The Union Health Ministry on Monday said that a "new landmark" &nbsp;has been reached with the total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossing 30 million-mark in India.

This has been achieved due to expanded diagnostic lab network and facilitation for easy testing across the country, the ministry said.

A total of 30,041,400 samples have been tested until August 16 with 731,697 samples being tested on Sunday, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said.

In a testament to the focussed, consistent and coordinated efforts of the Centre, and the State and UT governments, India has set a new landmark of conducting three crore tests, the Union Health ministry said in a statement.

Expanded diagnostic lab network and facilitation for easy testing across the country have given a substantial boost to the testing capacity, it said.

"With 731,697 tests conducted in the last 24 hours, India is on its resolved drive to increase its testing capacity to 10 lakh tests daily," the ministry said.

Building on this achievement, the Tests Per Million (TPM) have seen a sharp increase to 21,769, it said.

While the cumulative testing rose from 1.2 crore on July 14 to three crore on August 16, the positivity rate has seen a rise from 7.5 per cent to 8.81 per cent in the same period, the statement said.

"Although higher number of tests will push the positivity rate initially, but as the Delhi experience has amply shown, it will eventually lower when combined with other measures such as prompt isolation, tracking and timely clinical management," the ministry said.

Noting that aggressive testing leads to early identification and isolation of COVID-19 positive cases, the ministry said this coupled with efficient clinical treatment brings the fatality rate down.

"Thus, enhanced and timely testing is not only keeping the Positivity Rate low but also the Fatality Rate low," it said.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Union Health Ministry on Monday said that a "new landmark" has been reached with the total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossing 30 million-mark in India.

The Union Health Ministry on Monday said that a "new landmark" has been reached with the total number of tests for detection of COVID-19 crossing 30 million-mark in India. This has been achieved due to expanded diagnostic lab network and facilitation for easy testing across the country, the ministry said. A total of 30,041,400 samples have been tested until August 16 with 731,697 samples being tested on Sunday, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said. In a testament to the focussed, consistent and coordinated efforts of the Centre, and the State and UT governments, India has set a new landmark of conducting three crore tests, the Union Health ministry said in a statement. Expanded diagnostic lab network and facilitation for easy testing across the country have given a substantial boost to the testing capacity, it said. "With 731,697 tests conducted in the last 24 hours, India is on its resolved drive to increase its testing capacity to 10 lakh tests daily," the ministry said. Building on this achievement, the Tests Per Million (TPM) have seen a sharp increase to 21,769, it said. While the cumulative testing rose from 1.2 crore on July 14 to three crore on August 16, the positivity rate has seen a rise from 7.5 per cent to 8.81 per cent in the same period, the statement said. "Although higher number of tests will push the positivity rate initially, but as the Delhi experience has amply shown, it will eventually lower when combined with other measures such as prompt isolation, tracking and timely clinical management," the ministry said. Noting that aggressive testing leads to early identification and isolation of COVID-19 positive cases, the ministry said this coupled with efficient clinical treatment brings the fatality rate down. "Thus, enhanced and timely testing is not only keeping the Positivity Rate low but also the Fatality Rate low," it said. (With inputs from PTI)

COVID-19 tests in India cross 30 million-mark: Health ministry

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 21 million people, with 7.74 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. 
 
According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 21,891,107 confirmed coronavirus cases. 
 
The death count has also surged to 774,160. 
 
Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected, with 5,443,162 coronavirus cases and 170,548 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,359,570 cases and 108,536 deaths, and India (2,702,742 cases, 51,797 deaths). 
 
Meanwhile, The World Health Organization said it was concerned that the novel coronavirus spread was being driven by people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, many of which were unaware they were infected, posing a danger to vulnerable groups. 
 
WHO officials said this month the proportion of younger people among those infected had risen globally, putting at risk vulnerable sectors of the population worldwide, including the elderly and sick people in densely populated areas with weak health services.

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 21 million people, with 7.74 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 21 million people, with 7.74 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 21,891,107 confirmed coronavirus cases. The death count has also surged to 774,160. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected, with 5,443,162 coronavirus cases and 170,548 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,359,570 cases and 108,536 deaths, and India (2,702,742 cases, 51,797 deaths). Meanwhile, The World Health Organization said it was concerned that the novel coronavirus spread was being driven by people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, many of which were unaware they were infected, posing a danger to vulnerable groups. WHO officials said this month the proportion of younger people among those infected had risen globally, putting at risk vulnerable sectors of the population worldwide, including the elderly and sick people in densely populated areas with weak health services. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases exceed 21 million; death toll at 774,160 

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday it was concerned that the novel coronavirus spread was being driven by people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, many of which were unaware they were infected, posing a danger to vulnerable groups.

WHO officials said this month the proportion of younger people among those infected had risen globally, putting at risk vulnerable sectors of the population worldwide, including the elderly and sick people in densely populated areas with weak health services.

"The epidemic is changing," WHO Western Pacific regional director, Takeshi Kasai, told a virtual briefing. "People in their 20s, 30s and 40s are increasingly driving the spread. Many are unaware they are infected."

"This increases the risk of spillovers to the more vulnerable," he added.

A surge in new cases has prompted some countries to re-impose curbs as companies race to find a vaccine for a virus that has battered economies, killed more than 770,000 people and infected nearly 22 million, according to a Reuters tally.

Surges were reported in countries that had appeared to have the virus under control, including Vietnam, which until recently went three months without domestic transmission due to its aggressive mitigation efforts.

"What we are observing is not simply a resurgence. We believe it's a signal that we have entered a new phase of pandemic in the Asia-Pacific," Kasai said.

He said countries were better able to reduce disruption to lives and economies by combining early detection and response to manage infections.

While mutations had been observed, the WHO still saw the virus as "relatively stable", Kasai said.

WHO also reminded drugmakers to follow all necessary research and development steps when creating a vaccine.

Socorro Escalante, its technical officer and medicines policy advisor, said the WHO was coordinating with Russia, which this month became the first country to grant regulatory approval for a COVID-19 vaccine.

"We hope to get the response in terms of the evidence of this new vaccine," Escalante said.

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday it was concerned that the novel coronavirus spread was being driven by people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, many of which were unaware they were infected, posing a danger to vulnerable groups.

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday it was concerned that the novel coronavirus spread was being driven by people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, many of which were unaware they were infected, posing a danger to vulnerable groups. WHO officials said this month the proportion of younger people among those infected had risen globally, putting at risk vulnerable sectors of the population worldwide, including the elderly and sick people in densely populated areas with weak health services. "The epidemic is changing," WHO Western Pacific regional director, Takeshi Kasai, told a virtual briefing. "People in their 20s, 30s and 40s are increasingly driving the spread. Many are unaware they are infected." "This increases the risk of spillovers to the more vulnerable," he added. A surge in new cases has prompted some countries to re-impose curbs as companies race to find a vaccine for a virus that has battered economies, killed more than 770,000 people and infected nearly 22 million, according to a Reuters tally. Surges were reported in countries that had appeared to have the virus under control, including Vietnam, which until recently went three months without domestic transmission due to its aggressive mitigation efforts. "What we are observing is not simply a resurgence. We believe it's a signal that we have entered a new phase of pandemic in the Asia-Pacific," Kasai said. He said countries were better able to reduce disruption to lives and economies by combining early detection and response to manage infections. While mutations had been observed, the WHO still saw the virus as "relatively stable", Kasai said. WHO also reminded drugmakers to follow all necessary research and development steps when creating a vaccine. Socorro Escalante, its technical officer and medicines policy advisor, said the WHO was coordinating with Russia, which this month became the first country to grant regulatory approval for a COVID-19 vaccine. "We hope to get the response in terms of the evidence of this new vaccine," Escalante said.

WHO says people in 20s, 30s, 40s increasingly driving coronavirus pandemic

Why is fuel known as the 'liquid gold'? Fuel for long has been known as the 'liquid gold' because of its high value globally. It also serves as a direct or indirect source for many products produced for commercial needs, hence making it an extremely important commodity.

Why is fuel known as the 'liquid gold'? Fuel for long has been known as the 'liquid gold' because of its high value globally. It also serves as a direct or indirect source for many products produced for commercial needs, hence making it an extremely important commodity. Like gold, it is expensive and difficult to find, making it precious for humans. The following report is a glimpse of how the oil-dependent Gulf nations producing the 'liquid gold' is the biggest loser in Covid-19 crisis and what does it mean for India. How COVID-19 took away the 'liquid gold' status from Fuel? The coronavirus pandemic took a major toll on the oil-driven economies earnings. The global consumption of oil is down by 30% with storage capacity nearing its maximum. Oil prices further lowered down last Friday amid fear of slower recovery of demand than expected from COVID-91 lockdowns. The oil even touched its lowest in April, when WTI briefly turned negative. OPEC and allies including Russia, a group known as OPEC+, have cut output since May by around 10% of pre-pandemic global demand to support the market. The decline in output and slow recovery in demand has resulted in a steep fall in oil prices, taking the 'liquid gold' status away from petroleum. How are Gulf Economies reeling under the COVID-19 crisis? A recent Reuters Poll forecasts how oil-dependent Gulf Economies are expected to contract in 2020 before rebounding in 2021. The Reuters Poll was conducted by industry analysts. Saudi Arabia, the biggest economy among Gulf Nations is expected to shrink by 5.2 per cent in 2020. The analysts also expect the Saudi economy to grow by 3.1 per cent in 2021. Kuwait, another Gulf nation is expected to suffer the strongest blow, according to analysts. The poll suggests Kuwait's economy is seen shedding as much as 6.1 per cent in 2020 before it rebounds to 2.5 per cent positive growth. The United Arab Emirates will suffer a contraction comparable with Saudi Arabia’s, at 5.1 per cent, and enjoy a rebound to 2.6 per cent in 2021, according to the polled analysts. An earlier forecast courtesy IMF’s director of the Middle East and Central Asia department, said the six members of the Gulf Cooperation Council will contract by a combined 7.6 per cent this year because of the oil price slump and the coronavirus pandemic. Bahrain and Oman continue to remain the weakest links with the vulnerability ratings in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) with breakeven oil prices of 81.1 and 72.2 respectively and external debt to GDP of 192.9 and 105.6 respectively. A recent IMF report on Gulf Arab states suggested how the world's richest economies could see their financial wealth depleted in the next 15 years if they don't step up the fiscal reforms. The six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) - whose net financial wealth the IMF estimates at $2 trillion - accounts for over one-fifth of global oil supply, but economies in the region have been hit hard by a drop in oil prices in 2014 and 2015, reported news agency Reuters. While lower crude prices have put pressure on governments to generate non-oil revenues and fix their finances, “the effect of lower hydrocarbon revenue is yet to be fully offset,” the IMF said in a report. “At the current fiscal stance, the region’s existing financial wealth could be depleted in the next 15 years,” it said. Saudi Aramco recently announced that its profit fell by 73% as oil demand shrank never like before. Saudi Aramco which is the world's largest oil company reflects the kind of hard it the sector faces. The profits plunge amid lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of the virus, further continuing the cut in demand for oil, resulting in slamming the prices globally. Plunging oil prices and the deepening fallout from the coronavirus pandemic is a double blow to Gulf governments as they seek to protect their energy-dependent economies. What does the Pandemic mean for Indians and Asians in the Gulf? The COVID-19 pandemic is being seen as one of the key factors in the demographic changes it will bring in the Gulf Countries or GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council). Kuwait in a recent move introduced a bill to put a cap on migrant labourers. The bill proposed by the National Assembly in June seeks to limit the number of Indian residents and workers to 15 per cent of the country’s population. The move will result in the return to the home of about 800,000 Indians. Kuwait’s total population is 4.3 million which includes at least 1.45 million Indians. Though other Gulf Nations have not announced any such measures to be taken in their respective states, the idea cannot be ruled out in an attempt to secure their economy for their nationals. How have Indian and Asian Workers changed the Gulf Demography and its economy? Demographic Impact: According to a recent report, Non-resident Indians (NRIs) constitute up to 35 per cent of the GCC’s foreign population. Around 8.5 million Indians live and work in the Gulf countries, one of the largest concentrations of migrants in the world. According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), India is one of the two top sources of origin countries (apart from the Philippines) of migrants to the Gulf countries. According to the UNDESA Migration Report 2017, out of the total 28 million foreign workers in the Gulf countries, 16.9 million (60 %) comprise workers from South Asia. In total, 31.5 % of migrants are from India, followed by Bangladesh (11 %), Pakistan (10.8 %), Sri Lanka, Nepal and Afghanistan. Other than these South Asian countries, the Philippines is another major source of foreign workers. According to a report by GLMM (Gulf Labour Markets and Migration), the population of GCC states has grown 12 times during the past six decades, from 4 million in 1950 to 50.1 million in 2016. A majority of the massive rise can be seen because of the inflow of foreign workers. Economic Impact: Over the decades, nationals have developed an unwillingness to perform manual work or to engage in the private sector, although they have been very attracted to jobs in the public sector. This has led to large-scale migration in the Gulf Nations in sectors employing mostly non-nationals. Overall, the deepening economic crisis will hurt migrations from India in the GCC nations. How will it impact the Indian Economy? According to a recent World Bank Report, India will be taking a 23% hit on remittances in 2020 to $64 billion. This is also the sharpest fall in recent history due to the loss of employment and wages for migrant workers in Gulf countries. The drop in remittances from Gulf Countries will be a significant contributor to the sharp decline in overall remittances for India. In 2019, India recorded a 5.5% growth in remittance receipts to $83 billion. Another report by Swiss Banking Group UBS suggested India's remittances to decline by 25% in the year 2020. The banking group said, that it expects private transfers to slow to $55-60 billion in FY21 on a year-on-year basis.

Explained: COVID-19 impact on oil, Gulf economies, Indians and India's remittance

With a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths, the coronavirus tally in the country rose to 24,61,191 while death toll crossed 48,000-mark.

India has recorded a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24 hours on Friday. The coronavirus tally in the country has increased to 24,61,191 including 6,61,595 active cases.&nbsp;

The number of people who have improved has increased to 17,51,556. &nbsp;The death toll, on the other hand, has mounted to 48,040 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health &amp; Family Welfare website.

It can be seen that India's cumulative coronavirus caseload makes it the third worst-hit country in the world after the United States and Brazil. However, the government maintains that the situation across the country is improving as more number of people are getting cured.

At present, India's recovery rate is over 70 per cent while the death rate stands at 1.95 per cent, among the lowest across the globe.

India had tested 8,48,728 samples for Coronavirus taking the total number of testing to 2,76,94,416, India Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

With a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths, the coronavirus tally in the country rose to 24,61,191 while death toll crossed 48,000-mark. India has recorded a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24 hours on Friday.

With a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths, the coronavirus tally in the country rose to 24,61,191 while death toll crossed 48,000-mark. India has recorded a spike of 64,553 cases and 1,007 deaths in the past 24 hours on Friday. The coronavirus tally in the country has increased to 24,61,191 including 6,61,595 active cases. The number of people who have improved has increased to 17,51,556. The death toll, on the other hand, has mounted to 48,040 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare website. It can be seen that India's cumulative coronavirus caseload makes it the third worst-hit country in the world after the United States and Brazil. However, the government maintains that the situation across the country is improving as more number of people are getting cured. At present, India's recovery rate is over 70 per cent while the death rate stands at 1.95 per cent, among the lowest across the globe. India had tested 8,48,728 samples for Coronavirus taking the total number of testing to 2,76,94,416, India Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

India tally crosses 24 lakh-mark with 64,553 new cases in last 24-hours

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 20 million people, with 7.59 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 20,924,603 confirmed coronavirus cases.

The death count has also surged to 759,716.

Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected, with 5,254,171 coronavirus cases and 167,113 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,224,876 cases and 105,463 deaths, and India (2,461,190 cases, 48,040 deaths).

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 1,449 to 221,413, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed on Friday. The reported death toll rose by 14 to 9,225.

New Zealand Friday reported 12 new cases of coronavirus, as the country awaited an announcement from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on whether a lockdown in its biggest city, Auckland, will be eased or extended. Auckland, home to 1.7 million people, was put under lockdown on Wednesday, hours after four new cases were discovered.

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 20 million people, with 7.59 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 20 million people, with 7.59 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 20,924,603 confirmed coronavirus cases. The death count has also surged to 759,716. Country-wise, the United States remains the most affected, with 5,254,171 coronavirus cases and 167,113 deaths. It is followed by Brazil, which has 3,224,876 cases and 105,463 deaths, and India (2,461,190 cases, 48,040 deaths). The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 1,449 to 221,413, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed on Friday. The reported death toll rose by 14 to 9,225. New Zealand Friday reported 12 new cases of coronavirus, as the country awaited an announcement from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on whether a lockdown in its biggest city, Auckland, will be eased or extended. Auckland, home to 1.7 million people, was put under lockdown on Wednesday, hours after four new cases were discovered. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases exceed 20 million; death toll at 759,716

More than 12 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 20 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally, according to the most recent data available from the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.

The total number of cases stood at 20,624,316, while the fatalities increased to 749,421, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The total number of recovered patients stands at 12,831,800.

Today, we know that the US, with over 5.3 million cases, is the most affected country. But it is also the country that has conducted the most number of tests after China, where the virus was first reported.

The US has so far conducted 67,551,161 tests in total, or 203,940 tests per 1 million tests in total. On Wednesday, it conducted 830,391 tests. India at present is the third-worst-hit country with 2,395,471 cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 12 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 20 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally, according to the most recent data available from the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.

More than 12 million individuals have recovered from COVID-19 around the world, days after 20 million cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed globally, according to the most recent data available from the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. The total number of cases stood at 20,624,316, while the fatalities increased to 749,421, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. The total number of recovered patients stands at 12,831,800. Today, we know that the US, with over 5.3 million cases, is the most affected country. But it is also the country that has conducted the most number of tests after China, where the virus was first reported. The US has so far conducted 67,551,161 tests in total, or 203,940 tests per 1 million tests in total. On Wednesday, it conducted 830,391 tests. India at present is the third-worst-hit country with 2,395,471 cases. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 12 million recovered worldwide from coronavirus: Johns Hopkins University

India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 23, 96,637 on Thursday with a record single-day increase of 66,999 cases, while the number of patients who have recovered from the disease surged to 16,95,982, pushing the recovery rate to 70.77 per cent in the country, according to the Union health ministry.

The death toll due to COVID-19 climbed to 47,033 with 942 people succumbing to the disease in the last 24 hours, health ministry data updated at 8 am showed.

On Wednesday, it conducted 830,391 tests. India at present is the third-worst-hit country with 2,395,471 cases.

The case fatality rate in the country has declined to 1.96 per cent.

There are 6, 53,622 active COVID-19 cases in the country presently, which account for 27.27 per cent of its total caseload.

At the global front, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases globally reached 20,807,726 on Thursday, according to Worldometer. However, this number represents only the status of infection as captured through testing, as only lab-confirmed infections are counted as confirmed cases. This implies the true extent of the coronavirus pandemic’s spread could only be gauged by testing a lot.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 23, 96,637 on Thursday with a record single-day increase of 66,999 cases, while the number of patients who have recovered from the disease surged to 16,95,982, pushing the recovery rate to 70.

India's COVID-19 tally mounted to 23, 96,637 on Thursday with a record single-day increase of 66,999 cases, while the number of patients who have recovered from the disease surged to 16,95,982, pushing the recovery rate to 70.77 per cent in the country, according to the Union health ministry. The death toll due to COVID-19 climbed to 47,033 with 942 people succumbing to the disease in the last 24 hours, health ministry data updated at 8 am showed. On Wednesday, it conducted 830,391 tests. India at present is the third-worst-hit country with 2,395,471 cases. The case fatality rate in the country has declined to 1.96 per cent. There are 6, 53,622 active COVID-19 cases in the country presently, which account for 27.27 per cent of its total caseload. At the global front, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases globally reached 20,807,726 on Thursday, according to Worldometer. However, this number represents only the status of infection as captured through testing, as only lab-confirmed infections are counted as confirmed cases. This implies the true extent of the coronavirus pandemic’s spread could only be gauged by testing a lot. (With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally nears 24-lakh mark with record spike of 66,999 cases; over eight lakh tests carried out in last 24 hours

India on Wednesday reported a single-day spike of 60,963 cases and 834 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 23, 29,639 including 643948 active cases, 1639600 recovered/discharged/migrated and 46091 deaths.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 2, 60, 15,297 samples tested up to 11th August 2020 for COVID19. Of these, 7, 33,449 samples were tested yesterday.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday stressed on the need to increase coronavirus testing in Gujarat because of the "high positivity rate" prevailing in the state. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

India on Wednesday reported a single-day spike of 60,963 cases and 834 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 23, 29,639 including 643948 active cases, 1639600 recovered/discharged/migrated and 46091 deaths.

India on Wednesday reported a single-day spike of 60,963 cases and 834 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 23, 29,639 including 643948 active cases, 1639600 recovered/discharged/migrated and 46091 deaths. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 2, 60, 15,297 samples tested up to 11th August 2020 for COVID19. Of these, 7, 33,449 samples were tested yesterday. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday stressed on the need to increase coronavirus testing in Gujarat because of the "high positivity rate" prevailing in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports 60,963 fresh cases in last 24-hours, inches towards 23.3 lakh-mark

A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer.

"In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh. Of which, 9,597 samples tested COVID positive. With this, total cases in AP increase to 2,54,146," stated the COVID nodal officer in a media bulletin on Wednesday.

There are 90,425 active cases, 1,61,425 patients have recovered while 2,296 have succumbed to the virus, the bulletin added.

In the last 24 hours, 93 fatalities were reported from Guntur (13), Prakasam (11), Chittoor (10), Nellore (10), Srikakulam (09), Anantapur (07), Kadapa (07), Visakhapatnam (06), East Godavari (05), Vizianagaram (05), Kurnool (04), West Godavari (04) and Krishna (02) districts of the state, as per the bulletin.&nbsp;

A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh.

A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh. Of which, 9,597 samples tested COVID positive. With this, total cases in AP increase to 2,54,146," stated the COVID nodal officer in a media bulletin on Wednesday. There are 90,425 active cases, 1,61,425 patients have recovered while 2,296 have succumbed to the virus, the bulletin added. In the last 24 hours, 93 fatalities were reported from Guntur (13), Prakasam (11), Chittoor (10), Nellore (10), Srikakulam (09), Anantapur (07), Kadapa (07), Visakhapatnam (06), East Godavari (05), Vizianagaram (05), Kurnool (04), West Godavari (04) and Krishna (02) districts of the state, as per the bulletin.

Andhra Pradesh reports 9,597 new COVID-19 cases, 93 deaths in last 24 hours

India's supply of antiviral drug remdesivir and generic equivalents is stabilising after shortages of the vital COVID-19 medicine at hospitals, according to a top executive at one of the country's big drugmakers, Cipla Ltd.

Remdesivir, made by U.S.-based Gilead Sciences Inc, has been in high demand globally, and a handful of companies including Cipla are authorised to make and sell generic versions in 127 developing nations.

Cipla's launch of remdesivir in late June, along with subsequent launches by others, has helped ease supply bottlenecks in India, Cipla's Global Chief Financial Officer, Kedar Upadhye, told Reuters.

"Of late, some of the complaints for supplies, and the number of panicky calls that I used to get, have come down dramatically," Upadhye said. "Looks like things have settled."

COVID-19 cases in India, the world's third-worst hit country, have surged in the past month, with new infections topping 50,000 daily.

Yet while hospitals previously reported they were struggling to get their hands on the drug, leading to black market sales, Mr Upadhye said the indications from his supply chain were that pressure had eased.

That suggested severe cases had not surged as much as the overall numbers, he said.

Government data at the end of July showed about 0.3% of the country's active coronavirus patients were on ventilators, while 1.6% on intensive care unit support and 2.3% on oxygen support.

Severe cases likely amounted to under 3% of all infections, said Giridhara Babu, an epidemiologist at the Public Health Foundation of India.

India, one of the world's biggest producer of generic drugs, recommends remdesivir for moderate to severe COVID-19. Doctors also use other drugs, including favirpiravir, another antiviral approved for the disease.

Cipla, which is also free to export the drug, supplies it in South Africa and plans to expand access to "several sub-Saharan African countries", it has said.

India had previously blocked exports of another drug, hydroxychloroquine, used by some doctors in treating the disease. The ban has since been lifted.

Cipla declined to comment on the number of vials of remdesivir it had shipped so far, but said it had started making the drug at a plant in Goa in western India to ramp up production.

India's supply of antiviral drug remdesivir and generic equivalents is stabilising after shortages of the vital COVID-19 medicine at hospitals, according to a top executive at one of the country's big drugmakers, Cipla Ltd.

India's supply of antiviral drug remdesivir and generic equivalents is stabilising after shortages of the vital COVID-19 medicine at hospitals, according to a top executive at one of the country's big drugmakers, Cipla Ltd. Remdesivir, made by U.S.-based Gilead Sciences Inc, has been in high demand globally, and a handful of companies including Cipla are authorised to make and sell generic versions in 127 developing nations. Cipla's launch of remdesivir in late June, along with subsequent launches by others, has helped ease supply bottlenecks in India, Cipla's Global Chief Financial Officer, Kedar Upadhye, told Reuters. "Of late, some of the complaints for supplies, and the number of panicky calls that I used to get, have come down dramatically," Upadhye said. "Looks like things have settled." COVID-19 cases in India, the world's third-worst hit country, have surged in the past month, with new infections topping 50,000 daily. Yet while hospitals previously reported they were struggling to get their hands on the drug, leading to black market sales, Mr Upadhye said the indications from his supply chain were that pressure had eased. That suggested severe cases had not surged as much as the overall numbers, he said. Government data at the end of July showed about 0.3% of the country's active coronavirus patients were on ventilators, while 1.6% on intensive care unit support and 2.3% on oxygen support. Severe cases likely amounted to under 3% of all infections, said Giridhara Babu, an epidemiologist at the Public Health Foundation of India. India, one of the world's biggest producer of generic drugs, recommends remdesivir for moderate to severe COVID-19. Doctors also use other drugs, including favirpiravir, another antiviral approved for the disease. Cipla, which is also free to export the drug, supplies it in South Africa and plans to expand access to "several sub-Saharan African countries", it has said. India had previously blocked exports of another drug, hydroxychloroquine, used by some doctors in treating the disease. The ban has since been lifted. Cipla declined to comment on the number of vials of remdesivir it had shipped so far, but said it had started making the drug at a plant in Goa in western India to ramp up production.

India's shortage of Remdesivir is easing, says producer Cipla 

India on Tuesday reported single-day spike of 53,601 cases and 871 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 22, 68,676 including 6, 39,929 active cases, 15, 83,490 recovered/discharged/migrated and 45,257 deaths.

India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August.

ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country.

At the global front, the coronavirus pandemic chalked up another horrific milestone as the world surpassed 20 million recorded cases of infection from the tiny killer that has upended life just about everywhere.

The number as of 2215 GMT was 20,014,574 cases, with 734,755 deaths recorded, according to an AFP tally of official sources.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Tuesday reported single-day spike of 53,601 cases and 871 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 22, 68,676 including 6, 39,929 active cases, 15, 83,490 recovered/discharged/migrated and 45,257 deaths.

India on Tuesday reported single-day spike of 53,601 cases and 871 deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. With this, the Covid-19 tally rises to 22, 68,676 including 6, 39,929 active cases, 15, 83,490 recovered/discharged/migrated and 45,257 deaths. India performed 719,364 coronavirus disease (Covid-19) tests on August 8, taking the total number of daily testing closer to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) target of one million per day by the end of August. ICMR is in the process of ramping up Covid-19 testing in the country. At the global front, the coronavirus pandemic chalked up another horrific milestone as the world surpassed 20 million recorded cases of infection from the tiny killer that has upended life just about everywhere. The number as of 2215 GMT was 20,014,574 cases, with 734,755 deaths recorded, according to an AFP tally of official sources. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports 53,601 fresh cases in last 24-hours, inches towards 22.7 lakh-mark

Tamil Nadu on Sunday observed an intense lockdown with only health care services and milk supply continuing as usual while roads wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors.

The complete lockdown, effective since last month on Sundays, witnessed sporadic violations as well in some places.

Tamil Nadu police said till date a fine of Rs 19. 99 crore has been levied against violators of lockdownnorms and as many as 6,69,426 vehicles seized.

To effectively implement the complete shutdown as part of efforts to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, check posts were set up by police at all important locations in the state.

Health care services were open, sanitary workers continuedtheir clean up work and personnel of civic bodies conducted door to door surveys to detect people with flu like symptoms and fever camps were also held.

Disinfection work too was carried on as usual.

In view of the intense curbs on Sunday, people flocked to markets, from fish to vegetables on Saturday, which has now become a trend, often violating anti-COVID norms like social distancing.

Fuel pumps, markets and stores selling essential commodities were closed and officials inspected their jurisdictional localities to check violations.

Vehicles, except cargo trucks, were off the roads and roads were deserted but for the presence of security and civic personnel. PTI VGNAPR

Tamil Nadu on Sunday observed an intense lockdown with only health care services and milk supply continuing as usual while roads wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors.

Tamil Nadu on Sunday observed an intense lockdown with only health care services and milk supply continuing as usual while roads wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors. The complete lockdown, effective since last month on Sundays, witnessed sporadic violations as well in some places. Tamil Nadu police said till date a fine of Rs 19. 99 crore has been levied against violators of lockdownnorms and as many as 6,69,426 vehicles seized. To effectively implement the complete shutdown as part of efforts to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, check posts were set up by police at all important locations in the state. Health care services were open, sanitary workers continuedtheir clean up work and personnel of civic bodies conducted door to door surveys to detect people with flu like symptoms and fever camps were also held. Disinfection work too was carried on as usual. In view of the intense curbs on Sunday, people flocked to markets, from fish to vegetables on Saturday, which has now become a trend, often violating anti-COVID norms like social distancing. Fuel pumps, markets and stores selling essential commodities were closed and officials inspected their jurisdictional localities to check violations. Vehicles, except cargo trucks, were off the roads and roads were deserted but for the presence of security and civic personnel. PTI VGNAPR

TN observes one more 'Sunday' lockdown to fight COVID-19

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus identified as the causative agent, SARS-CoV-2, has been consistently described as “novel” because of its unique structural features.

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus identified as the causative agent, SARS-CoV-2, has been consistently described as “novel” because of its unique structural features. Also since the onset of the pandemic, the conventional wisdom concerning the origin of SARS-CoV-2 has been that it was a naturally-occurring outbreak, acquired by humans after exposure to infected animals, a conclusion aggressively promoted by the Chinese Communist Party, supported by some Western scientists and endlessly regurgitated by the left-leaning global media. That narrative is not only unproven, but much of the scientific data being used to buttress it are faulty, perhaps even fabricated. China has claimed that a bat coronavirus named RaTG13 is the closest relative to SARS-CoV-2 and upon which the global search for the natural origin of the COVID-19 pandemic has been largely based. According to China’s narrative, in 2013, Zheng-Li Shi, the “bat woman,” and her team from the Wuhan Institute of Virology were asked to investigate the virus profile of a mine shaft in Yunnan Province after six miners contracted pneumonia with symptoms similar to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), although it was subsequently shown to have been a fungus infection. After sampling the mine shaft for a year, the researchers identified a diverse group of bat coronaviruses from bat fecal samples, one of which was designated RaBtCoV/4991 (GenBank KP876546) and partially sequenced. Despite being unique enough to be considered a new strain and associated with a human SARS-like outbreak as a Potential Pandemic Pathogen, thereafter, RaBtCoV/4991, de facto, disappeared from the scientific literature. That is, until 2020. In the February 3, 2020 Nature article, scientists from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, led by Zheng-Li Shi, stated that the coronavirus RaTG13, known previously as RaBtCoV/4991, showed a 96.2% sequence identity with SARS-CoV-2 and, therefore, “RaTG13 is the closest relative” forming a distinct lineage from other coronaviruses and supporting China’s claim that SARS-CoV-2 is naturally-occurring. As a result, the conventional wisdom that the COVID-19 was a naturally-occurring outbreak arose, nearly all of it based on a single scientific publication, one of whose authors had earlier received a medal from the Chinese government in January, 2020. Unfortunately, RaTG13 is not actually a virus because no biological samples exist, but a sequence of a virus for which there are now serious questions about its accuracy, based on the collection methods and sequence gaps, identified in an August 8, 2020 study, and RaTG13's structure in comparison to SARS-CoV-2, published already on March 15, 2020. As Dr. Li-Meng Yan, a Chinese virologist and whistleblower, implies in a detailed interview, RaTG13 may have been used to divert the world’s attention away from the true source of the COVID-19 pandemic, a novel coronavirus that originated in military laboratories overseen by China's People’s Liberation Army. SARS-CoV-2 has two unique features contained in the S1 section of the spike glycoprotein: (1) a receptor-binding domain (RBD), which appears “pre-adapted” for human infection, but is structurally similar to the RBD of pangolins (scaly anteaters) and (2) a furin polybasic cleavage site (amino acid sequence proline-arginine-arginine-alanine or PRRA), a distinctive feature that facilitates membrane fusion between the virus and the human cell and widely known for its ability to enhance pathogenicity and transmissibility, but not present in any closely related bat or pangolin coronaviruses. A scientific study published on July 1, 2020 states that, while SARS-CoV-2 sequences share the greatest overall genetic similarity with bat coronaviruses, it is not the case for the RBD, which is “nearly identical” to that of two pangolin coronaviruses. Those authors suggest that a cross-species recombination event between bat and pangolin coronaviruses had occurred. Yet, there is no evidence supporting a natural viral recombination between bat and pangolin coronaviruses resulting in such an outcome. When asked about that possibility of pangolins being the SARS-CoV-2 host, Dr. Ralph Baric, a coronavirus expert from the University of North Carolina, in a March 15, 2020 interview, stated that pangolins could not be the source: “Pangolins have over 3,000 nucleotide changes - no way they are the reservoir species [for SARS-CoV-2], absolutely no chance.” A scientific article published on August 5, 2020, “COVID-19: Time to exonerate the pangolin from the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to humans,” totally dismisses the notion that pangolins could have acted as a natural intermediate host for a human infection. Given the overwhelming scientific evidence, the only recombination event possible for the appearance of a pangolin-like RBD in SARS-CoV-2 would be one occurring artificially in a laboratory. Much has been made in the media about a newly reported bat coronavirus, RmYN02, also found in Yunnan Province by China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology, which shares 93.3% nucleotide identity with SARS-CoV-2. RmYN02 also has a proline-alanine-alanine (PAA) sequence, which has been used as evidence that the unique PRRA sequence found in SARS-CoCV-2 could have evolved naturally. What is not highlighted is that the RBD of RmYN02 showed only a 61.3% sequence identity with SARS-CoV-2, meaning that RmYN02 could not bind to human cells. In addition, the probably out-of-alignment amino acid sequence PAA is chemically neutral, totally unlike SARS-CoV-2’s polybasic PRRA cleavage site, giving PAA no ability to cleave anything. What can be linked to SARS-CoV-2’s PRRA furin polybasic cleavage site is the extensive research being conducted on such cleavage sites and their pathological effects on humans by the Second Military Medical University in Shanghai, China, examples found here and here. The science is unequivocal. As hard as China and the other proponents of the naturally-occurring narrative have tried, SARS-CoV-2 has features that cannot be explained by a natural evolutionary process. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

China stands accused of manufacturing the COVID-19 virus

Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday tested positive for coronavirus and has been admitted to Medanta Hospital. In a tweet, Pradhan said he has been admitted to hospital after testing positive of COVID-19.

Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday tested positive for coronavirus and has been admitted to Medanta Hospital. In a tweet, Pradhan said he has been admitted to hospital after testing positive of COVID-19. Pradhan, 51, had developed COVID-like symptoms on Monday and was tested on Tuesday. "After seeing symptoms of COVID-19, I got tested. The report has come positive," he tweeted. "On the advice of doctors, I have been admitted to hospital and I am healthy." Sources said Pradhan had last week met Home Minister Amit Shah, who was admitted to Medanta on Sunday after testing positive of coronavirus. Pradhan is one of the several high-profile names to have tested positive.

Oil Minister Pradhan tests positive of COVID-19, admitted to hospital

As the virus continued to spread across the world, an increasing number of companies made work from home the new normal.

As the world learns to live with the virus, is remote working set to be a thing of the past?

Quite the contrary. Several companies have announced work from home until at least 2021. The list includes Google, Universal music group, Warner music group, and Sony music. Companies like Facebook, Twitter, Square, Slack and Shopify have gone a step further. They have said that their employees don't have to come to the office ever again. In other words, they can work from home forever.

A national survey of Australian citizens came up with some interesting figures. 82 per cent people said that no commute and less time spent getting ready in the morning is a key benefit. 76% respondents said that cost saved from not travelling or buying lunch was an advantage. 51 per cent said that their productivity had increased. But 44 per cent said that they experienced a blur between work and home boundaries. 25 per cent said that the ability to switch off while working from home was a challenge.

In another survey by a Yorkshire-based online printing platform, out of the 1000 Brits surveyed, 35 per cent said that they missed their colleagues, 32 per cent said that they missed office small talk, only 6 percent missed activities like team meetings. 6 per cent missed birthday celebrations and 5 per cent missed justifying every minute of their shifts.

Research shows that while stress and financial anxiety are running high, workers are not taking time off due to the constant fear of being laid off if they don't work hard enough. There are several tips to beat the remote work burnout. First and the foremost, create a comfortable workspace.

Self-care is important, ry to not stay hooked to the screen, step outside for some fresh air as and when you can and try and have a schedule. If you're going to be working from home, find a way to make it work. 
&nbsp;

As the virus continued to spread across the world, an increasing number of companies made work from home the new normal. As the world learns to live with the virus, is remote working set to be a thing of the past?

As the virus continued to spread across the world, an increasing number of companies made work from home the new normal. As the world learns to live with the virus, is remote working set to be a thing of the past? Quite the contrary. Several companies have announced work from home until at least 2021. The list includes Google, Universal music group, Warner music group, and Sony music. Companies like Facebook, Twitter, Square, Slack and Shopify have gone a step further. They have said that their employees don't have to come to the office ever again. In other words, they can work from home forever. A national survey of Australian citizens came up with some interesting figures. 82 per cent people said that no commute and less time spent getting ready in the morning is a key benefit. 76% respondents said that cost saved from not travelling or buying lunch was an advantage. 51 per cent said that their productivity had increased. But 44 per cent said that they experienced a blur between work and home boundaries. 25 per cent said that the ability to switch off while working from home was a challenge. In another survey by a Yorkshire-based online printing platform, out of the 1000 Brits surveyed, 35 per cent said that they missed their colleagues, 32 per cent said that they missed office small talk, only 6 percent missed activities like team meetings. 6 per cent missed birthday celebrations and 5 per cent missed justifying every minute of their shifts. Research shows that while stress and financial anxiety are running high, workers are not taking time off due to the constant fear of being laid off if they don't work hard enough. There are several tips to beat the remote work burnout. First and the foremost, create a comfortable workspace. Self-care is important, ry to not stay hooked to the screen, step outside for some fresh air as and when you can and try and have a schedule. If you're going to be working from home, find a way to make it work.

Working from home? Find a way to make it work

Amid rising Covid-19 cases, coupled with growing demand for miniaturized, affordable and clinically accurate devices for monitoring heath parameters such as temperature, oxygen saturation, respiration rate and heart rate, a healthcare Startup at IIT-Madras has started providing such home-grown devices to government and private hospitals.

Amid rising Covid-19 cases, coupled with growing demand for miniaturized, affordable and clinically accurate devices for monitoring heath parameters such as temperature, oxygen saturation, respiration rate and heart rate, a healthcare Startup at IIT-Madras has started providing such home-grown devices to government and private hospitals. Developed by IIT Madras and HELYXON, these devices called OXY2 are now commercially available, serve as a remote patient monitoring solution and are said to act as a force multiplier in the healthcare system. The device is completely self-contained, portable, wireless and can be clipped on to patient’s finger and data is streamed to a mobile phone(via bluetooth) or central monitoring system(from phone to system via internet). The temperature is measured at the user’s armpit, whereas blood oxygen level, and other parameters are measured at the finger. The device which is powered by a coin-cell battery is meant to serve as a replacement for large patient monitors that are used in hospitals, for a fraction of the cost. “This is a medical device that replaces large patient monitors that cost about Rs.1 lakh. While there are many similar offerings in the market, our devices can provide clinically accurate results. With remote monitoring, the doctors and healthcare staff can get the results without even getting anywhere near the patients” Prof. Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre (HTIC), IIT Madras told WION. Priced between Rs.2500 -10,000, depending on which of the four parameters they can measure and how the device is configured, they can be used at home, hospitals, Covid care centers and other facilities, as it can be easily worn. When in close proximity to a smartphone, the bluetooth-enabled device would show the physiological parameters on a dedicated app on iOS or Android. There is the option to fix a threshold to the parameters and in case of a breach, it can be notified to the emergency contacts. Likewise remote monitoring is also possible, thus making it possible for a center to measure data from hundreds or thousands of individuals. When asked about the certification and validation process for the device, Prof. Sivaprakasam said that it is CE certified as a safe electronic device. ”This is a non-invasive device and since the safety is proven and validated it is free to be marketed. There is no special certification for no-invasive devices in India. But we have tested out results with the larger machines that are used in hospitals and found the results to be very reliable”, he told WION.

IIT Madras Startup offers affordable, wrist-worn health monitoring device for Covid-19

The World Health Organization's mission in China laying the groundwork for an investigation into the animal origins of the coronavirus pandemic has concluded, the UN health agency said Monday.

The World Health Organization's mission in China laying the groundwork for an investigation into the animal origins of the coronavirus pandemic has concluded, the UN health agency said Monday. "The WHO advance team that travelled to China has now concluded their mission to lay the groundwork for further joint efforts to identify the virus origins, the agency's chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual press conference, adding: "Epidemiological studies will begin in Wuhan to identify the potential source of infection of the early cases." Also read: COVID-19: WHO delegation likely to give clean chit to China The delegation consists of an epidemiologist and an animal health expert. Chinese regime will monitor all their movement during the investigation. × The delegation will cooperate with Chinese scientists, and will work to advance the 'understanding of animal hosts for COVID-19' besides ascertaining 'how the disease jumped from animals and humans'. The delegation will not visit Wuhan Institute of Virology, purported lab from where the virus reportedly originated.

WHO completes groundwork in China for coronavirus origin probe

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital.

The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed.

The development comes hours after he was taken to the hospital earlier in the morning.

"The Governor's condition is mild, asymptomatic and he is clinically stable," said a Kauvery hospital official.

Purohit was taken to the hospital days after 87 employees of the Raj Bhawan tested positive for the virus.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital. The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday and advised home isolation, according to Chennai's Kauvery hospital. The Governor will be monitored by a team of professionals from the hospital, the hospital informed. The development comes hours after he was taken to the hospital earlier in the morning. "The Governor's condition is mild, asymptomatic and he is clinically stable," said a Kauvery hospital official. Purohit was taken to the hospital days after 87 employees of the Raj Bhawan tested positive for the virus.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit tests positive for COVID-19

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that the recovery rate in India stood at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients with the total number of recovered cases nearing 11 lakh.

''The total number of recovered cases is nearly 11 lakh. With 36,569 patients discharged in the last 24 hours, the total recoveries have jumped to 10,94,374,'' the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

The recovery rate stands at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients, it added.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 fatality rate stands at 2.15%, and it is the lowest since the first lockdown announced on March 24, the ministry said.&nbsp;

The fatality rate has been continuously reducing from around 3.33% in mid-June, the health ministry added.&nbsp;

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that the recovery rate in India stood at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients with the total number of recovered cases nearing 11 lakh.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that the recovery rate in India stood at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients with the total number of recovered cases nearing 11 lakh. ''The total number of recovered cases is nearly 11 lakh. With 36,569 patients discharged in the last 24 hours, the total recoveries have jumped to 10,94,374,'' the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. The recovery rate stands at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients, it added. The COVID-19 fatality rate stands at 2.15%, and it is the lowest since the first lockdown announced on March 24, the ministry said. The fatality rate has been continuously reducing from around 3.33% in mid-June, the health ministry added.

Recovery rate in India stands at 64.53% amongst COVID-19 patients: Health ministry

Chinese government-linked hackers targeted biotech company Moderna Inc, a leading U.S.-based coronavirus vaccine research developer, earlier this year in a bid to steal valuable data, according to a U.S. security official tracking Chinese hacking activity.

Last week, the U.S. Justice Department made public an indictment of two Chinese nationals accused of spying on the United States, including three unnamed U.S.-based targets involved in medical research to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The indictment states the Chinese hackers "conducted reconnaissance" against the computer network of a Massachusetts biotech firm known to be working on a coronavirus vaccine in January.

Moderna, which is based in Massachusetts and announced its COVID-19 vaccine candidate in January, confirmed to Reuters that the company had been in contact with the FBI and was made aware of the suspected "information reconnaissance activities" by the hacking group mentioned in last week's indictment.

Reconnaissance activities can include a wide range of actions, including probing public websites for vulnerabilities to scouting out important accounts after entering a network, cybersecurity experts say.

“Moderna remains highly vigilant to potential cybersecurity threats, maintaining an internal team, external support services and good working relationships with outside authorities to continuously assess threats and protect our valuable information," spokesman Ray Jordan said, declining to provide further detail.

The U.S. security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, did not provide further details. The FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declined to disclose the identities of companies targeted by Chinese hackers.

Moderna's vaccine candidate is one of the earliest and biggest bets by the Trump administration to fight the pandemic. The federal government is supporting development of the company's vaccine with nearly half a billion dollars and helping Moderna launch a clinical trial of up to 30,000 people beginning this month.

China is also racing to develop a vaccine, bringing together its state, military and private sectors to combat a disease that has killed over 660,000 people worldwide.

A July 7 indictment released last week alleges that the two Chinese hackers, Li Xiaoyu and Dong Jiazhi, conducted a decade-long hacking spree that most recently included the targeting of COVID-19 medical research groups.

Prosecutors said Li and Dong acted as contractors for China’s Ministry of State Security, a state intelligence agency. Messages left with several accounts registered under Li’s digital alias, oro0lxy, were not returned. Contact details for Dong were not available.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington referred Reuters to recent Chinese Foreign Ministry comments that said: “China has long been a major victim of cyber thefts and attacks" and its officials “firmly oppose and fight" such activities. The Chinese government has consistently denied any role in hacking incidents across the globe. The embassy spokesperson did not address specific questions sent via email.

The two other unnamed medical research companies mentioned in the Justice Department indictment are described as biotech companies based in California and Maryland. Prosecutors said the hackers “searched for vulnerabilities" and “conducted reconnaissance" against them.

The court filing describes the California firm as working on antiviral drug research and suggested the Maryland Company had publicly announced efforts to develop a vaccine in January. Two companies that could match those descriptions: Gilead Sciences Inc and Novavax Inc.

Gilead spokesperson Chris Ridley said the firm does not comment on cybersecurity matters. Novavax would not comment on specific cyber security activities but said: “Our cyber security team has been alerted to the alleged foreign threats identified in the news."

A security consultant familiar with multiple hacking investigations involving premier biotech firms over the last year said Chinese hacking groups believed to be broadly associated with China’s Ministry of State security are one of the primary forces targeting COVID-19 research, globally. This matches the description of the indicted hackers, as MSS contractors.

Chinese government-linked hackers targeted biotech company Moderna Inc, a leading U.S.-based coronavirus vaccine research developer, earlier this year in a bid to steal valuable data, according to a U.

Chinese government-linked hackers targeted biotech company Moderna Inc, a leading U.S.-based coronavirus vaccine research developer, earlier this year in a bid to steal valuable data, according to a U.S. security official tracking Chinese hacking activity. Last week, the U.S. Justice Department made public an indictment of two Chinese nationals accused of spying on the United States, including three unnamed U.S.-based targets involved in medical research to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The indictment states the Chinese hackers "conducted reconnaissance" against the computer network of a Massachusetts biotech firm known to be working on a coronavirus vaccine in January. Moderna, which is based in Massachusetts and announced its COVID-19 vaccine candidate in January, confirmed to Reuters that the company had been in contact with the FBI and was made aware of the suspected "information reconnaissance activities" by the hacking group mentioned in last week's indictment. Reconnaissance activities can include a wide range of actions, including probing public websites for vulnerabilities to scouting out important accounts after entering a network, cybersecurity experts say. “Moderna remains highly vigilant to potential cybersecurity threats, maintaining an internal team, external support services and good working relationships with outside authorities to continuously assess threats and protect our valuable information," spokesman Ray Jordan said, declining to provide further detail. The U.S. security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, did not provide further details. The FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declined to disclose the identities of companies targeted by Chinese hackers. Moderna's vaccine candidate is one of the earliest and biggest bets by the Trump administration to fight the pandemic. The federal government is supporting development of the company's vaccine with nearly half a billion dollars and helping Moderna launch a clinical trial of up to 30,000 people beginning this month. China is also racing to develop a vaccine, bringing together its state, military and private sectors to combat a disease that has killed over 660,000 people worldwide. A July 7 indictment released last week alleges that the two Chinese hackers, Li Xiaoyu and Dong Jiazhi, conducted a decade-long hacking spree that most recently included the targeting of COVID-19 medical research groups. Prosecutors said Li and Dong acted as contractors for China’s Ministry of State Security, a state intelligence agency. Messages left with several accounts registered under Li’s digital alias, oro0lxy, were not returned. Contact details for Dong were not available. The Chinese Embassy in Washington referred Reuters to recent Chinese Foreign Ministry comments that said: “China has long been a major victim of cyber thefts and attacks" and its officials “firmly oppose and fight" such activities. The Chinese government has consistently denied any role in hacking incidents across the globe. The embassy spokesperson did not address specific questions sent via email. The two other unnamed medical research companies mentioned in the Justice Department indictment are described as biotech companies based in California and Maryland. Prosecutors said the hackers “searched for vulnerabilities" and “conducted reconnaissance" against them. The court filing describes the California firm as working on antiviral drug research and suggested the Maryland Company had publicly announced efforts to develop a vaccine in January. Two companies that could match those descriptions: Gilead Sciences Inc and Novavax Inc. Gilead spokesperson Chris Ridley said the firm does not comment on cybersecurity matters. Novavax would not comment on specific cyber security activities but said: “Our cyber security team has been alerted to the alleged foreign threats identified in the news." A security consultant familiar with multiple hacking investigations involving premier biotech firms over the last year said Chinese hacking groups believed to be broadly associated with China’s Ministry of State security are one of the primary forces targeting COVID-19 research, globally. This matches the description of the indicted hackers, as MSS contractors.

Chinese-backed hackers targeted covid-19 vaccine firm Moderna

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-dog-to-test-positive-for-coronavirus-in-us-dies-says-report-317133">ALSO READ | First dog to test positive for coronavirus in US dies, says report</a>

Data compiled by Johns Hopkins University show more than 17 million cases worldwide since the start of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the total number of cases stood at 17,237,642, while the fatalities rose to 671,909, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/young-people-are-not-invincible-who-warns-the-young-party-goers-317131">ALSO READ | 'Young people are not invincible': WHO warns the young party-goers</a>

The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe.

“We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva.

The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be.

According to Tedros, the spike in coronavirus cases is “driven in part by younger people letting down their guard during the northern hemisphere summer."

Maria Van Kerkhove, a top WHO epidemiologist, told the same briefing that nightclubs were “amplifiers of transmission”.

“The majority of young people infected tend to have more mild disease. But that’s not always consistent,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage.

With some countries battling the possibility of a second wave of coronavirus, and some still struggling with containing the first wave, the number of coronavirus cases seem to be increasing at an alarming stage. ALSO READ | First dog to test positive for coronavirus in US dies, says report Data compiled by Johns Hopkins University show more than 17 million cases worldwide since the start of the pandemic. Meanwhile, the total number of cases stood at 17,237,642, while the fatalities rose to 671,909, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. ALSO READ | 'Young people are not invincible': WHO warns the young party-goers The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe. “We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva. The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be. According to Tedros, the spike in coronavirus cases is “driven in part by younger people letting down their guard during the northern hemisphere summer." Maria Van Kerkhove, a top WHO epidemiologist, told the same briefing that nightclubs were “amplifiers of transmission”. “The majority of young people infected tend to have more mild disease. But that’s not always consistent,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Global cases of COVID-19 jumps to 17.23 million; death toll crosses 670,000

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning.&nbsp;

A total of 9, 88,029 patients in the country have recovered so far and 34,193 have died since the beginning of the pandemic, government data shows. Today's spike in cases comes a day after India crossed 15 lakh cases.

Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR) – percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases) – are Maharashtra (19.9%), Telangana (15.73 %), Delhi (13.69%), Tamil Nadu (9.14 %), and Gujarat (8.76%).

Kerala reported its highest single-day spike of 1,167 COVID-19 cases taking the infection tally to 20,894 while the death toll climbed to 67 with four more fatalities on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, India’s Covid-19 case fatality rate came further down to 2.25 per cent, and the Centre claimed this is a result of effective implementation of containment strategy combined with house-to-house surveys, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols.

(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning.

India recorded 48,513 fresh coronavirus infections and 768 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness in the last 24 hours, which takes the country's tally to 15, 31,669 cases, the Union Health Ministry said this morning. A total of 9, 88,029 patients in the country have recovered so far and 34,193 have died since the beginning of the pandemic, government data shows. Today's spike in cases comes a day after India crossed 15 lakh cases. Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR) – percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases) – are Maharashtra (19.9%), Telangana (15.73 %), Delhi (13.69%), Tamil Nadu (9.14 %), and Gujarat (8.76%). Kerala reported its highest single-day spike of 1,167 COVID-19 cases taking the infection tally to 20,894 while the death toll climbed to 67 with four more fatalities on Tuesday. Meanwhile, India’s Covid-19 case fatality rate came further down to 2.25 per cent, and the Centre claimed this is a result of effective implementation of containment strategy combined with house-to-house surveys, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols. (With inputs from agencies)

Spike of 48,513 cases, 768 fatalities push India's tally to 15, 31,669

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing&nbsp;10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday.

India's COVID-19 case fatality rate (CFR) is lower than what it is globally. CFR has declined from 3.3 per cent on June 19 to 2.23 per cent on Wednesday, "the lowest since April 1", the health ministry said in a statement.

"Not only has the CFR been kept low, but successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in tandem resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries per day for the sixth consecutive day," it said.

The ministry said, "With such consistent increase in recoveries, the gap between the number of recovered patients and active COVID-19 cases currently stands at 4,78,582."

The number of active cases stood at 5,09,447 and they are under medical supervision.

India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 15,31,669 with 48,513 fresh cases recorded in a day, while the country's death toll due to the disease rose to 34,193 with 768 fatalities being reported in the same period, the health ministry data updated at 8 am on Wednesday showed.&nbsp;

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing 10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday.

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 is nearing 10-lakh mark, while the case fatality rate has been falling progressively due to coordinated implementation of the 'test track treat' strategy by the Centre, states and Union Territories, the health ministry said on Wednesday. India's COVID-19 case fatality rate (CFR) is lower than what it is globally. CFR has declined from 3.3 per cent on June 19 to 2.23 per cent on Wednesday, "the lowest since April 1", the health ministry said in a statement. "Not only has the CFR been kept low, but successful implementation of effective containment strategy, aggressive testing and standardised clinical management protocols based on a holistic standard of care approach have in tandem resulted in a consistent trend of more than 30,000 recoveries per day for the sixth consecutive day," it said. The ministry said, "With such consistent increase in recoveries, the gap between the number of recovered patients and active COVID-19 cases currently stands at 4,78,582." The number of active cases stood at 5,09,447 and they are under medical supervision. India's COVID-19 tally climbed to 15,31,669 with 48,513 fresh cases recorded in a day, while the country's death toll due to the disease rose to 34,193 with 768 fatalities being reported in the same period, the health ministry data updated at 8 am on Wednesday showed.

At 2.23 pc COVID-19 fatality rate lowest since Apr 1, recoveries nearing 10 lakh: Health ministry

Spain remains a "safe" destination for tourists despite a worrying rise in coronavirus infections in some parts of the country, the government insisted on Tuesday.

The remarks came after Britain reimposed a 14-day quarantine on anyone arriving from Spain, and France and Germany warned against travel to certain parts of the country following a spike in cases.

"We want to send a clear message of confidence in our country," said government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero after the weekly cabinet meeting.&nbsp;

"We are a secure destination that has made preparations and strengthened itself to deal with the virus and any outbreaks."&nbsp;

One of Spain's strengths is the quality of its healthcare system, she said. &nbsp;

"One proof that it is working well is that the regions are detecting cases early and activating isolation and containment measures," Montero said, indicating that half of the cases diagnosed were asymptomatic.&nbsp;

"All the figures demonstrate the situation is good in most of the country, where the regional authorities have only registered a low incidence of the illness."

Spain remains a "safe" destination for tourists despite a worrying rise in coronavirus infections in some parts of the country, the government insisted on Tuesday.

Spain remains a "safe" destination for tourists despite a worrying rise in coronavirus infections in some parts of the country, the government insisted on Tuesday. The remarks came after Britain reimposed a 14-day quarantine on anyone arriving from Spain, and France and Germany warned against travel to certain parts of the country following a spike in cases. "We want to send a clear message of confidence in our country," said government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero after the weekly cabinet meeting. "We are a secure destination that has made preparations and strengthened itself to deal with the virus and any outbreaks." One of Spain's strengths is the quality of its healthcare system, she said. "One proof that it is working well is that the regions are detecting cases early and activating isolation and containment measures," Montero said, indicating that half of the cases diagnosed were asymptomatic. "All the figures demonstrate the situation is good in most of the country, where the regional authorities have only registered a low incidence of the illness."

Spain 'safe' for tourists despite COVID-19 cases spike, reassures government

Four US states in the South and West reported one-day records for coronavirus deaths on Tuesday and cases in Texas passed the 400,000 mark as California health officials said Latinos made up more than half of its cases.

Arkansas, Florida, Montana and Oregon each reported record spikes in fatalities. California had recorded 133 deaths by mid-afternoon, shy of its one-day peak of 159 with hours to go.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-pharmaceuticals-and-conglomerates-making-hefty-profit-from-coronavirus-pandemic-298747">American pharmaceuticals and conglomerates making hefty profit from coronavirus pandemic</a>

California health officials said Latinos, who make up just over a third of the most populous US state, account for 56% of COVID-19 infections and 46% of deaths. Cases are soaring in the Central Valley agricultural region, with its heavily Latino population, overwhelming hospitals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-for-covid-19-vaccine-china-wants-to-act-god-in-a-world-deep-in-pain-304359">Race for Covid-19 vaccine: China wants to act god in a world deep in pain</a>

Florida saw 191 coronavirus deaths in the prior 24 hours, its highest single-day rise yet, the state health department said.

Texas added more than 6,000 new cases on Monday, pushing its total to 401,477, according to a Reuters tally. Only three other states – California, Florida and New York – have more than 400,000 total cases. Those states are also the four most populous states in the United States.

California and Texas both reported decreases in overall hospitalizations as Dr. Anthony Fauci, a top US infectious diseases expert, saw signs the surge could be peaking in the South and West while other areas were on the cusp of new outbreaks.

Fauci said early indications showed the percentage of positive coronavirus tests rising in Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee and Kentucky.

SCHOOL REOPENING DEBATE

The rise in US deaths and infections has dampened early hopes the country was past the worst of an economic crisis that has decimated businesses and put millions of Americans out of work.

The trend also has fueled a bitter debate over the reopening of US schools in the coming weeks. US President Donald Trump and members of his administration have pushed for students to return to class, while some teachers and local officials have called for online learning.

“We will fight on all fronts for the safety of students and their educators,” Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said during the union’s virtual convention on Tuesday. “It’s the eleventh hour; we need the resources now.”

The battle is playing out in Texas. The Texas Education Agency, the state overseer of public education, said it would deny funding to schools that delay in-person classes because of orders by local health authorities related to the pandemic.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued guidance that health authorities cannot impose “blanket” school closures for coronavirus prevention. Any such decision is up to school officials, he said.

Local health leaders in the biggest metropolitan areas in Texas – including Houston and Dallas – have recently ordered the postponement of in-person classes.

RELIEF BILL DISPUTE

In Washington, Republicans in the US Senate pushed back against their own party’s $1 trillion coronavirus relief proposal the day after it was unveiled by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, sending some US stocks downward.

“I’m not for borrowing another trillion dollars,” Republican Senator Rand Paul told reporters.

Democrats also have rejected the plan as too limited compared with their $3 trillion proposal that passed the House of Representatives in May. Some Republicans called that one too expensive.

Trump said on Tuesday he did not support everything in the Senate Republican coronavirus relief legislation but would not elaborate on what he did not like.

“There are also things that I very much support,” he told a White House briefing. “But we’ll be negotiating.”

Trump also groused about Fauci’s high approval ratings and joked “nobody likes me” as he struggles to improve his standing with voters over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

“It can only be my personality,” said Trump.

Fauci, a member of Trump’s coronavirus task force, is one of the most trusted people in government and many Americans listen to his advice on how to protect themselves from infection.

Four US states in the South and West reported one-day records for coronavirus deaths on Tuesday and cases in Texas passed the 400,000 mark as California health officials said Latinos made up more than half of its cases.

Four US states in the South and West reported one-day records for coronavirus deaths on Tuesday and cases in Texas passed the 400,000 mark as California health officials said Latinos made up more than half of its cases. Arkansas, Florida, Montana and Oregon each reported record spikes in fatalities. California had recorded 133 deaths by mid-afternoon, shy of its one-day peak of 159 with hours to go. Also read: American pharmaceuticals and conglomerates making hefty profit from coronavirus pandemic California health officials said Latinos, who make up just over a third of the most populous US state, account for 56% of COVID-19 infections and 46% of deaths. Cases are soaring in the Central Valley agricultural region, with its heavily Latino population, overwhelming hospitals. Also read: Race for Covid-19 vaccine: China wants to act god in a world deep in pain Florida saw 191 coronavirus deaths in the prior 24 hours, its highest single-day rise yet, the state health department said. Texas added more than 6,000 new cases on Monday, pushing its total to 401,477, according to a Reuters tally. Only three other states – California, Florida and New York – have more than 400,000 total cases. Those states are also the four most populous states in the United States. California and Texas both reported decreases in overall hospitalizations as Dr. Anthony Fauci, a top US infectious diseases expert, saw signs the surge could be peaking in the South and West while other areas were on the cusp of new outbreaks. Fauci said early indications showed the percentage of positive coronavirus tests rising in Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee and Kentucky. SCHOOL REOPENING DEBATE The rise in US deaths and infections has dampened early hopes the country was past the worst of an economic crisis that has decimated businesses and put millions of Americans out of work. The trend also has fueled a bitter debate over the reopening of US schools in the coming weeks. US President Donald Trump and members of his administration have pushed for students to return to class, while some teachers and local officials have called for online learning. “We will fight on all fronts for the safety of students and their educators,” Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said during the union’s virtual convention on Tuesday. “It’s the eleventh hour; we need the resources now.” The battle is playing out in Texas. The Texas Education Agency, the state overseer of public education, said it would deny funding to schools that delay in-person classes because of orders by local health authorities related to the pandemic. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued guidance that health authorities cannot impose “blanket” school closures for coronavirus prevention. Any such decision is up to school officials, he said. Local health leaders in the biggest metropolitan areas in Texas – including Houston and Dallas – have recently ordered the postponement of in-person classes. RELIEF BILL DISPUTE In Washington, Republicans in the US Senate pushed back against their own party’s $1 trillion coronavirus relief proposal the day after it was unveiled by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, sending some US stocks downward. “I’m not for borrowing another trillion dollars,” Republican Senator Rand Paul told reporters. Democrats also have rejected the plan as too limited compared with their $3 trillion proposal that passed the House of Representatives in May. Some Republicans called that one too expensive. Trump said on Tuesday he did not support everything in the Senate Republican coronavirus relief legislation but would not elaborate on what he did not like. “There are also things that I very much support,” he told a White House briefing. “But we’ll be negotiating.” Trump also groused about Fauci’s high approval ratings and joked “nobody likes me” as he struggles to improve his standing with voters over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. “It can only be my personality,” said Trump. Fauci, a member of Trump’s coronavirus task force, is one of the most trusted people in government and many Americans listen to his advice on how to protect themselves from infection.

Four US states see record COVID-19 deaths, Latinos hit hard in California

Coronavirus cases in India have crossed 14.83 lakh-mark taking confirmed cases tally to 14,83,157 including 4,96,988 active cases, 9,52,744 cured, discharged or migrated and 33,425 deaths, according to health ministry's figures released on Tuesday.

According to the data, the recovery rate among COVID-19 patients is 64.24 per cent, while the fatality-rate is 2.25 per cent.

Single-day spike of 47,704 positive cases reported in India with 654 deaths in the last 24 hours.

According to the ICMR the total number of COVID-19 samples tested up to July 27 is 1, 73, 34,885 including 5, 28,082 samples tested yesterday. 
 
Since emerging in China late last year, the virus has killed a total of 651,902 people and infected 16,396,954, of which 9,512,561 have been declared recovered. More than 100,000 new deaths have been recorded since July 9, and the global count has doubled in just over two months. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus cases in India have crossed 14.83 lakh-mark taking confirmed cases tally to 14,83,157 including 4,96,988 active cases, 9,52,744 cured, discharged or migrated and 33,425 deaths, according to health ministry's figures released on Tuesday.

Coronavirus cases in India have crossed 14.83 lakh-mark taking confirmed cases tally to 14,83,157 including 4,96,988 active cases, 9,52,744 cured, discharged or migrated and 33,425 deaths, according to health ministry's figures released on Tuesday. According to the data, the recovery rate among COVID-19 patients is 64.24 per cent, while the fatality-rate is 2.25 per cent. Single-day spike of 47,704 positive cases reported in India with 654 deaths in the last 24 hours. According to the ICMR the total number of COVID-19 samples tested up to July 27 is 1, 73, 34,885 including 5, 28,082 samples tested yesterday. Since emerging in China late last year, the virus has killed a total of 651,902 people and infected 16,396,954, of which 9,512,561 have been declared recovered. More than 100,000 new deaths have been recorded since July 9, and the global count has doubled in just over two months. (With inputs from agencies)

Spike of 47,704 cases, 654 fatalities push India's tally to 14,83,156

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 14, 35,453 on Monday, with 49,931 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day.

The recoveries have mounted to 9, 17,568, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

This is the fifth consecutive day when COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 45,000.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1, 68, 06,803 samples have been tested up to July 26 with 5, 15,472 samples being tested on Sunday, the highest in a day.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the overall number of global coronavirus cases has topped 16.1 million, while the deaths have increased to over 647,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

As of Monday morning, the total number of cases stood at 16,199,796, while the fatalities rose to 647,910, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The US accounted for the world`s highest number of infections and fatalities at 4,233,764 and 146,934, respectively, according to the CSSE.

Brazil came in the second place with 2,419,091 infections and 87,004 deaths.

In terms of cases, India ranks third (1,385,685).

(With inputs from agencies)

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 14, 35,453 on Monday, with 49,931 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. The recoveries have mounted to 9, 17,568, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

India's coronavirus tally climbed to 14, 35,453 on Monday, with 49,931 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day. The recoveries have mounted to 9, 17,568, according to the Union Health Ministry data. This is the fifth consecutive day when COVID-19 cases have increased by more than 45,000. According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 1, 68, 06,803 samples have been tested up to July 26 with 5, 15,472 samples being tested on Sunday, the highest in a day. Meanwhile, the overall number of global coronavirus cases has topped 16.1 million, while the deaths have increased to over 647,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University. As of Monday morning, the total number of cases stood at 16,199,796, while the fatalities rose to 647,910, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. The US accounted for the world`s highest number of infections and fatalities at 4,233,764 and 146,934, respectively, according to the CSSE. Brazil came in the second place with 2,419,091 infections and 87,004 deaths. In terms of cases, India ranks third (1,385,685). (With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally climbs to 14,35,453; over 49,000 cases in last 24 hours

A 65-year-old Indian national has become the latest victim to succumb to the coronavirus in Nepal, a day after he tested positive for the disease, a media report said on Sunday.

The deceased, a businessman in Nepal's Birgunj, was a patient of diabetes, cardiac ailment and tested positive for coronavirus on Saturday, My Republica reported.

"He was tested positive for COVID-19 in the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) conducted earlier on Saturday. However, the result of an advanced test to diagnose the disease called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) of the old man is still awaited," the report said.

He was admitted to Narayani Hospital on Saturday afternoon as he complained of fever, cough and breathing difficulties.

After collecting his swab samples for the PCR test, he was referred to Corona Hospital for further treatment.

"The old man was also suffering from heart disease and diabetes," Niraj Kumar Singh, a doctor at the hospital, was quoted as saying in the report.

Nepal registered 130 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide COVID-19 tally to 18,613, the health ministry said on Sunday.

The Himalayan nation's coronavirus death toll stands at 45.

A 65-year-old Indian national has become the latest victim to succumb to the coronavirus in Nepal, a day after he tested positive for the disease, a media report said on Sunday.

A 65-year-old Indian national has become the latest victim to succumb to the coronavirus in Nepal, a day after he tested positive for the disease, a media report said on Sunday. The deceased, a businessman in Nepal's Birgunj, was a patient of diabetes, cardiac ailment and tested positive for coronavirus on Saturday, My Republica reported. "He was tested positive for COVID-19 in the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) conducted earlier on Saturday. However, the result of an advanced test to diagnose the disease called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) of the old man is still awaited," the report said. He was admitted to Narayani Hospital on Saturday afternoon as he complained of fever, cough and breathing difficulties. After collecting his swab samples for the PCR test, he was referred to Corona Hospital for further treatment. "The old man was also suffering from heart disease and diabetes," Niraj Kumar Singh, a doctor at the hospital, was quoted as saying in the report. Nepal registered 130 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide COVID-19 tally to 18,613, the health ministry said on Sunday. The Himalayan nation's coronavirus death toll stands at 45.

65-year-old Indian man succumbs to COVID-19 day after diagnosis in Nepal: Report

Australia's migration intake will drop significantly to 31,000 in 2020-21 from 232,000 in 2018-19 due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, impacting thousands of Indians planning to emigrate to this country.

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While the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Australian economy are still evolving, migration, which is a key driver of the economy, has been hit following the travel bans, border closures imposed earlier this year since the contagion began.

The Australian Economic and Fiscal Update report, released on Thursday by the treasury department, said that the Net Overseas Migration (NOM) is significantly affected by the international travel restrictions and constraints on the ability of applications to meet visa application requirements.

"The NOM is assumed to fall from 232,000 in 2018-19 to be 154,000 in 2019-20 and 31,000 in 2020-21," it said.

The Indian community in Australia is comprised of nearly seven lakh people.

India is one of the top sources of skilled immigrants to Australia. Approximately 90,000 students are studying in Australian universities.

The report further said that the international borders were expected to reopen in Januray next year, but a two-week quarantine period would remain in place for arrivals to Australia.

"Future migration levels remain highly uncertain, due to the path of the pandemic and the nature and duration of measures taken to contain its spread at home and abroad.

"The government implemented international travel bans in March 2020. This prevented all arrivals on visitor and temporary migration visas and prevented Australian citizens and permanent residents from departing Australia," the document read.

According to the treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, no decision was taken yet on when Australia's travel ban will be lifted.

"In terms of the borders, the assumptions are... to very gradually start to come back that the quarantine is applied, that you start bringing in some international students...," he was quoted as saying by AAP news agency.

"Of course, the environment with respect to coronavirus is very fluid. So decisions haven''t been taken about the start dates for that. These are treasury''s forecasts and as you can understand, it's a very dynamic environment," he said.

According to Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, the contagion has infected over 16 million people and killed more than 644,000 across the world.

In Australia, the COVID-19 has infected over 13,900 people and killed 155 others.

The COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December last year, has also battered the world economy with the International Monetary Fund saying that the global economy is bound to suffer a "severe recession".

Australia's migration intake will drop significantly to 31,000 in 2020-21 from 232,000 in 2018-19 due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, impacting thousands of Indians planning to emigrate to this country.

Australia's migration intake will drop significantly to 31,000 in 2020-21 from 232,000 in 2018-19 due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, impacting thousands of Indians planning to emigrate to this country. Also read: North Korea reports 'suspected' case of COVID-19 in defector While the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Australian economy are still evolving, migration, which is a key driver of the economy, has been hit following the travel bans, border closures imposed earlier this year since the contagion began. The Australian Economic and Fiscal Update report, released on Thursday by the treasury department, said that the Net Overseas Migration (NOM) is significantly affected by the international travel restrictions and constraints on the ability of applications to meet visa application requirements. "The NOM is assumed to fall from 232,000 in 2018-19 to be 154,000 in 2019-20 and 31,000 in 2020-21," it said. The Indian community in Australia is comprised of nearly seven lakh people. India is one of the top sources of skilled immigrants to Australia. Approximately 90,000 students are studying in Australian universities. The report further said that the international borders were expected to reopen in Januray next year, but a two-week quarantine period would remain in place for arrivals to Australia. "Future migration levels remain highly uncertain, due to the path of the pandemic and the nature and duration of measures taken to contain its spread at home and abroad. "The government implemented international travel bans in March 2020. This prevented all arrivals on visitor and temporary migration visas and prevented Australian citizens and permanent residents from departing Australia," the document read. According to the treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, no decision was taken yet on when Australia's travel ban will be lifted. "In terms of the borders, the assumptions are... to very gradually start to come back that the quarantine is applied, that you start bringing in some international students...," he was quoted as saying by AAP news agency. "Of course, the environment with respect to coronavirus is very fluid. So decisions haven''t been taken about the start dates for that. These are treasury''s forecasts and as you can understand, it's a very dynamic environment," he said. According to Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, the contagion has infected over 16 million people and killed more than 644,000 across the world. In Australia, the COVID-19 has infected over 13,900 people and killed 155 others. The COVID-19, which originated in China's Wuhan city in December last year, has also battered the world economy with the International Monetary Fund saying that the global economy is bound to suffer a "severe recession".

Coronavirus: Australia's migration intake to drop in 2020-21, Indians affected

Chinese companies with around 200 investment proposals are waiting for security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after revised FDI policy was notified in April, making Government of India's approval mandatory for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by neighbouring countries.

In April, with an aim to curb the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies whose valuations have come down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has made its nod compulsory for all foreign direct investment coming from neighbouring countries including China.

The new rules mark a major change in the foreign direct policy of the country and they now&nbsp;also apply to transfer of ownership of FDI.

The stricter measures have been taken to avoid the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies as their valuations have plummeted post the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier this year concerns were raised when HDFC had declared that China's central bank PBOC now owns more than 1 per cent of Indian lender's stake.

China's central bank had gradually raised stake in Indian lender from 0.8% to 1.1 per cent. &nbsp;The department for the promotion of industry and internal trade has said through press note that an entity of a country which shares a land border with India can invest only after receiving government approval.

Meanwhile, India and China have been engaging in diplomatic and military dialogue to achieve de-escalation along the LAC in eastern Ladakh where a violent face-off in Galwan Valley led to casualties on both sides in June.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese companies with around 200 investment proposals are waiting for security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after revised FDI policy was notified in April, making Government of India's approval mandatory for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by neighbouring countries.

Chinese companies with around 200 investment proposals are waiting for security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after revised FDI policy was notified in April, making Government of India's approval mandatory for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by neighbouring countries. In April, with an aim to curb the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies whose valuations have come down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has made its nod compulsory for all foreign direct investment coming from neighbouring countries including China. The new rules mark a major change in the foreign direct policy of the country and they now also apply to transfer of ownership of FDI. The stricter measures have been taken to avoid the opportunistic takeover of Indian companies as their valuations have plummeted post the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year concerns were raised when HDFC had declared that China's central bank PBOC now owns more than 1 per cent of Indian lender's stake. China's central bank had gradually raised stake in Indian lender from 0.8% to 1.1 per cent. The department for the promotion of industry and internal trade has said through press note that an entity of a country which shares a land border with India can invest only after receiving government approval. Meanwhile, India and China have been engaging in diplomatic and military dialogue to achieve de-escalation along the LAC in eastern Ladakh where a violent face-off in Galwan Valley led to casualties on both sides in June. (With inputs from agencies)

China corporates wait for Government of India's approval with 200 investment proposals

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