “I worry a lot about our jumping on tidbits that are incomplete and cannot be verified,” stated David Relman, who works as a professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford University. “I think we need to take a deep breath and insist on the kind of process and science that any important issue, especially this one, deserves," he added. This is the latest report that has emerged from the researchers' frantic search for answers on how the pandemic started. On Monday, a bill was signed into law by US President Joe Biden to declassify intelligence on COVID-19's origin. WATCH | Wary West tries to decode China's motives in Ukraine-Russia war In a press conference on Friday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, “These data do not provide a definitive answer to the question of how the pandemic began but every piece of data is important in moving us closer to that answer.” Meanwhile, Stephen Goldstein, a virologist at the University of Utah who participated in the analysis, said, “It’s the first time we’ve been able to identify a genetic fingerprint of the virus and a potential intermediate host in the exact same place. It’s completely consistent and expected from what you’d see in a zoonotic spillover event.” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that the country has "always supported and participated in global scientific co-operation on origin tracing" and it will continue to do so, but added that the international scientific community should also share "their research on the virus originating from other regions of the world with China". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Traces of COVID-19 in Wuhan's animal market spark debate over origin of pandemic

Joe Biden has signed a bill that requires the declassification of information related to the origins of the coronavirus that causes Covid-19. Washington has been conducting a highly politicized debate about the origins of the pandemic.

Biden signs bill on Covid origins declassification; China has denied a lab leak | Details

China has been accused by the World Health Organisation for withholding information crucial for determining the origins of Covid-19. This has happened after a group of international scientists pointed out that the virus might be linked to wild Raccoon dogs.

China accused of withholding Covid-19 data, study links virus origins with Raccoon Dogs

After a gap of nearly four months, India has been witnessing a rise in Covid cases. On Friday (March 17), the country recorded new 426 COVID-19 cases bringing the total active toll to 4,623, while one death was reported in the southern&nbsp;state Karnataka, according to the updated website data of the Union Health Ministry.&nbsp; The total reported cases to stand at 40.46 million&nbsp;with the death toll at 530,790.

The ministry further added that the national coronavirus recovery has been recorded at 98.80 per cent, Times Now reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/adenovirus-outbreak-hits-indias-west-bengal-19-children-die-and-thousands-hospitalised-572467">Also read |&nbsp;Adenovirus outbreak hits India's West Bengal, 19 children die and thousands hospitalised</a>

On Thursday (March 16), India reported over 700 COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

The country last recorded this many cases back in November 2022. On Nov 12, India reported some 734 cases.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-approves-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-booster-dose-for-children-under-five-572161">Also read |&nbsp;US: FDA approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for children under five</a>

Following the spike in Covid cases, the health ministry has urged the six most affected states to follow a "risk assessment-based approach to prevent" and "control the spread of the virus."

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan in a letter to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala urged the states to examine the situation of the virus at the micro-level and maintain their focus on the implementation of necessary preventive measures.&nbsp;

Top health officials stressed the need to monitor emerging new cases, influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases in all health institutions across the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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After a gap of nearly four months, India has been witnessing a rise in Covid cases. On Friday (March 17), the country recorded new 426 COVID-19 cases bringing the total active toll to 4,623, while one death was reported in the southern state Karnataka, according to the updated website data of the Union Health Ministry.

After a gap of nearly four months, India has been witnessing a rise in Covid cases. On Friday (March 17), the country recorded new 426 COVID-19 cases bringing the total active toll to 4,623, while one death was reported in the southern state Karnataka, according to the updated website data of the Union Health Ministry. The total reported cases to stand at 40.46 million with the death toll at 530,790. The ministry further added that the national coronavirus recovery has been recorded at 98.80 per cent, Times Now reported. Also read | Adenovirus outbreak hits India's West Bengal, 19 children die and thousands hospitalised On Thursday (March 16), India reported over 700 COVID-19 cases. The country last recorded this many cases back in November 2022. On Nov 12, India reported some 734 cases. Also read | US: FDA approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for children under five Following the spike in Covid cases, the health ministry has urged the six most affected states to follow a "risk assessment-based approach to prevent" and "control the spread of the virus." Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan in a letter to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala urged the states to examine the situation of the virus at the micro-level and maintain their focus on the implementation of necessary preventive measures. Top health officials stressed the need to monitor emerging new cases, influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases in all health institutions across the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

COVID-19: As India reports over 400 new cases, govt urges these six states to monitor situation

China will again start issuing various visas to foreigners from Wednesday, announced the country's embassy in Washington.

The issuance of visas will bring a major ease to the travel restrictions which were enforced since the Covid-19 pandemic's outbreak.

This is the latest move taken by the Chinese authorities towards reopening the country to the outside world, as gradually Beijing breaks its strict zero-Covid strategy which had defined its pandemic response, till a few months ago.

In a notice, the embassy stated that along with the new travel documents being reviewed and approved, the visas which were issued before March 28, 2020, and still remain valid will be given entry into China.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-claims-covid-19-has-basically-ended-is-it-really-565282">China claims COVID-19 has 'basically' ended. Has it really?</a>

“The updated policy will also allow for the resumption of visa-free travel for those arriving in cruise ships to Shanghai, as well as for certain tourist groups from Hong Kong, Macau and countries within the ASEAN regional grouping,” the notice read.

In 2019, China welcomed 65.7 million international visitors, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation's data, before the coronavirus pandemic forced the country to seal its border from the rest of the world.

While many countries began welcoming international travellers and reopening their economies earlier, China started to emerge from its Covid containment policies in late 2022, after the country witnessed rare demonstrations against President Xi Jinping's signature zero-Covid strategy.

In December, China ended its mass testing, lifted lockdowns and stopped long quarantines, however, the sudden lift of strict Covid restrictions led to a spike in Covid cases.

WATCH | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data

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In late December, Beijing announced that the inbound travellers to the country would not be required to quarantine, however, then visa restrictions on foreigners remained in place.

Beijing, at the same time, said it would "continue to adjust its visa policy for foreigners visiting China in a scientific and dynamic manner in accordance with... the epidemic situation."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China will again start issuing various visas to foreigners from Wednesday, announced the country's embassy in Washington. The issuance of visas will bring a major ease to the travel restrictions which were enforced since the Covid-19 pandemic's outbreak.

China will again start issuing various visas to foreigners from Wednesday, announced the country's embassy in Washington. The issuance of visas will bring a major ease to the travel restrictions which were enforced since the Covid-19 pandemic's outbreak. This is the latest move taken by the Chinese authorities towards reopening the country to the outside world, as gradually Beijing breaks its strict zero-Covid strategy which had defined its pandemic response, till a few months ago. In a notice, the embassy stated that along with the new travel documents being reviewed and approved, the visas which were issued before March 28, 2020, and still remain valid will be given entry into China. ALSO READ | China claims COVID-19 has 'basically' ended. Has it really? “The updated policy will also allow for the resumption of visa-free travel for those arriving in cruise ships to Shanghai, as well as for certain tourist groups from Hong Kong, Macau and countries within the ASEAN regional grouping,” the notice read. In 2019, China welcomed 65.7 million international visitors, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation's data, before the coronavirus pandemic forced the country to seal its border from the rest of the world. While many countries began welcoming international travellers and reopening their economies earlier, China started to emerge from its Covid containment policies in late 2022, after the country witnessed rare demonstrations against President Xi Jinping's signature zero-Covid strategy. In December, China ended its mass testing, lifted lockdowns and stopped long quarantines, however, the sudden lift of strict Covid restrictions led to a spike in Covid cases. WATCH | China: Covid-19 cases on the rise, WHO urges to share real-time data In late December, Beijing announced that the inbound travellers to the country would not be required to quarantine, however, then visa restrictions on foreigners remained in place. Beijing, at the same time, said it would "continue to adjust its visa policy for foreigners visiting China in a scientific and dynamic manner in accordance with... the epidemic situation." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China removes visa curbs on foreign travellers

US lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted unanimously for declassification of US intelligence about origins of COVID-19. The development has come nearly three years after the start of the pandemic which became one of the biggest&nbsp;globe-spanning phenomenon in recent times. US lawmakers voted 419-0 for declassification. The bill will now be sent to US President Joe Biden's desk for his signature.

“The American public deserves answers to every aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Representative Michael Turner, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. He represents the state of Ohio.

Turner said that the information that needs to be public includes "how this virus was created and, specifically, whether it was a natural occurrence or was the result of a lab-related event.”

China was the first country to come into the clutches of coronavirus pandemic. The first cluster of infections was found in the city of Wuhan. The virus soon spread all over the globe bringing economies to standstill due to lockdowns that sometimes lasted for months. It is widely alleged that the coronavirus was a man-made virus and was developed in Chinese labs. China denies all such allegations.

The intelligence that would be declassified as a result of of the legislation will also have information about China's Wuhan Institute of Virology. There are varying opinions within the US intelligence community as to whether the pandemic was a result of a lab leak of coronavirus or its jump to humans from animals.

"Transparency is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Rep. Jim Himes, of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, during the debate.

Passage of the legislation was indicative of a rare bipartisanship between Democrats and Republicans.

If the legislation is signed into a law, it will require release within 90 days “any and all information relating to potential links between the Wuhan Institute of Virology and the origin of the Coronavirus Disease." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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US lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted unanimously for declassification of US intelligence about origins of COVID-19. The development has come nearly three years after the start of the pandemic which became one of the biggest globe-spanning phenomenon in recent times.

US lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted unanimously for declassification of US intelligence about origins of COVID-19. The development has come nearly three years after the start of the pandemic which became one of the biggest globe-spanning phenomenon in recent times. US lawmakers voted 419-0 for declassification. The bill will now be sent to US President Joe Biden's desk for his signature. “The American public deserves answers to every aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Representative Michael Turner, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. He represents the state of Ohio. Turner said that the information that needs to be public includes "how this virus was created and, specifically, whether it was a natural occurrence or was the result of a lab-related event.” China was the first country to come into the clutches of coronavirus pandemic. The first cluster of infections was found in the city of Wuhan. The virus soon spread all over the globe bringing economies to standstill due to lockdowns that sometimes lasted for months. It is widely alleged that the coronavirus was a man-made virus and was developed in Chinese labs. China denies all such allegations. The intelligence that would be declassified as a result of of the legislation will also have information about China's Wuhan Institute of Virology. There are varying opinions within the US intelligence community as to whether the pandemic was a result of a lab leak of coronavirus or its jump to humans from animals. "Transparency is a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Rep. Jim Himes, of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, during the debate. Passage of the legislation was indicative of a rare bipartisanship between Democrats and Republicans. If the legislation is signed into a law, it will require release within 90 days “any and all information relating to potential links between the Wuhan Institute of Virology and the origin of the Coronavirus Disease." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US House votes unanimously for declassification of Covid origins intelligence

The House voted unanimously Friday to declassify U.S. intelligence information about the origins of Covid-19, a sweeping show of bipartisan support near the third anniversary of the start of the deadly pandemic.

A bill to declassify COVID-19's origins clears the House and heads to Biden

U.S. House votes unanimously to declassify Covid origins intel, bill sent to Biden

A new study suggests that the mental health impact of Covid-19 on the general population may not have been as significant as previously thought. Researchers at McGill University in Canada reviewed 137 studies from around the world and found minimal changes in mental health symptoms among most people during the pandemic. However, experts have disputed this, pointing out that the impact on specific groups such as children, women, and people with low incomes or pre-existing mental health problems cannot be overlooked.

The senior author of the study, Brett Thombs, said that some of the public narrative around the mental health impacts of Covid-19 was based on poor-quality studies and anecdotes that became self-fulfilling prophecies. He added that there was a need for more rigorous science in this area. The researchers at McGill found their findings consistent with the largest study on suicide during the pandemic, which found no increase, and applied to most groups, including different ages, sexes, genders, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Did the US help China cover up Covid-19 outbreak?

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However, the researchers acknowledged that women had experienced worsening anxiety, depression, or general mental health symptoms during the pandemic, possibly due to juggling more family responsibilities, working in health or social care, or domestic abuse. The team also noted that depression symptoms had worsened by “minimal to small amounts” for older adults, university students, people who self-identified as belonging to a sexual or gender minority group, and parents.

The study's authors concluded that governments and health agencies need to produce better quality and more timely mental health data to better target resources and that governments should continue to properly fund services, especially for the groups worst affected by the pandemic. However, other research has suggested that the mental health impact of the pandemic has been much more severe.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-claims-covid-19-has-basically-ended-is-it-really-565282">China claims COVID-19 has 'basically' ended. Has it really?</a>

Commenting on the study, Gemma Knowles from the Centre for Society and Mental Health at King’s College London said that the findings echoed other research showing that some people’s mental health improved and others’ deteriorated during the pandemic, which could mean no overall increase. She added that the study risks obscuring important effects among the most affected and disadvantaged groups and, from that, obscuring possible widening of inequalities in mental distress that occurred because of the pandemic.

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A new study suggests that the mental health impact of Covid-19 on the general population may not have been as significant as previously thought. Researchers at McGill University in Canada reviewed 137 studies from around the world and found minimal changes in mental health symptoms among most people during the pandemic.

A new study suggests that the mental health impact of Covid-19 on the general population may not have been as significant as previously thought. Researchers at McGill University in Canada reviewed 137 studies from around the world and found minimal changes in mental health symptoms among most people during the pandemic. However, experts have disputed this, pointing out that the impact on specific groups such as children, women, and people with low incomes or pre-existing mental health problems cannot be overlooked. The senior author of the study, Brett Thombs, said that some of the public narrative around the mental health impacts of Covid-19 was based on poor-quality studies and anecdotes that became self-fulfilling prophecies. He added that there was a need for more rigorous science in this area. The researchers at McGill found their findings consistent with the largest study on suicide during the pandemic, which found no increase, and applied to most groups, including different ages, sexes, genders, and those with pre-existing conditions. Watch: Gravitas: Did the US help China cover up Covid-19 outbreak? × However, the researchers acknowledged that women had experienced worsening anxiety, depression, or general mental health symptoms during the pandemic, possibly due to juggling more family responsibilities, working in health or social care, or domestic abuse. The team also noted that depression symptoms had worsened by “minimal to small amounts” for older adults, university students, people who self-identified as belonging to a sexual or gender minority group, and parents. The study's authors concluded that governments and health agencies need to produce better quality and more timely mental health data to better target resources and that governments should continue to properly fund services, especially for the groups worst affected by the pandemic. However, other research has suggested that the mental health impact of the pandemic has been much more severe. Also Read | China claims COVID-19 has 'basically' ended. Has it really? Commenting on the study, Gemma Knowles from the Centre for Society and Mental Health at King’s College London said that the findings echoed other research showing that some people’s mental health improved and others’ deteriorated during the pandemic, which could mean no overall increase. She added that the study risks obscuring important effects among the most affected and disadvantaged groups and, from that, obscuring possible widening of inequalities in mental distress that occurred because of the pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

COVID-19 pandemic had minimal impact on mental health: Study

The Russian authorities have opened up a probe after a top scientist who worked on the development of Sputnik V coronavirus vaccines was strangled to death in his Moscow apartment on Friday.

The Russian authorities have opened up a probe after a top scientist who worked on the development of Sputnik V coronavirus vaccines was strangled to death in his Moscow apartment on Friday. The virologist identified as 47-year-old Andrey Botikov was one of the 18 scientists who worked on the Sputnik V vaccine at the Gamaleya National Research Center which was released in 2020. He was found strangled by a belt at his Rogova Street home on March 2, according to local news reports. Earlier, it was suggested that he had survived the attack after an intruder broke into his home. However, the Investigative Committee of Russia (ICR) has now opened a probe into the matter and have zeroed in on a 29-year-old man who is alleged to have killed the scientist with the belt over a disagreement. WATCH: Russia's COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V arrives in India ICR's Moscow division in a statement released informed that a criminal investigation was ongoing and that the assailant was nabbed "in the shortest possible time". "During the interrogation, he admitted his guilt, he was charged. Previously, the defendant was prosecuted for committing a serious crime," read the statement. According to Russian media, the suspect's name is Alexei Z and he has previously spent 10 years behind the bars for providing sex services. Botikov was a celebrated scientist in the country and was awarded the Order of Merit for the Fatherland for his work on the vaccine. Prior to his work on the Sputnik V vaccine, Botikov had worked at the Russian State Collection of Viruses D.I. Ivanovsky Institute of Virology as a senior scientist. WATCH | Russia: Vladimir Putin defends Sputnik-V's credibility × His death comes in the backdrop of Russian General Vladimir Makarov allegedly committing suicide at his country home last month. Similarly, a Russian business tycoon named Pavel Antov was found dead after he fell out of a hotel window while staying in India. The multi-millionaire was on holiday in the eastern state of Odisha where he was celebrating his 66th birthday. Read more: Russia’s wealthy lawmaker and critic of Putin's Ukraine war found dead in India (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian scientist who developed Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine 'strangled' to death in his apartment

Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday.

The Serbian star is currently barred from entering the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but has petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter.

The US Open Twitter feed featured a post on Friday saying American tennis authorities hoped he would be allowed to enter.

"Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the post said. "The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami."

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daniil-medvedev-ends-novak-djokovics-purple-patch-at-dubai-tennis-championships-enters-final-568327">Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final</a>

The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next Wednesday in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami.

The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April.

Djokovic said in Dubai this week that he was still waiting to hear if the US would give him special permission to enter, telling reporters that he hoped to hear a decision before the Indian Wells draw is conducted on Monday.

"Whatever the decision is before the draw, if I'm not allowed, I'm going to pull out, of course, before the draw," the world number one said.

Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction.

He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title.

He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai this week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals.

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Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday.

Novak Djokovic's bid to gain entry to the United States for ATP events at Indian wells and Miami received support from the US Tennis Association and US Open organizers on Friday. The Serbian star is currently barred from entering the United States because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19, but has petitioned US authorities for special permission to enter. The US Open Twitter feed featured a post on Friday saying American tennis authorities hoped he would be allowed to enter. "Novak Djokovic is one the greatest champions our sport has ever seen," the post said. "The USTA and US Open are hopeful that Novak is successful in his petition to enter the country, and that the fans will be able to see him back in action at Indian Wells and Miami." Read More: Daniil Medvedev ends Novak Djokovic's purple patch at Dubai Tennis Championships, enters final The Indian Wells ATP 1000 event begins next Wednesday in the California desert and is followed by the prestigious tournament in Miami. The United States still doesn't allow unvaccinated international travellers to enter the country, with the Transportation Security Administration recently indicating the policy would not change until at least mid-April. Djokovic said in Dubai this week that he was still waiting to hear if the US would give him special permission to enter, telling reporters that he hoped to hear a decision before the Indian Wells draw is conducted on Monday. "Whatever the decision is before the draw, if I'm not allowed, I'm going to pull out, of course, before the draw," the world number one said. Djokovic's vaccination status saw him deported from Australia shortly before the 2022 Australian Open. After winning Wimbledon he also missed the US Open last year because of the travel restriction. He returned to Australia in January, winning the 2023 Australian Open for a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He took his match win streak to 20 in Dubai this week before falling on Friday to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Novak Djokovic gets USTA, US Open backing to enter US ATP events without vaccination

UK ministers&nbsp;and the then Health Secretary Matt Hancock are under fire again over violating Covid pandemic guidelines after new leaked messages&nbsp;reveal&nbsp;that they joked about locking up travellers arriving in quarantine hotels.&nbsp;The&nbsp;messages were published by The Daily Telegraph.

In one exchange, in February 2021,&nbsp;Health Secretary Hancock said that they were "giving families all the big suites and putting pop stars in the box rooms." To this, UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case&nbsp;replied that he just wants to see some of the faces of people coming out of first-class into a Premier Inn shoe box. He also asked how many people had been "locked up" in hotels the previous day, Hindustan Times reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-matt-hancocks-leaked-covid-messages-revive-painful-pandemic-debate-568108">Also read |&nbsp;UK: Matt Hancock's leaked Covid messages revive painful pandemic debates</a>

The conversation continued, and Hancock responded, "None. But 149 chose to enter the country and are now in Quarantine Hotels due to their own free will!"&nbsp;

Simon found this funny and said, "hilarous."

The texts also&nbsp;suggested that Hancock wanted to get heavy with police over the enforcement of lockdown rules.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-outrageous-ex-uk-health-secretary-matt-hancock-denies-claims-he-ignored-covid-care-home-advice-567376">Also read |&nbsp;'It is outrageous': Ex-UK health secretary Matt Hancock denies claims&nbsp;he ignored Covid care home advice</a>

Responding to these leaked messages, Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said, "These messages reveal the arrogance and shameful lack of respect that Conservative ministers showed to the public and to the police who they were expecting to do an extremely complex job in difficult circumstances." 
 
He&nbsp;added that at the same time, these officials were breaking the law themselves with their lockdown parties while demanding stronger enforcement by the police.&nbsp;

A few days back, other leaked messages revealed that Hancock rejected the health chief's advice on care homes for testing people.&nbsp;He said it is outrageous and denied doing so.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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UK ministers and the then Health Secretary Matt Hancock are under fire again over violating Covid pandemic guidelines after new leaked messages reveal that they joked about locking up travellers arriving in quarantine hotels.

UK ministers and the then Health Secretary Matt Hancock are under fire again over violating Covid pandemic guidelines after new leaked messages reveal that they joked about locking up travellers arriving in quarantine hotels. The messages were published by The Daily Telegraph. In one exchange, in February 2021, Health Secretary Hancock said that they were "giving families all the big suites and putting pop stars in the box rooms." To this, UK Cabinet Secretary Simon Case replied that he just wants to see some of the faces of people coming out of first-class into a Premier Inn shoe box. He also asked how many people had been "locked up" in hotels the previous day, Hindustan Times reported. Also read | UK: Matt Hancock's leaked Covid messages revive painful pandemic debates The conversation continued, and Hancock responded, "None. But 149 chose to enter the country and are now in Quarantine Hotels due to their own free will!" Simon found this funny and said, "hilarous." The texts also suggested that Hancock wanted to get heavy with police over the enforcement of lockdown rules. Also read | 'It is outrageous': Ex-UK health secretary Matt Hancock denies claims he ignored Covid care home advice Responding to these leaked messages, Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said, "These messages reveal the arrogance and shameful lack of respect that Conservative ministers showed to the public and to the police who they were expecting to do an extremely complex job in difficult circumstances." He added that at the same time, these officials were breaking the law themselves with their lockdown parties while demanding stronger enforcement by the police. A few days back, other leaked messages revealed that Hancock rejected the health chief's advice on care homes for testing people. He said it is outrageous and denied doing so. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Leaked messages reveal UK senior ministers joked about locking up travellers during Covid

The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports.&nbsp;A similar claim was made by the FBI in a report two years ago where they determined, albeit with “moderate confidence”, that the virus was part of a lab leak.&nbsp;The next day, China responded by saying that it has been "open and transparent" with its search for the virus' origins.&nbsp;

Beijing needed to “be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis,” ambassador Nicholas Burns said, referring to the Chinese city where the first cases in connection with the virus were reported. The remarks were also made in the context of strengthening the World Health Organization (WHO) and pushing Beijing to play a more active role in the organisation during a US Chamber of Commerce event.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-likely-was-a-result-of-lab-leak-us-energy-departments-report-says-566200">COVID-19 virus likely was a result of lab leak, US energy department’s report says</a>

The recent claim on the virus origin, made in a classified intelligence report which was provided to the White House and key lawmakers in Congress, was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The US energy department’s report alleged that the pandemic likely began with a virus escaping from a Chinese lab. 
 
However, Beijing has rejected these claims and accused the US of “politicising” origin-tracing of the virus and asked it to “stop smearing China” by rehashing the “‘lab leak’ narrative”. These remarks were made by the Chinese&nbsp;Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during her daily press briefing on Tuesday. Mao also said Beijing has "shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research", reported Associated Press.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-lab-leak-theory-resurfaces-566566">Gravitas: Wuhan Lab Leak theory resurfaces</a> 
 
Media reports meanwhile said that the department's conclusion was made with “low confidence.” The National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said there is no definitive conclusion on the Covid origin theory. “What the US President (Joe Biden) wants is facts. He wants the whole government designed to get those facts and that’s what we are doing. And we’re not just there yet,” said Kirby, during a press briefing, on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In an interview with CNN, the Biden administration’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan also said there is a range of views in the intelligence community about the origins of the pandemic. He added, “A number of them have said they just don't have enough information”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports.

The US ambassador to China said on Monday (February 27) Beijing must be “more honest” about the origins of COVID-19. This comes after the US Energy Department report concluded that the pandemic may have been a Chinese laboratory leak, as per media reports. A similar claim was made by the FBI in a report two years ago where they determined, albeit with “moderate confidence”, that the virus was part of a lab leak. The next day, China responded by saying that it has been "open and transparent" with its search for the virus' origins. Beijing needed to “be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis,” ambassador Nicholas Burns said, referring to the Chinese city where the first cases in connection with the virus were reported. The remarks were also made in the context of strengthening the World Health Organization (WHO) and pushing Beijing to play a more active role in the organisation during a US Chamber of Commerce event. ALSO READ | COVID-19 virus likely was a result of lab leak, US energy department’s report says The recent claim on the virus origin, made in a classified intelligence report which was provided to the White House and key lawmakers in Congress, was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The US energy department’s report alleged that the pandemic likely began with a virus escaping from a Chinese lab. However, Beijing has rejected these claims and accused the US of “politicising” origin-tracing of the virus and asked it to “stop smearing China” by rehashing the “‘lab leak’ narrative”. These remarks were made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during her daily press briefing on Tuesday. Mao also said Beijing has "shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research", reported Associated Press. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Wuhan Lab Leak theory resurfaces Media reports meanwhile said that the department's conclusion was made with “low confidence.” The National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said there is no definitive conclusion on the Covid origin theory. “What the US President (Joe Biden) wants is facts. He wants the whole government designed to get those facts and that’s what we are doing. And we’re not just there yet,” said Kirby, during a press briefing, on Monday. In an interview with CNN, the Biden administration’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan also said there is a range of views in the intelligence community about the origins of the pandemic. He added, “A number of them have said they just don't have enough information”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China needs to be ‘more honest’ on origins of COVID-19, says US ambassador; Beijing retorts

After long 959 days or three years, the city of Hong Kong has finally bid adieu to the controversial COVID-19 mask mandate that was brought in to prevent the spread of the virus.

After long 959 days or three years, the city of Hong Kong has finally bid adieu to the controversial COVID-19 mask mandate that was brought in to prevent the spread of the virus. The move will come into effect from March 1 and suggests that the administration is looking to restore some semblance of normalcy. "We think this is the best timing to make this decision. It is a clear message to show Hong Kong is resuming normalcy," Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee told Reuters. Hong Kong is one of the last cities globally to still have a mask mandate. While most countries across the globe opened up in a phased manner with the majority relaxing the mask mandate much earlier, Hong Kong continued to follow the line set by Beijing. WATCH | Why Hong Kong residents are rushing to get Covid-19 vaccination? × The rule was first enforced on July 29, 2020, and directed individuals to wear masks in all public places. Failing to comply with the rules could see authorities slapping a fine of up to $1,275 (HK$ 10,000). After much criticism, the Hong Kong authorities in December last year decided to lift its contentious "amber code," which forced residents to use an app to enter any venue. In the same month, further easing of the city's social distancing rules was announced and the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result requirement was also scrapped. Read more: Hong Kong announces further easing of COVID-19 curbs The severe covid restrictions had a negative effect on Hong Kong's economy. Global isolation meant that the tourism industry was completely wrecked and the economy of Asia's financial hub shrank by 3.5 per cent in 2022. Additionally, Hong Kong's population shrunk dramatically during the Covid period. According to reports, the country saw an exodus of 187,000 people in the last three years as residents escaped to safer pastures. Read more: Hong Kong's population declines for a third consecutive year; Chinese influence to be blamed (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

This city is lifting world's longest COVID-19 mask mandate after 959 days

Acclaimed Hollywood star Woody Harrelson has found himself embroiled in a controversy after he aired what many presume to be an 'anti-vax conspiracy theory' during his Saturday Night Live (SNL) monologue.

Acclaimed Hollywood star Woody Harrelson has found himself embroiled in a controversy after he aired what many presume to be an 'anti-vax conspiracy theory' during his Saturday Night Live (SNL) monologue. The 61-year-old was hosting SNL for the fifth time when he talked about one of the 'craziest scripts' he had come across in recent times. “So the movie goes like this: the biggest drug cartels in the world get together and buy up all the media and all the politicians and force all the people in the world to stay locked in their homes," said Harrelson. "I threw the script away. I mean, who was going to believe that crazy idea? Being forced to do drugs? I do that voluntarily all day," joked Harrelson afterwards. Hey y’all. Watch Woody Harrelson’s opening on SNL? He pulled a chapter out of Chapelle’s playbook and slammed Big Pharma and the BS response to COVID-19 Without flat out saying it. Genius!!! And before you ask, NO I don’t watch SNL🤨 pic.twitter.com/BTLW1gT4TX — SaltyGoat (@SaltyGoat17) February 26, 2023 × Though Harrelson was referring to a script he received, netizens believe that it was the actor's take on the prevailing Covid-19 situation where big pharma companies have often been found pushing their medicines onto the public to widen profit margins. Read more: Woody Harrelson punches man for taking his daughter's photos Meanwhile, a section argued that Harrelson was contributing to the 'false' rhetoric that vaccines do not work. After Harrelson's monologue went viral across social media platforms, most mainstream media houses dubbed the rambling as an 'anti-vax' conspiracy, designed to discourage the masses from taking Covid jabs. Billionaire Elon Musk also chimed in on the controversy and tweeted “So based. Nice work" under the video. So based. Nice work @nbcsnl! — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023 × When a netizen warned to 'get ready for meltdowns', Musk replied, “Maybe they [media outlets] don’t realise that their propaganda is wrong?” Harrelson set the tone of the monologue early on when he called himself a 'redneck hippie' and openly talked about his 'cannabis' consumption. His statement regarding the gun laws also made the room a bit tense. "You know, the red in me thinks you should be allowed to own guns," he said. "The blue in me thinks – squirt guns. So, I’m red and blue which makes purple. I’m purple." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Woody Harrelson takes a dig at big pharma for COVID-19 vaccines in SNL monologue

A new study has claimed that&nbsp;the face masks worn by people&nbsp;round-the-clock to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus did ‘little to nothing’ to stop the transmission. A new scientific review titled “Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses" claims&nbsp;that the face masks failed to play a significant role in controlling the spread of the virus.&nbsp; 
 
The review, which was published by Cochrane Library, included the observation of 12 researchers from around the world. The study claimed that&nbsp;research was conducted on the results of 78 randomised controlled trials to understand whether the physical interventions, which included hand washing and wearing face masks, restricted the spread of coronavirus.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/australian-scientists-finally-solve-the-covid-19-puzzle-discover-lung-protein-that-can-kill-the-virus-560549">Australian scientists FINALLY solve the COVID-19 puzzle; discover lung protein that can kill the virus</a>

“Wearing a mask may make little to no difference in how many people caught a flu-like illness/COVID-like illness (nine studies; 276,917 people); and probably makes little or no difference in how many people have flu/COVID confirmed by a laboratory test (six studies; 13,919 people)," claimed the authors as quoted by Fox News.

In the review, it was claimed that&nbsp;N95 masks, when compared to medical/surgical masks,&nbsp;did not make much difference in how many people caught the flu and did not help in reducing the number of people who caught flu-like illness or any other respiratory illness.

The authors said that they had collected the data for study during the non-epidemic flu seasons, the H1N1 flu pandemic in 2009, the Covid-19 pandemic and epidemic flu seasons up to 2016, Fox News reported.

WATCH | India launches its first nasal vaccine 'iNCOVACC' against COVID-19

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had initially claimed that it is not necessary to wear face masks, however, later they appealed to people to wear masks in 2020. CDC Director Dr Robert Redfield, again in September, called the face masks the most powerful health tool after which they became mandatory across the world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new study has claimed that the face masks worn by people round-the-clock to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus did ‘little to nothing’ to stop the transmission.

A new study has claimed that the face masks worn by people round-the-clock to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus did ‘little to nothing’ to stop the transmission. A new scientific review titled “Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses" claims that the face masks failed to play a significant role in controlling the spread of the virus. The review, which was published by Cochrane Library, included the observation of 12 researchers from around the world. The study claimed that research was conducted on the results of 78 randomised controlled trials to understand whether the physical interventions, which included hand washing and wearing face masks, restricted the spread of coronavirus. ALSO READ | Australian scientists FINALLY solve the COVID-19 puzzle; discover lung protein that can kill the virus “Wearing a mask may make little to no difference in how many people caught a flu-like illness/COVID-like illness (nine studies; 276,917 people); and probably makes little or no difference in how many people have flu/COVID confirmed by a laboratory test (six studies; 13,919 people)," claimed the authors as quoted by Fox News. In the review, it was claimed that N95 masks, when compared to medical/surgical masks, did not make much difference in how many people caught the flu and did not help in reducing the number of people who caught flu-like illness or any other respiratory illness. The authors said that they had collected the data for study during the non-epidemic flu seasons, the H1N1 flu pandemic in 2009, the Covid-19 pandemic and epidemic flu seasons up to 2016, Fox News reported. WATCH | India launches its first nasal vaccine 'iNCOVACC' against COVID-19 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had initially claimed that it is not necessary to wear face masks, however, later they appealed to people to wear masks in 2020. CDC Director Dr Robert Redfield, again in September, called the face masks the most powerful health tool after which they became mandatory across the world. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Most of us wore masks for three years. Now study claims it did 'little to nothing' to curb Covid-19

China’s beleaguered provinces reportedly spent $45.80 billion on anti-Covid measures in 2022. The figure is expected to rise as China still reels under the economic stress induced by the pandemic. While comprehensive national data on governmental spending is not available in China, at least 20 of the country’s 31 provinces have revealed details about their COVID-19 expenses. Of all, China’s southernmost province of Guangdong spent the highest amount of money on checking the spread of the pandemic. It spent a whopping amount of $9.20 billion alone on testing and vaccination. This amount was equal to 0.6 per cent of the province’s Gross Domestic Product last year.

WATCH:&nbsp;WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China

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<h2>Anti-Covid spending in top Chinese cities</h2>

The Chinese capital city of Beijing topped the chart in Covid expenses with $3.85 billion in 2022. This was equal to 111 per cent of the city’s total annual healthcare budget. Shanghai, China’s financial hub, also spent $2.45 billion on anti-COVID-19 measures. Shanghai's economy suffered greatly during the two months of complete lockdown, and it shrank by 0.2% in 2022.

<h2>Latest Covid updates from China</h2>

The cost of COVID-19 is still high for the average Chinese people. China's National Health Commission stopped publishing data on daily cases in December due to worries that there would be a sharp increase in infections following the withdrawal of the Zero-Covid policy. China has officially documented roughly 80,000 Covid-19 deaths since December, which would be a significantly lower death rate than Hong Kong suffered in the first two months of its Omicron wave.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-900-million-in-china-infected-with-covid-chinese-university-study-552374">About 900 million in China infected with Covid</a>

<h2>Chinese provinces under great economic stress</h2>

China’s 31 provinces are already buried under a huge stockpile of outstanding bonds. They are close to breaching the Ministry of Finance’s threshold of 120 per cent of their income. Local authorities are expected to hit a tall maturity wall in upcoming years. As per a report by Bloomberg, bonds worth $2.1 trillion are due over the next 5 years, which is roughly equal to 40 per cent of their total outstanding debt.

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China’s beleaguered provinces reportedly spent $45.80 billion on anti-Covid measures in 2022. The figure is expected to rise as China still reels under the economic stress induced by the pandemic.

China’s beleaguered provinces reportedly spent $45.80 billion on anti-Covid measures in 2022. The figure is expected to rise as China still reels under the economic stress induced by the pandemic. While comprehensive national data on governmental spending is not available in China, at least 20 of the country’s 31 provinces have revealed details about their COVID-19 expenses. Of all, China’s southernmost province of Guangdong spent the highest amount of money on checking the spread of the pandemic. It spent a whopping amount of $9.20 billion alone on testing and vaccination. This amount was equal to 0.6 per cent of the province’s Gross Domestic Product last year. WATCH: WION Dispatch: India takes precautionary measures after Covid cases rise in China × Anti-Covid spending in top Chinese cities The Chinese capital city of Beijing topped the chart in Covid expenses with $3.85 billion in 2022. This was equal to 111 per cent of the city’s total annual healthcare budget. Shanghai, China’s financial hub, also spent $2.45 billion on anti-COVID-19 measures. Shanghai's economy suffered greatly during the two months of complete lockdown, and it shrank by 0.2% in 2022. Latest Covid updates from China The cost of COVID-19 is still high for the average Chinese people. China's National Health Commission stopped publishing data on daily cases in December due to worries that there would be a sharp increase in infections following the withdrawal of the Zero-Covid policy. China has officially documented roughly 80,000 Covid-19 deaths since December, which would be a significantly lower death rate than Hong Kong suffered in the first two months of its Omicron wave. Also Read | About 900 million in China infected with Covid Chinese provinces under great economic stress China’s 31 provinces are already buried under a huge stockpile of outstanding bonds. They are close to breaching the Ministry of Finance’s threshold of 120 per cent of their income. Local authorities are expected to hit a tall maturity wall in upcoming years. As per a report by Bloomberg, bonds worth $2.1 trillion are due over the next 5 years, which is roughly equal to 40 per cent of their total outstanding debt. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

COVID-19 expenses pile misery on the Chinese economy as provinces reveal staggering data

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