British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules. 
 
The Sun newspaper, which published the photographs of Matt Hancock and the aide on its front page, said the images were taken last month, before the government lifted rules banning intimate contact with people outside a person's household. 
 
The aide had been a friend of Hancock's before she was appointed to his staff. Hancock is married. 
 
"I accept that I breached the social distancing guidance in these circumstances," Hancock said. "I have let people down and am very sorry. I remain focused on working to get the country out of this pandemic, and would be grateful for privacy for my family on this personal matter." 
 
Hancock, 42, has been at the centre of the government's fight against the pandemic, often appearing on television to tell the public to follow strict rules and to defend his department against criticism of its response to the crisis. 
 
A spokesperson for Johnson said the prime minister had accepted Hancock's apology, had full confidence in him, and 'considers the matter closed'. 
 
The opposition Labour Party called on Johnson to fire Hancock and demanded an investigation into whether he breached the code governing the behaviour of ministers. 
 
"This matter is definitely not closed, despite the government's attempts to cover it up," a Labour spokesperson said. "Matt Hancock appears to have been caught breaking the laws he created, while having a secret relationship with an aide he appointed to a taxpayer-funded job."

(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected calls on Friday to fire his health secretary, after pictures appeared of him embracing and kissing an aide in his office, in what he acknowledged was a breach of coronavirus rules. The Sun newspaper, which published the photographs of Matt Hancock and the aide on its front page, said the images were taken last month, before the government lifted rules banning intimate contact with people outside a person's household. The aide had been a friend of Hancock's before she was appointed to his staff. Hancock is married. "I accept that I breached the social distancing guidance in these circumstances," Hancock said. "I have let people down and am very sorry. I remain focused on working to get the country out of this pandemic, and would be grateful for privacy for my family on this personal matter." Hancock, 42, has been at the centre of the government's fight against the pandemic, often appearing on television to tell the public to follow strict rules and to defend his department against criticism of its response to the crisis. A spokesperson for Johnson said the prime minister had accepted Hancock's apology, had full confidence in him, and 'considers the matter closed'. The opposition Labour Party called on Johnson to fire Hancock and demanded an investigation into whether he breached the code governing the behaviour of ministers. "This matter is definitely not closed, despite the government's attempts to cover it up," a Labour spokesperson said. "Matt Hancock appears to have been caught breaking the laws he created, while having a secret relationship with an aide he appointed to a taxpayer-funded job." (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson stands by health secretary, who broke COVID-19 rules by kissing aide

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-from-home-employees-are-quitting-instead-of-returning-to-the-office-389202">work-from-home</a> restrictions nationwide.

The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-2020-who-is-accountable-if-the-covid-19-virus-spreads-393995">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tokyo-olympics-2020-who-is-accountable-if-the-covid-19-virus-spreads-393995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Moscow’s mayor Sergei Sobyanin ordered all businesses to reduce the employees working from an office by 30 per cent from June 28 to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus.

While vaccinated employees are not included in this order, everyone above the age of 65 and those battling pre-existing chronic diseases have been ordered to strictly stick to work from home.

Moscow is believed to Russia’s epicenter at the moment and has reported record covid deaths in the past few days. Sobyanin reported that 90 per cent of the new cases in Moscow are from the Delta variant.

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose work-from-home restrictions nationwide. The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible.

Observing a surge in coronavirus cases, authorities in Moscow have decided to reimpose work-from-home restrictions nationwide. The order has come as the country saw a surge in coronavirus cases, presumably due to the new Delta variant which is labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization and is believed to be more transmissible. WATCH | Moscow’s mayor Sergei Sobyanin ordered all businesses to reduce the employees working from an office by 30 per cent from June 28 to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus. While vaccinated employees are not included in this order, everyone above the age of 65 and those battling pre-existing chronic diseases have been ordered to strictly stick to work from home. Moscow is believed to Russia’s epicenter at the moment and has reported record covid deaths in the past few days. Sobyanin reported that 90 per cent of the new cases in Moscow are from the Delta variant.

COVID-19: Moscow orders work-from-home amid rise in Delta variant cases

With daily <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 cases</a> hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5. However, various new relaxations have been provided for all districts, in view of the gradually improving situation.

The ongoing lockdown was to come to an end at 6 am on June 28, Monday. As an abundant precaution, it must be noted that there are nine cases of the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">Delta Plus variant</a> of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Based on Covid caseloads, the government has grouped the districts into hotspots, moderate and low incidence districts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/universal-coronavirus-vaccine-scientists-make-unique-discovery-that-may-help-prevent-future-pandemics-393371">New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics</a>

As per the latest guidelines, the working hours of shops and establishments in the 11 hotspot districts have been increased till 7 pm. These hotspot districts are Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai.&nbsp;

In Chennai and adjoining three districts of Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur where there are less than 400 daily cases, the most number of relaxations have been provided. Private companies can function with 100 per cent&nbsp;strength; shopping malls can open, but only take-away will be permitted in food courts; large format stores selling clothes, jewellery can operate without air conditioning and allow 50 per cent&nbsp;capacity. Temples and other places of worship will also be allowed to function. Sports training facilities/camps can function and open-air sports events can be held without spectators.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278" hreflang="en">Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO</a>

In the remaining 23 districts, shops and establishments can be open till 7 pm and additional permission has been granted to open stores selling utensils, fancy items, photo/video studios, Xerox shops and tailoring shops etc.

Walkers will be permitted in all beaches across the state from 5 to 9 am, matchbox-making units can function with 100 per cent&nbsp;strength. Those in non-hotspot districts can travel for weddings without e-registration. However, those traveling for weddings between hotspot districts and those traveling from other moderate districts to hotspot districts will have to e-register. Only 50 members will be allowed to take part in a wedding event.&nbsp;

Travel to tourists destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Kuttraalam will be permitted only for Emergency purposes, based on e-passes obtained from respective district authorities.&nbsp;

With daily COVID-19 cases hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5.

With daily COVID-19 cases hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5. However, various new relaxations have been provided for all districts, in view of the gradually improving situation. The ongoing lockdown was to come to an end at 6 am on June 28, Monday. As an abundant precaution, it must be noted that there are nine cases of the new Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu. Based on Covid caseloads, the government has grouped the districts into hotspots, moderate and low incidence districts. Also read | New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics As per the latest guidelines, the working hours of shops and establishments in the 11 hotspot districts have been increased till 7 pm. These hotspot districts are Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai. In Chennai and adjoining three districts of Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur where there are less than 400 daily cases, the most number of relaxations have been provided. Private companies can function with 100 per cent strength; shopping malls can open, but only take-away will be permitted in food courts; large format stores selling clothes, jewellery can operate without air conditioning and allow 50 per cent capacity. Temples and other places of worship will also be allowed to function. Sports training facilities/camps can function and open-air sports events can be held without spectators. Also read | Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO In the remaining 23 districts, shops and establishments can be open till 7 pm and additional permission has been granted to open stores selling utensils, fancy items, photo/video studios, Xerox shops and tailoring shops etc. Walkers will be permitted in all beaches across the state from 5 to 9 am, matchbox-making units can function with 100 per cent strength. Those in non-hotspot districts can travel for weddings without e-registration. However, those traveling for weddings between hotspot districts and those traveling from other moderate districts to hotspot districts will have to e-register. Only 50 members will be allowed to take part in a wedding event. Travel to tourists destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Kuttraalam will be permitted only for Emergency purposes, based on e-passes obtained from respective district authorities.

Tamil Nadu lockdown extended till July 5; more relaxations granted for 11 hotspot districts

Once hailed for its quick and successful vaccine programme, Israel is now once again at its defensive front to contain a surge in coronavirus cases.

The Israeli health ministry has decided to reimpose the rule to wear a mask in enclosed public places as the cases have increased alarmingly in the past week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-delta-variant-is-infecting-vaccinated-people-says-israel-393811">COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel</a>

This decision was taken as Israel recorded more than 100 cases for the fourth consecutive day in the past week, which poses a risk of sending the country into another lockdown.

To avoid another lockdown and a drop in the economy, the head of Israel’s pandemic response task force, Nachman Ash, has urged people to mask up in public places and avoid stepping outdoors whenever possible.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meet-nesher-ramla-homo-a-new-type-of-early-human-discovered-in-israel-393895">WATCH |</a>&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meet-nesher-ramla-homo-a-new-type-of-early-human-discovered-in-israel-393895/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The medical authorities believe the sudden rise in cases might be due to the new Delta variant which was labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization. The Delta variant is believed to be more transmissible and has resulted in surge of coronavirus cases in many countries such as India and the UK.

Once hailed for its quick and successful vaccine programme, Israel is now once again at its defensive front to contain a surge in coronavirus cases. The Israeli health ministry has decided to reimpose the rule to wear a mask in enclosed public places as the cases have increased alarmingly in the past week.

Once hailed for its quick and successful vaccine programme, Israel is now once again at its defensive front to contain a surge in coronavirus cases. The Israeli health ministry has decided to reimpose the rule to wear a mask in enclosed public places as the cases have increased alarmingly in the past week. Also read | COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel This decision was taken as Israel recorded more than 100 cases for the fourth consecutive day in the past week, which poses a risk of sending the country into another lockdown. To avoid another lockdown and a drop in the economy, the head of Israel’s pandemic response task force, Nachman Ash, has urged people to mask up in public places and avoid stepping outdoors whenever possible. WATCH | The medical authorities believe the sudden rise in cases might be due to the new Delta variant which was labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization. The Delta variant is believed to be more transmissible and has resulted in surge of coronavirus cases in many countries such as India and the UK.

Israel: Masks compulsory in outdoor public places amid surge in Covid cases

To make sure each and every remote area of the country also get proper healthcare and access to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=coronavirus">coronavirus</a> vaccines, Bhutan’s King has been trekking jungles to make people aware against&nbsp;the deadly virus.

Dressed in a traditional Gho robe and a baseball cap with a backpack for his essentials, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has been travelling by foot, horse and car to remote areas of the country to check the healthcare camps around his kingdom.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEncj2-LLxAhWVILcAHbMQAWwQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0FGHvDPccVBQHTgd94IK47" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" target="_blank">COVID-19: All you need to know about&nbsp;Delta Plus&nbsp;variant</a>

A country of 700,000 people, Bhutan has been observing a rise in coronavirus cases in the recent past and the 41-year-old king has taken it upon himself to make sure that people take all kinds of protective measures.

"When the king travels for miles and knocks ... to alert people about the pandemic, then his humble words are respected and taken very seriously," said Lotay Tshering, the country's prime minister. "His Majesty's presence is far more powerful than just issuing public guidelines."

The King is not just investigating the progress of healthcare facilities, he is also taking this trek to thank all frontline workers, especially in remote areas, who have been working tirelessly to help covid patients in the last 1.5 years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-delta-plus-variant-the-new-worry-for-the-world-393207">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-delta-plus-variant-the-new-worry-for-the-world-393207/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He has walked&nbsp;for five days on a trail passing through elevations of up to 4,343 m (14,250 ft) and after every trip, he checks into a hotel in capital Thimphu to follow quarantine protocols.

The King has also, like the majority of the officials, received one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. "(The king) has been to all high-risk border areas time and again to monitor every measure put in place and to ensure best practices are followed within limited resources," said Rui Paulo de Jesus, the World Health Organization representative in Bhutan.

Meanwhile, Bhutan is considering a mix-and-match vaccine programme after administering at least one dose to 90 per cent of the eligible population with an AstraZeneca shot.

(With inputs from agencies)

To make sure each and every remote area of the country also get proper healthcare and access to coronavirus vaccines, Bhutan’s King has been trekking jungles to make people aware against the deadly virus.

To make sure each and every remote area of the country also get proper healthcare and access to coronavirus vaccines, Bhutan’s King has been trekking jungles to make people aware against the deadly virus. Dressed in a traditional Gho robe and a baseball cap with a backpack for his essentials, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has been travelling by foot, horse and car to remote areas of the country to check the healthcare camps around his kingdom. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant A country of 700,000 people, Bhutan has been observing a rise in coronavirus cases in the recent past and the 41-year-old king has taken it upon himself to make sure that people take all kinds of protective measures. "When the king travels for miles and knocks ... to alert people about the pandemic, then his humble words are respected and taken very seriously," said Lotay Tshering, the country's prime minister. "His Majesty's presence is far more powerful than just issuing public guidelines." The King is not just investigating the progress of healthcare facilities, he is also taking this trek to thank all frontline workers, especially in remote areas, who have been working tirelessly to help covid patients in the last 1.5 years. WATCH | He has walked for five days on a trail passing through elevations of up to 4,343 m (14,250 ft) and after every trip, he checks into a hotel in capital Thimphu to follow quarantine protocols. The King has also, like the majority of the officials, received one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. "(The king) has been to all high-risk border areas time and again to monitor every measure put in place and to ensure best practices are followed within limited resources," said Rui Paulo de Jesus, the World Health Organization representative in Bhutan. Meanwhile, Bhutan is considering a mix-and-match vaccine programme after administering at least one dose to 90 per cent of the eligible population with an AstraZeneca shot. (With inputs from agencies)

Bhutan's King treks mountains and jungles to spread awareness about COVID-19

Just when the world thought that an end might be near for the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, another dangerous variant, Delta Plus, has been spotted by the experts.

The deadly coronavirus broke out in the last months of 2019 and took over the world in the early months of 2020, sending almost every country around the globe in a complete lockdown. As the countries stopped functioning, economies took a huge hit and people struggled to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.

However, as 2021 began, people started to gain some hope, especially due to the commencement of vaccine drives all around the globe. Unfortunately, that ray of hope disappeared soon as new variants of COVID-19 started popping out in different cities of the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/universal-coronavirus-vaccine-scientists-make-unique-discovery-that-may-help-prevent-future-pandemics-393371">New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics</a>

Adding to the long list of new variants, a new mutant version of the Delta strain, Delta Plus, has now been labelled as a "variant of concern" by Indian authorities.

<h3>What is Delta Plus?</h3>

Delta Plus (B.1.617.2.1/(AY.1)&nbsp;is a new mutant strain of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, and has emerged as a new threat, especially in India. While the Delta variant, which was first detected by scientists in India, became a problem for the whole world, Delta Plus is currently limited to smaller areas in the country and is still under investigation.

Experts believe Delta Plus has increased transmissibility but it is still not very clear as to how virulent this new strain is in comparison to other variants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278" hreflang="en">Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO</a>

However, medical experts are cautioning authorities and people against this new variant and are urging people to stay cautious and treat Delta Plus as a highly infectious variant that may show resistance against monoclonal antibodies cocktail treatments.

As of now, new specific symptoms have been reported. It is also not yet clear if the existing vaccines are effective against Delta Plus.

<h3>Variant of concern?</h3>

A mutation is classified as a ‘variant of interest’ and ‘variant of concern’ depending on its easy transmission, reduced neutralisation by antibodies and vaccines effectiveness against the variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-suspected-of-leaking-covid-19-nominated-for-top-science-award-in-china-393263" hreflang="en">Wuhan lab suspected of leaking COVID-19 nominated for top science award in China</a>

Till now, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not classified it as a "variant of concern" and scientists believe there is not enough evidence to support the claims of this variant being a 'concern'.

However, the Indian government is treating this mutant as a variant of concern as a preventive step against another possible outburst of cases in the country.

<h3>Delta Plus in India</h3>

This new variant&nbsp;was first reported by Public Health England in their June 11 bulletin, but experts believe it was present in six genomes from India from June 07. However, it was clarified by the Indian government that experts conducted an analysis of samples, after the Public Health England reported the new mutant, and found traces of Delta Plus in samples collected on April 05.

As of now, the experts believe Delta Plus has been present in some Indian states, such as Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh, for nearly two months and as the variant spreads, it might become the reason for the third wave of coronavirus in India.

"In India, Delta Plus variant has been detected in 22 samples. Sixteen of them have found in Jalgaon and Ratnagiri districts in Maharashtra; the remaining have been detected in Kerala (Palakkad and Pathanamthitta) and Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal and Shivpuri)… But we don’t want this to assume significant proportions," Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said.

The Indian government has also alerted the state governments and have advised them to tackle the new variant with caution and utmost priority, to avoid a possible third wave in the country.

Elsewhere

In addition to India, Delta Plus has been found in 10 other countries, namely, Britain, Canada, Japan, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland, Russia, Nepal, Turkey and the US, as of June 16 according to Public Health England.&nbsp;

Just when the world thought that an end might be near for the deadly coronavirus, another dangerous variant, Delta Plus, has been spotted by the experts. The deadly coronavirus broke out in the last months of 2019 and took over the world in the early months of 2020, sending almost every country around the globe in a complete lockdown.

Just when the world thought that an end might be near for the deadly coronavirus, another dangerous variant, Delta Plus, has been spotted by the experts. The deadly coronavirus broke out in the last months of 2019 and took over the world in the early months of 2020, sending almost every country around the globe in a complete lockdown. As the countries stopped functioning, economies took a huge hit and people struggled to maintain physical and mental wellbeing. However, as 2021 began, people started to gain some hope, especially due to the commencement of vaccine drives all around the globe. Unfortunately, that ray of hope disappeared soon as new variants of COVID-19 started popping out in different cities of the world. Also read | New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics Adding to the long list of new variants, a new mutant version of the Delta strain, Delta Plus, has now been labelled as a "variant of concern" by Indian authorities. What is Delta Plus? Delta Plus (B.1.617.2.1/(AY.1) is a new mutant strain of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, and has emerged as a new threat, especially in India. While the Delta variant, which was first detected by scientists in India, became a problem for the whole world, Delta Plus is currently limited to smaller areas in the country and is still under investigation. Experts believe Delta Plus has increased transmissibility but it is still not very clear as to how virulent this new strain is in comparison to other variants. Also read | Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO However, medical experts are cautioning authorities and people against this new variant and are urging people to stay cautious and treat Delta Plus as a highly infectious variant that may show resistance against monoclonal antibodies cocktail treatments. As of now, new specific symptoms have been reported. It is also not yet clear if the existing vaccines are effective against Delta Plus. Variant of concern? A mutation is classified as a ‘variant of interest’ and ‘variant of concern’ depending on its easy transmission, reduced neutralisation by antibodies and vaccines effectiveness against the variant. Also read | Wuhan lab suspected of leaking COVID-19 nominated for top science award in China Till now, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not classified it as a "variant of concern" and scientists believe there is not enough evidence to support the claims of this variant being a 'concern'. However, the Indian government is treating this mutant as a variant of concern as a preventive step against another possible outburst of cases in the country. Delta Plus in India This new variant was first reported by Public Health England in their June 11 bulletin, but experts believe it was present in six genomes from India from June 07. However, it was clarified by the Indian government that experts conducted an analysis of samples, after the Public Health England reported the new mutant, and found traces of Delta Plus in samples collected on April 05. As of now, the experts believe Delta Plus has been present in some Indian states, such as Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh, for nearly two months and as the variant spreads, it might become the reason for the third wave of coronavirus in India. "In India, Delta Plus variant has been detected in 22 samples. Sixteen of them have found in Jalgaon and Ratnagiri districts in Maharashtra; the remaining have been detected in Kerala (Palakkad and Pathanamthitta) and Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal and Shivpuri)… But we don’t want this to assume significant proportions," Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said. The Indian government has also alerted the state governments and have advised them to tackle the new variant with caution and utmost priority, to avoid a possible third wave in the country. Elsewhere In addition to India, Delta Plus has been found in 10 other countries, namely, Britain, Canada, Japan, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland, Russia, Nepal, Turkey and the US, as of June 16 according to Public Health England.

COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant

As the country unlocks, UK’s medical experts are raising concerns about the alarming increase in the number of people on ventilators in the UK.

The number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid patients</a> on ventilators has increased by 41 per cent in the last week, which shows a deadly rise of the effect the virus is having on locals of the UK, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said.

"Trusts on the frontline are really coming under huge pressure ... they have plans in place to tackle the backlog, but with more Covid cases and demand for emergency care going up, that’s really challenging," Cordery said in a local programme.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" hreflang="en">COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant</a>

Medical experts are also worried about the danger the winter season will bring along with coronavirus. Usually, the winters bring several diseases such as respiratory problems and flu, which can cause heavy trouble if combined with the deadly coronavirus.

"I think we need to look at this sudden rise in the demand for emergency care as well, so you know we are seeing record levels of demand for that kind of care," she added.

While Cordery warned people against the deadly effect of the virus, other medical experts are also urging people to get vaccinated against coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/oxford-to-study-anti-parasitic-drug-ivermectins-efficacy-for-covid-treatment-393401" hreflang="en">Oxford to study anti-parasitic drug Ivermectin's efficacy for Covid treatment</a>

Prof Neil Ferguson, an epidemiologist at Imperial College London told the local media that the data proves high effectiveness against the deadly virus.

"It’s clear now that having two doses of either AstraZeneca, Moderna or Pfizer gives high level of protection against severe disease. People still get infected but at a much lower level, they probably get 80-90 per cent protection against infection alone, and even those people who do get infected after two doses are almost certainly probably 50 per cent less infectious, so the combined effect of that is quite dramatic at reducing risk," Ferguson said.

As the country unlocks, UK’s medical experts are raising concerns about the alarming increase in the number of people on ventilators in the UK. The number of Covid patients on ventilators has increased by 41 per cent in the last week, which shows a deadly rise of the effect the virus is having on locals of the UK, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said.

As the country unlocks, UK’s medical experts are raising concerns about the alarming increase in the number of people on ventilators in the UK. The number of Covid patients on ventilators has increased by 41 per cent in the last week, which shows a deadly rise of the effect the virus is having on locals of the UK, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said. "Trusts on the frontline are really coming under huge pressure ... they have plans in place to tackle the backlog, but with more Covid cases and demand for emergency care going up, that’s really challenging," Cordery said in a local programme. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant Medical experts are also worried about the danger the winter season will bring along with coronavirus. Usually, the winters bring several diseases such as respiratory problems and flu, which can cause heavy trouble if combined with the deadly coronavirus. "I think we need to look at this sudden rise in the demand for emergency care as well, so you know we are seeing record levels of demand for that kind of care," she added. While Cordery warned people against the deadly effect of the virus, other medical experts are also urging people to get vaccinated against coronavirus. Also read | Oxford to study anti-parasitic drug Ivermectin's efficacy for Covid treatment Prof Neil Ferguson, an epidemiologist at Imperial College London told the local media that the data proves high effectiveness against the deadly virus. "It’s clear now that having two doses of either AstraZeneca, Moderna or Pfizer gives high level of protection against severe disease. People still get infected but at a much lower level, they probably get 80-90 per cent protection against infection alone, and even those people who do get infected after two doses are almost certainly probably 50 per cent less infectious, so the combined effect of that is quite dramatic at reducing risk," Ferguson said.

Number of Covid patients on ventilators increased by 41% in last week: UK NHS

More than 19 million balance and unutilised COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and Union territories, the Union health ministry said on Thursday.

Two crore vaccine doses have been administered in the first 72 hours of the implementation of the newly revised guidelines of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, the ministry said.

More than 300 million (30,33,27,440) vaccine doses have been provided by the Centre to states/UTs so far, through the Government of India (free of cost channel) and direct state procurement category.

Of this, the total consumption, including wastages, is 28,43,40,936 doses (according to the data available at 8 am on Thursday), the ministry said.

"More than 19 million (1, 89,86,504) balance and unutilised Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered.

"Furthermore, more than 21, 05,010 vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by them within the next three days," the ministry said.

The Union government is committed to accelerating the pace and expanding the scope of COVID-19 vaccination throughout the country.

The new phase of universalisation of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on June 21.

The vaccination drive has been ramped up through the availability of more vaccines, advanced visibility of vaccine availability to states/UTs for enabling better planning by them, and streamlining the vaccine supply chain, the ministry said.

Under the nationwide vaccination drive, the Centre has been supporting the states/UTs by providing them Covid vaccines free of cost.

In the new phase of the universalisation of the COVID-19 vaccination drive, the Union government will procure and supply (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by vaccine manufacturers in the country to states/UTs, it added.

More than 19 million balance and unutilised COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and Union territories, the Union health ministry said on Thursday.

More than 19 million balance and unutilised COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and Union territories, the Union health ministry said on Thursday. Two crore vaccine doses have been administered in the first 72 hours of the implementation of the newly revised guidelines of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, the ministry said. More than 300 million (30,33,27,440) vaccine doses have been provided by the Centre to states/UTs so far, through the Government of India (free of cost channel) and direct state procurement category. Of this, the total consumption, including wastages, is 28,43,40,936 doses (according to the data available at 8 am on Thursday), the ministry said. "More than 19 million (1, 89,86,504) balance and unutilised Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. "Furthermore, more than 21, 05,010 vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by them within the next three days," the ministry said. The Union government is committed to accelerating the pace and expanding the scope of COVID-19 vaccination throughout the country. The new phase of universalisation of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on June 21. The vaccination drive has been ramped up through the availability of more vaccines, advanced visibility of vaccine availability to states/UTs for enabling better planning by them, and streamlining the vaccine supply chain, the ministry said. Under the nationwide vaccination drive, the Centre has been supporting the states/UTs by providing them Covid vaccines free of cost. In the new phase of the universalisation of the COVID-19 vaccination drive, the Union government will procure and supply (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by vaccine manufacturers in the country to states/UTs, it added.

More than 19 million unutilised Covid vaccine doses available with states, UTs: Union Health Ministry

Some companies gave their employees an extra day off, some approved extended work from home and some provided well-done cards for encouragement, but there is one firm that has exceeded expectations in rewarding their employees.

The dating app Bumble&nbsp;has decided to close its offices worldwide for an entire week to reward its employees for working hard during the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/technology/dating-app-bumble-to-remove-body-shamers-off-the-platform-359847" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/technology/dating-app-bumble-to-remove-body-shamers-off-the-platform-359847&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA8sDA2qvxAhXJ63MBHaM1CBQQFjABegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1QKPosESpWNMX-Fh2X0lo0" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/dating-app-bumble-to-remove-body-shamers-off-the-platform-359847" target="_blank">Dating app&nbsp;Bumble&nbsp;to remove body-shamers off the platform</a>

Starting from June 21, the team of 700 employees has been given a week’s off "as a way to thank our team for their hard work and resilience," a company spokesperson told CNN Business.

This reward has also been given to the employees of Badoo, which is an international dating app owned by Bumble.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bumbles-31-year-old-ceo-who-left-tinder-over-sexual-harassment-becomes-billionaire-363116">Bumble's 31-year-old CEO, who left Tinder over sexual harassment becomes billionaire</a>

It is believed that when the CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd realised the team has been working extra hours and is reaching the point of burnout, she decided to give the entire team a well-deserved break.

Bumble is not the first company to shut down its offices for a week. In April, LinkedIn, too, had given a week off to its staff of 16,000 people after an executive observed a "clear burnout"&nbsp;in employees.

The dating app is known for its progressive thought process. In the app, female participants make the first move, giving women a safe and comfortable platform.

Some companies gave their employees an extra day off, some approved extended work from home and some provided well-done cards for encouragement, but there is one firm that has exceeded expectations in rewarding their employees.

Some companies gave their employees an extra day off, some approved extended work from home and some provided well-done cards for encouragement, but there is one firm that has exceeded expectations in rewarding their employees. The dating app Bumble has decided to close its offices worldwide for an entire week to reward its employees for working hard during the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | Dating app Bumble to remove body-shamers off the platform Starting from June 21, the team of 700 employees has been given a week’s off "as a way to thank our team for their hard work and resilience," a company spokesperson told CNN Business. This reward has also been given to the employees of Badoo, which is an international dating app owned by Bumble. Also read | Bumble's 31-year-old CEO, who left Tinder over sexual harassment becomes billionaire It is believed that when the CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd realised the team has been working extra hours and is reaching the point of burnout, she decided to give the entire team a well-deserved break. Bumble is not the first company to shut down its offices for a week. In April, LinkedIn, too, had given a week off to its staff of 16,000 people after an executive observed a "clear burnout" in employees. The dating app is known for its progressive thought process. In the app, female participants make the first move, giving women a safe and comfortable platform.

Dating app Bumble gives employees entire week off to deal with 'burnout'

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday announced that WHO is set to establish its first Covid mRNA vaccine&nbsp;'technology transfer hub’ in the country.&nbsp;

The World Health&nbsp;Organization, French President Emmanuel Macron and President Ramaphosa jointly held a media briefing on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the full extent of the vaccine gap between developed and developing economies, and how that gap can severely undermine global health security. This landmark initiative is a major advancement in the international effort to develop vaccines and manufacturing capacity that will put Africa on a path to&nbsp;self-determination,” Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

“South Africa welcomes the opportunity to host a vaccine technology transfer hub and to build on the capacity and expertise that already exists on the continent to contribute to this effort,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The technology transfer hub will be located in South Africa and this initiative will not just benefit South Africa, but working together with the Africa CDC and the WHO,&nbsp;we will make sure that it benefits the entire African continent," Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron,&nbsp;who visited South Africa&nbsp;in&nbsp;May&nbsp;end,&nbsp;had also committed supporting efforts in Africa to scale up local manufacturing capacity.&nbsp;

“Today is a great day for Africa. It is also a great day for all those who work towards a more equitable access to health products. I am proud of Biovac&nbsp;and our South African partners to have been selected by WHO&nbsp;as France has been supporting them for years,” French President Emmanuel Macron said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This announcement comes at a time when&nbsp;South Africa and India have&nbsp;been at the forefront of a campaign at the World Trade&nbsp;Organisation&nbsp;to waive intellectual property rights for vaccine manufacturing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that relying on a few companies to supply global public goods is limiting&nbsp;and&nbsp;dangerous. To boost manufacturing, WHO has continued to call for the sharing of know-how, technology &amp; licenses, &amp; the waiving of intellectual property rights,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-General of the WHO said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently, South Africa is seeing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases as the country is battling third wave. So far, the country has only vaccinated 1% of its population.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday announced that WHO is set to establish its first Covid mRNA vaccine 'technology transfer hub’ in the country. The World Health Organization, French President Emmanuel Macron and President Ramaphosa jointly held a media briefing on Monday.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday announced that WHO is set to establish its first Covid mRNA vaccine 'technology transfer hub’ in the country. The World Health Organization, French President Emmanuel Macron and President Ramaphosa jointly held a media briefing on Monday. “The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the full extent of the vaccine gap between developed and developing economies, and how that gap can severely undermine global health security. This landmark initiative is a major advancement in the international effort to develop vaccines and manufacturing capacity that will put Africa on a path to self-determination,” Ramaphosa said. “South Africa welcomes the opportunity to host a vaccine technology transfer hub and to build on the capacity and expertise that already exists on the continent to contribute to this effort,” he added. "The technology transfer hub will be located in South Africa and this initiative will not just benefit South Africa, but working together with the Africa CDC and the WHO, we will make sure that it benefits the entire African continent," Ramaphosa said. French President Emmanuel Macron, who visited South Africa in May end, had also committed supporting efforts in Africa to scale up local manufacturing capacity. “Today is a great day for Africa. It is also a great day for all those who work towards a more equitable access to health products. I am proud of Biovac and our South African partners to have been selected by WHO as France has been supporting them for years,” French President Emmanuel Macron said. This announcement comes at a time when South Africa and India have been at the forefront of a campaign at the World Trade Organisation to waive intellectual property rights for vaccine manufacturing. "The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that relying on a few companies to supply global public goods is limiting and dangerous. To boost manufacturing, WHO has continued to call for the sharing of know-how, technology & licenses, & the waiving of intellectual property rights,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-General of the WHO said. Currently, South Africa is seeing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases as the country is battling third wave. So far, the country has only vaccinated 1% of its population.

WHO to set up vaccine tech transfer hub in South Africa  

Ninety-two Indian workers at an ironworks factory in Sri Lanka tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, health officials said.

The Indians were among the 128 workers at the factory in Colombo north suburb of Wattala who were found to have contracted the virus. They have been put under quarantine.

The factory, which has a total of 194 workers, has been closed temporarily, a report in the Newscenter.lk said.

Those who have tested negative have been put under quarantine in the factory premises, the report said.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka on Monday ended its COVID-19 lockdown by lifting travel restrictions, amid concerns by health officials who insisted that it must be continued in view of the raging third wave.

For the first time in nearly 4 weeks, the travel restrictions were lifted at 4 am on Monday and will be re-imposed at 10 pm on June 23.

We will be closely monitoring people's movements through special units, a police spokesman and Senior Deputy Inspector General Ajith Rohana said.

He said the public must stay indoors as much as possible despite the lifting of restrictions.

Even during this break, no inter-district travel will be allowed, the police said. Health officials issued more guidelines on public behaviour during the lifting of the lockdown.

The health authorities were wary of the Delta variant of the coronavirus which is spreading fast across the country.

We still view this as dangerous, the travel restrictions were only loosely observed. The lifting of even that could be dangerous, Upul Rohana, a spokesman for the public health inspectors said.

The island nation has recorded nearly 2,000 cases per day since the third wave which began mid-April.

The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country stood at 239,689, while 201,389 are recovering.

According to the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus data, there are 2,581 COVID-19 fatalities in the country.

Ninety-two Indian workers at an ironworks factory in Sri Lanka tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, health officials said. The Indians were among the 128 workers at the factory in Colombo north suburb of Wattala who were found to have contracted the virus.

Ninety-two Indian workers at an ironworks factory in Sri Lanka tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, health officials said. The Indians were among the 128 workers at the factory in Colombo north suburb of Wattala who were found to have contracted the virus. They have been put under quarantine. The factory, which has a total of 194 workers, has been closed temporarily, a report in the Newscenter.lk said. Those who have tested negative have been put under quarantine in the factory premises, the report said. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka on Monday ended its COVID-19 lockdown by lifting travel restrictions, amid concerns by health officials who insisted that it must be continued in view of the raging third wave. For the first time in nearly 4 weeks, the travel restrictions were lifted at 4 am on Monday and will be re-imposed at 10 pm on June 23. We will be closely monitoring people's movements through special units, a police spokesman and Senior Deputy Inspector General Ajith Rohana said. He said the public must stay indoors as much as possible despite the lifting of restrictions. Even during this break, no inter-district travel will be allowed, the police said. Health officials issued more guidelines on public behaviour during the lifting of the lockdown. The health authorities were wary of the Delta variant of the coronavirus which is spreading fast across the country. We still view this as dangerous, the travel restrictions were only loosely observed. The lifting of even that could be dangerous, Upul Rohana, a spokesman for the public health inspectors said. The island nation has recorded nearly 2,000 cases per day since the third wave which began mid-April. The total number of COVID-19 cases in the country stood at 239,689, while 201,389 are recovering. According to the Johns Hopkins University coronavirus data, there are 2,581 COVID-19 fatalities in the country.

92 Indian factory workers in Sri Lanka test coronavirus positive 

Former US President, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, took ‘isolation’ a little too seriously as he proposed shipping off Covid patients to "an island", a new book claims.

Two Washington Post reporters have revealed shocking details of how the former President handled the coronavirus pandemic from within the White House while running the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-suffered-a-lot-due-to-covid-says-donald-trump-demands-china-to-pay-10-trillion-392316" hreflang="en">India has suffered a lot due to Covid, says Donald Trump; demands China to pay $10 trillion</a>

In the book titled, 'Nightmare Scenario: Inside the Trump Administration’s Response to the Pandemic That Changed History', by Yasmeen Abutaleb and Damian Paletta, the former TV reality star proposed shipping off all Covid patients to Guantánamo.

Reportedly, during a meeting in the White House Situation Room in February 2020, Donald Trump asked his consultants, "Don't we have an island that we own? What about Guantánamo?"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-president-donald-trump-attacks-fauci-hints-at-re-run-in-2024-election-390165" hreflang="en">'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election</a>

Trump’s aides immediately blocked the idea, but it was difficult for him to understand the reason and he defended his argument with, "We import goods. We are not going to import a virus".

The book also alleged that Trump was against the testing of coronavirus solely because he believed it negatively affected his chances of winning the US election 2020. "I'm going to lose the election because of testing!," he yelled at his health secretary Alex Azar. "What idiot had the federal government do testing?"

However, the twice impeached president did not have any answer when Azar replied, "Uh, do you mean Jared?", referring to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and his chief advisor who had started and taken control of testing in the country.

As per the book, Trump also believed that it was "gross incompetence to let [federal health agency] CDC develop a test" against the deadly coronavirus.

Former US President, Donald Trump, took ‘isolation’ a little too seriously as he proposed shipping off Covid patients to "an island", a new book claims. Two Washington Post reporters have revealed shocking details of how the former President handled the coronavirus pandemic from within the White House while running the country.

Former US President, Donald Trump, took ‘isolation’ a little too seriously as he proposed shipping off Covid patients to "an island", a new book claims. Two Washington Post reporters have revealed shocking details of how the former President handled the coronavirus pandemic from within the White House while running the country. Also read | India has suffered a lot due to Covid, says Donald Trump; demands China to pay $10 trillion In the book titled, 'Nightmare Scenario: Inside the Trump Administration’s Response to the Pandemic That Changed History', by Yasmeen Abutaleb and Damian Paletta, the former TV reality star proposed shipping off all Covid patients to Guantánamo. Reportedly, during a meeting in the White House Situation Room in February 2020, Donald Trump asked his consultants, "Don't we have an island that we own? What about Guantánamo?" Also read | 'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election Trump’s aides immediately blocked the idea, but it was difficult for him to understand the reason and he defended his argument with, "We import goods. We are not going to import a virus". The book also alleged that Trump was against the testing of coronavirus solely because he believed it negatively affected his chances of winning the US election 2020. "I'm going to lose the election because of testing!," he yelled at his health secretary Alex Azar. "What idiot had the federal government do testing?" However, the twice impeached president did not have any answer when Azar replied, "Uh, do you mean Jared?", referring to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and his chief advisor who had started and taken control of testing in the country. As per the book, Trump also believed that it was "gross incompetence to let [federal health agency] CDC develop a test" against the deadly coronavirus.

'What about Guantánamo?': Donald Trump wanted to send Covid patients to offshore prison, new book claims

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials. 
 
Cuba, whose biotech sector has exported vaccines for decades, has five vaccine candidates in clinical trials, of which two - Soberana 2 and Abdala - are in late phase trials. 
 
"In a few weeks, we should have the results for the efficacy with three doses which we expect will be superior," said Vicente Vérez, director of the state-run Finlay Vaccine Institute, which developed Soberana 2. 
 
The news comes as the Caribbean's largest island is facing its worst outbreak since the start of the pandemic in the wake of the arrival of more contagious variants, setting new records of daily coronavirus cases. 
 
The Communist-run country has opted not to import foreign vaccines but rather to rely on its own. Experts say it is a risky bet but if it pays off, Cuba could burnish its scientific reputation, generate much-needed hard currency through exports and strengthen the vaccination drive worldwide. 
 
"We know our government has not been able to provide this project all the funding it required, and nonetheless this is a result of global standing," President Miguel Diaz-Canel said at the presentation of the results on state-run television. 
 
Several countries from Argentina and Jamaica to Mexico and Venezuela have expressed an interest in buying Cuba's vaccines. Iran started producing Soberana 2 earlier this year as part of late-phase clinical trials. 
 
Cuba's authorities have started administering the experimental vaccines en masse&nbsp;as part of 'intervention studies' they hope will slow the spread of the virus. 
 
Daily cases have halved in the capital since the start of this vaccination campaign, according to official data, although that may also be due to stricter lockdown measures. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials.

Cuba's Soberana 2 vaccine candidate has shown 62% efficacy with just two of its three doses, state-run biopharmaceutical corporation BioCubaFarma said on Saturday, citing preliminary data from late phase trials. Cuba, whose biotech sector has exported vaccines for decades, has five vaccine candidates in clinical trials, of which two - Soberana 2 and Abdala - are in late phase trials. "In a few weeks, we should have the results for the efficacy with three doses which we expect will be superior," said Vicente Vérez, director of the state-run Finlay Vaccine Institute, which developed Soberana 2. The news comes as the Caribbean's largest island is facing its worst outbreak since the start of the pandemic in the wake of the arrival of more contagious variants, setting new records of daily coronavirus cases. The Communist-run country has opted not to import foreign vaccines but rather to rely on its own. Experts say it is a risky bet but if it pays off, Cuba could burnish its scientific reputation, generate much-needed hard currency through exports and strengthen the vaccination drive worldwide. "We know our government has not been able to provide this project all the funding it required, and nonetheless this is a result of global standing," President Miguel Diaz-Canel said at the presentation of the results on state-run television. Several countries from Argentina and Jamaica to Mexico and Venezuela have expressed an interest in buying Cuba's vaccines. Iran started producing Soberana 2 earlier this year as part of late-phase clinical trials. Cuba's authorities have started administering the experimental vaccines en masse as part of 'intervention studies' they hope will slow the spread of the virus. Daily cases have halved in the capital since the start of this vaccination campaign, according to official data, although that may also be due to stricter lockdown measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuba encouraged by early efficacy results of homegrown COVID-19 vaccine

Thousands took to the streets across Brazil on Saturday to protest against President Jair Bolsonaro's pandemic response, blasting the leader for not acquiring vaccines fast enough and for questioning the need for mask-wearing. 
 
Brazil surpassed 500,000 deaths from COVID-19 on Saturday, according to the Health Ministry, the world's highest death toll after the United States. 
 
The government faces fierce criticism for passing up early opportunities to buy vaccines. Pharmaceutical maker Pfizer said it got no response to offers to sell vaccines to the government between August and November last year. 
 
"We are protesting against the genocidal Bolsonaro government that did not buy vaccines and has done nothing to take care of its people in the last year," said 36-year-old Aline Rabelo, while protesting on the national mall in Brasilia. 
 
Bolsonaro's press office did not respond to request for comment. Only 11% of Brazilians are fully vaccinated and 29% have received a first dose, Health Ministry data shows. 
 
Brazilian media reported that protests had been held in all 26 states as well as the capital Brasilia. 
 
Many demonstrators called the 500,000 dead a form of genocide carried out by the government on the Brazilian people. They chanted, beat drums and held up signs demanding Bolsonaro be removed for office. 
 
"Half a million reasons to oust Bolsonaro," read one protestor's sign in downtown Sao Paulo. 
 
While organisers promised the largest demonstrations yet in more than 300 cities, gatherings in Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia on Saturday morning did not appear to be larger than the last major protests on May 29. 
 
Protests in Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city and financial center, blocked major downtown thoroughfares, where protesters unfurled a banner the size of a city block demanding "Life, Bread, Vaccines and Education." It was unclear how the crowd compared to May 29 protest there. 
 
A special Senate committee is probing the Bolsonaro administration's pandemic response, highlighting delayed efforts to acquire vaccines while prioritizing unproven treatments for COVID-19. 
 
Last month, a poll showed Bolsonaro's popularity has sunk to new lows with only 24% of Brazilians saying his administration is "good" or "great." The same poll showed Bolsonaro's left wing rival, former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, would win in a run-off vote if the 2022 elections were held today.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands took to the streets across Brazil on Saturday to protest against President Jair Bolsonaro's pandemic response, blasting the leader for not acquiring vaccines fast enough and for questioning the need for mask-wearing.

Thousands took to the streets across Brazil on Saturday to protest against President Jair Bolsonaro's pandemic response, blasting the leader for not acquiring vaccines fast enough and for questioning the need for mask-wearing. Brazil surpassed 500,000 deaths from COVID-19 on Saturday, according to the Health Ministry, the world's highest death toll after the United States. The government faces fierce criticism for passing up early opportunities to buy vaccines. Pharmaceutical maker Pfizer said it got no response to offers to sell vaccines to the government between August and November last year. "We are protesting against the genocidal Bolsonaro government that did not buy vaccines and has done nothing to take care of its people in the last year," said 36-year-old Aline Rabelo, while protesting on the national mall in Brasilia. Bolsonaro's press office did not respond to request for comment. Only 11% of Brazilians are fully vaccinated and 29% have received a first dose, Health Ministry data shows. Brazilian media reported that protests had been held in all 26 states as well as the capital Brasilia. Many demonstrators called the 500,000 dead a form of genocide carried out by the government on the Brazilian people. They chanted, beat drums and held up signs demanding Bolsonaro be removed for office. "Half a million reasons to oust Bolsonaro," read one protestor's sign in downtown Sao Paulo. While organisers promised the largest demonstrations yet in more than 300 cities, gatherings in Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia on Saturday morning did not appear to be larger than the last major protests on May 29. Protests in Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city and financial center, blocked major downtown thoroughfares, where protesters unfurled a banner the size of a city block demanding "Life, Bread, Vaccines and Education." It was unclear how the crowd compared to May 29 protest there. A special Senate committee is probing the Bolsonaro administration's pandemic response, highlighting delayed efforts to acquire vaccines while prioritizing unproven treatments for COVID-19. Last month, a poll showed Bolsonaro's popularity has sunk to new lows with only 24% of Brazilians saying his administration is "good" or "great." The same poll showed Bolsonaro's left wing rival, former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, would win in a run-off vote if the 2022 elections were held today. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazilians protest Bolsonaro's role in half a million COVID-19 deaths

After voicing concerns for the US, former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a> has now claimed said that India is "devastated" by the coronavirus pandemic and China should pay compensation.

"Look at what's going on in India now. You know, they used to say, look how well India was doing, because they were always looking for an excuse — look how well India is doing," Trump was quoted by news agencies as saying. "The fact [is] that India has just been devastated now, and virtually, every country has been devastated."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/our-president-donald-trump-attacks-fauci-hints-at-re-run-in-2024-election-390165" hreflang="en">'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election</a>

The former reality TV star and twice-impeached president lashed out at China for spreading the deadly coronavirus all over the world. He alleged, once again, that the virus was lab-made in China’s Wuhan city, and claimed China should, therefore, pay a compensation of $10 trillion to the US alone.

Trump said he felt the compensation amount should be much higher than what he is demanding, but added "there’s only so much they can pay".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-bowing-down-to-china-urges-him-to-put-america-first-389769" hreflang="en">Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first'</a>

"Look, countries have been destroyed over what they did, and whether by accident or not. And I would hope that it was an accident. I hope that it was through incompetence or an accident," he said talking about the destruction the pandemic has caused all over the world, including India.

"But, when you look, whether it was by an accident, whether it was -- whatever it is, this -- you look at these countries. They will never ever be the same. Our country was hit so hard. But other countries were hit much harder."

"I think that's one of the reasons that I feel it's very important to find out where it came from, how it came. I think I know. I mean, I feel certain about it. But certainly, China should help. Right now, their economy and our economy are the two economies that are coming back the fastest," he added.

India has been struggling with a deadly second wave of the coronavirus pandemic which took thousands of lives in the country within a span of a few months and led to state-wise lockdowns.

The country has, now, started its path to recovery as the cases plunged down to 62,480 on Friday morning.

After voicing concerns for the US, former president Donald Trump has now claimed said that India is "devastated" by the coronavirus pandemic and China should pay compensation.

After voicing concerns for the US, former president Donald Trump has now claimed said that India is "devastated" by the coronavirus pandemic and China should pay compensation. "Look at what's going on in India now. You know, they used to say, look how well India was doing, because they were always looking for an excuse — look how well India is doing," Trump was quoted by news agencies as saying. "The fact [is] that India has just been devastated now, and virtually, every country has been devastated." Also read | 'Our president': Donald Trump attacks Fauci, hints at re-run in 2024 election The former reality TV star and twice-impeached president lashed out at China for spreading the deadly coronavirus all over the world. He alleged, once again, that the virus was lab-made in China’s Wuhan city, and claimed China should, therefore, pay a compensation of $10 trillion to the US alone. Trump said he felt the compensation amount should be much higher than what he is demanding, but added "there’s only so much they can pay". Also read | Trump hits out at Biden for 'bowing down' to China, urges him to 'put America first' "Look, countries have been destroyed over what they did, and whether by accident or not. And I would hope that it was an accident. I hope that it was through incompetence or an accident," he said talking about the destruction the pandemic has caused all over the world, including India. "But, when you look, whether it was by an accident, whether it was -- whatever it is, this -- you look at these countries. They will never ever be the same. Our country was hit so hard. But other countries were hit much harder." "I think that's one of the reasons that I feel it's very important to find out where it came from, how it came. I think I know. I mean, I feel certain about it. But certainly, China should help. Right now, their economy and our economy are the two economies that are coming back the fastest," he added. India has been struggling with a deadly second wave of the coronavirus pandemic which took thousands of lives in the country within a span of a few months and led to state-wise lockdowns. The country has, now, started its path to recovery as the cases plunged down to 62,480 on Friday morning.

India has suffered a lot due to Covid, says Donald Trump; demands China to pay $10 trillion

North Korea has provided $300,000 to an UN-led humanitarian aid initiative for Myanmar, marking its first donation to other countries since 2005, UN&nbsp;data showed on Thursday. 
 
The UN&nbsp;Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)` financial tracking service showed that North Korea paid the contribution on May 24 to the Myanmar Humanitarian Fund. 
 
The fund calls for some $276 million to help Myanmar, where hundreds of people have died since the military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February and began a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests, adding to the country`s struggle with the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
North Korea last offered financial aid to the United Nations in 2005, when it gave $150,000 for Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives and Sri Lanka - all of which were hit by a devastating tsunami in December 2004. 
 
North Korea has longstanding relations with Myanmar, and UN&nbsp;monitors have said Pyongyang supplies weapons to the Southeast Asian nation. It has said it is investigating missile cooperation between the two countries. 
 
South Korea has also provided $600,000 to the UN&nbsp;efforts to support Myanmar but has suspended defence exchanges and banned exports of arms and other strategic items to the Southeast Asian country.

North Korea has provided $300,000 to an UN-led humanitarian aid initiative for Myanmar, marking its first donation to other countries since 2005, UN data showed on Thursday.

North Korea has provided $300,000 to an UN-led humanitarian aid initiative for Myanmar, marking its first donation to other countries since 2005, UN data showed on Thursday. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)` financial tracking service showed that North Korea paid the contribution on May 24 to the Myanmar Humanitarian Fund. The fund calls for some $276 million to help Myanmar, where hundreds of people have died since the military ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February and began a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests, adding to the country`s struggle with the coronavirus pandemic. North Korea last offered financial aid to the United Nations in 2005, when it gave $150,000 for Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives and Sri Lanka - all of which were hit by a devastating tsunami in December 2004. North Korea has longstanding relations with Myanmar, and UN monitors have said Pyongyang supplies weapons to the Southeast Asian nation. It has said it is investigating missile cooperation between the two countries. South Korea has also provided $600,000 to the UN efforts to support Myanmar but has suspended defence exchanges and banned exports of arms and other strategic items to the Southeast Asian country.

North Korea gives $300,000 for Myanmar in first financial aid since 2005

Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai.

This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning. Authorities say that the lion had been under intensive treatment since it tested positive for SARS-Cov-2 on June 03. The samples of this lion had tested positive, as per the report from National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semi-wild-elephants-undergo-covid-19-testing-after-9-lions-test-positive-in-indian-zoo-390139" hreflang="en">Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo</a>

On June 4, the zoo had mentioned that nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection — SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19.

Back then, Neela, a nine-year-old lioness that was housed in the zoo had died, a day after showing some nasal discharge. Authorities maintained that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms.&nbsp;

On May 26,&nbsp;five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lion-dies-of-coronavirus-in-chennai-zoo-9-of-11-lions-test-positive-389511" hreflang="en">Lion dies of coronavirus in Chennai zoo; 9 of 11 lions test positive</a>

The big cats’ blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals. As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive.

It was after lions tested positive that the forest officials carried out precautionary testing for captive elephants at the Theppakadu camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. However, all 28 elephants tested negative as per results from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai. This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning.

Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai. This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning. Authorities say that the lion had been under intensive treatment since it tested positive for SARS-Cov-2 on June 03. The samples of this lion had tested positive, as per the report from National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal. Also read | Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo On June 4, the zoo had mentioned that nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection — SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19. Back then, Neela, a nine-year-old lioness that was housed in the zoo had died, a day after showing some nasal discharge. Authorities maintained that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms. On May 26, five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment. Also read | Lion dies of coronavirus in Chennai zoo; 9 of 11 lions test positive The big cats’ blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals. As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive. It was after lions tested positive that the forest officials carried out precautionary testing for captive elephants at the Theppakadu camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. However, all 28 elephants tested negative as per results from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh.

After lioness, a lion succumbs to COVID-19 at Chennai zoo

Japan will decide this month on whether to allow domestic spectators at the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, the government's chief spokesman said on Wednesday, after experts signed off on a plan to allow crowds of up to 10,000 people at events.

The final call on attendance at the Games will be made taking into account coronavirus infection conditions and the prevalence of variants, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told reporters.

Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said health experts agreed with a government plan that would permit up to 10,000 spectators or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is smaller, at events. Allowing such crowds depends on there not being special infection controls in effect, however.

Foreign spectators are already prohibited from the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;beginning on July 23 as part of measures planned to deliver what the Japanese government and Olympic officials promise will be "safe and secure" Games.

Tokyo organizers might be forgiven for eyeing soccer's European Championship with envy, as stadiums across the continent are expected to be packed throughout the month-long spectacle.

On Tuesday, a full house of 67,000 supporters watched Hungary take on Portugal in their Euro 2020 opener. Other nations are allowing various sized crowds, with up to 45,000 expected at both semi-finals and the July 11 final to be played at London's Wembley Stadium.

The government's top medical adviser Shigeru Omi was due to hold a news conference on coronavirus countermeasures on Wednesday, the Cabinet Office said.

Omi has been&nbsp;in recent weeks about the risks of holding the Games during a pandemic and has said guidance from him and other experts were not making its way to the International Olympic Committee.

The IOC has tried to quell such concerns by saying that most athletes and media coming to Tokyo will be vaccinated and that so-called playbooks governing hygiene, movements, and testing of participants will further mitigate infection risks.

The&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;have already been postponed by a year amid concerns over how organizers can keep volunteers, athletes, officials, and the Japanese public safe when they begin after the fourth wave of infections.

Tokyo, Osaka, and eight other prefectures remain under a state of emergency that is set to end on June 20.

Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura said Wednesday he was against lifting the emergency declaration "too easily", adding he would request quasi-emergency measures to avoid an infection rebound.

Japan's sluggish vaccination push is starting to gain steam of late, and recent polls have pointed to acceptance that the Games will go forward.

Hofu City, in the southwestern prefecture of Yamaguchi, is vaccinating high school students, far ahead of the rest of the country, before they volunteer to help with pre-Games training thereby Serbia's national volleyball team, NHK reported.

Japan will decide this month on whether to allow domestic spectators at the Tokyo Olympics, the government's chief spokesman said on Wednesday, after experts signed off on a plan to allow crowds of up to 10,000 people at events.

Japan will decide this month on whether to allow domestic spectators at the Tokyo Olympics, the government's chief spokesman said on Wednesday, after experts signed off on a plan to allow crowds of up to 10,000 people at events. The final call on attendance at the Games will be made taking into account coronavirus infection conditions and the prevalence of variants, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told reporters. Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said health experts agreed with a government plan that would permit up to 10,000 spectators or 50% of a venue's capacity, whichever is smaller, at events. Allowing such crowds depends on there not being special infection controls in effect, however. Foreign spectators are already prohibited from the Olympics beginning on July 23 as part of measures planned to deliver what the Japanese government and Olympic officials promise will be "safe and secure" Games. Tokyo organizers might be forgiven for eyeing soccer's European Championship with envy, as stadiums across the continent are expected to be packed throughout the month-long spectacle. On Tuesday, a full house of 67,000 supporters watched Hungary take on Portugal in their Euro 2020 opener. Other nations are allowing various sized crowds, with up to 45,000 expected at both semi-finals and the July 11 final to be played at London's Wembley Stadium. The government's top medical adviser Shigeru Omi was due to hold a news conference on coronavirus countermeasures on Wednesday, the Cabinet Office said. Omi has been in recent weeks about the risks of holding the Games during a pandemic and has said guidance from him and other experts were not making its way to the International Olympic Committee. The IOC has tried to quell such concerns by saying that most athletes and media coming to Tokyo will be vaccinated and that so-called playbooks governing hygiene, movements, and testing of participants will further mitigate infection risks. The Olympics have already been postponed by a year amid concerns over how organizers can keep volunteers, athletes, officials, and the Japanese public safe when they begin after the fourth wave of infections. Tokyo, Osaka, and eight other prefectures remain under a state of emergency that is set to end on June 20. Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura said Wednesday he was against lifting the emergency declaration "too easily", adding he would request quasi-emergency measures to avoid an infection rebound. Japan's sluggish vaccination push is starting to gain steam of late, and recent polls have pointed to acceptance that the Games will go forward. Hofu City, in the southwestern prefecture of Yamaguchi, is vaccinating high school students, far ahead of the rest of the country, before they volunteer to help with pre-Games training thereby Serbia's national volleyball team, NHK reported.

Japan to decide soon on domestic spectators at Tokyo Olympics

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. 
 
The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters. 
 
Japan is considering additional vaccine donations to Vietnam and Taiwan, and it plans to send doses to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand early next month, Motegi added. Taiwan received its first shipment of AstraZeneca doses earlier this month.

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters.

Japan will send 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Vietnam, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. The shipment of AstraZeneca PLC vaccines produced in Japan are due to arrive in Vietnam on Wednesday, Motegi told reporters. Japan is considering additional vaccine donations to Vietnam and Taiwan, and it plans to send doses to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand early next month, Motegi added. Taiwan received its first shipment of AstraZeneca doses earlier this month.

Japan to ship 1 million COVID-19 vaccines to Vietnam on June 16

A new study has claimed that a single shot of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> might be enough for the people who have been infected by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

The researchers of AIG Hospitals, on Monday, stated that the people who had been infected by the virus already have greater antibody response in comparison to those who have had no prior infection, and therefore, a single shot of the vaccine would be enough for them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-19-elderly-have-health-insurance-and-cant-bear-costs-iit-study-391468" hreflang="en">Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study</a>

This study was conducted on 260 healthcare workers who had been vaccinated with Covishield between the time period of January 06 and February 05 and was designed to check the immunological memory response in the selected candidates.

The research showed that the people who had been infected by the deadly coronavirus need not take the second dose of the vaccine as the first dose itself can develop enough memory cell response and antibody, which would be equivalent to what the second dose does for the people who have not been infected.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-tests-covid-19-vaccine-nasal-spray-in-children-to-launch-in-september-reports-391340" hreflang="en">Russia tests COVID-19 vaccine nasal spray in children, to launch in September: Reports</a>

This study has come at a time when several countries are suffering from vaccine shortage, and the findings of this research can help bridge that gap, hoped Dr&nbsp;D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals.

He also added that once the people who have not been infected are vaccinated with both doses, the infected people can be administered the first dose, as it will not harm anyone.

A new study has claimed that a single shot of the coronavirus vaccine might be enough for the people who have been infected by COVID-19. The researchers of AIG Hospitals, on Monday, stated that the people who had been infected by the virus already have greater antibody response in comparison to those who have had no prior infection, and therefore, a single shot of the vaccine would be enough for them.

A new study has claimed that a single shot of the coronavirus vaccine might be enough for the people who have been infected by COVID-19. The researchers of AIG Hospitals, on Monday, stated that the people who had been infected by the virus already have greater antibody response in comparison to those who have had no prior infection, and therefore, a single shot of the vaccine would be enough for them. Also read | Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study This study was conducted on 260 healthcare workers who had been vaccinated with Covishield between the time period of January 06 and February 05 and was designed to check the immunological memory response in the selected candidates. The research showed that the people who had been infected by the deadly coronavirus need not take the second dose of the vaccine as the first dose itself can develop enough memory cell response and antibody, which would be equivalent to what the second dose does for the people who have not been infected. Also read | Russia tests COVID-19 vaccine nasal spray in children, to launch in September: Reports This study has come at a time when several countries are suffering from vaccine shortage, and the findings of this research can help bridge that gap, hoped Dr D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals. He also added that once the people who have not been infected are vaccinated with both doses, the infected people can be administered the first dose, as it will not harm anyone.

Second dose of Covid vaccine not needed for people already infected: Study

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> on the elderly.

The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-grown-maritime-traffic-management-software-to-be-ready-in-2022-says-iit-madras-390652" hreflang="en">Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras</a>

According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more.

Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments.&nbsp;

"Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-positive-liver-failure-patient-who-was-comatose-revived-successfully-after-transplant-390577" hreflang="en">COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant</a>

Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals.

The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country.

Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge.

Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to&nbsp;ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly. The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues. Also read | Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more. Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments. "Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18. Also read | COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals. The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country. Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge. Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

With the fresh cases, the country's tally of cases has climbed to 2,94,39,989.&nbsp;The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,70,384 with 3,303 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The active cases further declined to 10,26,159 comprising 3.49 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 95.26 per cent.

A net decline of 54,531 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also 19,20,477 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,62,32,162 while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 4.25 per cent.

It has been less than 10 per cent for 20 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate fell below 5 per cent and was recorded 4.74 per cent.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 31st consecutive day.&nbsp;The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,80,43,446, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.26 per cent, the data stated.

Cumulatively, 25,31,95,048 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

The 3,303 fresh fatalities include 1,966 from Maharashtra, 374 from Tamil Nadu, 171 from Kerala and 144 from Karnataka.

A total of 3,70,384 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,08,333 from Maharashtra, 32,788 from Karnataka, 29,280 from Tamil Nadu, 24,800 from Delhi, 21,735 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,812 from West Bengal, 15,503 from Punjab and 13,311 from Chhattisgarh.

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

India reported 80,834 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest after 71 days, while the daily positivity rate further dropped to 4.25 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. With the fresh cases, the country's tally of cases has climbed to 2,94,39,989. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,70,384 with 3,303 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. The active cases further declined to 10,26,159 comprising 3.49 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 95.26 per cent. A net decline of 54,531 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also 19,20,477 tests were conducted on Saturday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 37,62,32,162 while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 4.25 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for 20 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding the weekly positivity rate fell below 5 per cent and was recorded 4.74 per cent. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 31st consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,80,43,446, while the case fatality rate has increased to 1.26 per cent, the data stated. Cumulatively, 25,31,95,048 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. The 3,303 fresh fatalities include 1,966 from Maharashtra, 374 from Tamil Nadu, 171 from Kerala and 144 from Karnataka. A total of 3,70,384 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,08,333 from Maharashtra, 32,788 from Karnataka, 29,280 from Tamil Nadu, 24,800 from Delhi, 21,735 from Uttar Pradesh, 16,812 from West Bengal, 15,503 from Punjab and 13,311 from Chhattisgarh. The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

Daily COVID-19 count in India remains below 1,00,000 mark

A top official in the European Medicines Agency said it might be worth abandoning AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> for all age groups where alternatives are available, in an interview published Sunday.

Marco Cavaleri, the EMA's head of vaccine strategy, also told Italy's La Stampa newspaper that the Johnson &amp; Johnson jab should be preferentially used for the over 60s.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-adds-another-rare-blood-condition-as-side-effect-of-astrazeneca-shot-390914">EU adds another rare blood condition as side effect of AstraZeneca shot</a>

Both so-called viral vector vaccines are authorised for everyone over 18 but have been dogged by reports of rare blood clots. The EU has also authorised two mRNA vaccines, Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna.

Italy on Saturday restricted AstraZeneca vaccines to people aged 60 and over following concerns about the heightened health risks for younger people.

Asked if it would not be better to ban AstraZeneca including for the over 60s, Cavaleri said: "Yes, and it is an option that many countries, such as France and Germany, are considering in the light of the increased availability of mRNA vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-less-effective-astrazeneca-even-worse-against-variant-first-detected-in-india-study-388279">Pfizer less effective, AstraZeneca even worse against variant first detected in India: Study</a>

"However, incidents were very rare and after the first dose. It is true that there is less data on the second dose, but in the United Kingdom it (the vaccination programme) is going well."

He added: "Among young people the risks of illness decrease, and the message for them could be to use preferentially the mRNA vaccines, but the choice is left to individual states."

He noted the single-shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine has "fewer problems than AstraZeneca" while noting it had been less widely used.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-vaccine-suspension-may-be-driven-as-much-by-politics-as-science-371109">Europe’s vaccine suspension may be driven as much by politics as science</a>

"With one dose it is useful for some categories that are difficult to reach, but it remains an adenovirus (vaccine) and it is preferable to reserve it for the over 60s," he said.

Messenger RNA genetic technology trains the body to reproduce spike proteins, similar to that found on the coronavirus. When exposed to the real virus later, the body recognises the spike proteins and is able to fight them off.

Viral vector vaccines like AstraZeneca and Johnson &amp; Johnson use genetically-engineered version of a common-cold causing adenovirus as a "vector" to shuttle genetic instructions into human cells.

A top official in the European Medicines Agency said it might be worth abandoning AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine for all age groups where alternatives are available, in an interview published Sunday.

A top official in the European Medicines Agency said it might be worth abandoning AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine for all age groups where alternatives are available, in an interview published Sunday. Marco Cavaleri, the EMA's head of vaccine strategy, also told Italy's La Stampa newspaper that the Johnson & Johnson jab should be preferentially used for the over 60s. Also read | EU adds another rare blood condition as side effect of AstraZeneca shot Both so-called viral vector vaccines are authorised for everyone over 18 but have been dogged by reports of rare blood clots. The EU has also authorised two mRNA vaccines, Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. Italy on Saturday restricted AstraZeneca vaccines to people aged 60 and over following concerns about the heightened health risks for younger people. Asked if it would not be better to ban AstraZeneca including for the over 60s, Cavaleri said: "Yes, and it is an option that many countries, such as France and Germany, are considering in the light of the increased availability of mRNA vaccines. Also read | Pfizer less effective, AstraZeneca even worse against variant first detected in India: Study "However, incidents were very rare and after the first dose. It is true that there is less data on the second dose, but in the United Kingdom it (the vaccination programme) is going well." He added: "Among young people the risks of illness decrease, and the message for them could be to use preferentially the mRNA vaccines, but the choice is left to individual states." He noted the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine has "fewer problems than AstraZeneca" while noting it had been less widely used. Also read | Europe’s vaccine suspension may be driven as much by politics as science "With one dose it is useful for some categories that are difficult to reach, but it remains an adenovirus (vaccine) and it is preferable to reserve it for the over 60s," he said. Messenger RNA genetic technology trains the body to reproduce spike proteins, similar to that found on the coronavirus. When exposed to the real virus later, the body recognises the spike proteins and is able to fight them off. Viral vector vaccines like AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson use genetically-engineered version of a common-cold causing adenovirus as a "vector" to shuttle genetic instructions into human cells.

European Medicines Agency official suggests ditching AstraZeneca jab

Australia's Victoria state expects to announce further easing of COVID-19 restrictions this week, acting Premier James Merlino said on Sunday, as the state reported one new locally acquired infection for a second straight day. 
 
The latest infection was a close contact of a previously reported case and had already been quarantined, Victoria's health department said. 
 
Australia's second-most-populous state has recorded 92 cases in its latest wave of COVID-19 infections, which triggered a two-week snap lockdown late last month. Victoria emerged from the lockdown on Friday as new cases declined, but some physical distancing rules remain. 
 
"My expectation is by later in the week, we will be in a position to announce further easing of restrictions for regional Victoria and ... for metropolitan Melbourne," Merlino said. 
 
Merlino added he was keen to get people back to attending sporting events and theatre, though he had no announcement to make yet in that regard. 
 
Under existing curbs, Melbourne residents can only travel up to 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) from home while outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people. Masks are required indoors and outdoors at all public spaces. 
 
More than 3,000 primary close contacts of infected cases are already in quarantine with about 122 exposure sites listed on the Victorian government website. 
 
Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, with more than 22,300 local COVID-19 cases and 910 deaths since March 2020, mostly in Victorian aged-care homes. 
 
Snap lockdowns, internal border controls and tough social distancing rules have helped it contain prior outbreaks. 
 
New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, and neighbouring Queensland are on high alert after an infected woman and her husband travelled from Victoria through several country towns in both states. 
 
With no new cases on Sunday, New South Wales, which includes the largest city, Sydney, has not reported any locally acquired infection in more than a month, while Queensland last reported cases in late March.

Australia's Victoria state expects to announce further easing of COVID-19 restrictions this week, acting Premier James Merlino said on Sunday, as the state reported one new locally acquired infection for a second straight day.

Australia's Victoria state expects to announce further easing of COVID-19 restrictions this week, acting Premier James Merlino said on Sunday, as the state reported one new locally acquired infection for a second straight day. The latest infection was a close contact of a previously reported case and had already been quarantined, Victoria's health department said. Australia's second-most-populous state has recorded 92 cases in its latest wave of COVID-19 infections, which triggered a two-week snap lockdown late last month. Victoria emerged from the lockdown on Friday as new cases declined, but some physical distancing rules remain. "My expectation is by later in the week, we will be in a position to announce further easing of restrictions for regional Victoria and ... for metropolitan Melbourne," Merlino said. Merlino added he was keen to get people back to attending sporting events and theatre, though he had no announcement to make yet in that regard. Under existing curbs, Melbourne residents can only travel up to 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) from home while outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people. Masks are required indoors and outdoors at all public spaces. More than 3,000 primary close contacts of infected cases are already in quarantine with about 122 exposure sites listed on the Victorian government website. Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, with more than 22,300 local COVID-19 cases and 910 deaths since March 2020, mostly in Victorian aged-care homes. Snap lockdowns, internal border controls and tough social distancing rules have helped it contain prior outbreaks. New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, and neighbouring Queensland are on high alert after an infected woman and her husband travelled from Victoria through several country towns in both states. With no new cases on Sunday, New South Wales, which includes the largest city, Sydney, has not reported any locally acquired infection in more than a month, while Queensland last reported cases in late March.

Australia's Victoria state expects further easing of COVID-19 curbs

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

On March 17 last year, Bangladesh had closed all schools to contain the spread of coronavirus. All examinations were cancelled.

In a notification on Saturday, the Ministry of Education said all primary, secondary, higher secondary and college-level institutions, including Ebtedayee and Qawmi madrasas, would remain closed till June 30, The Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported.

Last month, Education Minister Dipu Moni said in-class teaching could be reopened on June 13, based on a review of the virus outbreak.

"The COVID-19 situation worsened in some districts and many areas have been locked down. Considering the safety of students, teachers, staff and guardians, and upon the advice of COVID-19 technical committee, the shutdown has been extended," the newspaper quoted the notification.

Health experts said Bangladesh would experience a fresh wave of COVID-19 later in the month, fuelled by the virus variant B1.617.2, which was first identified in India.

So far, COVID-19 has claimed 13,032 lives along with 822,849 confirmed infections in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report. On March 17 last year, Bangladesh had closed all schools to contain the spread of coronavirus. All examinations were cancelled. In a notification on Saturday, the Ministry of Education said all primary, secondary, higher secondary and college-level institutions, including Ebtedayee and Qawmi madrasas, would remain closed till June 30, The Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. Last month, Education Minister Dipu Moni said in-class teaching could be reopened on June 13, based on a review of the virus outbreak. "The COVID-19 situation worsened in some districts and many areas have been locked down. Considering the safety of students, teachers, staff and guardians, and upon the advice of COVID-19 technical committee, the shutdown has been extended," the newspaper quoted the notification. Health experts said Bangladesh would experience a fresh wave of COVID-19 later in the month, fuelled by the virus variant B1.617.2, which was first identified in India. So far, COVID-19 has claimed 13,032 lives along with 822,849 confirmed infections in Bangladesh. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Schools, colleges to remain closed till June 30 in Bangladesh

South Africa’s NICD (National Institute for Communicable Disease) has announced that the country has technically entered the third wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.

"South Africa technically entered the third wave today as the national 7-day moving average incidence (5959 cases) now exceeds the new wave threshold as defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee," the institute tweeted.

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South Africa technically entered the 3rd wave today as the national 7-day moving average incidence (5959 cases) now exceeds the new wave threshold as defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee.
— NICD (@nicd_sa) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicd_sa/status/1403036945886945285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The MAC advisory defined the new wave 7-day moving average threshold as 30 per cent of the peak incidence of the previous wave, it said.

Out of the nine provinces, Gauteng is the worst-hit province with over 5,000 daily new cases.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> UPDATE: A total of 58 322 tests were conducted in the last 24 hrs, with 9 149 new cases, which represents a 15.7% positivity rate. A further 100 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> related deaths have been reported, bringing total fatalities to 57 410 to date. Read more: <a href="https://t.co/NDCvKvhk0U">https://t.co/NDCvKvhk0U</a> <a href="https://t.co/ihfV9mBwnu">pic.twitter.com/ihfV9mBwnu</a>
— NICD (@nicd_sa) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicd_sa/status/1403034257703026688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The latest statistics from NICD showed an increase of 844 hospital admissions in the past 24 hours and 127 additional hospital deaths.

As of 10 June, South Africa has recorded 9,149 new cases, 1,722,086 total cases and 57,410 deaths.

South Africa’s NICD (National Institute for Communicable Disease) has announced that the country has technically entered the third wave of COVID-19. "South Africa technically entered the third wave today as the national 7-day moving average incidence (5959 cases) now exceeds the new wave threshold as defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee," the institute tweeted.

South Africa’s NICD (National Institute for Communicable Disease) has announced that the country has technically entered the third wave of COVID-19. "South Africa technically entered the third wave today as the national 7-day moving average incidence (5959 cases) now exceeds the new wave threshold as defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee," the institute tweeted. South Africa technically entered the 3rd wave today as the national 7-day moving average incidence (5959 cases) now exceeds the new wave threshold as defined by the Ministerial Advisory Committee. — NICD (@nicd_sa) June 10, 2021 × The MAC advisory defined the new wave 7-day moving average threshold as 30 per cent of the peak incidence of the previous wave, it said. Out of the nine provinces, Gauteng is the worst-hit province with over 5,000 daily new cases. #COVID19 UPDATE: A total of 58 322 tests were conducted in the last 24 hrs, with 9 149 new cases, which represents a 15.7% positivity rate. A further 100 #COVID19 related deaths have been reported, bringing total fatalities to 57 410 to date. Read more: https://t.co/NDCvKvhk0U pic.twitter.com/ihfV9mBwnu — NICD (@nicd_sa) June 10, 2021 × The latest statistics from NICD showed an increase of 844 hospital admissions in the past 24 hours and 127 additional hospital deaths. As of 10 June, South Africa has recorded 9,149 new cases, 1,722,086 total cases and 57,410 deaths.

South Africa enters third wave of coronavirus; positivity rate reaches 15.7%

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced an amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act that will make it easier for independent power providers to generate power. The government will amend schedule two of the act to raise the exemption threshold from 1 megawatt to 100 megawatts.

Ramaphosa is making an announcement as part of the government's effort to achieve a swift and lasting economic recovery. This announcement also comes at a time when the country is facing continuous load shedding.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-health-minister-put-on-special-leave-390231" hreflang="en">South Africa's Health Minister put on special leave</a>

"We are a country that is blessed with tremendous resources and resourcefulness. We have a bright future ahead of us. Today’s announcement takes us one significant step further towards that future," Ramaphosa said.&nbsp;

Under the new amendment, power producers will still have to go through an official process.

"Generation projects will still need to obtain permits, a grid connection permit, to ensure that they meet all the requirements for grid compliance. This will ensure that we are able to bring online as much new capacity as possible without compromising the integrity and stability of our energy system," the President said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-moves-to-stricter-covid-19-lockdown-amid-fears-of-third-wave-388513" hreflang="en">South Africa moves to stricter COVID-19 lockdown amid fears of third wave</a>

Ramaphosa added that the government has the task of building a new economy in the wake of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">global pandemic</a>, and of placing our country on a strong footing for the next decade and beyond.

"This reform is expected to unlock significant investment in new generation capacity in the short and medium term, enabling companies to build their own generation facilities to supply their energy needs," he said.&nbsp;

The country’s power utility, Eskom was on stage 3 load-shedding on Thursday, dropping 3,000MW of demand from the grid to avoid it being overloaded.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced an amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act that will make it easier for independent power providers to generate power.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced an amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act that will make it easier for independent power providers to generate power. The government will amend schedule two of the act to raise the exemption threshold from 1 megawatt to 100 megawatts. Ramaphosa is making an announcement as part of the government's effort to achieve a swift and lasting economic recovery. This announcement also comes at a time when the country is facing continuous load shedding. Also read | South Africa's Health Minister put on special leave "We are a country that is blessed with tremendous resources and resourcefulness. We have a bright future ahead of us. Today’s announcement takes us one significant step further towards that future," Ramaphosa said. Under the new amendment, power producers will still have to go through an official process. "Generation projects will still need to obtain permits, a grid connection permit, to ensure that they meet all the requirements for grid compliance. This will ensure that we are able to bring online as much new capacity as possible without compromising the integrity and stability of our energy system," the President said. Also read | South Africa moves to stricter COVID-19 lockdown amid fears of third wave Ramaphosa added that the government has the task of building a new economy in the wake of a global pandemic, and of placing our country on a strong footing for the next decade and beyond. "This reform is expected to unlock significant investment in new generation capacity in the short and medium term, enabling companies to build their own generation facilities to supply their energy needs," he said. The country’s power utility, Eskom was on stage 3 load-shedding on Thursday, dropping 3,000MW of demand from the grid to avoid it being overloaded.

South Africa: Ramaphosa announces economic recovery plan

The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns.

Here, we answer several questions in the minds of expectant mothers on Covid, and break myths in this regard.&nbsp;

<h4>Risks during pregnancy</h4>

Pregnant ladies carry less risk of getting infected by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus?page=1">coronavirus </a>&nbsp;if they stay indoors and limit their social contact. However, people who do contract COVID-19 during their pregnancy carry a higher risk of developing respiratory complications. Pregnant women&nbsp;also carry a higher risk of being out on a ventilator, in comparison to others.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-health-worries-for-children-born-to-mothers-given-seasonal-flu-vaccine-in-pregnancy-study-390256" hreflang="en">No health worries for children born to mothers given seasonal flu vaccine in pregnancy: Study</a>

The risk is more in the third trimester for pregnant women, all over the world.

One major concern for all expectant mothers&nbsp;and their families is the timely delivery of the baby. However, there are higher chances of premature birth and cesarean delivery, if the mother has been infected by the deadly coronavirus.

Experts advise pregnant people to take extra precautions during and immediately after their pregnancy. Women are advised to identify and quickly act on the symptoms such as common cold, nausea, fever, dry cough, etc.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fatigue-ptsd-depression-and-more-heres-how-to-fight-post-covid-problems-390332" hreflang="en">Fatigue, PTSD, depression and more: Here's how to fight post-Covid problems</a>

Pregnant people, if infected by coronavirus, are advised to intake a lot of fluids at normal temperature and go on complete bed rest to avoid tiring the body. If a pregnant woman, in such a case, experiences fatigue or tiredness, her immune system can weaken further and the virus might more strongly attack the body, thus leading to severe negative effects.

<h4>Prepping for delivery</h4>

One thing to take care of, a few days before delivering the baby, is that the mother and her support person have to be screened for the deadly virus. Experts advise the new mother and her support person to stay indoors, limit communication and follow a healthy diet a few weeks before the delivery, to make sure they do not get infected in any case.

The mother and her support will be screened for the virus a couple of days before the scheduled delivery and also a few hours before entering the delivery room.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-one-third-of-british-people-prefer-to-stay-indoors-reveals-a-new-survey-390302" hreflang="en">COVID-19: One-third of British people prefer to stay indoors, reveals a new survey</a>

<h4>Postpartum care</h4>

While making sure the baby is born healthy, it is also very important to care for the newborn against the coronavirus. There have been reported cases around the world where newborns have been infected by the deadly virus.

After giving birth, mothers should try and schedule virtual appointments with their doctors to avoid contact with the outside world.

Mothers are also advised to take care of their mental health post-pregnancy as there are higher chances of postpartum depression in the current scenario of extended lockdowns.

Another bigger concern for new mothers is the fear of putting the newborn in danger through breastfeeding. Health experts and researchers suggest that breast milk isn’t likely to infect the baby.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/explained-european-covid-19-travel-certificate-us-considers-own-vaccine-passport-390357" hreflang="en">Explained: European COVID-19 travel certificate; US considers own vaccine&nbsp;passport</a>

However, there are still no sure answers on whether covid-infected mothers can breastfeed their newborn or not. There are fears of the virus spreading through respiratory droplets while breastfeeding. To avoid this, for now, experts suggest covid-infected mothers wear a face mask at all times when in close vicinity with the baby and regularly wash their hands before and after touching the baby, or anything related to him/her.

<h4>Does Covid infection in mothers have an effect on babies?</h4>

Researchers believe if a mother is infected with coronavirus, there are fewer chances of the virus being passed to the baby in her stomach, and it is unlikely that it will hinder the baby’s development. It has also been observed that COVID-19 does not increase the chances of miscarriages.

While there have been cases where the newborns have been born with the infection, it is a rare happening and the doctors advise limiting visitation for the newborn to make sure he/she does not catch the infection from any visitor.

<h4>Vaccines during pregnancy</h4>

There is no evidence that suggests the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1">coronavirus vaccines</a> are unsafe for pregnant people. However, researchers suggest people should opt for Moderna and Pfizer, instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are mRNA vaccines that do not contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 and has less to no chances of infecting someone with the deadly virus. Experts have also concluded that the mRNA vaccines do not engage with human DNA and, thus, there are no genetic changes.

However, health experts strictly advise pregnant people to stick to bed rest and not exert themselves to avoid contracting coronavirus. They are also advised to strictly limit their contact with outsiders and wear masks if stepping outdoors.

The vaccines are also safe for mothers who are breastfeeding or lactating. Some also believe that the vaccines can develop antibodies that can further protect the babies against the virus. However, the claim has not been proven by medical experts yet.

Normal flu vaccines are also safe and advised for pregnant people. In fact, taking flu vaccines is advised, with or without covid, to avoid getting infected by common cold or any other form of flu.

The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns.

The coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for everyone around the world, but it has been worse for the people who suffer from chronic diseases or for pregnant women who are concerned about not only getting infected but also about passing on the infection to their newborns. Here, we answer several questions in the minds of expectant mothers on Covid, and break myths in this regard. Risks during pregnancy Pregnant ladies carry less risk of getting infected by the coronavirus if they stay indoors and limit their social contact. However, people who do contract COVID-19 during their pregnancy carry a higher risk of developing respiratory complications. Pregnant women also carry a higher risk of being out on a ventilator, in comparison to others. Also read | No health worries for children born to mothers given seasonal flu vaccine in pregnancy: Study The risk is more in the third trimester for pregnant women, all over the world. One major concern for all expectant mothers and their families is the timely delivery of the baby. However, there are higher chances of premature birth and cesarean delivery, if the mother has been infected by the deadly coronavirus. Experts advise pregnant people to take extra precautions during and immediately after their pregnancy. Women are advised to identify and quickly act on the symptoms such as common cold, nausea, fever, dry cough, etc. Also read | Fatigue, PTSD, depression and more: Here's how to fight post-Covid problems Pregnant people, if infected by coronavirus, are advised to intake a lot of fluids at normal temperature and go on complete bed rest to avoid tiring the body. If a pregnant woman, in such a case, experiences fatigue or tiredness, her immune system can weaken further and the virus might more strongly attack the body, thus leading to severe negative effects. Prepping for delivery One thing to take care of, a few days before delivering the baby, is that the mother and her support person have to be screened for the deadly virus. Experts advise the new mother and her support person to stay indoors, limit communication and follow a healthy diet a few weeks before the delivery, to make sure they do not get infected in any case. The mother and her support will be screened for the virus a couple of days before the scheduled delivery and also a few hours before entering the delivery room. Also read | COVID-19: One-third of British people prefer to stay indoors, reveals a new survey Postpartum care While making sure the baby is born healthy, it is also very important to care for the newborn against the coronavirus. There have been reported cases around the world where newborns have been infected by the deadly virus. After giving birth, mothers should try and schedule virtual appointments with their doctors to avoid contact with the outside world. Mothers are also advised to take care of their mental health post-pregnancy as there are higher chances of postpartum depression in the current scenario of extended lockdowns. Another bigger concern for new mothers is the fear of putting the newborn in danger through breastfeeding. Health experts and researchers suggest that breast milk isn’t likely to infect the baby. Have a look | Explained: European COVID-19 travel certificate; US considers own vaccine passport However, there are still no sure answers on whether covid-infected mothers can breastfeed their newborn or not. There are fears of the virus spreading through respiratory droplets while breastfeeding. To avoid this, for now, experts suggest covid-infected mothers wear a face mask at all times when in close vicinity with the baby and regularly wash their hands before and after touching the baby, or anything related to him/her. Does Covid infection in mothers have an effect on babies? Researchers believe if a mother is infected with coronavirus, there are fewer chances of the virus being passed to the baby in her stomach, and it is unlikely that it will hinder the baby’s development. It has also been observed that COVID-19 does not increase the chances of miscarriages. While there have been cases where the newborns have been born with the infection, it is a rare happening and the doctors advise limiting visitation for the newborn to make sure he/she does not catch the infection from any visitor. Vaccines during pregnancy There is no evidence that suggests the coronavirus vaccines are unsafe for pregnant people. However, researchers suggest people should opt for Moderna and Pfizer, instead of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are mRNA vaccines that do not contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 and has less to no chances of infecting someone with the deadly virus. Experts have also concluded that the mRNA vaccines do not engage with human DNA and, thus, there are no genetic changes. However, health experts strictly advise pregnant people to stick to bed rest and not exert themselves to avoid contracting coronavirus. They are also advised to strictly limit their contact with outsiders and wear masks if stepping outdoors. The vaccines are also safe for mothers who are breastfeeding or lactating. Some also believe that the vaccines can develop antibodies that can further protect the babies against the virus. However, the claim has not been proven by medical experts yet. Normal flu vaccines are also safe and advised for pregnant people. In fact, taking flu vaccines is advised, with or without covid, to avoid getting infected by common cold or any other form of flu.

Covid, pregnancy, breastfeeding and vaccines: Let's help in breaking myths for new mothers

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure. What made this medical procedure even more complicated for the patient and the operating doctors was the fact that he had tested COVID-19 positive. This meant heightened the risk for Doctors and healthcare staff of the MGM Hospital, who were to attend to this patient and perform surgery and related procedures.

The patient Ragul Gandhi was physically fit and a Kabaddi Player but had lapsed into a comatose state, two days after his liver failed. Once he tested COVID-19 positive, it was also clear to medical professionals that he had only about 48 hours to live, without an emergency liver transplant.

Luckily for the patient, his own brother had agreed to be the live donor, at a time (COVID-19 pandemic) when there are hardly any cadavers available for giving a lease of life. The donor was brought to the Chennai hospital and found suitable for the procedure.&nbsp;

Clad in full-body PPE suits, two teams with a total of 50 (fully vaccinated) medical professionals performed the 12-hour procedure in two separate Operation Theaters - one for the COVID-19 positive patient and another for the donor. Special filters and technology were used to ensure that the doctors don’t get infected with Covid-19, owing to the long duration of exposure. According to the hospital, none of the doctors or healthcare staff tested positive, after this procedure.

The patient has been discharged after surgery and is recuperating from home, he has also defeated COVID-19. Doctors of MGM healthcare said that he would be able to live a normal life post-transplant and could even resume playing Kabaddi in about a year’s time.

When asked about the causes of such sudden acute liver failure in a young and fit sportsman, Senior Transplant surgeon Dr Thaigarajan Srinivasan of MGM Healthcare said that liver failure suddenly happens in previously normal patients. “In our part of the world, the commonest causes of acute liver failure are overdose of anti-tubercular drugs. It could be the overdose of drugs meant for Hepatitis A, E, B or even some Ayurvedic medicines. In this case, it was an accidental overdose” he told Zee media.&nbsp;

Doctors also advised those with existing liver complications to stay safe at home, get vaccinated and strictly follow the COVID-19 norms. In case of such individuals getting infected by Covid-19, Doctors urged them to go ahead and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further deterioration. 
&nbsp;

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure.

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure. What made this medical procedure even more complicated for the patient and the operating doctors was the fact that he had tested COVID-19 positive. This meant heightened the risk for Doctors and healthcare staff of the MGM Hospital, who were to attend to this patient and perform surgery and related procedures. The patient Ragul Gandhi was physically fit and a Kabaddi Player but had lapsed into a comatose state, two days after his liver failed. Once he tested COVID-19 positive, it was also clear to medical professionals that he had only about 48 hours to live, without an emergency liver transplant. Luckily for the patient, his own brother had agreed to be the live donor, at a time (COVID-19 pandemic) when there are hardly any cadavers available for giving a lease of life. The donor was brought to the Chennai hospital and found suitable for the procedure. Clad in full-body PPE suits, two teams with a total of 50 (fully vaccinated) medical professionals performed the 12-hour procedure in two separate Operation Theaters - one for the COVID-19 positive patient and another for the donor. Special filters and technology were used to ensure that the doctors don’t get infected with Covid-19, owing to the long duration of exposure. According to the hospital, none of the doctors or healthcare staff tested positive, after this procedure. The patient has been discharged after surgery and is recuperating from home, he has also defeated COVID-19. Doctors of MGM healthcare said that he would be able to live a normal life post-transplant and could even resume playing Kabaddi in about a year’s time. When asked about the causes of such sudden acute liver failure in a young and fit sportsman, Senior Transplant surgeon Dr Thaigarajan Srinivasan of MGM Healthcare said that liver failure suddenly happens in previously normal patients. “In our part of the world, the commonest causes of acute liver failure are overdose of anti-tubercular drugs. It could be the overdose of drugs meant for Hepatitis A, E, B or even some Ayurvedic medicines. In this case, it was an accidental overdose” he told Zee media. Doctors also advised those with existing liver complications to stay safe at home, get vaccinated and strictly follow the COVID-19 norms. In case of such individuals getting infected by Covid-19, Doctors urged them to go ahead and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further deterioration.

COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant 

After months of debate, WTO members on Wednesday took a first, small step towards a deal aimed at boosting the production of Covid vaccines and treatments through patent waivers or compulsory licensing deals.

After months of debate, WTO members on Wednesday took a first, small step towards a deal aimed at boosting the production of Covid vaccines and treatments through patent waivers or compulsory licensing deals. The World Trade Organization has struggled to move forward on the hotly debated issue, since all decisions at the global trade body must be reached by consensus of all 164 member states. But during a meeting on Wednesday, countries finally backed launching a process towards drafting an agreement, and "agreed on the urgency of this discussion", a Geneva-based trade official said. Views on the matter meanwhile remain far apart, the trade official said, adding that an initial report on progress in the text-based discussions was expected around July 21-22. Since October, the WTO has faced calls led by India and South Africa for the temporary removal of such intellectual property protections, in what proponents argue will boost production in developing countries of vaccines, treatments, diagnostics and other vital medical tools needed to battle Covid-19. This, they have argued, could help address the dire inequity in access to vaccines especially. That notion long met with fierce opposition from pharmaceutical giants and their host countries, which insisted patents were not the main roadblocks to scaling up production and warned the move could hamper innovation. The positions seemed to shift some last month, when Washington came out in support of a global patent waiver for Covid jabs, with other long-time opponents voicing openness to discuss the matter. But others have stuck to their guns. Also Read | We have no time to lose, conclude talks on patent waiver proposal by July-end: India to WTO members Some countries, like Switzerland, prefer a scenario in which pharmaceutical companies enter into voluntary licensing deals, as AstraZeneca has done with the Serum Institute of India (SII) to make its Covid-19 jabs. And the European Commission last Friday presented a counter-proposal to the WTO calling for a multilateral pact aimed at boosting production of Covid-19 vaccines, not by suspending patents but through compulsory licensing deals and by urging countries to remove export restrictions. That text, along with a revised proposal by India and South Africa that is backed by more than 60 countries, will form the basis for the negotiations. Addressing Wednesday's debate, US Charge d'affaires David Bisbee stressed Washington's strong belief in IP protections. "But we must do what is necessary to accelerate manufacturing and equitable distribution of vaccines," he said, insisting that "the WTO must show that it can step up in a global crisis and act efficiently to improve the lives of ordinary people." "We must all come together to find a solution expeditiously, especially as the pandemic continues to spread with new variants." Bisbee said Washington was still examining the revised proposal from India and South Africa, adding though that it appeared to mark a "relatively modest change".

WTO moves forward in Covid vaccine patent waiver talks to boost production

Nearly 2,000 passengers on Wednesday took a ride on the Noida-Greater Noida metro which resumed service after a hiatus of over a month due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> curbs, officials said.

The passenger services on the Aqua Line that connects Noida and Greater Noida were suspended on May 1 as the second wave of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus</a> pandemic ravaged the region.

The resumption of services was announced on Monday, the day Gautam Buddh Nagar district, adjoining Delhi, in western Uttar Pradesh also eased COVID-19 curbs amid a dip in new cases of coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/noida-metro-restart-plan-aarogya-setu-app-body-temp-below-378-c-must-for-passengers-299081">Noida Metro restart plan: Aarogya Setu app, body temp below 37.8 C must for passengers</a>

"The total ridership on the Noida-Greater Noida Metro stood at 1,992 on Wednesday," a Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) official said.

The NMRC had on Monday said keeping in view the night curfew and also to discourage people to move out due to the pandemic, trains will be operated from 7 am to 8 pm on weekdays only i.e., Monday to Friday.

As the weekend curfew is still in practice, train services will not be operated on weekends i.e., Saturday and Sunday, NMRC Managing Director Ritu Maheshwari had said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-unlock-40-metro-rail-services-to-restart-from-september-7-schools-universities-to-remain-closed-323961">India Unlock 4.0: Metro rail services to restart from September 7; schools, universities to remain closed</a>

There would be one train every 15 minutes during peak hours (8 am to 11 am and 5 pm to 8 pm) and one train every 30 minutes during non-peak hours, according to the NMRC.

There will also be 'fast trains'&nbsp;that will run on weekdays during peak hours and not stop at Sector 50, 101, 81, 83, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, and148 stations, it had said.

The NMRC's decision to run 'fast trains'&nbsp;has met with criticism from several residents of Noida and Greater Noida who have objected to the trains skipping some stations.

Nearly 2,000 passengers on Wednesday took a ride on the Noida-Greater Noida metro which resumed service after a hiatus of over a month due to COVID-19 curbs, officials said.

Nearly 2,000 passengers on Wednesday took a ride on the Noida-Greater Noida metro which resumed service after a hiatus of over a month due to COVID-19 curbs, officials said. The passenger services on the Aqua Line that connects Noida and Greater Noida were suspended on May 1 as the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic ravaged the region. The resumption of services was announced on Monday, the day Gautam Buddh Nagar district, adjoining Delhi, in western Uttar Pradesh also eased COVID-19 curbs amid a dip in new cases of coronavirus. Also read | Noida Metro restart plan: Aarogya Setu app, body temp below 37.8 C must for passengers "The total ridership on the Noida-Greater Noida Metro stood at 1,992 on Wednesday," a Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) official said. The NMRC had on Monday said keeping in view the night curfew and also to discourage people to move out due to the pandemic, trains will be operated from 7 am to 8 pm on weekdays only i.e., Monday to Friday. As the weekend curfew is still in practice, train services will not be operated on weekends i.e., Saturday and Sunday, NMRC Managing Director Ritu Maheshwari had said. Also read | India Unlock 4.0: Metro rail services to restart from September 7; schools, universities to remain closed There would be one train every 15 minutes during peak hours (8 am to 11 am and 5 pm to 8 pm) and one train every 30 minutes during non-peak hours, according to the NMRC. There will also be 'fast trains' that will run on weekdays during peak hours and not stop at Sector 50, 101, 81, 83, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, and148 stations, it had said. The NMRC's decision to run 'fast trains' has met with criticism from several residents of Noida and Greater Noida who have objected to the trains skipping some stations.

Noida Metro resumes service after coronavirus second wave break

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