Hong&nbsp;Kongers stripped shop shelves bare Tuesday as&nbsp;panic&nbsp;buying&nbsp;set in following mixed messaging from the government over whether it plans a China-style hard&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;this month.

Uncertainty over Covid rules has sent the city's residents flocking to supermarkets, chemists and vegetable stores to stock up, leaving shelves empty across the city.

Photos circulating on social media showed people had trouble finding a variety of items including meat, vegetables, frozen foods, noodles, paracetamol and testing kits.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-mortuaries-hit-capacity-as-covid-deaths-climb-457455">&nbsp;Hong Kong mortuaries hit capacity as COVID deaths climb</a>

"We are like ants going home, grabbing a bit at one spot at a time," a woman, who gave her surname Wu, told AFP on Tuesday in a supermarket where most vegetables and meat had been snapped up.

The financial hub is in the grips of its worst coronavirus outbreak, registering tens of thousands of new cases each day, overwhelming hospitals and shattering the city's zero-Covid strategy.

Authorities plan to test all 7.4 million residents this month and isolate all infections either at home or in a series of camps that are still being constructed with the help of mainland China.

City leader Carrie Lam had initially ruled out a mainland style&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;where people are confined to their homes during the testing period.

But on Monday, health chief Sophia Chan confirmed it was still on the table, a day after a senior Chinese health official described it as the best option.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-reports-record-daily-covid-cases-and-83-deaths-457121">Hong Kong reports record daily COVID cases and 83 deaths</a>

On Tuesday multiple&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;media including HK01, Singtao and South China Morning Post also said authorities were planning a variety of&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;options for the test period, citing sources.

SCMP's said the current favoured option was a nine-day "large-scale&nbsp;lockdown" where most residents would only be allowed out to by food.

One of the most densely populated cities on Earth,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's supermarkets have limited backroom storage space and saw waves of&nbsp;panic&nbsp;buying&nbsp;at the start of the pandemic two years ago.

City apartments are also some of the smallest in the world leaving little space to stock up.&nbsp;

Rules change every day

The vast majority of&nbsp;HongKong's food is imported from mainland China and the current supply crunch has been worsened by cross border truckers getting infected by the high transmissible Omicron variant.

More than 190,000 infections have been recorded in the last two months compared to just 12,000 for the rest of the pandemic.

The government released a statement late Monday saying food supplies remained constant and that there was no need for&nbsp;panic&nbsp;buying.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-hong-kongers-must-undergo-three-rounds-of-compulsory-coronavirus-tests-carrie-lam-455392">All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam</a>

"You don't need to worry about food and other necessities,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has sufficient goods and material reserve," the city's number two official John Lee told reporters as he presided over the opening of a 3,900 bed isolation facility where mild infections will be treated.

But analysts said uncertainty and distrust were fuelling consumer habits.

"We have so many questions but all answers are 'to be confirmed'," Chan Ka-lok, an international politics scholar at Baptist University, wrote on social media.

"Rush to buy and stock up, let the people decide how to live their life."

Tom Grundy, editor of the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;Free Press news website, described the latest&nbsp;panic&nbsp;buying&nbsp;as "a massive failure of gov't communications".

"Rules changing every few days, u-turns, botched stats, poor data disclosure," he wrote on Twitter.

Faith in government assurances is low in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, where authorities have carried out a two-year crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests and have a history of backpeddling on promises.&nbsp;

The decision to mass test residents was itself a policy U-turn -- Lam had previously ruled out such a step before backing it last month.

It is not yet clear when testing will take place and what the government will do with all the cases it finds.&nbsp;

Some 70,000 isolation units for mild cases are due to come online in the coming weeks, in requisitioned hotels, public housing units and camps being built with Chinese help.

That will cover roughly two days of infections at&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's current official caseload.&nbsp;

Hong Kongers stripped shop shelves bare Tuesday as panic buying set in following mixed messaging from the government over whether it plans a China-style hard lockdown this month.

Hong Kongers stripped shop shelves bare Tuesday as panic buying set in following mixed messaging from the government over whether it plans a China-style hard lockdown this month. Uncertainty over Covid rules has sent the city's residents flocking to supermarkets, chemists and vegetable stores to stock up, leaving shelves empty across the city. Photos circulating on social media showed people had trouble finding a variety of items including meat, vegetables, frozen foods, noodles, paracetamol and testing kits. Also read | Hong Kong mortuaries hit capacity as COVID deaths climb "We are like ants going home, grabbing a bit at one spot at a time," a woman, who gave her surname Wu, told AFP on Tuesday in a supermarket where most vegetables and meat had been snapped up. The financial hub is in the grips of its worst coronavirus outbreak, registering tens of thousands of new cases each day, overwhelming hospitals and shattering the city's zero-Covid strategy. Authorities plan to test all 7.4 million residents this month and isolate all infections either at home or in a series of camps that are still being constructed with the help of mainland China. City leader Carrie Lam had initially ruled out a mainland style lockdown where people are confined to their homes during the testing period. But on Monday, health chief Sophia Chan confirmed it was still on the table, a day after a senior Chinese health official described it as the best option. Also read | Hong Kong reports record daily COVID cases and 83 deaths On Tuesday multiple Hong Kong media including HK01, Singtao and South China Morning Post also said authorities were planning a variety of lockdown options for the test period, citing sources. SCMP's said the current favoured option was a nine-day "large-scale lockdown" where most residents would only be allowed out to by food. One of the most densely populated cities on Earth, Hong Kong's supermarkets have limited backroom storage space and saw waves of panic buying at the start of the pandemic two years ago. City apartments are also some of the smallest in the world leaving little space to stock up. Rules change every day The vast majority of HongKong's food is imported from mainland China and the current supply crunch has been worsened by cross border truckers getting infected by the high transmissible Omicron variant. More than 190,000 infections have been recorded in the last two months compared to just 12,000 for the rest of the pandemic. The government released a statement late Monday saying food supplies remained constant and that there was no need for panic buying. Also read | All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam "You don't need to worry about food and other necessities, Hong Kong has sufficient goods and material reserve," the city's number two official John Lee told reporters as he presided over the opening of a 3,900 bed isolation facility where mild infections will be treated. But analysts said uncertainty and distrust were fuelling consumer habits. "We have so many questions but all answers are 'to be confirmed'," Chan Ka-lok, an international politics scholar at Baptist University, wrote on social media. "Rush to buy and stock up, let the people decide how to live their life." Tom Grundy, editor of the Hong Kong Free Press news website, described the latest panic buying as "a massive failure of gov't communications". "Rules changing every few days, u-turns, botched stats, poor data disclosure," he wrote on Twitter. Faith in government assurances is low in Hong Kong, where authorities have carried out a two-year crackdown on dissent after huge democracy protests and have a history of backpeddling on promises. The decision to mass test residents was itself a policy U-turn -- Lam had previously ruled out such a step before backing it last month. It is not yet clear when testing will take place and what the government will do with all the cases it finds. Some 70,000 isolation units for mild cases are due to come online in the coming weeks, in requisitioned hotels, public housing units and camps being built with Chinese help. That will cover roughly two days of infections at Hong Kong's current official caseload.

COVID-19: Lockdown fears spark panic buying in Hong Kong

Queen&nbsp;Elizabeth&nbsp;felt&nbsp;well&nbsp;enough&nbsp;to undertake two&nbsp;virtual&nbsp;audiences&nbsp;on Tuesday, just over a week after she tested positive for COVID-19 and following the cancellation of other similar events last week.

The British monarch, 95, has been fully vaccinated against coronavirus and was previously said to have been suffering mild cold-like symptoms. Despite cancelling some events she continued with light duties after testing positive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-queen-elizabeth-postpones-more-planned-virtual-audiences-buckingham-palace-456064">Covid: Queen Elizabeth postpones more planned virtual audiences - Buckingham Palace</a>

On Tuesday the palace said she spoke with incoming ambassadors from Andorra and Chad. Last week she spoke to Prime Minister Boris Johnson by telephone.

Buckingham Palace has said it would not give a running commentary on the condition of&nbsp;Elizabeth, who last month celebrated her 70th anniversary of becoming&nbsp;queen.

Queen Elizabeth felt well enough to undertake two virtual audiences on Tuesday, just over a week after she tested positive for COVID-19 and following the cancellation of other similar events last week.

Queen Elizabeth felt well enough to undertake two virtual audiences on Tuesday, just over a week after she tested positive for COVID-19 and following the cancellation of other similar events last week. The British monarch, 95, has been fully vaccinated against coronavirus and was previously said to have been suffering mild cold-like symptoms. Despite cancelling some events she continued with light duties after testing positive. Also read | Covid: Queen Elizabeth postpones more planned virtual audiences - Buckingham Palace On Tuesday the palace said she spoke with incoming ambassadors from Andorra and Chad. Last week she spoke to Prime Minister Boris Johnson by telephone. Buckingham Palace has said it would not give a running commentary on the condition of Elizabeth, who last month celebrated her 70th anniversary of becoming queen.

UK's Queen Elizabeth II well enough to carry out virtual audiences

Facilities for storing dead bodies at hospitals and public&nbsp;mortuaries&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;are at maximum&nbsp;capacity&nbsp;due to a record number of&nbsp;COVID-19 fatalities, the Hospital Authority said on Monday, as officials battle to control a surge in cases.

The global financial hub reported a daily record high of 34,466 new coronavirus infections and 87&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;on Monday, health authorities said.

Separately, the city's Education Secretary said international schools could maintain their original term dates, after widespread confusion over summer school holidays.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-reports-record-daily-covid-cases-and-83-deaths-457121">Hong Kong reports record daily COVID cases and 83 deaths</a>

Kevin Yeung said international schools could continue with online classes through March and April, while local schools will take an early break for the summer from March until mid-April.

School campuses are expected to be used by the government in March as authorities roll out compulsory testing of the city's 7.4 million population.

The government has not ruled out a city-wide lockdown during the mass testing period, local broadcaster RTHK reported, citing Health Secretary Sophia Chan. Leader Carrie Lam has previously said she was not considering a city-wide lockdown for the moment.

Empty grocery shelves were seen across several supermarkets in the Chinese-ruled financial hub as residents scooped up essentials in case of a potential lockdown.

The Hospital Authority said the number of patients dying from&nbsp;COVID-19 or serious complications triggered by the cold weather sharply increased over the past two weeks, putting immense pressure on the mortuary service in public hospitals.

"The storage space in hospital&nbsp;mortuaries&nbsp;has reached full&nbsp;capacity," the authority told Reuters in an email.

Dozens of bodies are waiting in hospital accident and emergency rooms to be transported to&nbsp;mortuaries, said Tony Ling, head of the city's Public Doctors Association.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-hong-kongers-must-undergo-three-rounds-of-compulsory-coronavirus-tests-carrie-lam-455392">All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam</a>

"These bodies now need extra time to wait for collection because resources are just so tight," due to manpower and storage&nbsp;capacity&nbsp;shortages, he said.

The government did not respond to requests for comment.

There have been more than 600 coronavirus-linked&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;since the start of the pandemic in 2020, fewer than in other similar major cities.

However, numbers are&nbsp;climbing daily with around 400&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;recorded in the past week, with the majority being unvaccinated residents.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has a large proportion of unvaccinated elderly despite a recent pick-up in vaccinations. Many have hesitated to be inoculated due to a fear of side effects and complacency due to the city's success in controlling the virus in 2021.

Around 600 elderly care and disability centres have been infected over the past month, authorities said.

Medical experts have said the city of 7.4 million residents could see cumulative&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;from the virus potentially rising to around 3,200 by mid-May.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Covid-19 surge brings Hong Kong to its knees

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-covid-19-surge-brings-hong-kong-to-its-knees-454147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Around 4,000 people on average die each month in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong, according to 2020 government figures.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has stuck firmly to a "dynamic zero" coronavirus policy which seeks to curb all outbreaks, like that in mainland China. To achieve this, the former British colony has unleashed its most draconian measures since the start of the pandemic, adding to rules that were already among the world's toughest.

The city has recorded over 190,000 infections in total, with around 180,000 of them since the start of February due to the highly transmissible Omicron variant.

The government has in recent days communicated to the public at press conferences that the&nbsp;deaths&nbsp;are mostly among unvaccinated people. Previously that information was not readily given.

Facilities for storing dead bodies at hospitals and public mortuaries in Hong Kong are at maximum capacity due to a record number of COVID-19 fatalities, the Hospital Authority said on Monday, as officials battle to control a surge in cases.

Facilities for storing dead bodies at hospitals and public mortuaries in Hong Kong are at maximum capacity due to a record number of COVID-19 fatalities, the Hospital Authority said on Monday, as officials battle to control a surge in cases. The global financial hub reported a daily record high of 34,466 new coronavirus infections and 87 deaths on Monday, health authorities said. Separately, the city's Education Secretary said international schools could maintain their original term dates, after widespread confusion over summer school holidays. Also read | Hong Kong reports record daily COVID cases and 83 deaths Kevin Yeung said international schools could continue with online classes through March and April, while local schools will take an early break for the summer from March until mid-April. School campuses are expected to be used by the government in March as authorities roll out compulsory testing of the city's 7.4 million population. The government has not ruled out a city-wide lockdown during the mass testing period, local broadcaster RTHK reported, citing Health Secretary Sophia Chan. Leader Carrie Lam has previously said she was not considering a city-wide lockdown for the moment. Empty grocery shelves were seen across several supermarkets in the Chinese-ruled financial hub as residents scooped up essentials in case of a potential lockdown. The Hospital Authority said the number of patients dying from COVID-19 or serious complications triggered by the cold weather sharply increased over the past two weeks, putting immense pressure on the mortuary service in public hospitals. "The storage space in hospital mortuaries has reached full capacity," the authority told Reuters in an email. Dozens of bodies are waiting in hospital accident and emergency rooms to be transported to mortuaries, said Tony Ling, head of the city's Public Doctors Association. Also read | All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam "These bodies now need extra time to wait for collection because resources are just so tight," due to manpower and storage capacity shortages, he said. The government did not respond to requests for comment. There have been more than 600 coronavirus-linked deaths in Hong Kong since the start of the pandemic in 2020, fewer than in other similar major cities. However, numbers are climbing daily with around 400 deaths recorded in the past week, with the majority being unvaccinated residents. Hong Kong has a large proportion of unvaccinated elderly despite a recent pick-up in vaccinations. Many have hesitated to be inoculated due to a fear of side effects and complacency due to the city's success in controlling the virus in 2021. Around 600 elderly care and disability centres have been infected over the past month, authorities said. Medical experts have said the city of 7.4 million residents could see cumulative deaths from the virus potentially rising to around 3,200 by mid-May. Watch | Gravitas: Covid-19 surge brings Hong Kong to its knees Around 4,000 people on average die each month in Hong Kong, according to 2020 government figures. Hong Kong has stuck firmly to a "dynamic zero" coronavirus policy which seeks to curb all outbreaks, like that in mainland China. To achieve this, the former British colony has unleashed its most draconian measures since the start of the pandemic, adding to rules that were already among the world's toughest. The city has recorded over 190,000 infections in total, with around 180,000 of them since the start of February due to the highly transmissible Omicron variant. The government has in recent days communicated to the public at press conferences that the deaths are mostly among unvaccinated people. Previously that information was not readily given.

Hong Kong mortuaries hit capacity as COVID deaths climb

China on Wednesday reported 85 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. Of these local cases, 40 were reported in Inner Mongolia, 10 in Hubei, eight each in Liaoning and Guangdong, six in Sichuan, three each in Jiangsu, Guangxi, and Yunnan, and two each in Beijing and Shanxi, Xinhua news agency reported citing the commission.

Wednesday also saw reports of 101 imported COVID-19 cases in 11 provincial-level regions, according to the commission. No new suspected cases or deaths from COVID-19 were reported on the day, the commission added.

Watch | Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-lessons-from-the-ukraine-crisis-455785/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to media reports, the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing, Heilongjiang, and other places inside China was still not under control, while the infection cases in nine cities - Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Yunfu, Huizhou, Heyuan, Meizhou, Baise, Nanning, and Shaoyang -- and inside three southern provinces of China -- Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hunan -- were growing at a rapid rate.

This highlights the risk of another outbreak of the pandemic due to the huge mobility of the people during the Spring festival in China.

China on Wednesday reported 85 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. Of these local cases, 40 were reported in Inner Mongolia, 10 in Hubei, eight each in Liaoning and Guangdong, six in Sichuan, three each in Jiangsu, Guangxi, and Yunnan, and two each in Beijing and Shanxi, Xinhua news agency reported citing the commission.

China on Wednesday reported 85 locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, the National Health Commission said on Thursday. Of these local cases, 40 were reported in Inner Mongolia, 10 in Hubei, eight each in Liaoning and Guangdong, six in Sichuan, three each in Jiangsu, Guangxi, and Yunnan, and two each in Beijing and Shanxi, Xinhua news agency reported citing the commission. Wednesday also saw reports of 101 imported COVID-19 cases in 11 provincial-level regions, according to the commission. No new suspected cases or deaths from COVID-19 were reported on the day, the commission added. Watch | Gravitas: China's lessons from the Ukraine crisis According to media reports, the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing, Heilongjiang, and other places inside China was still not under control, while the infection cases in nine cities - Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Yunfu, Huizhou, Heyuan, Meizhou, Baise, Nanning, and Shaoyang -- and inside three southern provinces of China -- Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hunan -- were growing at a rapid rate. This highlights the risk of another outbreak of the pandemic due to the huge mobility of the people during the Spring festival in China.

China reports 85 new local Covid cases

Queen Elizabeth II has cancelled her planned virtual engagements for Tuesday due to "mild" coronavirus symptoms, Buckingham Palace said.

"As Her Majesty is still experiencing mild cold-like symptoms she has decided not to undertake her planned virtual engagements today, but will continue with light duties," said a palace spokesman.

The 95-year-old head of state tested positive for the virus on Sunday, sparking renewed concerns about her health after she spent a night in hospital in October last year.

She was forced to rest on medical grounds and cancelled a series of planned engagements, including hosting world leaders at the UN climate change summit in November.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-ii-tests-positive-for-covid-19-buckingham-palace-454814">Queen Elizabeth II tests positive for COVID-19: Buckingham Palace</a>

Her appearances since then have been rare, although she returned to public duties before the start of her record-breaking 70th year as monarch on February 6.

The queen is scheduled to hold more virtual meetings later in the week, including her weekly private audience with Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

But it was reported that she will decide on whether to attend them nearer the time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-wishes-queen-elizabeth-ii-speedy-recovery-and-prays-for-her-good-health-454950">Indian PM Narendra Modi wishes Queen Elizabeth II speedy recovery and prays for her good health</a>

Elizabeth's eldest son and heir Prince Charles, 73, had to pull out of a planned engagement on February 10 after testing positive for coronavirus for a second time.

It was later revealed he had met his mother two days earlier.

Queen Elizabeth II has cancelled her planned virtual engagements for Tuesday due to "mild" coronavirus symptoms, Buckingham Palace said. "As Her Majesty is still experiencing mild cold-like symptoms she has decided not to undertake her planned virtual engagements today, but will continue with light duties," said a palace spokesman.

Queen Elizabeth II has cancelled her planned virtual engagements for Tuesday due to "mild" coronavirus symptoms, Buckingham Palace said. "As Her Majesty is still experiencing mild cold-like symptoms she has decided not to undertake her planned virtual engagements today, but will continue with light duties," said a palace spokesman. The 95-year-old head of state tested positive for the virus on Sunday, sparking renewed concerns about her health after she spent a night in hospital in October last year. She was forced to rest on medical grounds and cancelled a series of planned engagements, including hosting world leaders at the UN climate change summit in November. Also read | Queen Elizabeth II tests positive for COVID-19: Buckingham Palace Her appearances since then have been rare, although she returned to public duties before the start of her record-breaking 70th year as monarch on February 6. The queen is scheduled to hold more virtual meetings later in the week, including her weekly private audience with Prime Minister Boris Johnson. But it was reported that she will decide on whether to attend them nearer the time. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi wishes Queen Elizabeth II speedy recovery and prays for her good health Elizabeth's eldest son and heir Prince Charles, 73, had to pull out of a planned engagement on February 10 after testing positive for coronavirus for a second time. It was later revealed he had met his mother two days earlier.

Queen Elizabeth II cancels engagements over Covid symptoms

New&nbsp;Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;and social distancing measures&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police.

Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, thousands of protesters have blocked streets near the parliament in the capital Wellington for two weeks with trucks, cars and motorcycles, piling pressure on the government to scrap vaccine&nbsp;mandates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remote-but-connected-new-zealands-jacinda-ardern-talks-about-covid-climate-change-and-peace-at-unga-415736">'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA</a>

Ardern&nbsp;refused to set a hard date, but said there would be a narrowing of vaccine requirements after Omicron reaches a peak, which is expected in mid to late March.

"We all want to go back to the way life was. And we will, I suspect sooner than you think,"&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said at a weekly&nbsp;news conference.

"But when that happens, it will be because easing restrictions won't compromise the lives of thousands of people – not because you demanded it," she said, addressing protestors.

The demonstrations began as a stand against the vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;but have since spread to become a wider movement against&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;and her government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-covid-pill-from-merck-showed-more-promise-in-reducing-the-risk-of-hospitalisation-454773">A Covid pill from Merck showed more promise in reducing the risk of hospitalisation</a>

On Monday, eight people were arrested for disorderly behaviour and obstruction, with human waste thrown over some police officers.

New&nbsp;Zealand has reported about 16,000 cases of COVID-19 and 53 deaths since the pandemic began, relatively low by global standards, but an&nbsp;Omicron-fuelled outbreak has pushed the current seven-day average of&nbsp;new&nbsp;infections to more than 1,600 cases daily.

About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in front-line jobs.

The parliament stand off is testing&nbsp;Ardern, who garnered plaudits for keeping the country virtually virus-free over the last two years but is facing criticism for continuing strict restrictions and delaying order reopening plans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-justin-trudeaus-government-fires-a-woman-for-donating-100-to-protesters-454906">Canada: Justin Trudeau's government fires a woman for donating $100 to protesters</a>

"What we are seeing outside parliament, and the reaction to it, is the culmination of underlying issues that have been rumbling along in our communities for some time," main opposition National Party leader Christopher Luxon said on Monday, calling for vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;to be phased out and borders reopened.

"It's driven by Covid and vaccine&nbsp;mandates, yes, but the frustrations shared by many Kiwis are also driven by a Government that seems to be stalling," he said.

New Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police.

New Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police. Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, thousands of protesters have blocked streets near the parliament in the capital Wellington for two weeks with trucks, cars and motorcycles, piling pressure on the government to scrap vaccine mandates. Also read | 'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA Ardern refused to set a hard date, but said there would be a narrowing of vaccine requirements after Omicron reaches a peak, which is expected in mid to late March. "We all want to go back to the way life was. And we will, I suspect sooner than you think," Ardern said at a weekly news conference. "But when that happens, it will be because easing restrictions won't compromise the lives of thousands of people – not because you demanded it," she said, addressing protestors. The demonstrations began as a stand against the vaccine mandates but have since spread to become a wider movement against Ardern and her government. Also read | A Covid pill from Merck showed more promise in reducing the risk of hospitalisation On Monday, eight people were arrested for disorderly behaviour and obstruction, with human waste thrown over some police officers. New Zealand has reported about 16,000 cases of COVID-19 and 53 deaths since the pandemic began, relatively low by global standards, but an Omicron-fuelled outbreak has pushed the current seven-day average of new infections to more than 1,600 cases daily. About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in front-line jobs. The parliament stand off is testing Ardern, who garnered plaudits for keeping the country virtually virus-free over the last two years but is facing criticism for continuing strict restrictions and delaying order reopening plans. Also read | Canada: Justin Trudeau's government fires a woman for donating $100 to protesters "What we are seeing outside parliament, and the reaction to it, is the culmination of underlying issues that have been rumbling along in our communities for some time," main opposition National Party leader Christopher Luxon said on Monday, calling for vaccine mandates to be phased out and borders reopened. "It's driven by Covid and vaccine mandates, yes, but the frustrations shared by many Kiwis are also driven by a Government that seems to be stalling," he said.

COVID-19: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern signals mandates will ease after Omicron peaks

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and&nbsp;Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24. 
 
Gates will engage in a fireside chat with Telangana`s Industry and Information Technology Minister K T Rama Rao during the virtual event. 
 
The fireside chat will be around a range of themes including the Covid-19 pandemic, learnings during the past two years, emerging healthcare trends, and what can be done to strengthen the global healthcare system going forward. 
 
The 19th edition of BioAsia, the largest annual global Biotechnology and Life Sciences convention of Asia, will see the participation of prominent leaders from the life sciences and healthcare industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-meet-afghan-sikh-hindu-community-members-soon-454207">PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon</a> 
 
Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman, Johnson &amp; Johnson and Geoff Martha, Chairman &amp; CEO of Medtronic, will address the participants at the two-day event. 
 
"I am delighted that the 2022 edition of BioAsia will feature some of the most influential and visionary leaders. I look forward to an interesting session with Gates to assess the industry`s current position and determine the roadmap ahead. The delegates of BioAsia across the world would also benefit by listening to Gorsky and Martha who come with immense knowledge around the global life sciences industry," said Rama Rao. 
 
Bill Gates is known for his incredible philanthropic contributions through his foundation, and for his keen interest in technology, science, and emerging challenges such as climate change. In addition to sharing lessons learnt from the pandemic, Gates will also talk about the milestones achieved by the global partnership and the road ahead. 
 
With this year's theme being 'Future Ready'&nbsp;the focus of the chat will be on the new approaches and capabilities that can equip the world to be prepared and what is the role of stakeholders including the government, industry, etc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-makes-helmets-and-safety-harnesses-a-must-for-kids-riding-pillion-454019">India makes helmets and safety harnesses a must for kids riding pillion</a> 
 
Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman of the world's largest healthcare company Johnson &amp; Johnson, would deliver the keynote address during the event. Gorsky was also serving as the CEO of the company until recently and under his leadership of over 3 decades, Johnson &amp; Johnson was consistently recognized as one of the most innovative and best managed companies in the world. 
 
Gorsky is also a member of the board of iconic global organisations including Apple and IBM, as well as the Wharton School of Business. He will share his perspectives around topics of importance for the life sciences industry like impact of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, innovation ecosystem and start-ups, role of new technologies within healthcare such as AI, ML, Deep Learning etc, among others.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Should India revisit the relevance of reservation?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-should-india-revisit-the-relevance-of-reservation-428872/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Another prominent leader, Geoffrey S. Martha, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medtronic will also keynote in this year`s event. Medtronic is the world`s leading medical technology company, with $29 billion in annual revenue, more than 90,000 employees, and operations reaching more than 150 countries worldwide. 
 
Martha will address BioAsia attendees on the global trends in the medtech sector including the role India and Asia can play in the global efforts to accelerate the medtech growth.

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24.

Microsoft co-founder and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates will speak about the road ahead for life science and healthcare industries at BioAsia 2022, beginning from February 24. Gates will engage in a fireside chat with Telangana`s Industry and Information Technology Minister K T Rama Rao during the virtual event. The fireside chat will be around a range of themes including the Covid-19 pandemic, learnings during the past two years, emerging healthcare trends, and what can be done to strengthen the global healthcare system going forward. The 19th edition of BioAsia, the largest annual global Biotechnology and Life Sciences convention of Asia, will see the participation of prominent leaders from the life sciences and healthcare industry. Also read | PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman, Johnson & Johnson and Geoff Martha, Chairman & CEO of Medtronic, will address the participants at the two-day event. "I am delighted that the 2022 edition of BioAsia will feature some of the most influential and visionary leaders. I look forward to an interesting session with Gates to assess the industry`s current position and determine the roadmap ahead. The delegates of BioAsia across the world would also benefit by listening to Gorsky and Martha who come with immense knowledge around the global life sciences industry," said Rama Rao. Bill Gates is known for his incredible philanthropic contributions through his foundation, and for his keen interest in technology, science, and emerging challenges such as climate change. In addition to sharing lessons learnt from the pandemic, Gates will also talk about the milestones achieved by the global partnership and the road ahead. With this year's theme being 'Future Ready' the focus of the chat will be on the new approaches and capabilities that can equip the world to be prepared and what is the role of stakeholders including the government, industry, etc. Also read | India makes helmets and safety harnesses a must for kids riding pillion Alex Gorsky, Executive Chairman of the world's largest healthcare company Johnson & Johnson, would deliver the keynote address during the event. Gorsky was also serving as the CEO of the company until recently and under his leadership of over 3 decades, Johnson & Johnson was consistently recognized as one of the most innovative and best managed companies in the world. Gorsky is also a member of the board of iconic global organisations including Apple and IBM, as well as the Wharton School of Business. He will share his perspectives around topics of importance for the life sciences industry like impact of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, innovation ecosystem and start-ups, role of new technologies within healthcare such as AI, ML, Deep Learning etc, among others. Watch | Gravitas: Should India revisit the relevance of reservation? Another prominent leader, Geoffrey S. Martha, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Medtronic will also keynote in this year`s event. Medtronic is the world`s leading medical technology company, with $29 billion in annual revenue, more than 90,000 employees, and operations reaching more than 150 countries worldwide. Martha will address BioAsia attendees on the global trends in the medtech sector including the role India and Asia can play in the global efforts to accelerate the medtech growth.

Bill Gates to address BioAsia in fireside chat with KTR

Western Australia, the mining-heavy state that has held firm on strict borders controls for two years, said it will be reopening to triple vaccinated visitors after deciding it can cope with the Omicron outbreak.

Widely labelled the&nbsp;hermit&nbsp;kingdom, Western Australia has stood out for its "hard border", while other Australian states have adjusted their border policies depending on the severity of the pandemic.

By comparison, the country's two most populous states, New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria that are home to Sydney and Melbourne, relaxed their borders in November.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-largest-coal-fired-power-plant-to-close-453908">&nbsp;Australia's largest coal-fired power plant to close</a>

"We have the right systems in place to deal with the faster spreading Omicron, with the right close contact rules, public health measures and rapid antigen test supplies," Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan told reporters as he announced a March 3 reopening.

"Our hosts are ready, our workforce is ready, Western Australia is ready."

McGowan's tough border stance had proven popular with voters in his home state but a growing number of other state and federal leaders, unions and business groups had expressed concern about the economic impact of isolating Western Australia without a clear end date.

Under Western Australia's current border controls, people have to apply for permission to enter the state from elsewhere in the country, usually based on urgent family or business matters. If granted permission to enter, they are required to do seven days of quarantine and a series of rapid antigen tests - effectively keeping out most travellers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-shortens-quarantine-time-for-covid-exposed-after-negative-test-454152">WHO shortens quarantine time for Covid-exposed after negative test</a>

The decision to reopen came as Western Australia logged a record 194 locally transmitted coronavirus cases, still far lower than most other states which are preparing to welcome overseas arrivals from Monday.

Like most countries, the fast-moving Omicron variant has pushed Australia's coronavirus infections and hospital cases to record levels. But nationwide numbers have been on a downtrend in recent days with a booster rollout gathering pace.

In Sydney and Melbourne, authorities on Friday lifted curbs on singing and dancing in nightclubs as well as most other remaining COVID-19 restrictions amid a steady fall in hospital cases. Mandatory QR check-ins at buildings were also scrapped.

From Feb. 25, masks will be needed only on public transport and indoors at airports and hospitals.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Australia Day: Is Australia celebrating an invasion?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-australia-day-is-australia-celebrating-an-invasion-447945/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We don't want restrictions in place for any&nbsp;longer&nbsp;than necessary and with hospitalisation and ICU rates trending downwards, now is the right time to make sensible changes," said New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet.

New South Wales and Victoria, home to more than half of Australia's 25 million people, have been the worst hit by the Omicron wave and had to reintroduce several tough curbs last month.

More than 23,000 new cases and 38 deaths were reported in the country on Friday. Most of Australia's pandemic total of around 2.7 million confirmed cases have been detected since the emergence of the Omicron variant in late November. Total deaths stand at 4,836.

Western Australia, the mining-heavy state that has held firm on strict borders controls for two years, said it will be reopening to triple vaccinated visitors after deciding it can cope with the Omicron outbreak.

Western Australia, the mining-heavy state that has held firm on strict borders controls for two years, said it will be reopening to triple vaccinated visitors after deciding it can cope with the Omicron outbreak. Widely labelled the hermit kingdom, Western Australia has stood out for its "hard border", while other Australian states have adjusted their border policies depending on the severity of the pandemic. By comparison, the country's two most populous states, New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria that are home to Sydney and Melbourne, relaxed their borders in November. Also read | Australia's largest coal-fired power plant to close "We have the right systems in place to deal with the faster spreading Omicron, with the right close contact rules, public health measures and rapid antigen test supplies," Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan told reporters as he announced a March 3 reopening. "Our hosts are ready, our workforce is ready, Western Australia is ready." McGowan's tough border stance had proven popular with voters in his home state but a growing number of other state and federal leaders, unions and business groups had expressed concern about the economic impact of isolating Western Australia without a clear end date. Under Western Australia's current border controls, people have to apply for permission to enter the state from elsewhere in the country, usually based on urgent family or business matters. If granted permission to enter, they are required to do seven days of quarantine and a series of rapid antigen tests - effectively keeping out most travellers. Also read | WHO shortens quarantine time for Covid-exposed after negative test The decision to reopen came as Western Australia logged a record 194 locally transmitted coronavirus cases, still far lower than most other states which are preparing to welcome overseas arrivals from Monday. Like most countries, the fast-moving Omicron variant has pushed Australia's coronavirus infections and hospital cases to record levels. But nationwide numbers have been on a downtrend in recent days with a booster rollout gathering pace. In Sydney and Melbourne, authorities on Friday lifted curbs on singing and dancing in nightclubs as well as most other remaining COVID-19 restrictions amid a steady fall in hospital cases. Mandatory QR check-ins at buildings were also scrapped. From Feb. 25, masks will be needed only on public transport and indoors at airports and hospitals. Watch | Gravitas: Australia Day: Is Australia celebrating an invasion? "We don't want restrictions in place for any longer than necessary and with hospitalisation and ICU rates trending downwards, now is the right time to make sensible changes," said New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet. New South Wales and Victoria, home to more than half of Australia's 25 million people, have been the worst hit by the Omicron wave and had to reintroduce several tough curbs last month. More than 23,000 new cases and 38 deaths were reported in the country on Friday. Most of Australia's pandemic total of around 2.7 million confirmed cases have been detected since the emergence of the Omicron variant in late November. Total deaths stand at 4,836.

Hermit kingdom no longer: Western Australia to open borders after two years

Canadian police are poised to clear out on Friday hundreds of truck drivers from Ottawa who have staged a three-week-long protest against pandemic restrictions that has crippled the capital and prompted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to assume emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years.

The drivers, joined by thousands of demonstrators and some 400 vehicles, turned the streets around Parliament into a noisy party zone since first arriving on Jan. 28, in what has become one of the worst crises to hit Trudeau since he took power in 2015.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-just-look-dumb-elon-musk-compares-trudeau-to-hitler-later-deletes-the-tweet-heres-what-he-said-454172">'You just look dumb': Elon Musk compares Trudeau to Hitler, later deletes the tweet. Here's what he said</a>

Police made a handful of arrests Thursday evening, including of Chris Barber, one of the main fundraisers and organisers, after authorities said action was imminent. Barber went without resistance after police told him he was being arrested for mischief.

"We absolutely are committed to end this unlawful demonstration. We have the plan, we have the commitment, we have the resources," interim police chief Steve Bell told reporters on Thursday.&nbsp;Police will set up a perimeter with 100 checkpoints around downtown to stop people without legitimate reason from entering, he said.

"This weekend will look very different than the past three weekends," he added. Previous chief Peter Sloly quit this week amid residents' fury about what they saw as police inaction.

The truckers' protests started against vaccine mandates for cross-border drivers, a measure in place in the United States, too. But slowly it spread across Canada and morphed into an anti-government movement. Protesters blocked several land crossings with the United States, including the busiest, the Ambassador Bridge which connects to Detroit, for six days, hurting both economies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-issue-an-ultimatum-to-canada-trucker-protestors-leave-capital-or-be-arrested-453881">Police issues ultimatum to Canada truck protestors: Leave capital or be arrested</a>

Calling the blockades a threat to democracy, Trudeau invoked emergency measures on Monday giving his government temporary powers to end the unrest. Government officials said they were worried about extremists causing violence.

Many protesters on Parliament Hill said they would not leave until their demands were met.

"End the mandates, give us our rights and this is over," said Chris Dacey on Thursday. "We'll all go back to our families."

The border blockades turned the pressure on Trudeau to act swiftly, and US&nbsp;President Joe Biden asked him to use federal powers.

"The illegal blockades and occupations have to stop and the borders have to remain open," Trudeau told legislators on Thursday as Parliament started debate on the Emergencies Act, which needs to be passed within seven days of an announcement.

Watch |&nbsp;Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calls Freedom Convoy protest an 'Economic threat'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadian-prime-minister-justin-trudeau-calls-freedom-convoy-protest-an-economic-threat-454179/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But the official opposition Conservative Party says there was no need for the Emergencies Act, especially since the border blockades are over. Conservative Parliamentarian Jeremy Patzer told the House of Commons on Thursday that people around the world were alarmed to see Trudeau "come down on peaceful protesters with a sledgehammer."

"It is absolutely shameful," he added.

Canadian police are poised to clear out on Friday hundreds of truck drivers from Ottawa who have staged a three-week-long protest against pandemic restrictions that has crippled the capital and prompted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to assume emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years.

Canadian police are poised to clear out on Friday hundreds of truck drivers from Ottawa who have staged a three-week-long protest against pandemic restrictions that has crippled the capital and prompted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to assume emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years. The drivers, joined by thousands of demonstrators and some 400 vehicles, turned the streets around Parliament into a noisy party zone since first arriving on Jan. 28, in what has become one of the worst crises to hit Trudeau since he took power in 2015. Also read | 'You just look dumb': Elon Musk compares Trudeau to Hitler, later deletes the tweet. Here's what he said Police made a handful of arrests Thursday evening, including of Chris Barber, one of the main fundraisers and organisers, after authorities said action was imminent. Barber went without resistance after police told him he was being arrested for mischief. "We absolutely are committed to end this unlawful demonstration. We have the plan, we have the commitment, we have the resources," interim police chief Steve Bell told reporters on Thursday. Police will set up a perimeter with 100 checkpoints around downtown to stop people without legitimate reason from entering, he said. "This weekend will look very different than the past three weekends," he added. Previous chief Peter Sloly quit this week amid residents' fury about what they saw as police inaction. The truckers' protests started against vaccine mandates for cross-border drivers, a measure in place in the United States, too. But slowly it spread across Canada and morphed into an anti-government movement. Protesters blocked several land crossings with the United States, including the busiest, the Ambassador Bridge which connects to Detroit, for six days, hurting both economies. Also read | Police issues ultimatum to Canada truck protestors: Leave capital or be arrested Calling the blockades a threat to democracy, Trudeau invoked emergency measures on Monday giving his government temporary powers to end the unrest. Government officials said they were worried about extremists causing violence. Many protesters on Parliament Hill said they would not leave until their demands were met. "End the mandates, give us our rights and this is over," said Chris Dacey on Thursday. "We'll all go back to our families." The border blockades turned the pressure on Trudeau to act swiftly, and US President Joe Biden asked him to use federal powers. "The illegal blockades and occupations have to stop and the borders have to remain open," Trudeau told legislators on Thursday as Parliament started debate on the Emergencies Act, which needs to be passed within seven days of an announcement. Watch | Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calls Freedom Convoy protest an 'Economic threat' But the official opposition Conservative Party says there was no need for the Emergencies Act, especially since the border blockades are over. Conservative Parliamentarian Jeremy Patzer told the House of Commons on Thursday that people around the world were alarmed to see Trudeau "come down on peaceful protesters with a sledgehammer." "It is absolutely shameful," he added.

Canada police set to end siege of capital by protesters fighting COVID measures

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam renewed an appeal for support from the global financial hub's 7.5 million people, many of whom are fatigued by some of the world's most stringent restrictions even as most other major cities adjust to living with the virus.

Daily infections have surged by more than 40 times since the start of February and authorities have shut schools, gyms cinemas and most public venues. Many office employees have reverted to working from home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-overwhelmed-by-covid-waves-onslaught-says-leader-carrie-lam-453169">Hong Kong overwhelmed by Covid wave’s 'onslaught', says leader Carrie Lam</a>

Lam's comments, in a statement released late on Wednesday, came after Chinese President Xi Jinping told Hong Kong's leaders their "overriding mission" was to stabilise and control the coronavirus in the global financial hub.

"With the utmost concern and staunch support of President Xi Jinping...all in society must now join hands in riding out the fifth wave of the epidemic, displaying the Hong Kong spirit in full," she said.

"I am optimistic that, through the joint efforts by the Government and hotel sector, at least 10,000 hotel rooms could be made available."

In a move to free up beds for isolation, Lam said she had spoken with local hotel owners and security chief Chris Tang would oversee the operation of participating hotels.

Hong Kong was expected to report around 5,000 new cases on Thursday, Now TV reported, up from the previous day's record high of 4,285 confirmed infections and an additional 7,000 preliminary positive cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-censors-website-of-hong-kong-rights-group-amid-crackdown-on-freedom-of-speech-453529">China censors website of Hong Kong rights group amid crackdown on freedom of speech</a>

Some media reports, citing sources, said the government planned to test up to one million people each day from March and those who failed to comply would be fined HK$10,000 ($1,282).

The government did not respond to a request for comment.

Hong Kong has adopted the same 'dynamic zero' coronavirus strategy, employed by mainland China to suppress all outbreaks.

But the scale and speed of the highly contagious Omicron variant of the virus has left authorities scrambling. Hospitals are operating at maximum or over capacity with some patients treated in makeshift open air spaces outside medical centres in chilly and rainy weather.

Authorities said they could no longer keep up their testing and isolation mandates, resulting in a backlog that could not keep pace with the daily infection numbers.

Watch |&nbsp;Hospitals overwhelmed as covid-19 cases rise in Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hospitals-overwhelmed-as-covid-19-cases-rise-in-hong-kong-453901/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China has said it would help Hong Kong bolster its testing, treatment and quarantine capacity, and secure resources from rapid antigen kits and protective gear to fresh vegetables.

Hong Kong has recorded around 30,000 infections since the start of the pandemic, and around 230 deaths, far fewer than other similar sized major cities.

However, medical experts have warned daily cases could surge to 28,000 by the end of March amid worries about high levels of vaccine hesitancy among the elderly.

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March.

The Hong Kong government plans to make up to 10,000 hotel rooms available for COVID-19 patients as the city battles a surge in cases and local media reported the government will make testing compulsory from March. Chief Executive Carrie Lam renewed an appeal for support from the global financial hub's 7.5 million people, many of whom are fatigued by some of the world's most stringent restrictions even as most other major cities adjust to living with the virus. Daily infections have surged by more than 40 times since the start of February and authorities have shut schools, gyms cinemas and most public venues. Many office employees have reverted to working from home. Also read | Hong Kong overwhelmed by Covid wave’s 'onslaught', says leader Carrie Lam Lam's comments, in a statement released late on Wednesday, came after Chinese President Xi Jinping told Hong Kong's leaders their "overriding mission" was to stabilise and control the coronavirus in the global financial hub. "With the utmost concern and staunch support of President Xi Jinping...all in society must now join hands in riding out the fifth wave of the epidemic, displaying the Hong Kong spirit in full," she said. "I am optimistic that, through the joint efforts by the Government and hotel sector, at least 10,000 hotel rooms could be made available." In a move to free up beds for isolation, Lam said she had spoken with local hotel owners and security chief Chris Tang would oversee the operation of participating hotels. Hong Kong was expected to report around 5,000 new cases on Thursday, Now TV reported, up from the previous day's record high of 4,285 confirmed infections and an additional 7,000 preliminary positive cases. Also read | China censors website of Hong Kong rights group amid crackdown on freedom of speech Some media reports, citing sources, said the government planned to test up to one million people each day from March and those who failed to comply would be fined HK$10,000 ($1,282). The government did not respond to a request for comment. Hong Kong has adopted the same 'dynamic zero' coronavirus strategy, employed by mainland China to suppress all outbreaks. But the scale and speed of the highly contagious Omicron variant of the virus has left authorities scrambling. Hospitals are operating at maximum or over capacity with some patients treated in makeshift open air spaces outside medical centres in chilly and rainy weather. Authorities said they could no longer keep up their testing and isolation mandates, resulting in a backlog that could not keep pace with the daily infection numbers. Watch | Hospitals overwhelmed as covid-19 cases rise in Hong Kong China has said it would help Hong Kong bolster its testing, treatment and quarantine capacity, and secure resources from rapid antigen kits and protective gear to fresh vegetables. Hong Kong has recorded around 30,000 infections since the start of the pandemic, and around 230 deaths, far fewer than other similar sized major cities. However, medical experts have warned daily cases could surge to 28,000 by the end of March amid worries about high levels of vaccine hesitancy among the elderly.

Amid surge in cases Hong Kong aims to make available 10,000 hotel rooms for COVID-19 patients

Scotland&nbsp;will&nbsp;offer&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;to&nbsp;all&nbsp;5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advises the&nbsp;COVID-19 vaccine roll-out of&nbsp;all&nbsp;four nations of the United Kingdom, who have followed their guidance so far.

"Although it isn’t yet published, I can confirm that (the Scottish Government) has received advice from JCVI (advisers) recommending that vaccination is&nbsp;offered to&nbsp;all&nbsp;5-11&nbsp;yr&nbsp;olds," Sturgeon said in a tweet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/explainer-patient-dies-due-to-lassa-fever-in-uk-what-are-the-symptoms-how-can-it-be-prevented-453413">Explainer: Patient dies due to Lassa fever in UK: What are the symptoms &amp; how can it be prevented?</a>

"We will accept this advice &amp; work is now underway on the logistics of delivery."

Wales has also said it will implement the JCVI advice, with the Welsh health minister saying she was not quite sure why the publication of the JCVI's advice has been delayed.

Britain has been slower than some other countries in&nbsp;offering the shots to 5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds. While vulnerable children have been&nbsp;offered the shot, Britain is not currently vaccinating the age group more broadly unlike countries such as the United States and Israel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccinated-kids-allowed-to-enter-shopping-centres-in-jakarta-453691">Vaccinated kids allowed to enter shopping centres in Jakarta</a>

The British government, which sets health policy for England, is yet to announce the vaccination of 5-11&nbsp;year&nbsp;olds, even though its vaccine rollout policy is usually co-ordinated with other UK nations.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that he will set out more details of his strategy for living with&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;when parliament returns on Monday next week.

Watch |&nbsp;UK Prince Andrew settles lawsuit by sex abuse accuser Virginia Giuffre

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"We are reviewing the JCVI’s advice as part of wider decision-making ahead of the publication of our long-term strategy for living with&nbsp;COVID-19," a UK health ministry spokesperson said. "More detail will be set out shortly."

Scotland will offer COVID-19 vaccines to all 5-11 year olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers.

Scotland will offer COVID-19 vaccines to all 5-11 year olds, first minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Wednesday, accepting advice received from British vaccine advisers. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advises the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out of all four nations of the United Kingdom, who have followed their guidance so far. "Although it isn’t yet published, I can confirm that (the Scottish Government) has received advice from JCVI (advisers) recommending that vaccination is offered to all 5-11 yr olds," Sturgeon said in a tweet. Also read | Explainer: Patient dies due to Lassa fever in UK: What are the symptoms & how can it be prevented? "We will accept this advice & work is now underway on the logistics of delivery." Wales has also said it will implement the JCVI advice, with the Welsh health minister saying she was not quite sure why the publication of the JCVI's advice has been delayed. Britain has been slower than some other countries in offering the shots to 5-11 year olds. While vulnerable children have been offered the shot, Britain is not currently vaccinating the age group more broadly unlike countries such as the United States and Israel. Also read | Vaccinated kids allowed to enter shopping centres in Jakarta The British government, which sets health policy for England, is yet to announce the vaccination of 5-11 year olds, even though its vaccine rollout policy is usually co-ordinated with other UK nations. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that he will set out more details of his strategy for living with COVID when parliament returns on Monday next week. Watch | UK Prince Andrew settles lawsuit by sex abuse accuser Virginia Giuffre "We are reviewing the JCVI’s advice as part of wider decision-making ahead of the publication of our long-term strategy for living with COVID-19," a UK health ministry spokesperson said. "More detail will be set out shortly."

Scotland to offer COVID vaccines to all 5-11 year olds

South Korea's daily number of Covid cases hit a record high amid the spread of the Omicron variant of the virus, the health authorities said Wednesday. 
 
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), the country reported 90,443 confirmed cases in the past 24 hours, raising the total tally to 1,552,851.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-missiles-to-scandals-issues-at-stake-in-south-koreas-presidential-election-453520">From missiles to scandals: Issues at stake in South Korea's presidential election</a> 
 
The daily caseload was up from 57,175 in the previous day, topping 90,000 for the first time in the country, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
The recent resurgence was driven by infections in the Seoul metropolitan area amid the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, which became a dominant strain here.

Of the new cases, 18,834 were Seoul residents. The number of newly infected people living in Gyeonggi province and the western port city of Incheon was 27,954 and 5,817, respectively.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-contrast-to-covids-59-million-deaths-this-malady-kills-more-than-9-million-people-every-year-453616">In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year</a> 
 
The virus also raged in the non-metropolitan region. The number of new infections in the non-capital areas was 37,676, or 41.7 per cent of the total local transmissions. 
 
Among the new cases, 162 were imported from overseas, lifting the total to 27,659. 
 
The number of infected people who were in a serious condition stood at 313, down one from the previous day.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-scientists-flag-deadlier-coronavirus-448614/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 39 more deaths were confirmed from the pandemic, bringing the death toll to 7,202. The total fatality rate was 0.46 per cent. 
 
The country has administered Covid vaccines to 44,757,215 people, or 87.2 per cent of the total population, and the number of fully vaccinated people stands at 44,249,882, or 86.2 per cent. 
 
The number of those who received their booster dose was 29,769,192, or 58.0 per cent of the population.

South Korea's daily number of Covid cases hit a record high amid the spread of the Omicron variant of the virus, the health authorities said Wednesday. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), the country reported 90,443 confirmed cases in the past 24 hours, raising the total tally to 1,552,851.

South Korea's daily number of Covid cases hit a record high amid the spread of the Omicron variant of the virus, the health authorities said Wednesday. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), the country reported 90,443 confirmed cases in the past 24 hours, raising the total tally to 1,552,851. Also read | From missiles to scandals: Issues at stake in South Korea's presidential election The daily caseload was up from 57,175 in the previous day, topping 90,000 for the first time in the country, Xinhua news agency reported. The recent resurgence was driven by infections in the Seoul metropolitan area amid the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, which became a dominant strain here. Of the new cases, 18,834 were Seoul residents. The number of newly infected people living in Gyeonggi province and the western port city of Incheon was 27,954 and 5,817, respectively. Also read | In contrast to Covid's 5.9 million deaths, this malady kills more than 9 million people every year The virus also raged in the non-metropolitan region. The number of new infections in the non-capital areas was 37,676, or 41.7 per cent of the total local transmissions. Among the new cases, 162 were imported from overseas, lifting the total to 27,659. The number of infected people who were in a serious condition stood at 313, down one from the previous day. Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus At least 39 more deaths were confirmed from the pandemic, bringing the death toll to 7,202. The total fatality rate was 0.46 per cent. The country has administered Covid vaccines to 44,757,215 people, or 87.2 per cent of the total population, and the number of fully vaccinated people stands at 44,249,882, or 86.2 per cent. The number of those who received their booster dose was 29,769,192, or 58.0 per cent of the population.

South Korea reports record high of 90,443 new Covid cases

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday she felt demonstrations against a COVID-19 vaccine mandate now entering their second week were an "imported" phenomenon, and nothing like anything she had seen before in the country.

Hundreds of protesters continue to occupy lawns in front of the distinctive 'Beehive' parliament for a seventh day, ignoring repeated calls by the police to leave and undaunted by drenching rain over the weekend.

Claiming inspiration from truckers' anti-vaccine mandate demonstrations in Canada, the protesters have also blocked several streets around parliament with their trucks, vans and motorcycles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-australia-vaccination-mandates-protests-gain-in-numbers-452548">New Zealand, Australia vaccination mandates protests gain in numbers</a>

"It feels like an imported protest to me," Ardern told state broadcaster TVNZ in an interview.

"I've seen Trump flags on the forecourt, I've seen Canadian flags on the forecourt," she said, referring to images of former U.S. President Donald Trump carried by some demonstrators as well as the situation in Canada.

Ardern said in a news conference later in the day that the protesters have demanded the government remove all public health COVID-19 measures.

"That means at the very point where we are seeing an increase in cases and an increase in risk to the public health and well-being of New Zealand, they want to see removed the very measures that have kept us safe, well and alive. You'll forgive me if I take a very strong view on that suggestion," Ardern said.

Watch |&nbsp;NZ police arrest protestors outside parliament as protests enter Day 3

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The protests started as a stand against vaccine mandates but have been joined by groups calling for an end to COVID-19 restrictions, rejecting vaccinations, as well as calling attention to other social issues like censorship and rights of the ethnic Maori community. At the protests' peak, thousands of demonstrators were estimated to be involved.

A country of five million people, New Zealand has some of the lowest COVID-19 case numbers in the world, largely due to tough coronavirus border curbs and social restrictions.

Daily Omicron variant cases have been rising, however, nearly touching 1,000 on Monday, as some domestic restrictions were eased this month.

The country's borders, however, are still closed with tens of thousands of expatriate New Zealanders cut off from families.

The High Court on Monday started hearing a case against the government filed by a group representing expatriate New Zealanders which has accused the state of unlawfully denying citizens the right to enter the country.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday she felt demonstrations against a COVID-19 vaccine mandate now entering their second week were an "imported" phenomenon, and nothing like anything she had seen before in the country.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday she felt demonstrations against a COVID-19 vaccine mandate now entering their second week were an "imported" phenomenon, and nothing like anything she had seen before in the country. Hundreds of protesters continue to occupy lawns in front of the distinctive 'Beehive' parliament for a seventh day, ignoring repeated calls by the police to leave and undaunted by drenching rain over the weekend. Claiming inspiration from truckers' anti-vaccine mandate demonstrations in Canada, the protesters have also blocked several streets around parliament with their trucks, vans and motorcycles. Also read | New Zealand, Australia vaccination mandates protests gain in numbers "It feels like an imported protest to me," Ardern told state broadcaster TVNZ in an interview. "I've seen Trump flags on the forecourt, I've seen Canadian flags on the forecourt," she said, referring to images of former U.S. President Donald Trump carried by some demonstrators as well as the situation in Canada. Ardern said in a news conference later in the day that the protesters have demanded the government remove all public health COVID-19 measures. "That means at the very point where we are seeing an increase in cases and an increase in risk to the public health and well-being of New Zealand, they want to see removed the very measures that have kept us safe, well and alive. You'll forgive me if I take a very strong view on that suggestion," Ardern said. Watch | NZ police arrest protestors outside parliament as protests enter Day 3 The protests started as a stand against vaccine mandates but have been joined by groups calling for an end to COVID-19 restrictions, rejecting vaccinations, as well as calling attention to other social issues like censorship and rights of the ethnic Maori community. At the protests' peak, thousands of demonstrators were estimated to be involved. A country of five million people, New Zealand has some of the lowest COVID-19 case numbers in the world, largely due to tough coronavirus border curbs and social restrictions. Daily Omicron variant cases have been rising, however, nearly touching 1,000 on Monday, as some domestic restrictions were eased this month. The country's borders, however, are still closed with tens of thousands of expatriate New Zealanders cut off from families. The High Court on Monday started hearing a case against the government filed by a group representing expatriate New Zealanders which has accused the state of unlawfully denying citizens the right to enter the country.

New Zealand's Ardern labels anti-vaccine mandate protests 'imported' as crowds defy calls to leave

Days-long rallies against COVID-19&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;picked up in&nbsp;numbers&nbsp;in&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;and&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;on Saturday, with protesters blocking roads and disrupting the life of the countries' capitals.

Several thousand protesters gathered at Canberra's major showgrounds, forcing the cancellation of a popular charity book fair, with organisers saying they opted to put their patrons’ safety first.

In&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's Wellington, hundreds of demonstrators gathered for a fifth day despite drenching rain. Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, the protesters have occupied and blocked several streets surrounding the distinctive "Beehive" parliament with their trucks, vans and motorcycles .

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eyeing-china-united-states-pledges-to-step-up-effort-in-indo-pacific-region-452543">Eyeing China, United States pledges to step up effort in Indo-Pacific region</a>

Protests&nbsp;remain relatively small in highly vaccinated&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;and&nbsp;Australia,where overwhelming majority of population supports inoculations. However, the movement has persevered, with rallies occasionally turning violent.

Australia&nbsp;Prime Minister Scott Morrison urged demonstrators to keep their&nbsp;protests&nbsp;peaceful.

"My message to them today is&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;is a free country and they have a right to protest, and I would ask them to do that in a peaceful way and a respectful way," Morrison told reporters in Sydney.

Australian Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, speaking at a media conference in Sydney, said the rallies were not going to&nbsp;gain&nbsp;widespread support. "Go home," he told the demonstrators.

Police put up&nbsp;new&nbsp;barriers in Wellington's parliament grounds on Saturday and said they would maintain a strong presence over the weekend.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ottawa-protest-canada-court-orders-end-of-trucks-bridge-blockade-452535">&nbsp;Ottawa protest: Canada court orders end of trucks' bridge blockade</a>

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;media footage showed one person being stretchered from the rally, carried by paramedics and police. No arrest had been made as of midday Saturday, according to the police, who arrested more than 100 people on Thursday.

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;logged a daily record of 454 community COVID-19 cases on Saturday.

A country of five million people,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;has reported just under 19,000 confirmed cases and 53 deaths since the pandemic began. About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in frontline jobs.

The country's borders are still closed, however, with tens of thousands of expatriate&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders facing being cut off from families. Many tourism businesses are struggling to stay afloat.

Watch |&nbsp;'Relation between India, Australia on a high,' Australian, Indian FM hail bilateral ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/relation-between-india-australia-on-a-high-australian-indian-fm-hail-bilateral-ties-452544/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">In neighbouring&nbsp;Australia, which is opening its borders to tourists later this month, 94% of those aged 16 and over are double-vaccinated, but the country is still battling a wave of the highly transmissible Omicron variant.</div>

There were at least 64 coronavirus-deaths reported across&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;on Saturday.

Days-long rallies against COVID-19 vaccination mandates picked up in numbers in New Zealand and Australia on Saturday, with protesters blocking roads and disrupting the life of the countries' capitals.

Days-long rallies against COVID-19 vaccination mandates picked up in numbers in New Zealand and Australia on Saturday, with protesters blocking roads and disrupting the life of the countries' capitals. Several thousand protesters gathered at Canberra's major showgrounds, forcing the cancellation of a popular charity book fair, with organisers saying they opted to put their patrons’ safety first. In New Zealand's Wellington, hundreds of demonstrators gathered for a fifth day despite drenching rain. Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, the protesters have occupied and blocked several streets surrounding the distinctive "Beehive" parliament with their trucks, vans and motorcycles . Also read | Eyeing China, United States pledges to step up effort in Indo-Pacific region Protests remain relatively small in highly vaccinated New Zealand and Australia,where overwhelming majority of population supports inoculations. However, the movement has persevered, with rallies occasionally turning violent. Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison urged demonstrators to keep their protests peaceful. "My message to them today is Australia is a free country and they have a right to protest, and I would ask them to do that in a peaceful way and a respectful way," Morrison told reporters in Sydney. Australian Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese, speaking at a media conference in Sydney, said the rallies were not going to gain widespread support. "Go home," he told the demonstrators. Police put up new barriers in Wellington's parliament grounds on Saturday and said they would maintain a strong presence over the weekend. Also read | Ottawa protest: Canada court orders end of trucks' bridge blockade New Zealand media footage showed one person being stretchered from the rally, carried by paramedics and police. No arrest had been made as of midday Saturday, according to the police, who arrested more than 100 people on Thursday. New Zealand logged a daily record of 454 community COVID-19 cases on Saturday. A country of five million people, New Zealand has reported just under 19,000 confirmed cases and 53 deaths since the pandemic began. About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in frontline jobs. The country's borders are still closed, however, with tens of thousands of expatriate New Zealanders facing being cut off from families. Many tourism businesses are struggling to stay afloat. Watch | 'Relation between India, Australia on a high,' Australian, Indian FM hail bilateral ties In neighbouring Australia, which is opening its borders to tourists later this month, 94% of those aged 16 and over are double-vaccinated, but the country is still battling a wave of the highly transmissible Omicron variant. There were at least 64 coronavirus-deaths reported across Australia on Saturday.

New Zealand, Australia vaccination mandates protests gain in numbers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;that was to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children&nbsp;under&nbsp;5.

U.S. regulators have been considering the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efficacy-of-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-wane-after-third-dose-study-452589">Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study</a>

In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;because the low dose used generated an immune response in&nbsp;kids&nbsp;aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25.

The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the&nbsp;FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April.

Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization.

In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday (February 11) said it was postponing an advisory panel meeting that was to discuss authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age. In a separate statement, the companies said they planned to extend the process of submitting data to U.S. regulators for the shot for children under 5. U.S. regulators have been considering the vaccine for the only age group not yet eligible for the shots, even though the companies said initial results fell short of expectations in 2- to 4-year olds. Also read | Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study In December, Pfizer said it was amending its clinical trial to test a three-dose version of the vaccine because the low dose used generated an immune response in kids aged 2 to 4 that was inferior to the response measured in those aged 16 to 25. The companies had said they submitted data on the first two doses of what would eventually be a three-dose regimen in the age group at the request of the FDA. On Friday, they said they expect to have three-dose protection data available in early April. Some scientists were critical of this idea, suggesting that regulators should wait for data from a third shot before deciding on authorization. In very young children between 6 months and 2 years old, the vaccine generated an immune response in line with 16- to 25-year-olds, the companies had said.

FDA postpones meeting to discuss Pfizer's COVID vaccine for kids under 5

China&nbsp;on Saturday said it had given "conditional"&nbsp;approval&nbsp;for&nbsp;Pfizer's&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;drug&nbsp;Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease.

The&nbsp;drug&nbsp;has so far been authorised in about 40 countries including the United States and Israel, while the European Union has permitted member states to use it ahead of formal&nbsp;approval&nbsp;as an emergency measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

Unlike&nbsp;Covid-19 vaccines,&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;says that preliminary studies show that Paxlovid does not target the ever-evolving spike protein the coronavirus uses to invade cells, meaning it should theoretically be more variant-proof.

China's National Medical Products Administration on Saturday said further research on the&nbsp;drug&nbsp;needed to be undertaken and submitted to the&nbsp;regulator.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-labour-organization-slams-china-for-racial-and-religious-discrimination-in-xinjiang-452555">International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang</a>

Beijing has not yet approved any foreign-made coronavirus vaccines.

Lab tests have shown Omicron patients jabbed with the Chinese-produced Sinovac vaccine experience larger drops in antibody levels than those given the&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;version.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;Pfizer, whose vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech was the first approved in the US, forecast more than $50 billion in 2022 sales for its coronavirus jab and therapeutic treatment.

The company expects to make 120 million treatment courses of Paxlovid, with executives describing ongoing contract talks with about 100 governments.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easing-curbs-in-covid-zero-regions-will-cause-2-million-deaths-infections-china-ccdc-study-451366">Easing curbs in Covid zero regions will cause 2 million deaths, infections: China CCDC study</a>

Beijing's&nbsp;conditional&nbsp;approval&nbsp;of the&nbsp;pill&nbsp;comes as&nbsp;China&nbsp;-- where the coronavirus first emerged in late 2019 -- has slowed new cases to a trickle with a strict "zero-Covid" strategy of targeted lockdowns, travel restrictions and lengthy quarantines.

The country has fought several isolated flare-ups in recent months, with some driven by the delta variant and others by the Omicron strain.

All 40 of&nbsp;China's new domestic cases on Saturday occurred in just two cities, according to the National Health Commission.

One of them, the southern city of Baise –- a major aluminium producer –- went into lockdown this week amid a spike in infections, sending global prices for the metal to a 14-year high.

The other cases were detected in the northeastern coastal city of Huludao, prompting authorities to suspend cross-provincial tourism in the surrounding province of Liaoning, state broadcaster CCTV reported Saturday.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus

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The country's uncompromising approach on the pandemic has led it to hold the ongoing Winter Olympics in a so-called closed loop, preventing participants from coming into contact with the wider population.

Organisers on Saturday announced eight new cases related to the Games, including four athletes and team officials.

More than 400 Olympics-related cases have been confirmed so far, the organisers said in a statement.

China on Saturday said it had given "conditional" approval for Pfizer's Covid-19 drug Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease.

China on Saturday said it had given "conditional" approval for Pfizer's Covid-19 drug Paxlovid to treat adults with mild to moderate illness and a high risk of developing severe disease. The drug has so far been authorised in about 40 countries including the United States and Israel, while the European Union has permitted member states to use it ahead of formal approval as an emergency measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Unlike Covid-19 vaccines, Pfizer says that preliminary studies show that Paxlovid does not target the ever-evolving spike protein the coronavirus uses to invade cells, meaning it should theoretically be more variant-proof. China's National Medical Products Administration on Saturday said further research on the drug needed to be undertaken and submitted to the regulator. Also read | International Labour Organization slams China for racial and religious discrimination in Xinjiang Beijing has not yet approved any foreign-made coronavirus vaccines. Lab tests have shown Omicron patients jabbed with the Chinese-produced Sinovac vaccine experience larger drops in antibody levels than those given the Pfizer version. Earlier this week, Pfizer, whose vaccine developed with Germany's BioNTech was the first approved in the US, forecast more than $50 billion in 2022 sales for its coronavirus jab and therapeutic treatment. The company expects to make 120 million treatment courses of Paxlovid, with executives describing ongoing contract talks with about 100 governments. Also read | Easing curbs in Covid zero regions will cause 2 million deaths, infections: China CCDC study Beijing's conditional approval of the pill comes as China -- where the coronavirus first emerged in late 2019 -- has slowed new cases to a trickle with a strict "zero-Covid" strategy of targeted lockdowns, travel restrictions and lengthy quarantines. The country has fought several isolated flare-ups in recent months, with some driven by the delta variant and others by the Omicron strain. All 40 of China's new domestic cases on Saturday occurred in just two cities, according to the National Health Commission. One of them, the southern city of Baise –- a major aluminium producer –- went into lockdown this week amid a spike in infections, sending global prices for the metal to a 14-year high. The other cases were detected in the northeastern coastal city of Huludao, prompting authorities to suspend cross-provincial tourism in the surrounding province of Liaoning, state broadcaster CCTV reported Saturday. Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan scientists flag deadlier coronavirus The country's uncompromising approach on the pandemic has led it to hold the ongoing Winter Olympics in a so-called closed loop, preventing participants from coming into contact with the wider population. Organisers on Saturday announced eight new cases related to the Games, including four athletes and team officials. More than 400 Olympics-related cases have been confirmed so far, the organisers said in a statement.

China gives 'conditional' approval for Pfizer Covid pill Paxlovid

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak.

"The successive waves have not been easy for us," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told a news conference, referring to back-to-back Omicron and Delta variant surges. "But we have got through them and we have got through them together."

COVID-19 infections have fallen from a record 75,000 on Jan. 24 to an average of around 23,000 in the week to Feb. 7. Hospital admissions have also declined and the numbers of patients in intensive care was far lower than during previous waves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trendy-look-belgium-starts-to-issue-passports-with-countrys-comic-strip-heroes-images-451193">Trendy look? Belgium starts to issue passports with country's comic strip heroes’ images</a>

From next Friday, nightclubs will be allowed to reopen, bars will be able to extend their hours beyond the current limit of midnight and end curbs on the number of customers per table and concerts will be possible with a standing audience.

Indoor access will still be largely based on a COVID pass, showing vaccination or a recent test or recovery from infection. Limits, from 70% to full capacity, will be based on the activity and the degree of ventilation.

Watch |&nbsp;Inflation push up price of Belgium's nation food- Fries

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Non-essential workers will also no longer need to work from home for at least four days a week and consumers will be able to go shopping in groups of more than two.

The easing of measures follows those already announced in Belgium`s neighbours. France has set in motion a gradual easing through February.

The Dutch government said on Thursday it aims to drop most coronavirus restrictions by the end of the month, but with COVID passes for access to many public places.

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak.

Belgium announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions on Friday to allow nightclubs to reopen and drop the requirement for primary school pupils to wear masks, as cases of the Omicron variant fell from an end-of-January peak. "The successive waves have not been easy for us," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo told a news conference, referring to back-to-back Omicron and Delta variant surges. "But we have got through them and we have got through them together." COVID-19 infections have fallen from a record 75,000 on Jan. 24 to an average of around 23,000 in the week to Feb. 7. Hospital admissions have also declined and the numbers of patients in intensive care was far lower than during previous waves. Also read | Trendy look? Belgium starts to issue passports with country's comic strip heroes’ images From next Friday, nightclubs will be allowed to reopen, bars will be able to extend their hours beyond the current limit of midnight and end curbs on the number of customers per table and concerts will be possible with a standing audience. Indoor access will still be largely based on a COVID pass, showing vaccination or a recent test or recovery from infection. Limits, from 70% to full capacity, will be based on the activity and the degree of ventilation. Watch | Inflation push up price of Belgium's nation food- Fries Non-essential workers will also no longer need to work from home for at least four days a week and consumers will be able to go shopping in groups of more than two. The easing of measures follows those already announced in Belgium`s neighbours. France has set in motion a gradual easing through February. The Dutch government said on Thursday it aims to drop most coronavirus restrictions by the end of the month, but with COVID passes for access to many public places.

Belgium to reopen nightclubs, ease mask mandate as infections sink

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;City&nbsp;was poised to sack roughly&nbsp;3,000&nbsp;municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19.

The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates.

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;requires all&nbsp;city&nbsp;employees, including police, firefighters and teachers, to receive at least one dose of a&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;under orders passed by former mayor Bill de Blasio last year.

"We're not firing them. People are quitting," his successor, Eric Adams, said on Thursday.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/future-of-covid-vaccines-scientists-develop-a-vaccine-that-can-be-inhaled-wont-need-needles-452473">&nbsp;Future of Covid vaccines: Scientists develop a vaccine that can be inhaled, won't need needles</a>

"The responsibility is clear. We said it: if you're hired, if you get this job, you have to be vaccinated. If you are not following the rules, you are making that decision," he added.

Like mandatory mask-wearing, mandatory vaccinations have been a controversial political issue in America, with Republican-led Texas going as far as banning them.

Hundreds of workers who oppose&nbsp;New&nbsp;York's&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;requirement were due to march on&nbsp;City&nbsp;Hall in Manhattan on Friday.&nbsp;

Approximately 95 percent of the&nbsp;city's municipal workforce has received at least one dose of a&nbsp;vaccine.

The&nbsp;3,000&nbsp;number represents less than one percent of the Big Apple's 370,000&nbsp;municipal workers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/efficacy-of-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-wane-after-third-dose-study-452589">Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study</a>

Several thousand others remain unvaccinated but have applied for either medical or religious exemptions to avoid losing their jobs.

Friday's deadline comes after&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;state let an indoor mask&nbsp;mandate&nbsp;expire on Thursday.

Several other states, including California,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Jersey and Massachusetts announced this week the lifting of mask mandates for either businesses or schools.

The moves come as the US government&nbsp;grows increasingly concerned about copycat trucker-led protests against coronavirus restrictions that have shut down the Canadian capital Ottawa and three US border crossings.

Watch | NYC's municipal workers face termination over covid-19 vaccine status

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&nbsp;

Supporters of the movement in the United States have called on a convoy of truckers to gather in California in early March for a two-day rally before possibly heading towards the capital Washington.

&nbsp;

New York City was poised to sack roughly 3,000 municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19. The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates.

New York City was poised to sack roughly 3,000 municipal workers on Friday for failing to meet a deadline to get vaccinated against Covid-19. The expected dismissals come amid growing discontent in North America against coronavirus restrictions and as states unilaterally lift mask mandates. New York requires all city employees, including police, firefighters and teachers, to receive at least one dose of a vaccine under orders passed by former mayor Bill de Blasio last year. "We're not firing them. People are quitting," his successor, Eric Adams, said on Thursday. Also read | Future of Covid vaccines: Scientists develop a vaccine that can be inhaled, won't need needles "The responsibility is clear. We said it: if you're hired, if you get this job, you have to be vaccinated. If you are not following the rules, you are making that decision," he added. Like mandatory mask-wearing, mandatory vaccinations have been a controversial political issue in America, with Republican-led Texas going as far as banning them. Hundreds of workers who oppose New York's vaccine requirement were due to march on City Hall in Manhattan on Friday. Approximately 95 percent of the city's municipal workforce has received at least one dose of a vaccine. The 3,000 number represents less than one percent of the Big Apple's 370,000 municipal workers. Also read | Efficacy of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines wane after third dose: Study Several thousand others remain unvaccinated but have applied for either medical or religious exemptions to avoid losing their jobs. Friday's deadline comes after New York state let an indoor mask mandate expire on Thursday. Several other states, including California, New Jersey and Massachusetts announced this week the lifting of mask mandates for either businesses or schools. The moves come as the US government grows increasingly concerned about copycat trucker-led protests against coronavirus restrictions that have shut down the Canadian capital Ottawa and three US border crossings. Watch | NYC's municipal workers face termination over covid-19 vaccine status Supporters of the movement in the United States have called on a convoy of truckers to gather in California in early March for a two-day rally before possibly heading towards the capital Washington.

New York City set to fire 3,000 staff for defying vaccine mandate

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train.

"Yes, Shikhar and Shreyas have tested negative for COVID-19 and they have been cleared to train. Ruturaj Gaikwad is still in isolation," the source pointed. Team India will have a training session on Tuesday evening and both Dhawan and Iyer are set to be a part of that session.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, before the first ODI against West Indies, Shreyas Iyer, Dhawan, Ruturaj, and Navdeep Saini tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, all these players missed the first ODI against West Indies.

The Rohit-led squad defeated Windies by six wickets in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium. India and West Indies will now lock horns in the second ODI on Wednesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train.

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train. "Yes, Shikhar and Shreyas have tested negative for COVID-19 and they have been cleared to train. Ruturaj Gaikwad is still in isolation," the source pointed. Team India will have a training session on Tuesday evening and both Dhawan and Iyer are set to be a part of that session. ALSO READ: This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Earlier, before the first ODI against West Indies, Shreyas Iyer, Dhawan, Ruturaj, and Navdeep Saini tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, all these players missed the first ODI against West Indies. The Rohit-led squad defeated Windies by six wickets in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium. India and West Indies will now lock horns in the second ODI on Wednesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies

Sweden said Thursday it would lift most of its coronavirus restrictions on February 9 as the pandemic enters a "whole new phase" with the highly contagious but milder Omicron variant.

Among the domestic restrictions that will be lifted are the 11:00 pm closing for bars and restaurants, and limits on crowd numbers.

Vaccine passes for indoor events will no longer be required, and face masks will no longer be recommended on public transport at peak times.

"The pandemic is not over, but we are entering a whole new phase," Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson told reporters.

"Knowledge about Omicron has improved... Several studies show Omicron leads to less serious illness." 
While Omicron has led to a record number of infections in the past month, hospitalisations for severe infections have not overwhelmed the healthcare system.

The country's Public Health Agency later in the day also said it was changing its testing recommendation, saying that there was no longer a need for the general public to get tested, even with symptoms.

"The testing capacity we have needs to be completely focused on the groups that really need testing," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell told a press conference, adding that resources should be focused on staff and patients within healthcare.

In addition, the Public Health Agency said it would formally petition the government to no longer designate Covid-19 as a public health threat.

"We now see that Covid-19 as a disease and a pandemic is completely different type of disease and pandemic than before, and therefore it is no longer reasonable to designate it as a threat to society," Tegnell said.

More than 83 percent of people over the age of 12 have had two doses, and almost 50 percent have received third doses. 
Swedish Health Minister Lena Hallengren said the government would remain "vigilant" about the pandemic's progress.

A return to working in person will resume gradually, as will university and higher education classes.

However, authorities recommended that people continue to stay home if they have Covid-19 symptoms, and border restrictions will remain in place for the time being.

Unvaccinated people are meanwhile advised to continue avoiding crowds after February 9.

Sweden made headlines early in the pandemic for choosing to not impose lockdowns.

With over 16,000 fatalities so far, its death toll is in line with the European average, but is far higher than those of neighbouring Norway, Finland and Denmark.

Denmark on Tuesday became the first European Union country to lift most of its domestic Covid-19 restrictions, followed later in the day by Norway.

Sweden said Thursday it would lift most of its coronavirus restrictions on February 9 as the pandemic enters a "whole new phase" with the highly contagious but milder Omicron variant.

Sweden said Thursday it would lift most of its coronavirus restrictions on February 9 as the pandemic enters a "whole new phase" with the highly contagious but milder Omicron variant. Among the domestic restrictions that will be lifted are the 11:00 pm closing for bars and restaurants, and limits on crowd numbers. Vaccine passes for indoor events will no longer be required, and face masks will no longer be recommended on public transport at peak times. "The pandemic is not over, but we are entering a whole new phase," Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson told reporters. "Knowledge about Omicron has improved... Several studies show Omicron leads to less serious illness." While Omicron has led to a record number of infections in the past month, hospitalisations for severe infections have not overwhelmed the healthcare system. The country's Public Health Agency later in the day also said it was changing its testing recommendation, saying that there was no longer a need for the general public to get tested, even with symptoms. "The testing capacity we have needs to be completely focused on the groups that really need testing," state epidemiologist Anders Tegnell told a press conference, adding that resources should be focused on staff and patients within healthcare. In addition, the Public Health Agency said it would formally petition the government to no longer designate Covid-19 as a public health threat. "We now see that Covid-19 as a disease and a pandemic is completely different type of disease and pandemic than before, and therefore it is no longer reasonable to designate it as a threat to society," Tegnell said. More than 83 percent of people over the age of 12 have had two doses, and almost 50 percent have received third doses. Swedish Health Minister Lena Hallengren said the government would remain "vigilant" about the pandemic's progress. A return to working in person will resume gradually, as will university and higher education classes. However, authorities recommended that people continue to stay home if they have Covid-19 symptoms, and border restrictions will remain in place for the time being. Unvaccinated people are meanwhile advised to continue avoiding crowds after February 9. Sweden made headlines early in the pandemic for choosing to not impose lockdowns. With over 16,000 fatalities so far, its death toll is in line with the European average, but is far higher than those of neighbouring Norway, Finland and Denmark. Denmark on Tuesday became the first European Union country to lift most of its domestic Covid-19 restrictions, followed later in the day by Norway.

Sweden to lift most Covid curbs on Feb 9

Pharma giant AstraZeneca said on Thursday that preliminary data from a trial of its COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria showed high antibody response against Omicron variant when given a third booster dose. The higher immune response was also seen against Beta, Delta, Alpha and Gamma variants of coronavirus.

The increased immune response was seen in blood samples of people who were already vaccinated with either Vaxzevria or an mRNA vaccine. AstraZeneca said that it would submit this data to regulators worldwide given the urgent need.

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AstraZeneca has developed the vaccine with researchers from the University of Oxford, and lab studies conducted by the university last month already found a three-dose course of Vaxzevria boosted antibody levels in the blood against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

The brief statement on Thursday, which did not include specific data, was the first by AstraZeneca on the protective potential of Vaxzevria as a booster shot following a two shot-course of either an mRNA based vaccine or Vaxzevria. Vaccines base on mRNA technology are made by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-chinese-covid-19-patients-forced-to-live-in-metal-boxes-444421">Watch: Chinese COVID-19 patients forced to live in metal boxes</a>

The company said the findings "add to the growing body of evidence supporting Vaxzevria as a third dose booster irrespective of the primary vaccination schedules tested".

The data on Vaxzevria's potential as a booster came from a comparative analysis in a trial testing a redesigned vaccine which uses the vector technology behind Vaxzevria but targeting the now-superseded Beta variant. AstraZeneca is trying to show the Beta-specific vaccine has potential also against other variants and more trial data is expected during the first half of the year.

Separately, Oxford University and AstraZeneca last month started work on a vaccine specifically targeting Omicron though Astra - as well as other vaccine makers in similar development projects - have said it was not yet clear whether such an upgrade was needed.

A major British trial in December found that AstraZeneca's shot increased antibodies when given as a booster after initial vaccination with its own shot or Pfizer's, but that was before the explosive spread of the Omicron variant.

However, the study at the time concluded that mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna gave a biggest boost to antibodies when given as a third dose.

AstraZeneca and its contract manufacturing partners have supplied over 2.5 billion doses globally of its vaccine, even though it is not approved in the United States, while BioNTech-Pfizer have shipped about 2.6 billion doses.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pharma giant AstraZeneca said on Thursday that preliminary data from a trial of its COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria showed high antibody response against Omicron variant when given a third booster dose.

Pharma giant AstraZeneca said on Thursday that preliminary data from a trial of its COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria showed high antibody response against Omicron variant when given a third booster dose. The higher immune response was also seen against Beta, Delta, Alpha and Gamma variants of coronavirus. The increased immune response was seen in blood samples of people who were already vaccinated with either Vaxzevria or an mRNA vaccine. AstraZeneca said that it would submit this data to regulators worldwide given the urgent need. × AstraZeneca has developed the vaccine with researchers from the University of Oxford, and lab studies conducted by the university last month already found a three-dose course of Vaxzevria boosted antibody levels in the blood against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. The brief statement on Thursday, which did not include specific data, was the first by AstraZeneca on the protective potential of Vaxzevria as a booster shot following a two shot-course of either an mRNA based vaccine or Vaxzevria. Vaccines base on mRNA technology are made by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna. Also Read | Watch: Chinese COVID-19 patients forced to live in metal boxes The company said the findings "add to the growing body of evidence supporting Vaxzevria as a third dose booster irrespective of the primary vaccination schedules tested". The data on Vaxzevria's potential as a booster came from a comparative analysis in a trial testing a redesigned vaccine which uses the vector technology behind Vaxzevria but targeting the now-superseded Beta variant. AstraZeneca is trying to show the Beta-specific vaccine has potential also against other variants and more trial data is expected during the first half of the year. Separately, Oxford University and AstraZeneca last month started work on a vaccine specifically targeting Omicron though Astra - as well as other vaccine makers in similar development projects - have said it was not yet clear whether such an upgrade was needed. A major British trial in December found that AstraZeneca's shot increased antibodies when given as a booster after initial vaccination with its own shot or Pfizer's, but that was before the explosive spread of the Omicron variant. However, the study at the time concluded that mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna gave a biggest boost to antibodies when given as a third dose. AstraZeneca and its contract manufacturing partners have supplied over 2.5 billion doses globally of its vaccine, even though it is not approved in the United States, while BioNTech-Pfizer have shipped about 2.6 billion doses. (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca trials show its Vaxzevria vaccine causes high immune response against Omicron

In the Italian town of Ancona, a male nurse was detained for allegedly claiming to inject COVID-19 vaccines into at least 50 patients in exchange for a fee, according to police.

People paid to receive a vaccination pass without really getting the shot, and the man was seen on camera pretending to throw the vaccine into a container for spent needles.

The Ancona tribunal is investigating the man for corruption, falsifying certifications, and misusing public funds.

Four people suspected of being mediators have been placed under house arrest, while 45 people who obtained bogus diplomas are unable to leave their municipality due to a court order.

The Paolinelli sports hall in Ancona, the Marche region's main vaccination centre, is the subject of the investigation.

According to the Italian authorities, the group of workers at the vaccination centre made at least 18,000 euros (more than 20,000 dollars) through the illicit scheme by falsifying at least 50 certificates.

Unvaccinated people seeking the fake certificate had travelled from all over Italy to Ancona, where they were paying over 400 euros (453 dollars) each certificate.

Italy introduced a slew of new coronavirus restrictions on Monday, requiring confirmation of vaccination or recovery from a recent infection to board public transportation, access coffee shops, hotels, gyms, and other commonplace activities.&nbsp;

The new "super" health pass requirement, which eliminates the ability to acquire access to services based just on a negative test result, comes as many Italians return to work and school after the holidays.

It came as COVID-19 infections in Italy surpassed 100,000 per day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the Italian town of Ancona, a male nurse was detained for allegedly claiming to inject COVID-19 vaccines into at least 50 patients in exchange for a fee, according to police.

In the Italian town of Ancona, a male nurse was detained for allegedly claiming to inject COVID-19 vaccines into at least 50 patients in exchange for a fee, according to police. People paid to receive a vaccination pass without really getting the shot, and the man was seen on camera pretending to throw the vaccine into a container for spent needles. The Ancona tribunal is investigating the man for corruption, falsifying certifications, and misusing public funds. Four people suspected of being mediators have been placed under house arrest, while 45 people who obtained bogus diplomas are unable to leave their municipality due to a court order. The Paolinelli sports hall in Ancona, the Marche region's main vaccination centre, is the subject of the investigation. According to the Italian authorities, the group of workers at the vaccination centre made at least 18,000 euros (more than 20,000 dollars) through the illicit scheme by falsifying at least 50 certificates. Unvaccinated people seeking the fake certificate had travelled from all over Italy to Ancona, where they were paying over 400 euros (453 dollars) each certificate. Italy introduced a slew of new coronavirus restrictions on Monday, requiring confirmation of vaccination or recovery from a recent infection to board public transportation, access coffee shops, hotels, gyms, and other commonplace activities. The new "super" health pass requirement, which eliminates the ability to acquire access to services based just on a negative test result, comes as many Italians return to work and school after the holidays. It came as COVID-19 infections in Italy surpassed 100,000 per day. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian male nurse arrested for injecting fake virus vaccines

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths.

Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.&nbsp;

Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID.&nbsp;

In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-fda-amends-emergency-use-of-pfizer-booster-dose-for-more-teens-442035">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens</a>

She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide.

Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer.

In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron

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According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability."

According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks.

While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories. Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID. In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients." Also read | Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide. Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer. In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability." According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID. According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks. While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mystery of long COVID-19 is solved! This scientist believes so

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases.

The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa.&nbsp;

The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned.

Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis.&nbsp;

Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid."

Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled.

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases. The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa. The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned. Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis. Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid." Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.

Omicron crisis: Indian as well as global diplomatic engagements impacted

Thirteen million inhabitants of central China's Xi'an were thrown into even more hardship this week when the city's COVID-19 tracking app crashed amid food and other necessary goods shortages as the country's most draconian pandemic measures since Wuhan's lockdown in 2020.

According to Bloomberg, the COVID-19 health code app, which shows individuals' current infection or risk status, collapsed in Xi'an this week, hindering the city's contact tracing operations and preventing people from accessing crucial services.

After a round of mass testing, the city's citizens were unable to obtain their COVID-19 infection status due to a system crash, preventing some of them from attending hospitals.&nbsp;

Following reports of food shortages across the city, many residents were forced to share supplies or even barter for food.

A negative COVID test is required for admission into hospitals, and the app crash has reportedly blocked several people from receiving crucial medical care.

The most high-profile incident allegedly involved a pregnant woman in the city who miscarried after being denied access to a hospital.

Chinese officials, on the other hand, have defended the draconian curfews, claiming that free food packages will be sent to locals.&nbsp;

According to data supplied by the Chinese National Health Commission, that's the number of new COVID-19 cases registered in Xi'an on Wednesday.

This is a significant decrease from the number of new illnesses recorded in the previous few days.

Since the beginning of the current outbreak in Xi'an, the city has reported over 1,600 new cases.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Thirteen million inhabitants of central China's Xi'an were thrown into even more hardship this week when the city's COVID-19 tracking app crashed amid food and other necessary goods shortages as the country's most draconian pandemic measures since Wuhan's lockdown in 2020.

Thirteen million inhabitants of central China's Xi'an were thrown into even more hardship this week when the city's COVID-19 tracking app crashed amid food and other necessary goods shortages as the country's most draconian pandemic measures since Wuhan's lockdown in 2020. According to Bloomberg, the COVID-19 health code app, which shows individuals' current infection or risk status, collapsed in Xi'an this week, hindering the city's contact tracing operations and preventing people from accessing crucial services. After a round of mass testing, the city's citizens were unable to obtain their COVID-19 infection status due to a system crash, preventing some of them from attending hospitals. Following reports of food shortages across the city, many residents were forced to share supplies or even barter for food. A negative COVID test is required for admission into hospitals, and the app crash has reportedly blocked several people from receiving crucial medical care. The most high-profile incident allegedly involved a pregnant woman in the city who miscarried after being denied access to a hospital. Chinese officials, on the other hand, have defended the draconian curfews, claiming that free food packages will be sent to locals. According to data supplied by the Chinese National Health Commission, that's the number of new COVID-19 cases registered in Xi'an on Wednesday. This is a significant decrease from the number of new illnesses recorded in the previous few days. Since the beginning of the current outbreak in Xi'an, the city has reported over 1,600 new cases. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID app crash and hunger challenge China's biggest lockdown since Wuhan

As the city of Xian in northwest China, with a population of 13 million, enters its eighth day of lockdown in an effort to manage the current cluster of COVID-19 infections, many residents are running out of food.

According to the National Health Commission, 156 new locally transmitted cases were registered nationally on Wednesday, up from 151 the day before.

155 of them were in Xian, while one was in Guangxi's southern region.

On Wednesday, 51 imported cases were discovered in addition to the local transmissions.

Since December 9, 1,117 cases have been reported in Xian, which has a population of 13 million people.

A new round of mass testing began at 10 a.m. on Thursday, and all public activities in the city, which is famous for its Terracotta Warriors, have been prohibited.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | China records biggest COVID-19 infection surge in 21 months, Xian emerges as hot spot

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At a news conference on Wednesday, Zhang Fenghu, a city government official, said, "Xian has reached a live-or-die stage in its fight against the virus,"

Despite the low case count in Xian compared with many clusters overseas, officials have imposed tough curbs on travel within and out of the city since Dec. 23, as Beijing demands each outbreak be contained quickly.

Many residents have been prohibited from leaving their homes unless they are taking COVID-19 tests or attending to essential matters as determined by local authorities.

These restrictions have limited access to basic necessities, leaving many people reliant on deliveries rather than going out to shop.

According to a Xian government official on Wednesday, the limits have resulted in a staffing shortage at organisations responsible for assuring the supply of basic essentials, and the government is working to resolve the problem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the city of Xian in northwest China, with a population of 13 million, enters its eighth day of lockdown in an effort to manage the current cluster of COVID-19 infections, many residents are running out of food.

As the city of Xian in northwest China, with a population of 13 million, enters its eighth day of lockdown in an effort to manage the current cluster of COVID-19 infections, many residents are running out of food. According to the National Health Commission, 156 new locally transmitted cases were registered nationally on Wednesday, up from 151 the day before. 155 of them were in Xian, while one was in Guangxi's southern region. On Wednesday, 51 imported cases were discovered in addition to the local transmissions. Since December 9, 1,117 cases have been reported in Xian, which has a population of 13 million people. A new round of mass testing began at 10 a.m. on Thursday, and all public activities in the city, which is famous for its Terracotta Warriors, have been prohibited. Watch | China records biggest COVID-19 infection surge in 21 months, Xian emerges as hot spot At a news conference on Wednesday, Zhang Fenghu, a city government official, said, "Xian has reached a live-or-die stage in its fight against the virus," Despite the low case count in Xian compared with many clusters overseas, officials have imposed tough curbs on travel within and out of the city since Dec. 23, as Beijing demands each outbreak be contained quickly. Many residents have been prohibited from leaving their homes unless they are taking COVID-19 tests or attending to essential matters as determined by local authorities. These restrictions have limited access to basic necessities, leaving many people reliant on deliveries rather than going out to shop. According to a Xian government official on Wednesday, the limits have resulted in a staffing shortage at organisations responsible for assuring the supply of basic essentials, and the government is working to resolve the problem. (With inputs from agencies)

No food after 8 days of lockdown: Locals in this Chinese city are miserable

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president&nbsp;Sourav Ganguly has tested positive for COVID-19. As per local reports, his positive report came last night.

He was admitted to hospital after testing positive for coronavirus, as per BCCI sources quoted by local media.

Ganguly has been serving as the president of BCCI since 2019, before which he was heading the&nbsp;Cricket Association of Bengal. Popularly known as 'Dada', Ganguly is known for his brilliant performances as the&nbsp;left-handed opening batsman and as the Captain of the Indian cricket team.

As per local reports, he is double vaccinated but has been travelling extensively for his professional commitments.&nbsp;

He has tested positive at a time when India is trying to control the possibility of another Covid wave in the country. As the world is already struggling to fight the increase in coronavirus cases, caused by Omicron variant, India has been able to plan ahead.

Ganguly had been admitted to hospital twice earlier this year too and had also undergone emergency&nbsp;angioplasty due to some cardiac issues.

Meanwhile, India recorded 6,358 new Covid cases and posted 6,450 recoveries in the last 24 hours. The Omicron tally has now increased to 653 in total.

(This is a developing story)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has tested positive for COVID-19. As per local reports, his positive report came last night.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has tested positive for COVID-19. As per local reports, his positive report came last night. He was admitted to hospital after testing positive for coronavirus, as per BCCI sources quoted by local media. Ganguly has been serving as the president of BCCI since 2019, before which he was heading the Cricket Association of Bengal. Popularly known as 'Dada', Ganguly is known for his brilliant performances as the left-handed opening batsman and as the Captain of the Indian cricket team. As per local reports, he is double vaccinated but has been travelling extensively for his professional commitments. He has tested positive at a time when India is trying to control the possibility of another Covid wave in the country. As the world is already struggling to fight the increase in coronavirus cases, caused by Omicron variant, India has been able to plan ahead. Ganguly had been admitted to hospital twice earlier this year too and had also undergone emergency angioplasty due to some cardiac issues. Meanwhile, India recorded 6,358 new Covid cases and posted 6,450 recoveries in the last 24 hours. The Omicron tally has now increased to 653 in total. (This is a developing story)

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly tests positive for COVID-19

The number of symptomatic coronavirus cases in China surged for the fourth day in a row, with Xian city reporting additional infections in a flare-up that has put 13 million people on lockdown.

Official data revealed on Tuesday that Xian reported 175 symptomatic cases, up from 150 the day before.

From December 9 through Monday, there were 810 confirmed cases in Xian, but no Omicron infections have been reported. Only a few cases of Omicron infection have been reported in China, mostly among international travellers and in the country's south.

Mainland, nationwide According to a statement from the National Health Commission, China detected 182 local symptomatic cases on Monday, up from 162 the day before and marking the fourth straight day of growth.

The national local symptomatic case load on Monday was also the largest daily total since the official daily bulletin began classifying asymptomatic carriers separately at the end of March last year.

Although the number of cases in Xian and China is tiny in comparison to many other nations, officials have imposed strict restrictions on travel both within and beyond the city, in accordance with a national guideline to quickly limit outbreaks. 
 
Watch | China records biggest COVID-19 infection surge in 21 months, Xian emerges as hot spot

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-records-biggest-covid-19-infection-surge-in-21-months-xian-emerges-as-hot-spot-440249/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Residents of Xian have been prohibited from leaving the city without permission from their employer or the government since last week.

During a new round of mass testing that began on Monday, officials limited people's ability to go out for vital shopping and prohibited non-essential vehicles from entering the roadways.

On Monday, there were no additional deaths, bringing the total number of people killed in the country to 4,636. As of the end of December, mainland China reported 101,486 confirmed symptomatic cases, including both local and international cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of symptomatic coronavirus cases in China surged for the fourth day in a row, with Xian city reporting additional infections in a flare-up that has put 13 million people on lockdown.

The number of symptomatic coronavirus cases in China surged for the fourth day in a row, with Xian city reporting additional infections in a flare-up that has put 13 million people on lockdown. Official data revealed on Tuesday that Xian reported 175 symptomatic cases, up from 150 the day before. From December 9 through Monday, there were 810 confirmed cases in Xian, but no Omicron infections have been reported. Only a few cases of Omicron infection have been reported in China, mostly among international travellers and in the country's south. Mainland, nationwide According to a statement from the National Health Commission, China detected 182 local symptomatic cases on Monday, up from 162 the day before and marking the fourth straight day of growth. The national local symptomatic case load on Monday was also the largest daily total since the official daily bulletin began classifying asymptomatic carriers separately at the end of March last year. Although the number of cases in Xian and China is tiny in comparison to many other nations, officials have imposed strict restrictions on travel both within and beyond the city, in accordance with a national guideline to quickly limit outbreaks. Watch | China records biggest COVID-19 infection surge in 21 months, Xian emerges as hot spot Residents of Xian have been prohibited from leaving the city without permission from their employer or the government since last week. During a new round of mass testing that began on Monday, officials limited people's ability to go out for vital shopping and prohibited non-essential vehicles from entering the roadways. On Monday, there were no additional deaths, bringing the total number of people killed in the country to 4,636. As of the end of December, mainland China reported 101,486 confirmed symptomatic cases, including both local and international cases. (With inputs from agencies)

China local symptomatic COVID cases rises for a 4th day as Xian outbreak expands

Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.e. the Omicron variant. Thus, things are again going out of hand with rising cases and panic across the globe.

In India, the cases are rising at a some pace and things are expected to get worse by early February, with many speculating a third wave by then. Hence, once again many top political gatherings, big-ticket events and sporting tournaments can get affected due to the Omicron variant. In this regard, the IPL 2022 edition can also get severely dented and, hence, the BCCI is looking to discuss Plan B with all franchises and can go ahead with conducting the mega tournament in only three cities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-shadab-khan-names-star-indian-opener-and-david-warner-as-toughest-batter-to-bowl-at-439078">Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at</a>

As per a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, the BCCI is looking to call a meeting with franchise owners in January, 2022 where they can discuss and prepare an alternate strategy to conduct the 15th edition of the league. Though the primary objective remains to host the tournament across the country in the usual home-away format, the Omicron threat can cause severe problems.

As per the portal, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is eyeing to begin the 15th edition on April 02 next year in Chennai. However, if the situation worsens due to the Omicron scare, the board might contemplate organising&nbsp;the tournament in just one or two states.

"The meeting will be mainly introductory in nature with the BCCI on-boarding the owners of the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad. They are also exploring the idea of holding the whole tournament just in Mumbai and Pune or in the Gujarat cities of Ahmedabad, Baroda and Rajkot if the Covid/Omicron situation worsens.&nbsp;

"The owners will be apprised of the alternatives as well as things to look forward to in the mega auction," multiple franchise owners confirmed to&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-dates-finalised-to-take-place-in-bengaluru-on-february-12-and-13-report-439205">IPL 2022 mega auction dates finalised, to take place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13: Report</a>

As of now, the BCCI have called all the ten franchises and informed them about the dates of the mega auction, before IPL 2022 edition. The forthcoming auction proceedings is very likely to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, although an official confirmation from the board is still awaited.&nbsp;

The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the IPL 2021 edition, which was the first-ever season to be held in two halves (in India and the UAE) due to second wave of Covid-19. On the other hand, IPL 2020 was taken entirely out of India and held in the UAE after months of delay following the Covid outbreak worldwide.

Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.

Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over. The world has been through a lot ever since the pandemic wreaked havoc across the globe in early 2020. Just when one and all thought that they were in control of the Covid-19 crisis, another variant has emerged out of nowhere, i.e. the Omicron variant. Thus, things are again going out of hand with rising cases and panic across the globe. In India, the cases are rising at a some pace and things are expected to get worse by early February, with many speculating a third wave by then. Hence, once again many top political gatherings, big-ticket events and sporting tournaments can get affected due to the Omicron variant. In this regard, the IPL 2022 edition can also get severely dented and, hence, the BCCI is looking to discuss Plan B with all franchises and can go ahead with conducting the mega tournament in only three cities. ALSO READ | Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at As per a report in Cricbuzz, the BCCI is looking to call a meeting with franchise owners in January, 2022 where they can discuss and prepare an alternate strategy to conduct the 15th edition of the league. Though the primary objective remains to host the tournament across the country in the usual home-away format, the Omicron threat can cause severe problems. As per the portal, the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is eyeing to begin the 15th edition on April 02 next year in Chennai. However, if the situation worsens due to the Omicron scare, the board might contemplate organising the tournament in just one or two states. "The meeting will be mainly introductory in nature with the BCCI on-boarding the owners of the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad. They are also exploring the idea of holding the whole tournament just in Mumbai and Pune or in the Gujarat cities of Ahmedabad, Baroda and Rajkot if the Covid/Omicron situation worsens. "The owners will be apprised of the alternatives as well as things to look forward to in the mega auction," multiple franchise owners confirmed to Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction dates finalised, to take place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13: Report As of now, the BCCI have called all the ten franchises and informed them about the dates of the mega auction, before IPL 2022 edition. The forthcoming auction proceedings is very likely to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, although an official confirmation from the board is still awaited. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the IPL 2021 edition, which was the first-ever season to be held in two halves (in India and the UAE) due to second wave of Covid-19. On the other hand, IPL 2020 was taken entirely out of India and held in the UAE after months of delay following the Covid outbreak worldwide.

IPL 2022 in 3 cities? BCCI to discuss Plan B with all franchises as Omicron threat looms large in India

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

Omicron infections are no less severe

According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-variants-properties-keep-surprising-experts-claim-438696" hreflang="en">Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim</a>

<a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/232698/modelling-suggests-rapid-spread-omicron-england/">The Imperial College London</a> researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection."

After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent.&nbsp;

Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-identify-a-common-symptom-of-highly-transmissible-omicron-variant-437575">Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant</a>

Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%."

After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months

Researchers have discovered that some people's <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028221021567">sperm quality remains impaired for months</a> after recovering from COVID-19.

Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-fourth-booster-dose-for-over-60s-and-medics-as-omicron-rages-438890" hreflang="en">Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages</a>

Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts.&nbsp;

Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron Variant spreads across the world

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-spreads-across-the-world-438894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded.&nbsp;

It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred.

(With inputs from agencies)

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility. Omicron infections are no less severe According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta. Also read | Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim The Imperial College London researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection." After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent. Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta. Also read | Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%." After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months Researchers have discovered that some people's sperm quality remains impaired for months after recovering from COVID-19. Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases. Also read | Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts. Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics. Watch | Omicron Variant spreads across the world "Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded. It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus findings: Omicron no less severe than Delta, Covid impacts sperm count

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said Monday he has tested positive for Covid-19 on his return to Spain from Abu Dhabi where he took part in an exhibition tournament last week.

"I am going through some unpleasant moments but I trust that I will improve little by little. I am now confined at home and have informed the people who had been in contact with me," he wrote on Twitter.

"As a consequence of the situation, I have to have total flexibility with my calendar and I will analyse my options depending on my evolution," the 35-year-old added.

"I will keep you informed of any decisions about my future tournaments."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-risk-picking-up-further-injury-dominic-thiem-withdraws-from-atp-cup-and-sydney-atp-250-438328">'Can't risk picking up further injury', Dominic Thiem withdraws from ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250</a>

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Hola a todos. Quería anunciaros que en mi regreso a casa tras disputar el torneo de Abu Dhabi, he dado positivo por COVID en la prueba PCR que se me ha realizado al llegar a España.
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The Spanish former world number one had been due to fly to Melbourne later this month to compete in an ATP event ahead of the Australian Open.

The 20-time major champion has struggled with a foot injury for the past six months -– forcing him to miss both Wimbledon and the US Open.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-cant-guarantee-participation-at-australian-open-says-need-to-be-healthy-enough-438121">Rafael Nadal 'can't guarantee' participation at Australian Open, says need to be healthy enough</a>

Nadal&nbsp;lost to another former world number one Andy Murray in an exhibition match on Friday in Abu Dhabi, his first match since August.

He then lost to Wimbledon semi-finalist Denis Shapovalov of Canada on Saturday.

Despite missing almost half the season, he finished 2021 ranked No.6 in the world after picking up two titles in Barcelona and Rome and making the semi-finals at the French Open and the quarters at the Australian Open.

Rafael Nadal said Monday he has tested positive for Covid-19 on his return to Spain from Abu Dhabi where he took part in an exhibition tournament last week. "I am going through some unpleasant moments but I trust that I will improve little by little.

Rafael Nadal said Monday he has tested positive for Covid-19 on his return to Spain from Abu Dhabi where he took part in an exhibition tournament last week. "I am going through some unpleasant moments but I trust that I will improve little by little. I am now confined at home and have informed the people who had been in contact with me," he wrote on Twitter. "As a consequence of the situation, I have to have total flexibility with my calendar and I will analyse my options depending on my evolution," the 35-year-old added. "I will keep you informed of any decisions about my future tournaments." ALSO READ: 'Can't risk picking up further injury', Dominic Thiem withdraws from ATP Cup and Sydney ATP 250 Hola a todos. Quería anunciaros que en mi regreso a casa tras disputar el torneo de Abu Dhabi, he dado positivo por COVID en la prueba PCR que se me ha realizado al llegar a España. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) December 20, 2021 × The Spanish former world number one had been due to fly to Melbourne later this month to compete in an ATP event ahead of the Australian Open. The 20-time major champion has struggled with a foot injury for the past six months -– forcing him to miss both Wimbledon and the US Open. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal 'can't guarantee' participation at Australian Open, says need to be healthy enough Nadal lost to another former world number one Andy Murray in an exhibition match on Friday in Abu Dhabi, his first match since August. He then lost to Wimbledon semi-finalist Denis Shapovalov of Canada on Saturday. Despite missing almost half the season, he finished 2021 ranked No.6 in the world after picking up two titles in Barcelona and Rome and making the semi-finals at the French Open and the quarters at the Australian Open.

Tennis star Rafael Nadal tests positive for COVID-19 after Abu Dhabi event

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