The coronavirus disease has severely affected Pakistan’s healthcare system and the situation is worse than last year, a senior official of the Pakistan government revealed.

Pakistan’s death toll surged to 15,619 on Tuesday as the country reported over 100 deaths in the last 24 hours.

In Lahore, several hospitals have almost run out of oxygen supply due to a rise in the number of coronavirus cases.

According to a report of Geo News, there are about 1,100 coronavirus patients in various government hospitals of Lahore who need oxygen, while almost 250 patients are put on a ventilator.&nbsp;

"The situation is bad and hospitals are utilising the available oxygen but if cylinders are not supplied to the hospitals within the next two or three hours, the situation will take a turn for the worse," said Mayo Hospital's Chief Executive in charge of coronavirus wards, Dr Asad Aslam.

Moreover, government hospitals in Lahore is almost out of oxygen supply as protesters blocked roads across Pakistan, reported Geo News.

Residents of various cities were stuck in traffic jams today as a religious party held its protest in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, and other cities.

Meanwhile, Punjab Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid and Secretary Health Punjab Nabeel Awan appealed to protesters of a religious party, who have blocked the roads, to cooperate with the authorities so that oxygen cylinders could be delivered to government hospitals in a timely fashion.

Earlier on Sunday, Pakistan had recorded the highest number of COVID-19 deaths in a single day in the current year.

According to Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), a total of 114 people died from COVID-19 on Saturday. This was the sixth time in a row that the coronavirus induced deaths crossed the 100 mark in a single day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus disease has severely affected Pakistan’s healthcare system and the situation is worse than last year, a senior official of the Pakistan government revealed.

The coronavirus disease has severely affected Pakistan’s healthcare system and the situation is worse than last year, a senior official of the Pakistan government revealed. Pakistan’s death toll surged to 15,619 on Tuesday as the country reported over 100 deaths in the last 24 hours. In Lahore, several hospitals have almost run out of oxygen supply due to a rise in the number of coronavirus cases. According to a report of Geo News, there are about 1,100 coronavirus patients in various government hospitals of Lahore who need oxygen, while almost 250 patients are put on a ventilator. "The situation is bad and hospitals are utilising the available oxygen but if cylinders are not supplied to the hospitals within the next two or three hours, the situation will take a turn for the worse," said Mayo Hospital's Chief Executive in charge of coronavirus wards, Dr Asad Aslam. Moreover, government hospitals in Lahore is almost out of oxygen supply as protesters blocked roads across Pakistan, reported Geo News. Residents of various cities were stuck in traffic jams today as a religious party held its protest in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, and other cities. Meanwhile, Punjab Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid and Secretary Health Punjab Nabeel Awan appealed to protesters of a religious party, who have blocked the roads, to cooperate with the authorities so that oxygen cylinders could be delivered to government hospitals in a timely fashion. Earlier on Sunday, Pakistan had recorded the highest number of COVID-19 deaths in a single day in the current year. According to Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), a total of 114 people died from COVID-19 on Saturday. This was the sixth time in a row that the coronavirus induced deaths crossed the 100 mark in a single day. (With inputs from agencies)

Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000. And the Brazilian variant is targetting the youth as well. There are more young people in ICUs of hospitals than old. The number of people under 40 surpassed the number of old.

Brazil was banking on Chinese vaccine Sinovac. However, a local study has found that this shot has an efficacy of just 50.7 per cent. The efficacy is barely over the threshold needed for regulatory approval by the WHO.

China, just for a short while, also admitted that its vaccines aren't good enough. The top disease control official of China Gao Fu, said current Chinese vaccines offer lower protection.

But on Monday, he walked back from this statement. And the state media went into overdrive to defend the Chinese shots. Reports say China is now considering mixing two different vaccines to boost their power.

The idea is not new. There are others who are exploring this possibility. The UK is conducting a trial to check, if one person can get two doses of different vaccines.

In France, the health regulator has already allowed mixing of vaccine shots. Those under the age of 55, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine first can take either the Pfizer or Moderna jab for their second dose.

Germany is following a similar policy. Health experts generally agree that mixing vaccines shouldn't be a problem. It's an approach that has been tried before with Influenza and ebola shots.

But scientists need more data to be sure if different Wuhan virus vaccines can indeed work together.

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000.

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000. And the Brazilian variant is targetting the youth as well. There are more young people in ICUs of hospitals than old. The number of people under 40 surpassed the number of old. Brazil was banking on Chinese vaccine Sinovac. However, a local study has found that this shot has an efficacy of just 50.7 per cent. The efficacy is barely over the threshold needed for regulatory approval by the WHO. China, just for a short while, also admitted that its vaccines aren't good enough. The top disease control official of China Gao Fu, said current Chinese vaccines offer lower protection. But on Monday, he walked back from this statement. And the state media went into overdrive to defend the Chinese shots. Reports say China is now considering mixing two different vaccines to boost their power. The idea is not new. There are others who are exploring this possibility. The UK is conducting a trial to check, if one person can get two doses of different vaccines. In France, the health regulator has already allowed mixing of vaccine shots. Those under the age of 55, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine first can take either the Pfizer or Moderna jab for their second dose. Germany is following a similar policy. Health experts generally agree that mixing vaccines shouldn't be a problem. It's an approach that has been tried before with Influenza and ebola shots. But scientists need more data to be sure if different Wuhan virus vaccines can indeed work together.

Brazil: Was it a mistake to rely on Chinese vaccines?

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts. 
 
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed "another hugely significant milestone" after confirming a jab had been offered to all over-50s, the clinically vulnerable and health and social care workers, ahead of a self-imposed April 15 deadline.&nbsp; 
 
"That means more than 32 million people have been given the precious protection vaccines provide against Covid 19," he said in a statement, adding efforts would now focus on delivering second doses and offering all adults an initial shot by August. 
 
The British leader had earlier hailed the latest lifting of rules as "a major step forward in our roadmap to freedom", after pubs were allowed to reopen to serve drinkers outside and non-essential retailers and hairdressers restarted.&nbsp; 
 
Some pubs, many shuttered for large chunks of the last year, wasted no time and opened on the stroke of midnight, while others opened just in time for breakfast. 
 
"I work the night shifts in the hospital," said Richard Newman, a 32-year-old doctor at the Royal London Hospital, as he waited with friends outside the Half Moon pub in east London at nine am (0700 GMT). 
 
"Hopefully, it's the end of lockdown but who knows? What does it represent? Hopefully a nice summer. It should be fun, bringing back a bit of life to London." 
 
Bundled up in coats and hats, customers sat chatting and laughing at outside tables, ordering beers, wine and full English breakfasts of eggs, bacon and sausages. 
 
"For the past few months we've never been able to go out together, celebrate and get through it," said 28-year-old Laura Bennett.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm having a lot of fun."

Zoos, gyms and swimmers 
On London's Oxford Street, some shoppers braved the chilly temperatures to start queueing at 5.30 a.m., two hours before the first non-essential shops such as fast-fashion chain Primark opened. 
 
Hairdressers were also able to open for business, with demand for much-needed trims high more than three months after the latest stay-at-home order began.&nbsp; 
 
In east London, Adam Yours waited outside Jimmy Slicks barber's, desperate to lose his long hair. 
 
"The first thing on the list is to get a haircut so you can go to the pub and look respectable," said the 22-year-old. 
 
Johnson had his unruly mop of blond hair cut, his spokesman told reporters. 
 
As sports and leisure facilities reopened in England, people plunged into pools and lifted weights. 
 
Families flocked to see lions and elephants at Chester Zoo in northwest England and thrill-seekers took rides at Thorpe Park theme park southwest of London. 
 
Self-catering domestic holidays are also allowed and bookings have soared. 
 
Mosques are meanwhile preparing for the start of Ramadan this week, a year after the Muslim holy month was observed without traditional community gatherings.

Watchword: caution 
The UK nations all have different strategies for leaving lockdown, and Monday's pub reopenings applied only to England, while non-essential shops also reopened in Wales.&nbsp; 
 
Government ministers, scientists and health officials are warning against complacency, despite the successful vaccine drive which is seen as the main way to prevent more serious cases of Covid-19 that require hospital treatment. 
 
In London, authorities are boosting testing in the southern districts of Wandsworth and Lambeth after at least 44 confirmed cases of the highly transmissible South African Covid variant were detected. 
 
Although Britain recorded just 3,568 new infections Monday, it has seen more than 4.3 million cases since the pandemic began and over 127,000 deaths -- one of the worst tolls in the world. 
 
Its economy has also been devastated by a year of repeated enforced closures and restrictions, prompting consideration of new measures to ensure businesses stay open in the future. 
 
One possibility is so-called "vaccine passports" but that has triggered debate about whether they would be effective or enforced -- and implications for civil liberties. 
 
There is also increasing pressure for a decision on resuming non-essential international travel, with many eager to book foreign holidays. 
 
Johnson has said the reopening plan will be driven by data, not dates, but has set the next anticipated easing for May 17. 
 
Almost all remaining social restrictions are scheduled to be lifted on June 21.

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts.

Britain said late Monday it had hit a target to offer a coronavirus vaccine first dose to all over-50s by mid-April, as England's lockdown-weary population toasted a significant easing of restrictions with pints and much-needed haircuts. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had passed "another hugely significant milestone" after confirming a jab had been offered to all over-50s, the clinically vulnerable and health and social care workers, ahead of a self-imposed April 15 deadline. "That means more than 32 million people have been given the precious protection vaccines provide against Covid 19," he said in a statement, adding efforts would now focus on delivering second doses and offering all adults an initial shot by August. The British leader had earlier hailed the latest lifting of rules as "a major step forward in our roadmap to freedom", after pubs were allowed to reopen to serve drinkers outside and non-essential retailers and hairdressers restarted. Some pubs, many shuttered for large chunks of the last year, wasted no time and opened on the stroke of midnight, while others opened just in time for breakfast. "I work the night shifts in the hospital," said Richard Newman, a 32-year-old doctor at the Royal London Hospital, as he waited with friends outside the Half Moon pub in east London at nine am (0700 GMT). "Hopefully, it's the end of lockdown but who knows? What does it represent? Hopefully a nice summer. It should be fun, bringing back a bit of life to London." Bundled up in coats and hats, customers sat chatting and laughing at outside tables, ordering beers, wine and full English breakfasts of eggs, bacon and sausages. "For the past few months we've never been able to go out together, celebrate and get through it," said 28-year-old Laura Bennett. "I'm having a lot of fun." Zoos, gyms and swimmers On London's Oxford Street, some shoppers braved the chilly temperatures to start queueing at 5.30 a.m., two hours before the first non-essential shops such as fast-fashion chain Primark opened. Hairdressers were also able to open for business, with demand for much-needed trims high more than three months after the latest stay-at-home order began. In east London, Adam Yours waited outside Jimmy Slicks barber's, desperate to lose his long hair. "The first thing on the list is to get a haircut so you can go to the pub and look respectable," said the 22-year-old. Johnson had his unruly mop of blond hair cut, his spokesman told reporters. As sports and leisure facilities reopened in England, people plunged into pools and lifted weights. Families flocked to see lions and elephants at Chester Zoo in northwest England and thrill-seekers took rides at Thorpe Park theme park southwest of London. Self-catering domestic holidays are also allowed and bookings have soared. Mosques are meanwhile preparing for the start of Ramadan this week, a year after the Muslim holy month was observed without traditional community gatherings. Watchword: caution The UK nations all have different strategies for leaving lockdown, and Monday's pub reopenings applied only to England, while non-essential shops also reopened in Wales. Government ministers, scientists and health officials are warning against complacency, despite the successful vaccine drive which is seen as the main way to prevent more serious cases of Covid-19 that require hospital treatment. In London, authorities are boosting testing in the southern districts of Wandsworth and Lambeth after at least 44 confirmed cases of the highly transmissible South African Covid variant were detected. Although Britain recorded just 3,568 new infections Monday, it has seen more than 4.3 million cases since the pandemic began and over 127,000 deaths -- one of the worst tolls in the world. Its economy has also been devastated by a year of repeated enforced closures and restrictions, prompting consideration of new measures to ensure businesses stay open in the future. One possibility is so-called "vaccine passports" but that has triggered debate about whether they would be effective or enforced -- and implications for civil liberties. There is also increasing pressure for a decision on resuming non-essential international travel, with many eager to book foreign holidays. Johnson has said the reopening plan will be driven by data, not dates, but has set the next anticipated easing for May 17. Almost all remaining social restrictions are scheduled to be lifted on June 21.

UK achieves key vaccination target as pubs, shops and salons reopen

India reported over 1.61 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.With the country reporting 1,61,736 new COVID-19 cases, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,36,89,453.In the last 24 hours, 879 COVID-related deaths were reported in the country.

This takes the COVID death toll to 1,71,058.The active number of cases stands at 12,64,698.In the last 24 hours, 97,168 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,22,53,697.The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,85,33,085 till today.

As many as 14,00,122 samples were tested across India on Monday.The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approved the use of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus in the country on Monday.

Now, India has three vaccines Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik V for its inoculation programme against COVID-19. Meanwhile, the four-day-long `Tika Utsav`, a mass Covid-19 vaccine programme, started in the country on Sunday (Jyotirao Phule`s birth anniversary) to April 14 (B R Ambedkar`s birth anniversary), following Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s call for the same.

From April 2, the government started vaccinating all people above 45 years. India started its vaccination drive on January 16 with priority given to all healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase. The second phase started on March 1 where doses were administered to people above the age of 60 and those between 45 and 59 years with specific comorbidities.

India reported over 1.61 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.With the country reporting 1,61,736 new COVID-19 cases, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,36,89,453.

India reported over 1.61 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry.With the country reporting 1,61,736 new COVID-19 cases, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,36,89,453.In the last 24 hours, 879 COVID-related deaths were reported in the country. This takes the COVID death toll to 1,71,058.The active number of cases stands at 12,64,698.In the last 24 hours, 97,168 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,22,53,697.The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,85,33,085 till today. As many as 14,00,122 samples were tested across India on Monday.The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) approved the use of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus in the country on Monday. Now, India has three vaccines Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik V for its inoculation programme against COVID-19. Meanwhile, the four-day-long `Tika Utsav`, a mass Covid-19 vaccine programme, started in the country on Sunday (Jyotirao Phule`s birth anniversary) to April 14 (B R Ambedkar`s birth anniversary), following Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s call for the same. From April 2, the government started vaccinating all people above 45 years. India started its vaccination drive on January 16 with priority given to all healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase. The second phase started on March 1 where doses were administered to people above the age of 60 and those between 45 and 59 years with specific comorbidities.

India reports 161,736 new COVID-19 cases, 879 deaths

Ecuador’s economic crisis is worsening. Pandemic has pushed one-third of Ecuador into the poverty. Ecuador hospitals are struggling to cope with surge in cases.

Ecuador: Country's overall debt stands at $64 Billion

China's failure to provide access to global health experts made the Covid-19 pandemic worse than it had to be, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said on Sunday, and it was important to "get to the bottom" of the origin of the novel coronavirus. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-half-of-global-coronavirus-deaths-last-week-from-americas-paho-376046">Also read | More than half of global coronavirus deaths last week from Americas: PAHO</a> 
 
The top US diplomat's sharp words underscored criticism from other members of the Biden administration over Beijing's lack of transparency in the crucial early days of the pandemic.

China did not give access to international experts or share information in real-time to provide true transparency, Blinken said in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-are-the-three-new-symptoms-of-covid-19-dont-take-them-lightly-375900">Also read | These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly</a>

As a result, the virus "got out of hand faster and with, I think, much more egregious results than it might otherwise," Blinken said.

The World Health Organization director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said on March 30 that data was withheld from WHO investigators who travelled to China to research the origins of the pandemic.

A WHO report, written jointly with Chinese scientists, released at the time said the virus had probably been transmitted from bats to humans through another animal, and that a lab leak was "extremely unlikely" as a cause.

Tedros said the issue required further investigation.

The events highlight why there needs to be a stronger global health security system to ensure this doesn't happen again, Blinken said. Reforms must include a commitment to transparency, information sharing and access for experts "and China has to play a part in that," he said.

Blinken said it was important to reach a more conclusive accounting of how the pandemic began.

"We need to do that precisely so we fully understand what happened, to have the best shot possible preventing it from happening again," he said. "That's why we need to get to the bottom of this."

When the WHO report was issued in March, the United States, the European Union and other Western countries called for China to give "full access" to independent experts to all data about the original outbreak in late 2019.

China's failure to provide access to global health experts made the Covid-19 pandemic worse than it had to be, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said on Sunday, and it was important to "get to the bottom" of the origin of the novel coronavirus.

China's failure to provide access to global health experts made the Covid-19 pandemic worse than it had to be, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said on Sunday, and it was important to "get to the bottom" of the origin of the novel coronavirus. Also read | More than half of global coronavirus deaths last week from Americas: PAHO The top US diplomat's sharp words underscored criticism from other members of the Biden administration over Beijing's lack of transparency in the crucial early days of the pandemic. China did not give access to international experts or share information in real-time to provide true transparency, Blinken said in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press." Also read | These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly As a result, the virus "got out of hand faster and with, I think, much more egregious results than it might otherwise," Blinken said. The World Health Organization director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said on March 30 that data was withheld from WHO investigators who travelled to China to research the origins of the pandemic. A WHO report, written jointly with Chinese scientists, released at the time said the virus had probably been transmitted from bats to humans through another animal, and that a lab leak was "extremely unlikely" as a cause. Tedros said the issue required further investigation. The events highlight why there needs to be a stronger global health security system to ensure this doesn't happen again, Blinken said. Reforms must include a commitment to transparency, information sharing and access for experts "and China has to play a part in that," he said. Blinken said it was important to reach a more conclusive accounting of how the pandemic began. "We need to do that precisely so we fully understand what happened, to have the best shot possible preventing it from happening again," he said. "That's why we need to get to the bottom of this." When the WHO report was issued in March, the United States, the European Union and other Western countries called for China to give "full access" to independent experts to all data about the original outbreak in late 2019.

Top US diplomat Blinken criticises China, says 'need to get to the bottom' of Covid-19 origin

The deadly coronavirus has caused an unprecedented pandemic around the world. The disease produced by the novel coronavirus and its consequences have posed a challenge for health authorities worldwide.&nbsp; 
Transmission through direct contact and saliva in the form of small drops and through aerosols have caused the rapid spread worldwide.

Day by day, scientists are learning more about the different new symptoms of this deadly virus infection with the hopes of eventually being able to treat it.

According to the latest report of the National Institute of Health, half of the coronavirus patients suffer oral symptoms during the infection.

Here are the known oral symptoms identified by the researchers:

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

Dry mouth refers to a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth don't make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth can have causes that aren't due to underlying disease. Examples include not drinking enough fluids, sleeping with mouth open, dry hot weather, eating dry foods or medication side effects.

Lesions

An oral lesion is an ulcer that occurs on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. This happens when the virus attacks your muscle fibres, oral linings. They are very common, occurring in association with many diseases and by many different mechanisms.

COVID tongue

In this condition, your tongue may start to appear white and patchy, according to scientists. In the COVID tongue, your body fails to produce saliva that protects your mouth from bad bacteria. People with this symptom may also find it difficult to chew food and to speak.

Covid tongue could also be accompanied by a change to the tongue's sensation, as well as muscle pain while chewing and persistent ulcers. However, it's not entirely clear what specifically causes Covid tongue.

The deadly coronavirus has caused an unprecedented pandemic around the world. The disease produced by the novel coronavirus and its consequences have posed a challenge for health authorities worldwide.

The deadly coronavirus has caused an unprecedented pandemic around the world. The disease produced by the novel coronavirus and its consequences have posed a challenge for health authorities worldwide. Transmission through direct contact and saliva in the form of small drops and through aerosols have caused the rapid spread worldwide. Day by day, scientists are learning more about the different new symptoms of this deadly virus infection with the hopes of eventually being able to treat it. According to the latest report of the National Institute of Health, half of the coronavirus patients suffer oral symptoms during the infection. Here are the known oral symptoms identified by the researchers: Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) Dry mouth refers to a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth don't make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth can have causes that aren't due to underlying disease. Examples include not drinking enough fluids, sleeping with mouth open, dry hot weather, eating dry foods or medication side effects. Lesions An oral lesion is an ulcer that occurs on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. This happens when the virus attacks your muscle fibres, oral linings. They are very common, occurring in association with many diseases and by many different mechanisms. COVID tongue In this condition, your tongue may start to appear white and patchy, according to scientists. In the COVID tongue, your body fails to produce saliva that protects your mouth from bad bacteria. People with this symptom may also find it difficult to chew food and to speak. Covid tongue could also be accompanied by a change to the tongue's sensation, as well as muscle pain while chewing and persistent ulcers. However, it's not entirely clear what specifically causes Covid tongue.

Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19

India has become the world's fastest nation to vaccinate nearly 100 million people against COVID-19. The country has achieved this milestone in just 85 days.

India: Fastest nation to administer 100 vaccine jabs

Tokyo&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;organisers&nbsp;plan to prepare&nbsp;300&nbsp;hotel&nbsp;rooms&nbsp;for&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;who test positive for the coronavirus at this summer's Games but show no or minor symptoms of&nbsp;COVID-19,&nbsp;Kyodo&nbsp;news agency said on Sunday.

Japan's government is placing&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;under a month-long state of "quasi-emergency" from Monday to combat surging infections, less than a month after a broader state of emergency was lifted for the capital and&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;host.

The&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;organising committee plans to reserve an entire&nbsp;hotel&nbsp;located a few kilometres away from the&nbsp;athletes' village in the Harumi waterfront district, which will likely cost several million dollars,&nbsp;Kyodo&nbsp;said, citing several unnamed sources.

Coronavirus-positive&nbsp;athletes&nbsp;and other Games participants who do not require hospitalisation will be quarantined in the&nbsp;rooms&nbsp;for 10 days in principle, and medical staff will treat them around the clock, it said.

The committee will also prepare about 30 special vehicles to transport the patients to the&nbsp;hotel, according to&nbsp;Kyodo.

Athletes&nbsp;will receive&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;tests every four days at least under rules unveiled in February for the&nbsp;Tokyo&nbsp;Games, scheduled to begin in late July after a one-year delay due to the pandemic. More guidance on isolation and testing is to come in April.

Japan has recorded more than 500,000 infections and nearly 9,400 deaths, public broadcaster NHK said on Saturday, low compared to most other major economies. But concerns about the new wave of infections are rising ahead of the Games.

Tokyo Olympic organisers plan to prepare 300 hotel rooms for athletes who test positive for the coronavirus at this summer's Games but show no or minor symptoms of COVID-19, Kyodo news agency said on Sunday.

Tokyo Olympic organisers plan to prepare 300 hotel rooms for athletes who test positive for the coronavirus at this summer's Games but show no or minor symptoms of COVID-19, Kyodo news agency said on Sunday. Japan's government is placing Tokyo under a month-long state of "quasi-emergency" from Monday to combat surging infections, less than a month after a broader state of emergency was lifted for the capital and Olympic host. The Tokyo organising committee plans to reserve an entire hotel located a few kilometres away from the athletes' village in the Harumi waterfront district, which will likely cost several million dollars, Kyodo said, citing several unnamed sources. Coronavirus-positive athletes and other Games participants who do not require hospitalisation will be quarantined in the rooms for 10 days in principle, and medical staff will treat them around the clock, it said. The committee will also prepare about 30 special vehicles to transport the patients to the hotel, according to Kyodo. Athletes will receive COVID-19 tests every four days at least under rules unveiled in February for the Tokyo Games, scheduled to begin in late July after a one-year delay due to the pandemic. More guidance on isolation and testing is to come in April. Japan has recorded more than 500,000 infections and nearly 9,400 deaths, public broadcaster NHK said on Saturday, low compared to most other major economies. But concerns about the new wave of infections are rising ahead of the Games.

Tokyo Olympic organisers to secure 300 hotel rooms for athletes with COVID-19-Kyodo

India, which is projected to grow at an impressive rate of 12.5 per cent this year, needs to grow at a much faster pace to make up for the unprecedented contraction of eight per cent that it clocked during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, according to a senior IMF official.

The International Monetary Fund Deputy Chief Economist, Petya Koeva Brooks, in an interview to PTI on Friday also made a strong case for an additional economic stimulus to address the impact of the pandemic on the country's economy.

"When it comes to India there was a major collapse of output last fiscal year and the number as you mentioned is eight.

"So, we are very glad to see the strong rebound this year with projected growth of 12.5 for fiscal year 21-22 and we are seeing also high-frequency indicators including PMI (Purchasing Managers' Index), and trade and more mobility indicators which give us a sense that there is a continued recovery in the first quarter of this year," she said.

That said, there are some recent emergencies of the new variants in the localised lockdowns that are seen as one of the threats to this recovery, Brooks noted.

On the recovery itself, when it comes to the level in terms of the level of output, we are expecting that level to return to the pre-crisis one from 2019 to this fiscal year. That is what we have in our projections.

"However, if you look at a concept of scarring, which just compares what the level of output would have been hadn't there been a crisis in 2024, which is the measure which we are using. Then at and compare where our current growth trajectory is for India that gap is much larger, Brooks said.

The gap, she said, which is eight per cent of GDP is significantly larger than what it is for the world as a whole.

"For the world as a whole it's about three (per cent), which is another way of saying that even though in the near term we have this real rebound, there's still scope in the coming years to see higher growth which would reduce and hopefully, eliminate that scarring, which we are currently expecting, the top IMF official said in response to a question.

"If we were to just think about the level of output that it was prior to being a pandemic then that catch happens this year, which is not surprising also given the very high level of the underlying high level of growth which India has. But again, if we compare it to the path of what it would have been without the pandemic then we are getting too many larger gaps there, she said.

Noting that the Indian government took several steps to address the COVID-19 crisis, Brooks said, We have seen policy responses, which have been coordinated and in several areas. We have seen that the fiscal support, the monetary easing as well as the liquidity and regulatory measures that were taken."

What makes sense is to maintain the focus on having that coordinated policy response because this is what's going to prevent long-term damage to the economy. Providing that support to small and medium-sized firms as well as vulnerable houses would be particularly important, she said.

Brooks said the IMF very much welcomes the measures that were announced by India during its budget. It is particularly supportive of maintaining the accommodative fiscal stance and also emphasising expenditures on health and infrastructure.

We estimate that the positive impact of the measures for this fiscal year is going to be of the order of point six percentage points on growth, she said, adding that several measures announced in the budget were in line of the IMF's advice.

Prominent among them are that there would not be a withdrawal of fiscal stimulus at the general government level and also that state governments would be given the temporary flexibility to go over their budget ceilings. And last, but not least, the fact that some of the other budget items on food subsidies were actually brought into the budget. Overall, the IMF is very supportive of this focus on growth.

At the same time, Brooks made a strong case for an additional economic stimulus.

We do think that additional fiscal stimulus would be helpful. Focusing that stimulus again on the most vulnerable is something that makes sense to us. We note that some of the income support schemes were not extended beyond November 2020 and such, she said.

Taking measures in that area would be particularly helpful as well as making sure that there's priority spending on education, the economist noted.

Last, but not least, also ensuring that there is a very concrete medium-term fiscal framework is an area where we can see some room for more work in that area, she said.

Now when it comes to monetary policy, we think that given the underlying slack in the economy, maintaining the accommodative monetary policy stance makes sense. This is what we understand is being planned at the moment.

This has been our long-standing recommendation that we see scope for additional policy measures to address the weaknesses in the financial sector, in the banking part in the non-bank part of the financial sector. We think that this is going to be particularly important as we come out of the crisis to have that efficient credit intermediation, which is going to allow the economy to grow, the IMF official said.

Responding to a question on the stimulus package, Brooks underscored the need to essentially have targeted support for households and for the firms that have been most affected is the most efficient and sensible way to provide that support.

India, which is projected to grow at an impressive rate of 12.5 per cent this year, needs to grow at a much faster pace to make up for the unprecedented contraction of eight per cent that it clocked during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, according to a senior IMF official.

India, which is projected to grow at an impressive rate of 12.5 per cent this year, needs to grow at a much faster pace to make up for the unprecedented contraction of eight per cent that it clocked during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, according to a senior IMF official. The International Monetary Fund Deputy Chief Economist, Petya Koeva Brooks, in an interview to PTI on Friday also made a strong case for an additional economic stimulus to address the impact of the pandemic on the country's economy. "When it comes to India there was a major collapse of output last fiscal year and the number as you mentioned is eight. "So, we are very glad to see the strong rebound this year with projected growth of 12.5 for fiscal year 21-22 and we are seeing also high-frequency indicators including PMI (Purchasing Managers' Index), and trade and more mobility indicators which give us a sense that there is a continued recovery in the first quarter of this year," she said. That said, there are some recent emergencies of the new variants in the localised lockdowns that are seen as one of the threats to this recovery, Brooks noted. On the recovery itself, when it comes to the level in terms of the level of output, we are expecting that level to return to the pre-crisis one from 2019 to this fiscal year. That is what we have in our projections. "However, if you look at a concept of scarring, which just compares what the level of output would have been hadn't there been a crisis in 2024, which is the measure which we are using. Then at and compare where our current growth trajectory is for India that gap is much larger, Brooks said. The gap, she said, which is eight per cent of GDP is significantly larger than what it is for the world as a whole. "For the world as a whole it's about three (per cent), which is another way of saying that even though in the near term we have this real rebound, there's still scope in the coming years to see higher growth which would reduce and hopefully, eliminate that scarring, which we are currently expecting, the top IMF official said in response to a question. "If we were to just think about the level of output that it was prior to being a pandemic then that catch happens this year, which is not surprising also given the very high level of the underlying high level of growth which India has. But again, if we compare it to the path of what it would have been without the pandemic then we are getting too many larger gaps there, she said. Noting that the Indian government took several steps to address the COVID-19 crisis, Brooks said, We have seen policy responses, which have been coordinated and in several areas. We have seen that the fiscal support, the monetary easing as well as the liquidity and regulatory measures that were taken." What makes sense is to maintain the focus on having that coordinated policy response because this is what's going to prevent long-term damage to the economy. Providing that support to small and medium-sized firms as well as vulnerable houses would be particularly important, she said. Brooks said the IMF very much welcomes the measures that were announced by India during its budget. It is particularly supportive of maintaining the accommodative fiscal stance and also emphasising expenditures on health and infrastructure. We estimate that the positive impact of the measures for this fiscal year is going to be of the order of point six percentage points on growth, she said, adding that several measures announced in the budget were in line of the IMF's advice. Prominent among them are that there would not be a withdrawal of fiscal stimulus at the general government level and also that state governments would be given the temporary flexibility to go over their budget ceilings. And last, but not least, the fact that some of the other budget items on food subsidies were actually brought into the budget. Overall, the IMF is very supportive of this focus on growth. At the same time, Brooks made a strong case for an additional economic stimulus. We do think that additional fiscal stimulus would be helpful. Focusing that stimulus again on the most vulnerable is something that makes sense to us. We note that some of the income support schemes were not extended beyond November 2020 and such, she said. Taking measures in that area would be particularly helpful as well as making sure that there's priority spending on education, the economist noted. Last, but not least, also ensuring that there is a very concrete medium-term fiscal framework is an area where we can see some room for more work in that area, she said. Now when it comes to monetary policy, we think that given the underlying slack in the economy, maintaining the accommodative monetary policy stance makes sense. This is what we understand is being planned at the moment. This has been our long-standing recommendation that we see scope for additional policy measures to address the weaknesses in the financial sector, in the banking part in the non-bank part of the financial sector. We think that this is going to be particularly important as we come out of the crisis to have that efficient credit intermediation, which is going to allow the economy to grow, the IMF official said. Responding to a question on the stimulus package, Brooks underscored the need to essentially have targeted support for households and for the firms that have been most affected is the most efficient and sensible way to provide that support.

India needs to grow faster to make up for contraction during Covid-19: IMF

In India, the daily COVID-19 case count has scaled a new peak. The country has reported a daily surge of over 1145,384 cases in the last 24 hours.

India: 145,384 new cases & 794 deaths In last 24 hours

UEFA have given four European Championship host cities, at risk of being replaced, ten days to come up with further details of their plans for fan access to games after they failed to commit to allowing supporters into the stadiums. 
 
Munich, Rome, Bilbao, Dublin have been given the extra time to come up with more details before a final decision is made at UEFA`s executive committee meeting on whether they will remain hosts at Euro 2020. 
 
"The remaining four cities have until 19 April to provide additional information on their plans and final decisions will be made on that date regarding the staging of matches in those four venues," European soccer`s governing body said in a statement. 
 
The eight other host venues for the tournament, which starts on June 11, had given varying levels of planned or expected capacity as part of their plans. 
 
"Currently, eight host countries have confirmed stadium capacities based on their projections of an improved health situation in their countries in June and July due to a number of factors, including a country’s vaccination rollout, its planned measures for reopening the economy and the projected slow-down in the virus due to warmer season," UEFA said. 
 
Only one city, Budapest, has said it is aiming to have its stadium at full capacity -- the 67,000 capacity Puskas Arena -- albeit with "strict" entry requirements. 
 
St. Petersburg confirmed to UEFA a capacity of 50%, with the possibility of increasing that by the end of April. 
 
Baku has told UEFA if it can offer a capacity of 50%, with the travelling fans of the participating teams required to present a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Azerbaijan. 
 
Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen and Glasgow have confirmed a capacity of 25%-33%, with all but the Scottish city keeping open the option open to raise their levels depending on the development of their mass testing programmes and the overall pandemic situation. 
 
London has confirmed a minimum capacity of 25% for the three group matches and last 16 game it will host but the UK government`s `roadmap` could allow for a much higher capacity for the semi-finals and July 11 final. 
&nbsp;

UEFA have given four European Championship host cities, at risk of being replaced, ten days to come up with further details of their plans for fan access to games after they failed to commit to allowing supporters into the stadiums.

UEFA have given four European Championship host cities, at risk of being replaced, ten days to come up with further details of their plans for fan access to games after they failed to commit to allowing supporters into the stadiums. Munich, Rome, Bilbao, Dublin have been given the extra time to come up with more details before a final decision is made at UEFA`s executive committee meeting on whether they will remain hosts at Euro 2020. "The remaining four cities have until 19 April to provide additional information on their plans and final decisions will be made on that date regarding the staging of matches in those four venues," European soccer`s governing body said in a statement. The eight other host venues for the tournament, which starts on June 11, had given varying levels of planned or expected capacity as part of their plans. "Currently, eight host countries have confirmed stadium capacities based on their projections of an improved health situation in their countries in June and July due to a number of factors, including a country’s vaccination rollout, its planned measures for reopening the economy and the projected slow-down in the virus due to warmer season," UEFA said. Only one city, Budapest, has said it is aiming to have its stadium at full capacity -- the 67,000 capacity Puskas Arena -- albeit with "strict" entry requirements. St. Petersburg confirmed to UEFA a capacity of 50%, with the possibility of increasing that by the end of April. Baku has told UEFA if it can offer a capacity of 50%, with the travelling fans of the participating teams required to present a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Azerbaijan. Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen and Glasgow have confirmed a capacity of 25%-33%, with all but the Scottish city keeping open the option open to raise their levels depending on the development of their mass testing programmes and the overall pandemic situation. London has confirmed a minimum capacity of 25% for the three group matches and last 16 game it will host but the UK government`s `roadmap` could allow for a much higher capacity for the semi-finals and July 11 final.

Euro 2020: UEFA give four host cities 10 days for more detail

Former Italy captain and the national team`s technical coach Daniele De Rossi has been hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19 during last month`s World Cup qualifiers, Sky Italy reported on Friday. 
 
The former AS Roma midfielder, who is fourth on Italy`s all-time appearance list having played 117 times for the Azzurri, tested positive along with three other staff and several players in the national camp during the international break. 
 
Sky reported De Rossi, 37, is under observation at the Roman Institute for Infectious Diseases as a precaution. 
 
The players who tested positive are Federico Bernardeschi, Leonardo Bonucci, Alessio Cragno, Vincenzo Grifo, Alessandro Florenzi, Marco Verratti, Matteo Pessina and Salvatore Sirigu. 
 
De Rossi, who ended his 18-year playing career in January 2020 after a short stint with Argentine side Boca Juniors, joined Italy coach Roberto Mancini`s staff last month.

Former Italy captain and the national team`s technical coach Daniele De Rossi has been hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19 during last month`s World Cup qualifiers, Sky Italy reported on Friday.

Former Italy captain and the national team`s technical coach Daniele De Rossi has been hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19 during last month`s World Cup qualifiers, Sky Italy reported on Friday. The former AS Roma midfielder, who is fourth on Italy`s all-time appearance list having played 117 times for the Azzurri, tested positive along with three other staff and several players in the national camp during the international break. Sky reported De Rossi, 37, is under observation at the Roman Institute for Infectious Diseases as a precaution. The players who tested positive are Federico Bernardeschi, Leonardo Bonucci, Alessio Cragno, Vincenzo Grifo, Alessandro Florenzi, Marco Verratti, Matteo Pessina and Salvatore Sirigu. De Rossi, who ended his 18-year playing career in January 2020 after a short stint with Argentine side Boca Juniors, joined Italy coach Roberto Mancini`s staff last month.

Italy coach De Rossi in hospital after testing positive for COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the meeting, he said that those who want to do politics are already doing it, but he believes in serving the people of India at such a difficult time.

In his interaction with chief ministers to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the ongoing vaccination drive, Modi said he is confident that all CMs, taking all parties and people together, would change the situation in their respective states.

"As far as doing or not doing politics is concerned, I am seeing from day one and I have been putting up with all kinds of statements without joining the issue myself because I believe that serving the people of India is our responsibility," Modi said.

"God has entrusted us this responsibility to serve the people in this difficult situation, we have to fulfil this. Those who want to do politics are already doing it, I don't want to say anything to them," he said.

The Congress-led opposition has criticised the government over its handling of the COVID-19 and the vaccination drive, while the Centre has maintained that its timely steps have been instrumental in effectively dealing with the pandemic.

Also, while some states have flagged a "shortage" of vaccine doses, the Centre has maintained that sufficient quantity of the jabs has been allocated to all the states and that many of them have been unable to inoculate all eligible beneficiaries.

In his remarks, Modi called for 100 per cent vaccination of 45 years plus population in the high caseload districts.

He also stressed on Dawai Bhi, Kadai Bhi (medicines as well as strict preventive measures)", and urged people not to compromise on that.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with all chief ministers on the Covid-19 situation in India. The meeting comes at a time when India is facing a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. During the meeting, he said that those who want to do politics are already doing it, but he believes in serving the people of India at such a difficult time. In his interaction with chief ministers to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the ongoing vaccination drive, Modi said he is confident that all CMs, taking all parties and people together, would change the situation in their respective states. "As far as doing or not doing politics is concerned, I am seeing from day one and I have been putting up with all kinds of statements without joining the issue myself because I believe that serving the people of India is our responsibility," Modi said. "God has entrusted us this responsibility to serve the people in this difficult situation, we have to fulfil this. Those who want to do politics are already doing it, I don't want to say anything to them," he said. The Congress-led opposition has criticised the government over its handling of the COVID-19 and the vaccination drive, while the Centre has maintained that its timely steps have been instrumental in effectively dealing with the pandemic. Also, while some states have flagged a "shortage" of vaccine doses, the Centre has maintained that sufficient quantity of the jabs has been allocated to all the states and that many of them have been unable to inoculate all eligible beneficiaries. In his remarks, Modi called for 100 per cent vaccination of 45 years plus population in the high caseload districts. He also stressed on Dawai Bhi, Kadai Bhi (medicines as well as strict preventive measures)", and urged people not to compromise on that. (With inputs from agencies)

PM warns against the politicisation of Covid-19 amid verbal duel between Centre, states over vaccine supply

Fans of Kangana Ranaut have to wait a bit longer to see the much-awaited film 'Thalaivi'&nbsp;onscreen. 
 
The film`s release date has been postponed in the wake of the rising number of COVID-19 cases. After the lockdown last year, many filmmakers were awaiting the release of their upcoming films in 2021. But, considering the second wave of coronavirus pandemic, and the situation that the nation is going through, the films which were slated to have a theatrical release soon, have also been postponed. 
 
Akshay Kumar`s `Sooryavanshi`, Amitabh Bachchan- Emraan Hashmi`s `Chehre` are amongst others have been postponed due to the pandemic. 
 
Taking it to their official social media handles, on Friday, the makers posted a picture that read "Dear Audience, WE ARE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL FOR THE TREMENDOUS RESPONSE AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE YOU`VE SHOWN FOR `THALAIVI` TRAILER. As a team, we have sacrificed a lot in making this film and thank every member of the cast and crew who supported us in this challenging but remarkable journey," the message read. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Theater business can only be revived if theatres open 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/thearvindswami?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thearvindswami</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vijay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vijay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vishinduri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vishinduri</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaaileshRSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaaileshRSingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BrindaPrasad1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrindaPrasad1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/neeta_lulla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@neeta_lulla</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HiteshThakkar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HiteshThakkar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/urstirumalreddy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@urstirumalreddy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajatArora?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajatArora</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BhushanKumar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BhushanKumar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KarmaMediaEnt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KarmaMediaent</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TSeries?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vibri_media?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vibri_media</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ZeeStudios_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZeeStudios_</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SprintFilms?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SprintFilms</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GothicEntertainment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GothicEntertainment</a> <a href="https://t.co/HZnkgFo3Au">pic.twitter.com/HZnkgFo3Au</a>
— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/KanganaTeam/status/1380510675194286081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Extending their support to the government, the makers wrote, "With an alarming rise in COVID 19 cases, subsequent precautions and lockdowns, even though our film is ready for release on 23rd April, we want to extend all the support towards the government rules and regulations and have decided to postpone the release of Thalaivi." 
 
On February 24, the day that marks Jayalalithaa`s birth anniversary, makers announced the release date of Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Thalaivi`. The biopic on the life of Tamil Nadu`s most celebrated and loved actress-turned-politician was slated to hit the big screens on April 23 this year. 
 
 
Helmed by A. L. Vijay, `Thalaivi` is an upcoming Indian multilingual Indian biographical film that will be released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.` Thalaivi` is written by `Baahubali` and `Manikarnika` writer KV Vijayendra Prasad and `The Dirty Picture` and `Once Upon a Time in Mumbai` writer Rajat Arora. 
 
The film is produced by Vishnu Vardhan Induri and Shailesh R Singh under their respective banners Vibri Media, Karma Media and Entertainment in association with Gothic Entertainment and Sprint films.

Fans of Kangana Ranaut have to wait a bit longer to see the much-awaited film 'Thalaivi' onscreen. The film`s release date has been postponed in the wake of the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

Fans of Kangana Ranaut have to wait a bit longer to see the much-awaited film 'Thalaivi' onscreen. The film`s release date has been postponed in the wake of the rising number of COVID-19 cases. After the lockdown last year, many filmmakers were awaiting the release of their upcoming films in 2021. But, considering the second wave of coronavirus pandemic, and the situation that the nation is going through, the films which were slated to have a theatrical release soon, have also been postponed. Akshay Kumar`s `Sooryavanshi`, Amitabh Bachchan- Emraan Hashmi`s `Chehre` are amongst others have been postponed due to the pandemic. Taking it to their official social media handles, on Friday, the makers posted a picture that read "Dear Audience, WE ARE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL FOR THE TREMENDOUS RESPONSE AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE YOU`VE SHOWN FOR `THALAIVI` TRAILER. As a team, we have sacrificed a lot in making this film and thank every member of the cast and crew who supported us in this challenging but remarkable journey," the message read. Theater business can only be revived if theatres open 🙏@thearvindswami #Vijay @vishinduri @ShaaileshRSingh @BrindaPrasad1 @neeta_lulla #HiteshThakkar @urstirumalreddy #RajatArora #BhushanKumar @KarmaMediaent @TSeries @vibri_media @ZeeStudios_ #SprintFilms #GothicEntertainment pic.twitter.com/HZnkgFo3Au — Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) April 9, 2021 × Extending their support to the government, the makers wrote, "With an alarming rise in COVID 19 cases, subsequent precautions and lockdowns, even though our film is ready for release on 23rd April, we want to extend all the support towards the government rules and regulations and have decided to postpone the release of Thalaivi." On February 24, the day that marks Jayalalithaa`s birth anniversary, makers announced the release date of Kangana Ranaut starrer 'Thalaivi`. The biopic on the life of Tamil Nadu`s most celebrated and loved actress-turned-politician was slated to hit the big screens on April 23 this year. Helmed by A. L. Vijay, `Thalaivi` is an upcoming Indian multilingual Indian biographical film that will be released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.` Thalaivi` is written by `Baahubali` and `Manikarnika` writer KV Vijayendra Prasad and `The Dirty Picture` and `Once Upon a Time in Mumbai` writer Rajat Arora. The film is produced by Vishnu Vardhan Induri and Shailesh R Singh under their respective banners Vibri Media, Karma Media and Entertainment in association with Gothic Entertainment and Sprint films.

Kangana Ranaut's starrer 'Thalaivi' release gets postponed due to COVID-19

US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers.

According to a 12-month investigation by The Guardian and KHN, over 3,600 US health care workers perished in the first year of the pandemic.

The news organizations have been tracking healthcare worker COVID-19 deaths as part of their 12-month "Lost on the Frontline" project. The project, which launched in April 2020 and closes on April 8, revealed 3,607 healthcare worker deaths in the first year of the pandemic.&nbsp;

For the project, more than 100 reporters examined governmental and private data sources, interviewed those who lost loved ones and spoke to healthcare experts. The 3,607 total includes deaths identified by labour unions, obituaries, media outlets and online postings by family members.

The yearlong series of investigative reports found that many of these deaths could have been prevented. Studies show that health care workers were more than three times as likely to contract covid as the general public.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers.

US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers. According to a 12-month investigation by The Guardian and KHN, over 3,600 US health care workers perished in the first year of the pandemic. The news organizations have been tracking healthcare worker COVID-19 deaths as part of their 12-month "Lost on the Frontline" project. The project, which launched in April 2020 and closes on April 8, revealed 3,607 healthcare worker deaths in the first year of the pandemic. For the project, more than 100 reporters examined governmental and private data sources, interviewed those who lost loved ones and spoke to healthcare experts. The 3,607 total includes deaths identified by labour unions, obituaries, media outlets and online postings by family members. The yearlong series of investigative reports found that many of these deaths could have been prevented. Studies show that health care workers were more than three times as likely to contract covid as the general public. (With inputs from agencies)

One year of Covid-19 outbreak: 3,607 US healthcare workers died in the line of duty

Chennai will witness on Friday the first clash of Indian Premier League 2021, the second avatar of the pandemic-era tournament in eight months, after the 2020 edition had to be postponed to November and moved to UAE.

The inaugural match of the cricketing extravaganza will see the clash between reigning champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Last year's final was held on November 10th in Dubai.

For the Indian players who are national team members, it's been relentless cricket since then. From Dubai, they went straight to Australia for a full-fledged tour. After returning from Australia, they hosted a gruelling series against&nbsp;England. The last game was on March 28th.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vvs-laxman-to-wion-ipl-biggest-game-changer-for-indian-cricket-376128" hreflang="en">VVS Laxman to WION: IPL biggest game-changer for Indian cricket</a>

After that, they went into their respective IPL team camps. First to the bio-secure bubbles, then training, and now, back to action. In short, the pandemic has not stopped the play for them.

But COVID-19 is very much in the minds of cricketers and organisers alike. Several players, some coaches and officials have tested positive for the coronavirus in the past months. There are going to be restrictions on attendance, and calls have been made to relocate matches.

One of the venues is in Mumbai, which is facing one of the worst spikes of Covid cases.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-ms-dhoni-to-imran-tahir-five-oldest-players-in-ipl-2021-375933" hreflang="en">From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021</a>

Matches in Mumbai are scheduled from April 10 to 25, at Wankhede stadium. Some local residents have already written a letter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, asking for a change of location in view of the spike. Though spectators are not allowed, there are concerns about large number of people gathering to see the cricketers passing by in their buses.&nbsp;

There are also worries that the tournament could turn into a super-spreader event.

But the show, it appears, will go on. IPL 2021 will be held in six cities - Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, and Kolkata. The final will be played at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium Ahmedabad on May 30th. &nbsp;

And the Board of Control for Cricket in India is leaving no stones unturned to pull it off.

“COVID-19 cases are increasing, so BCCI has taken all precautions for IPL," assured BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-rabada-to-archer-key-players-set-to-miss-first-ipl-2021-match-of-their-teams-376238" hreflang="en">Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams</a>

"Only six venues have been kept for the tournament, bio-bubble has been created, members of the squad have also been increased. The tournament will go on without any audience,” he added.

The Indian cricketing body has ruled out shifting IPL from Mumbai. But it has put in place a number of restrictions and precautionary measures.

Besides the decision to have no spectators, BCCI will ensure that the squads, support staff and other stakeholders are in bio-bubbles till the tournament finishes. There will be 'bio-bubble enforcers' and Covid tests on a regular basis for all involved in the event.

Check-in counters specifically for the IPL squads and support staff have been requested at airports of the hosting cities. &nbsp;

Bio-bubble integrity officers will make it mandatory for players and staff to wear masks before leaving hotel rooms. They will have to wear masks in order to use the common areas of the hotels. It will be ensured that they wear masks before leaving the grounds.

A few players and officials have already tested positive for the dreaded virus.&nbsp;This includes former India wicketkeeper Kiran More&nbsp;and Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Australian all-rounder Daniel Sams.

In spite of the odds, BCCI is hoping to repeat the feat it pulled off in the UAE last year.&nbsp;

It's indeed all fingers crossed, for bringing to you what was known as the father of all entertainment.

Chennai will witness on Friday the first clash of Indian Premier League 2021, the second avatar of the pandemic-era tournament in eight months, after the 2020 edition had to be postponed to November and moved to UAE.

Chennai will witness on Friday the first clash of Indian Premier League 2021, the second avatar of the pandemic-era tournament in eight months, after the 2020 edition had to be postponed to November and moved to UAE. The inaugural match of the cricketing extravaganza will see the clash between reigning champions Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Last year's final was held on November 10th in Dubai. For the Indian players who are national team members, it's been relentless cricket since then. From Dubai, they went straight to Australia for a full-fledged tour. After returning from Australia, they hosted a gruelling series against England. The last game was on March 28th. ALSO READ: VVS Laxman to WION: IPL biggest game-changer for Indian cricket After that, they went into their respective IPL team camps. First to the bio-secure bubbles, then training, and now, back to action. In short, the pandemic has not stopped the play for them. But COVID-19 is very much in the minds of cricketers and organisers alike. Several players, some coaches and officials have tested positive for the coronavirus in the past months. There are going to be restrictions on attendance, and calls have been made to relocate matches. One of the venues is in Mumbai, which is facing one of the worst spikes of Covid cases. IN PICS | From MS Dhoni to Imran Tahir: Five oldest players in IPL 2021 Matches in Mumbai are scheduled from April 10 to 25, at Wankhede stadium. Some local residents have already written a letter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, asking for a change of location in view of the spike. Though spectators are not allowed, there are concerns about large number of people gathering to see the cricketers passing by in their buses. There are also worries that the tournament could turn into a super-spreader event. But the show, it appears, will go on. IPL 2021 will be held in six cities - Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, and Kolkata. The final will be played at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium Ahmedabad on May 30th. And the Board of Control for Cricket in India is leaving no stones unturned to pull it off. “COVID-19 cases are increasing, so BCCI has taken all precautions for IPL," assured BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla ALSO READ: Key players set to miss first IPL 2021 match of their teams "Only six venues have been kept for the tournament, bio-bubble has been created, members of the squad have also been increased. The tournament will go on without any audience,” he added. The Indian cricketing body has ruled out shifting IPL from Mumbai. But it has put in place a number of restrictions and precautionary measures. Besides the decision to have no spectators, BCCI will ensure that the squads, support staff and other stakeholders are in bio-bubbles till the tournament finishes. There will be 'bio-bubble enforcers' and Covid tests on a regular basis for all involved in the event. Check-in counters specifically for the IPL squads and support staff have been requested at airports of the hosting cities. Bio-bubble integrity officers will make it mandatory for players and staff to wear masks before leaving hotel rooms. They will have to wear masks in order to use the common areas of the hotels. It will be ensured that they wear masks before leaving the grounds. A few players and officials have already tested positive for the dreaded virus. This includes former India wicketkeeper Kiran More and Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Australian all-rounder Daniel Sams. In spite of the odds, BCCI is hoping to repeat the feat it pulled off in the UAE last year. It's indeed all fingers crossed, for bringing to you what was known as the father of all entertainment.

Show must go on: How will BCCI pull off IPL 2021, the second tournament in the pandemic era?

As the number of covid-19 cases is growing again across the world, it’s more important than ever to be safe and follow guidelines. It’s easy to get complacent – experts call it “disaster fatigue” – and we’re all guilty of it sometimes.

Day by day scientists are learning more about long hauler syndrome, formally referred to as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) with the hopes of eventually being able to treat it.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said there is no significant risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching surfaces and objects.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazil-covid-19-update-mutant-virus-wreaks-havoc-4195-people-died-in-24-hrs-375858/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The CDC issued guidance recently clarifying that direct contact with a sick person or through airborne transmission remains the primary cause of coronavirus’ spread.

Medics and researchers working on the coronavirus are saying that the second wave of the virus is reporting a change in the way the infection is developing symptoms.

The known symptoms identified by the global researchers are:

Fever 
Cough 
Chills 
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing 
Repeated shaking with chills 
Muscle or body aches 
Headache 
Sore throat 
New loss of taste or smell

As more cases now emerge, it is being advised that any unusual development or symptom should not be ruled out and demands testing.&nbsp;

These signs demand attention and diagnosis at once:

Conjuntivitis/Pink Eyes:&nbsp;

Conjunctivitis, aka pink eye, was linked to COVID-19 early in the pandemic. It is defined as an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball.

Dysfunction of Eustachian Tube/Hearing loss:

If the auditory tube is dysfunctional, symptoms such as muffled hearing, pain, tinnitus, reduced hearing. All of these symptoms have been linked to post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

Gastrointestinal Disorders:&nbsp;

Gastrointestinal symptoms can vary in intensity from very mild to serious. If you’re experiencing the symptoms&nbsp;over and over again or if they cause you significant discomfort, you must get yourself tested.

As the number of covid-19 cases is growing again across the world, it’s more important than ever to be safe and follow guidelines. It’s easy to get complacent – experts call it “disaster fatigue” – and we’re all guilty of it sometimes.

As the number of covid-19 cases is growing again across the world, it’s more important than ever to be safe and follow guidelines. It’s easy to get complacent – experts call it “disaster fatigue” – and we’re all guilty of it sometimes. Day by day scientists are learning more about long hauler syndrome, formally referred to as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) with the hopes of eventually being able to treat it. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said there is no significant risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching surfaces and objects. The CDC issued guidance recently clarifying that direct contact with a sick person or through airborne transmission remains the primary cause of coronavirus’ spread. Medics and researchers working on the coronavirus are saying that the second wave of the virus is reporting a change in the way the infection is developing symptoms. The known symptoms identified by the global researchers are: Fever Cough Chills Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Repeated shaking with chills Muscle or body aches Headache Sore throat New loss of taste or smell As more cases now emerge, it is being advised that any unusual development or symptom should not be ruled out and demands testing. These signs demand attention and diagnosis at once: Conjuntivitis/Pink Eyes: Conjunctivitis, aka pink eye, was linked to COVID-19 early in the pandemic. It is defined as an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. Dysfunction of Eustachian Tube/Hearing loss: If the auditory tube is dysfunctional, symptoms such as muffled hearing, pain, tinnitus, reduced hearing. All of these symptoms have been linked to post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Gastrointestinal Disorders: Gastrointestinal symptoms can vary in intensity from very mild to serious. If you’re experiencing the symptoms over and over again or if they cause you significant discomfort, you must get yourself tested.

These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly

In an open letter, 24 scientists and researchers from Europe, the United States, Australia and Japan said the study was tainted by politics.

24 scientists ask China to disclose Covid report info

Scientists call for new probe into Covid-19 origins

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections.

The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.80 million, health ministry data showed. In the last 24 hours, 630 deaths were recorded, taking the total to 166,177.

On Tuesday, the national capital New Delhi initiated a curfew set to last till April 30 as cases continue to surge. The curfew prohibits movement of people between 10 pm and 5 am.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-surpasses-3-million-amid-resurgence-of-infections-375787" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence of infections</a>

India had become the third country to record over 100,000 new cases in a day after the United States and Brazil on Monday.&nbsp; The number of fresh cases dipped slightly on Tuesday when over 96,000 new cases were recorded.

Vaccination is currently underway across the country. The drive kicked off on January 16 and priority was given to healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/filipino-man-who-flouted-coronavirus-rules-dies-after-exercise-punishment-375669" hreflang="en">Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment'</a>

The second phase began on March 1 which allowed inoculation of people aged 60 and above, and also those who fall in the age group between 49-59 with co-morbidities.

Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months.

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections. The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.

India reported 115,736 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, setting a new daily record for the country witnessing another wave of infections. The total cases in the country have gone up to 12.80 million, health ministry data showed. In the last 24 hours, 630 deaths were recorded, taking the total to 166,177. On Tuesday, the national capital New Delhi initiated a curfew set to last till April 30 as cases continue to surge. The curfew prohibits movement of people between 10 pm and 5 am. Also read: Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence of infections India had become the third country to record over 100,000 new cases in a day after the United States and Brazil on Monday. The number of fresh cases dipped slightly on Tuesday when over 96,000 new cases were recorded. Vaccination is currently underway across the country. The drive kicked off on January 16 and priority was given to healthcare and frontline workers in the first phase. Also read: Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment' The second phase began on March 1 which allowed inoculation of people aged 60 and above, and also those who fall in the age group between 49-59 with co-morbidities. Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months.

India reports over 100,000 fresh coronavirus cases for second time in a week

A new study sheds light on how COVID-19 affects the neurological health of recovered patients. Turns out, one in three people who recover from COVID-19 suffer a neurological or psychiatric&nbsp;diagnosis six months later, the study published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal on Wednesday said.

The study took into account health records of over 230,000 patients who had recovered from COVID-19. They found that 34 per cent patients were diagnosed with a psychiatric condition within six months.&nbsp;

Most patients reported anxiety, with 17 per cent claiming the same while 14 per cent reported mood disorders. For 13 per cent patients who reported mental health issues, these were first diagnoses of a mental issue for them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/body-weight-bad-cholesterol-new-risk-factors-for-coronavirus-375715" hreflang="en">Body weight, 'bad' cholesterol new risk factors for coronavirus</a>

Neurological disorders were less prevalent. Brain haemorrhage accounted for 0.6 per cent, stroke for 2.1 per cent, and dementia for 0.7 per cent, suggesting the risk of neurological issues was lower than psychiatric&nbsp;disorders.

Even then, the risk of brain disorders was higher among patients who had severe COVID-19. 46 per cent patients who required intensive care were diagnosed with neurological or psychiatric conditions within the span of 6 months after recovering.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/transmission-of-covid-19-from-surfaces-constitutes-low-risk-cdc-says-375644" hreflang="en">Transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces constitutes low risk, CDC says</a>

AFP cited Paul Harrison, the leader author of the study from the University of Oxford as saying that even the individual risk of developing issues was low, the overall effect could be “substantial”. Harrison also said that “many of these conditions are chronic”.

"As a result, health care systems need to be resourced to deal with the anticipated need, both within primary and secondary care services”, he added.

A new study sheds light on how COVID-19 affects the neurological health of recovered patients. Turns out, one in three people who recover from COVID-19 suffer a neurological or psychiatric diagnosis six months later, the study published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal on Wednesday said.

A new study sheds light on how COVID-19 affects the neurological health of recovered patients. Turns out, one in three people who recover from COVID-19 suffer a neurological or psychiatric diagnosis six months later, the study published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal on Wednesday said. The study took into account health records of over 230,000 patients who had recovered from COVID-19. They found that 34 per cent patients were diagnosed with a psychiatric condition within six months. Most patients reported anxiety, with 17 per cent claiming the same while 14 per cent reported mood disorders. For 13 per cent patients who reported mental health issues, these were first diagnoses of a mental issue for them. Also read: Body weight, 'bad' cholesterol new risk factors for coronavirus Neurological disorders were less prevalent. Brain haemorrhage accounted for 0.6 per cent, stroke for 2.1 per cent, and dementia for 0.7 per cent, suggesting the risk of neurological issues was lower than psychiatric disorders. Even then, the risk of brain disorders was higher among patients who had severe COVID-19. 46 per cent patients who required intensive care were diagnosed with neurological or psychiatric conditions within the span of 6 months after recovering. Also read: Transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces constitutes low risk, CDC says AFP cited Paul Harrison, the leader author of the study from the University of Oxford as saying that even the individual risk of developing issues was low, the overall effect could be “substantial”. Harrison also said that “many of these conditions are chronic”. "As a result, health care systems need to be resourced to deal with the anticipated need, both within primary and secondary care services”, he added.

New study claims 1 in 3 COVID-19 survivors develop mental, neurological issues

Mexico's health regulator Cofepris has authorized the emergency use of&nbsp;India's COVID-19 vaccine COVAXIN, Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said on Tuesday.

"Very timely decision by COFEPRIS to authorize the emergency use of the COVAXIN vaccine manufactured in&nbsp;India. The options for vaccination against COVID-19 in Mexico are expanding!!!," Ebrard said on Twitter.

(More details awaited)

Mexico's health regulator Cofepris has authorized the emergency use of India's COVID-19 vaccine COVAXIN, Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said on Tuesday.

Mexico's health regulator Cofepris has authorized the emergency use of India's COVID-19 vaccine COVAXIN, Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said on Tuesday. "Very timely decision by COFEPRIS to authorize the emergency use of the COVAXIN vaccine manufactured in India. The options for vaccination against COVID-19 in Mexico are expanding!!!," Ebrard said on Twitter. (More details awaited)

Mexico authorises emergency use of Indian COVID-19 vaccine

Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan&nbsp;50,000 doses of the vaccines&nbsp;and will soon send 150,000 more.

Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, standing alongside Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said in Islamabad,&nbsp;"We have a number of foreign partners to produce the vaccines. Vaccine production is up and running in India, Korea, Belarus, and other countries. So these vaccines can be supplied to Pakistan. As much we can, we will be helping Pakistan to order to cover the demand."

The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which is behind Sputnik V, and Indian company Virchow Biotech have announced an agreement to produce 200 million doses per year of Sputnik V.&nbsp;Pakistan had given approval for Sputnik V in February and was the 22nd country to do so. The two-shot vaccine has an efficacy of 91.6 per cent.

Qureshi said, "Russia is a fairly advance country in health care... We have expressed our interest in commercial import of this vaccine, but keeping in view the population of the country... We feel there are great opportunities of local production, we would be very keen to discuss with Russian to facilitate local production".

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov is in Pakistan for a two-day visit, the first such visit by Russian FM since 2012. During his visit, he held talks with his counterpart Qureshi and called on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan 50,000 doses of the vaccines and will soon send 150,000 more.

Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan 50,000 doses of the vaccines and will soon send 150,000 more. Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, standing alongside Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said in Islamabad, "We have a number of foreign partners to produce the vaccines. Vaccine production is up and running in India, Korea, Belarus, and other countries. So these vaccines can be supplied to Pakistan. As much we can, we will be helping Pakistan to order to cover the demand." The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which is behind Sputnik V, and Indian company Virchow Biotech have announced an agreement to produce 200 million doses per year of Sputnik V. Pakistan had given approval for Sputnik V in February and was the 22nd country to do so. The two-shot vaccine has an efficacy of 91.6 per cent. Qureshi said, "Russia is a fairly advance country in health care... We have expressed our interest in commercial import of this vaccine, but keeping in view the population of the country... We feel there are great opportunities of local production, we would be very keen to discuss with Russian to facilitate local production". Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov is in Pakistan for a two-day visit, the first such visit by Russian FM since 2012. During his visit, he held talks with his counterpart Qureshi and called on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Russia offers vaccines to Pakistan from production lines in India, other countries

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday said there is no significant risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching surfaces and objects. The CDC issued a guidance recently clarifying that direct contact with a sick person or through airborne transmission remains the primary cause of coronavirus’ spread.

“It is possible for people to be infected through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects (fomites), but the risk is generally considered to be low,” the new CDC guideline claims.

In May 2020, the CDC said that COVID-19 “does not spread easily” through coming in contact with surfaces or objects. During the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, CDC had claimed that “it may be possible” to pass on the virus from surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/why-thailand-is-prioritising-phuket-for-early-coronavirus-vaccine-rollout-375480" hreflang="en">Why Thailand is prioritising Phuket for early coronavirus vaccine rollout</a>

After the pandemic began, authorities across the globe were pushed into undertaking mass sanitisation programmes. But now the CDC says that disinfectants may not be necessary, and that even simple disinfection seems to be enough to fight COVID-19.

“There is little scientific support for routine use of disinfectants in community settings, whether indoor or outdoor”, the CDC said. “In most situations, cleaning surfaces using soap or detergent, and not disinfecting, is enough to reduce risk”, the agency added.

The CDC director Dr Rochelle Walensky introduced the guidelines during a White House coronavirus briefing on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/first-case-of-indian-coronavirus-variant-found-in-united-states-375384" hreflang="en">First case of Indian coronavirus variant found in United States</a>

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday said there is no significant risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching surfaces and objects. The CDC issued a guidance recently clarifying that direct contact with a sick person or through airborne transmission remains the primary cause of coronavirus’ spread.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday said there is no significant risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching surfaces and objects. The CDC issued a guidance recently clarifying that direct contact with a sick person or through airborne transmission remains the primary cause of coronavirus’ spread. “It is possible for people to be infected through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects (fomites), but the risk is generally considered to be low,” the new CDC guideline claims. In May 2020, the CDC said that COVID-19 “does not spread easily” through coming in contact with surfaces or objects. During the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, CDC had claimed that “it may be possible” to pass on the virus from surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus. Also read: Why Thailand is prioritising Phuket for early coronavirus vaccine rollout After the pandemic began, authorities across the globe were pushed into undertaking mass sanitisation programmes. But now the CDC says that disinfectants may not be necessary, and that even simple disinfection seems to be enough to fight COVID-19. “There is little scientific support for routine use of disinfectants in community settings, whether indoor or outdoor”, the CDC said. “In most situations, cleaning surfaces using soap or detergent, and not disinfecting, is enough to reduce risk”, the agency added. The CDC director Dr Rochelle Walensky introduced the guidelines during a White House coronavirus briefing on Monday. Also read: First case of Indian coronavirus variant found in United States

Transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces constitutes low risk, CDC says

A night curfew has been imposed in Delhi starting April 6 upto April 30 in the wake of increasing coronavirus cases which constitutes what many are calling the second-wave of infections in the country.&nbsp;

With immediate effect, a curfew would be put in place from 10 pm to 5 am to limit the spread of infection, the Delhi Government announced on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported.

On Monday, the country crossed the 100,000 daily infection mark for the first time since the pandemic began. Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months.

On Monday, Delhi reported 3,548 new cases of COVID-19 along with 2,936 recoveries and 15 deaths. The national capital has recorded 6,79,962 cases so far, and currently has 14,589 active cases.

On Tuesday, India reported 96,982 new cases of coronavirus, as per data from the Union Health Ministry.

(more details awaited)

A night curfew has been imposed in Delhi starting April 6 upto April 30 in the wake of increasing coronavirus cases which constitutes what many are calling the second-wave of infections in the country.

A night curfew has been imposed in Delhi starting April 6 upto April 30 in the wake of increasing coronavirus cases which constitutes what many are calling the second-wave of infections in the country. With immediate effect, a curfew would be put in place from 10 pm to 5 am to limit the spread of infection, the Delhi Government announced on Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. On Monday, the country crossed the 100,000 daily infection mark for the first time since the pandemic began. Last year, a nationwide lockdown was imposed to prevent mass transmission. Now, cases are rising again after the country witnessed a fall over the winter months. On Monday, Delhi reported 3,548 new cases of COVID-19 along with 2,936 recoveries and 15 deaths. The national capital has recorded 6,79,962 cases so far, and currently has 14,589 active cases. On Tuesday, India reported 96,982 new cases of coronavirus, as per data from the Union Health Ministry. (more details awaited)

Delhi imposes night curfew till April 30 as COVID-19 cases continue to rise

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 131.6 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.85 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. 
 
In its latest update on Tuesday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 131,696,594 and 2,859,357, respectively. 
 
The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 30,777,338 and 555,403, respectively, according to the CSSE. 
 
Brazil follows in the second place with 13,013,601 cases and 332,752 fatalities. 
 
The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are India (12,589,067), France (4,893,971), Russia (4,538,101), the UK (4,376,629), Italy (3,678,944), Turkey (3,529,601), Spain (3,311,325), Germany (2,903,036), Colombia (2,456,409), Poland (2,448,463), Argentina (2,407,159) and Mexico (2,250,458), the CSSE figures showed. 
 
In terms of deaths, Mexico comes in the third place with 204,147 fatalities. 
 
Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are India (165,101), the UK (127,106), Italy (111,326), Russia (99,049), France (97,005), Germany (77,070), Spain (75,783), Colombia (64,293), Iran (63,332), Argentina (56,471), Poland (55,005), Peru (53,138) and South Africa (52,995).

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 131.6 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.85 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 131.6 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.85 million, according to the Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Tuesday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 131,696,594 and 2,859,357, respectively. The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 30,777,338 and 555,403, respectively, according to the CSSE. Brazil follows in the second place with 13,013,601 cases and 332,752 fatalities. The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are India (12,589,067), France (4,893,971), Russia (4,538,101), the UK (4,376,629), Italy (3,678,944), Turkey (3,529,601), Spain (3,311,325), Germany (2,903,036), Colombia (2,456,409), Poland (2,448,463), Argentina (2,407,159) and Mexico (2,250,458), the CSSE figures showed. In terms of deaths, Mexico comes in the third place with 204,147 fatalities. Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are India (165,101), the UK (127,106), Italy (111,326), Russia (99,049), France (97,005), Germany (77,070), Spain (75,783), Colombia (64,293), Iran (63,332), Argentina (56,471), Poland (55,005), Peru (53,138) and South Africa (52,995).

Global COVID-19 caseload tops 131.6 million

The contagious COVID-19 variant first identified in the United Kingdom has now spread to all 50 states in the US. Experts believe that this variant could exponentially shoot up the number of cases in the country which is already the worst-affected in the world.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-finds-uk-covid-19-variant-has-higher-mortality-rate-369630/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The B.1.1.7 variant from the UK has infected over 15,000 people in the country, and is also more deadly than the original strain. The world is currently racing against time to quickly inoculate populations so that another wave could be averted.

CNN quoted &nbsp;Dr Michael Osterholm, director for the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota as saying that the current vaccines are effective against the variants. But the US may not be able to inoculate every one in time to prevent another outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-mask-high-profile-gatherings-in-paris-under-probe-after-expose-375659" hreflang="en">'No mask' high-profile gatherings in Paris under probe after exposé</a>

The US is vaccinating five times quicker than the global average, and over 40 per cent adults have received at least the first shot.&nbsp;

Osterholm warned that lower income countries with not enough vaccine supplies could become the source of more variants, which could become uncontrollable.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/filipino-man-who-flouted-coronavirus-rules-dies-after-exercise-punishment-375669" hreflang="en">Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment'</a>

On Monday, the White House announced that by the end of May, the country would have enough vaccines for all Americans. Many states have begun planning a return to normalcy.

So far, the US has recorded 30.8 million cases of COVID-19 - the highest in the world. Over 555,000 people in the country have succumbed to the virus. In the last 24 hours, over 76,000 cases were recorded across the US. The virus has killed 2.86 million people globally.

The contagious COVID-19 variant first identified in the United Kingdom has now spread to all 50 states in the US. Experts believe that this variant could exponentially shoot up the number of cases in the country which is already the worst-affected in the world.

The contagious COVID-19 variant first identified in the United Kingdom has now spread to all 50 states in the US. Experts believe that this variant could exponentially shoot up the number of cases in the country which is already the worst-affected in the world. The B.1.1.7 variant from the UK has infected over 15,000 people in the country, and is also more deadly than the original strain. The world is currently racing against time to quickly inoculate populations so that another wave could be averted. CNN quoted Dr Michael Osterholm, director for the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota as saying that the current vaccines are effective against the variants. But the US may not be able to inoculate every one in time to prevent another outbreak. Also read: 'No mask' high-profile gatherings in Paris under probe after exposé The US is vaccinating five times quicker than the global average, and over 40 per cent adults have received at least the first shot. Osterholm warned that lower income countries with not enough vaccine supplies could become the source of more variants, which could become uncontrollable. Also read: Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment' On Monday, the White House announced that by the end of May, the country would have enough vaccines for all Americans. Many states have begun planning a return to normalcy. So far, the US has recorded 30.8 million cases of COVID-19 - the highest in the world. Over 555,000 people in the country have succumbed to the virus. In the last 24 hours, over 76,000 cases were recorded across the US. The virus has killed 2.86 million people globally.

Deadly UK variant is now circulating among all 50 states in US

Bollywood actor Bhumi Pednekar on Tuesday thanked her fans for their love and wishes after she recently tested positive for the novel coronavirus. 
 
The actor also urged everyone to follow the COVID-19 safety protocols. 
 
The `Bala` actor took to her Instagram handle and posted a story that read, "Hello all... Am so overwhelmed by all the love that`s being poured in.. thank you for keeping me in your prayers. Sorry I haven`t had a chance to reply back to your messages, calls or dms. 
 
I`ve spent yesterday sleeping and recovering."She further requested people to practice caution and added, "Just want to say, stay home and step out only if it`s really necessary. Follow protocol. Trust me this is a lot harder than you can imagine. You don`t want to get sick. # COVID 19. 
 
"Bhumi had tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday and is currently under home quarantine for recovery. 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

 
 
The second wave of coronavirus has infected a lot of people and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood, an array of celebrities have got infected within a span of a few weeks. 
 
Recently, Vicky Kaushal, Akshay Kumar, Govinda, Paresh Rawal, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and Rohit Saraf, among others had tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier, actors Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, and some others were infected with the virus. 
 
In March 2020, Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who rose to fame with her song `Baby Doll`, became the first Bollywood celebrity to get infected with COVID-19. 
 
Meanwhile, on the work front, the 31-year-old actor, who was last seen in Amazon Prime`s horror thriller `Durgamati`, will be soon seen in her upcoming rom-com drama `Badhaai Do` opposite Rajkummar Rao. 
 
The movie directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni is slated for a September release this year. Besides this, she also has Karan Johar`s multi-starrer `Takht` in the pipeline. (ANI)

Bollywood actor Bhumi Pednekar on Tuesday thanked her fans for their love and wishes after she recently tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The actor also urged everyone to follow the COVID-19 safety protocols.

Bollywood actor Bhumi Pednekar on Tuesday thanked her fans for their love and wishes after she recently tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The actor also urged everyone to follow the COVID-19 safety protocols. The `Bala` actor took to her Instagram handle and posted a story that read, "Hello all... Am so overwhelmed by all the love that`s being poured in.. thank you for keeping me in your prayers. Sorry I haven`t had a chance to reply back to your messages, calls or dms. I`ve spent yesterday sleeping and recovering."She further requested people to practice caution and added, "Just want to say, stay home and step out only if it`s really necessary. Follow protocol. Trust me this is a lot harder than you can imagine. You don`t want to get sick. # COVID 19. "Bhumi had tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday and is currently under home quarantine for recovery. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhumi 🌻 (@bhumipednekar) × The second wave of coronavirus has infected a lot of people and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood, an array of celebrities have got infected within a span of a few weeks. Recently, Vicky Kaushal, Akshay Kumar, Govinda, Paresh Rawal, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and Rohit Saraf, among others had tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier, actors Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, and some others were infected with the virus. In March 2020, Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor, who rose to fame with her song `Baby Doll`, became the first Bollywood celebrity to get infected with COVID-19. Meanwhile, on the work front, the 31-year-old actor, who was last seen in Amazon Prime`s horror thriller `Durgamati`, will be soon seen in her upcoming rom-com drama `Badhaai Do` opposite Rajkummar Rao. The movie directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni is slated for a September release this year. Besides this, she also has Karan Johar`s multi-starrer `Takht` in the pipeline. (ANI)

Bhumi Pednekar thanks fans for 'love' after testing positive for COVID-19

A Filipino man who was flouting coronavirus rules died after being forced to exercise by police as a form of punishment.

Darren Manaog Penaredondo went out to buy water in the Cavity province on Thursday when he was stopped by officers at 6 pm local time, BBC reported.

He was then confronted by police officers who made him do 300 squat-like exercises, according to his family. The next day, he collapsed and died.

The Cavite province is currently under a strict lockdown to prevent further spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

According to the police chief of General Trias city, Marla Solero, there are no physical punishments for those flouting coronavirus curfew rules. He told local media that they only received lectures, and that such punishments would not be tolerated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-mask-high-profile-gatherings-in-paris-under-probe-after-expose-375659" hreflang="en">'No mask' high-profile gatherings in Paris under probe after exposé</a>

His death was announced on Facebook by a relative who said that Penaredondo, along with others who were found flouting the curfew were forced to do 100 squat-like exercises in synchronisation.

If unable to do it in sync, they&nbsp;were made to start from scratch, and owing to this ended up doing 300 exercises.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/transmission-of-covid-19-from-surfaces-constitutes-low-risk-cdc-says-375644" hreflang="en">Transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces constitutes low risk, CDC says</a>

According to Penaredondo’s brother, he came home the next day at 6 am local time in extreme pain. He was reportedly unable to walk and thought it was a simple body ache. A day later, he collapsed and stopped breathing.

Ony Ferrer, the Mayor of General Trias City claims to have ordered a probe into the mishap, describing the alleged punishment as “torture”.

A Filipino man who was flouting coronavirus rules died after being forced to exercise by police as a form of punishment. Darren Manaog Penaredondo went out to buy water in the Cavity province on Thursday when he was stopped by officers at 6 pm local time, BBC reported.

A Filipino man who was flouting coronavirus rules died after being forced to exercise by police as a form of punishment. Darren Manaog Penaredondo went out to buy water in the Cavity province on Thursday when he was stopped by officers at 6 pm local time, BBC reported. He was then confronted by police officers who made him do 300 squat-like exercises, according to his family. The next day, he collapsed and died. The Cavite province is currently under a strict lockdown to prevent further spread of COVID-19. According to the police chief of General Trias city, Marla Solero, there are no physical punishments for those flouting coronavirus curfew rules. He told local media that they only received lectures, and that such punishments would not be tolerated. Also read: 'No mask' high-profile gatherings in Paris under probe after exposé His death was announced on Facebook by a relative who said that Penaredondo, along with others who were found flouting the curfew were forced to do 100 squat-like exercises in synchronisation. If unable to do it in sync, they were made to start from scratch, and owing to this ended up doing 300 exercises. Also read: Transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces constitutes low risk, CDC says According to Penaredondo’s brother, he came home the next day at 6 am local time in extreme pain. He was reportedly unable to walk and thought it was a simple body ache. A day later, he collapsed and stopped breathing. Ony Ferrer, the Mayor of General Trias City claims to have ordered a probe into the mishap, describing the alleged punishment as “torture”.

Filipino man who flouted coronavirus rules dies after 'exercise punishment'

France is currently investigating “clandestine” luxury dinners in Paris in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic after a French television channel alleged the same.

A private channel aired footage recorded from a hidden camera from a high-end restaurant of Paris where no diners and staff members were wearing any masks.

In the aftermath of the revelation, people have expressed outrage over the country’s political elite flouting norms.

For the last five months, all cafes and restaurants in the country have remained closed. Starting Monday, the country also imposed a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of infections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/france-set-to-enter-third-lockdown-amid-coronavirus-surge-375143" hreflang="en">France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge</a>

After the channel aired the footage and the news went national, the hashtag #OnVeutLesNoms (translating into “We Want the Names”) trended on Twitter, with people wondering who all were involved in these parties.

Remy Heitz, a prosecutor from Paris on Sunday said that a criminal probe had been ordered for putting the lives of others at risk.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-will-depend-on-us-soon-macron-assured-france-will-match-britain-vaccine-targets-soon-373926" hreflang="en">'UK will depend on us soon': Macron assured France will match Britain vaccine targets soon</a>

AFP said that the investigations would assess "if these evenings were organised in defiance of health rules and to determine who were the possible organisers and participants."

According to the news agency, removing face masks was considered obligatory. At the venue, the cost of the items on menu would range between $189-578.

France is currently investigating “clandestine” luxury dinners in Paris in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic after a French television channel alleged the same.

France is currently investigating “clandestine” luxury dinners in Paris in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic after a French television channel alleged the same. A private channel aired footage recorded from a hidden camera from a high-end restaurant of Paris where no diners and staff members were wearing any masks. In the aftermath of the revelation, people have expressed outrage over the country’s political elite flouting norms. For the last five months, all cafes and restaurants in the country have remained closed. Starting Monday, the country also imposed a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of infections. Also read: France set to enter third lockdown amid coronavirus surge After the channel aired the footage and the news went national, the hashtag #OnVeutLesNoms (translating into “We Want the Names”) trended on Twitter, with people wondering who all were involved in these parties. Remy Heitz, a prosecutor from Paris on Sunday said that a criminal probe had been ordered for putting the lives of others at risk. Also read: 'UK will depend on us soon': Macron assured France will match Britain vaccine targets soon AFP said that the investigations would assess "if these evenings were organised in defiance of health rules and to determine who were the possible organisers and participants." According to the news agency, removing face masks was considered obligatory. At the venue, the cost of the items on menu would range between $189-578.

'No mask' high-profile gatherings in Paris under probe after exposé

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