A new hybrid variant of the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=coronavirus">coronavirus</a> has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India.

"The characteristic of this strain is that it spreads quickly in the air. The concentration of virus in the throat fluid increases rapidly and spreads very strongly to the surrounding environment," Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long told local reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-malaysia-announces-complete-nationwide-lockdown-388177">WATCH |</a>

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Vietnam has been struggling to contain widespread of COVID-19, especially in the industrial areas and bigger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The variant has not been announced formally and the government is planning to make an announcement as per the world’s map of genetic strains.

Vietnam has been, previously, applauded for its quick and effective response against the deadly virus which has infected more than 6,700 people and caused 47 deaths in the country.

A new hybrid variant of the deadly coronavirus has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India.

A new hybrid variant of the deadly coronavirus has been discovered in Vietnam that spreads through the air. This new variant is believed to be a combination of the two variants that were first detected in the UK and India. "The characteristic of this strain is that it spreads quickly in the air. The concentration of virus in the throat fluid increases rapidly and spreads very strongly to the surrounding environment," Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long told local reporters. WATCH | Vietnam has been struggling to contain widespread of COVID-19, especially in the industrial areas and bigger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The variant has not been announced formally and the government is planning to make an announcement as per the world’s map of genetic strains. Vietnam has been, previously, applauded for its quick and effective response against the deadly virus which has infected more than 6,700 people and caused 47 deaths in the country.

'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus

The UK has reopened its economy and locals are flocking outdoors to meet their loved ones. However, a variant 'of concern' of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> still poses a threat for the country.

UK’s health secretary&nbsp;Matt Hancock claims there is a possibility that up to three quarters of the new coronavirus infections are linked to the B.1.617.2 variant, which was first detected by health experts of India.

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This variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by experts of World Health Organization (WHO) and is being understood to be highly infectious and probably more deadly.

A few weeks ago, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson had warned that the government "may need to wait" a little before lifting all coronavirus-related restrictions, which was originally planned to take place on June 21.

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The local health experts believe the increased cases are a result of the new variant and also due to increased testing in the worst-affected areas.

"I think it is really, really just on the cusp at the moment, if we see cases rise we are not clear yet quite whether that is a rise in the variant cases taking off or whether it is actually a rise because we are actively, quite rightly, detecting them and then challenging these chains of transmission," Dr Jenny Harries, the chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said at a press conference.

Meanwhile, the UK is also investigating a new variant, based on the new mutations of the virus. This new variant has been named C.36.3, for now and first detected in Thailand from the people who had travelled from Egypt.

The UK has reopened its economy and locals are flocking outdoors to meet their loved ones. However, a variant 'of concern' of coronavirus still poses a threat for the country.

The UK has reopened its economy and locals are flocking outdoors to meet their loved ones. However, a variant 'of concern' of coronavirus still poses a threat for the country. UK’s health secretary Matt Hancock claims there is a possibility that up to three quarters of the new coronavirus infections are linked to the B.1.617.2 variant, which was first detected by health experts of India. Also read | Facebook lifts ban on 'lab leak' posts as US investigates origin of coronavirus This variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by experts of World Health Organization (WHO) and is being understood to be highly infectious and probably more deadly. A few weeks ago, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson had warned that the government "may need to wait" a little before lifting all coronavirus-related restrictions, which was originally planned to take place on June 21. Also read | UK's health minister Hancock to face questions after Cummings brands him a liar The local health experts believe the increased cases are a result of the new variant and also due to increased testing in the worst-affected areas. "I think it is really, really just on the cusp at the moment, if we see cases rise we are not clear yet quite whether that is a rise in the variant cases taking off or whether it is actually a rise because we are actively, quite rightly, detecting them and then challenging these chains of transmission," Dr Jenny Harries, the chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said at a press conference. Meanwhile, the UK is also investigating a new variant, based on the new mutations of the virus. This new variant has been named C.36.3, for now and first detected in Thailand from the people who had travelled from Egypt.

Three quarters of new Covid infections in UK due to B.1.617.2 'variant of concern': Health minister

France is re-introducing tighter rules on arrivals from UK who are not French residents to curb the spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a>, notably its Indian variant, the foreign ministry said on Thursday.

Britons and other non-EU arrivals will again have to prove that they have a "compelling reason" to enter France, it said.

The ministry did not define "compelling", but the government has previously said that family, health or professional reasons could be acceptable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-quarters-of-new-covid-infections-in-uk-due-to-b16172-variant-of-concern-health-minister-387920" hreflang="en">Three quarters of new Covid infections in UK due to B.1.617.2 'variant of concern': Health minister</a>

France had relaxed that requirement in March for the United Kingdom, as well as a number of other non-members of the EU, which Britain left last year.

But again from Monday "compelling reasons will be required for non-EU foreigners who are not residents in France and who come to France from the United Kingdom", the ministry said in a statement.

It said in addition those visitors would have to self-isolate for seven days on arrival.

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The ministry added, however, that, for now, there would be "no systematic checks" to ensure compliance with the requirement, "given the low incidence of Covid in Britain".

Visitors from Britain will still need a PCR or antigen test less than 48 hours old to be allowed into the country.

The French move comes after Germany said that travellers arriving there from the UK have to submit to a quarantine period of two weeks, regardless of whether they can provide a negative test result for the virus.

A French quarantine order is already in place for arrivals from Brazil, India, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Colombia, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Bahrain, Turkey, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.

Police are authorised to carry out random spot checks to ensure that quarantine rules are respected, with non-compliance punished with fines of up to 1,500 euros ($1,800).

The coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been officially recorded in 53 territories, a World Health Organization report showed Wednesday.

France is re-introducing tighter rules on arrivals from UK who are not French residents to curb the spread of Covid, notably its Indian variant, the foreign ministry said on Thursday.

France is re-introducing tighter rules on arrivals from UK who are not French residents to curb the spread of Covid, notably its Indian variant, the foreign ministry said on Thursday. Britons and other non-EU arrivals will again have to prove that they have a "compelling reason" to enter France, it said. The ministry did not define "compelling", but the government has previously said that family, health or professional reasons could be acceptable. Also read | Three quarters of new Covid infections in UK due to B.1.617.2 'variant of concern': Health minister France had relaxed that requirement in March for the United Kingdom, as well as a number of other non-members of the EU, which Britain left last year. But again from Monday "compelling reasons will be required for non-EU foreigners who are not residents in France and who come to France from the United Kingdom", the ministry said in a statement. It said in addition those visitors would have to self-isolate for seven days on arrival. Also read | Germany to vaccinate children over 12 from June 7 The ministry added, however, that, for now, there would be "no systematic checks" to ensure compliance with the requirement, "given the low incidence of Covid in Britain". Visitors from Britain will still need a PCR or antigen test less than 48 hours old to be allowed into the country. The French move comes after Germany said that travellers arriving there from the UK have to submit to a quarantine period of two weeks, regardless of whether they can provide a negative test result for the virus. A French quarantine order is already in place for arrivals from Brazil, India, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Colombia, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Bahrain, Turkey, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Police are authorised to carry out random spot checks to ensure that quarantine rules are respected, with non-compliance punished with fines of up to 1,500 euros ($1,800). The coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been officially recorded in 53 territories, a World Health Organization report showed Wednesday.

France reimposes strict Covid curbs on travel from UK

A firebrand Indonesian cleric was jailed Thursday for holding sermons and other gatherings that drew tens of thousands of followers, breaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">virus</a> restrictions in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation.

The eight-month prison term handed to Rizieq Shihab comes several months after Indonesia outlawed his influential hardline Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) in the aftermath of a deadly shootout between police and his followers.

On Thursday, East Jakarta District Court jailed Shihab for urging supporters to attend sermons, a celebration of the Prophet Mohammed's birthday, and his daughter's wedding. All drew huge crowds in a country hard hit by the pandemic.

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"The defendant has been found guilty of violating health protocols," presiding judge Suparman Nyompa told the hearing.

Shihab was also fined 20 million rupiah ($1,400). But his jail sentence would be reduced to three months to account for time already served, the court said.

Five other senior FPI members each got eight-month jail terms for organising the mass gatherings.

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About 2,300 security personnel were deployed around the courthouse to keep Shihab supporters at a distance, with nearly two dozen briefly detained, local media reported.

Shihab — who has served jail time in the past, including for an attack by FPI members on an interfaith gathering in 2008 — denied the latest charges and said he may appeal.

His December arrest came as Jakarta police shot dead six FPI followers in a highway gun battle that authorities described as an act of self-defence — a claim disputed by the group.

The charismatic Islamic leader fled to Saudi Arabia shortly after police named him as a suspect in a pornography case in 2017, and he remained in self-imposed exile for three years. Those charges have been dropped.

When he returned to Indonesia in November, Shihab was welcomed by tens of thousands of followers at Jakarta airport, in violation of a Covid-19 ban on gatherings.

Shihab's FPI was notorious for targeting nightclubs and other establishments it deemed "immoral", and has also attacked minority Muslim sects it considers "deviant".

The cleric was among the main figures behind mass rallies in 2016 against the then governor of Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, over allegations that he insulted the Koran.

Basuki, who is Christian, was sentenced to two years in prison for blasphemy.

A firebrand Indonesian cleric was jailed Thursday for holding sermons and other gatherings that drew tens of thousands of followers, breaking virus restrictions in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation.

A firebrand Indonesian cleric was jailed Thursday for holding sermons and other gatherings that drew tens of thousands of followers, breaking virus restrictions in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation. The eight-month prison term handed to Rizieq Shihab comes several months after Indonesia outlawed his influential hardline Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) in the aftermath of a deadly shootout between police and his followers. On Thursday, East Jakarta District Court jailed Shihab for urging supporters to attend sermons, a celebration of the Prophet Mohammed's birthday, and his daughter's wedding. All drew huge crowds in a country hard hit by the pandemic. Also read | Three quarters of new Covid infections in UK due to B.1.617.2 'variant of concern': Health minister "The defendant has been found guilty of violating health protocols," presiding judge Suparman Nyompa told the hearing. Shihab was also fined 20 million rupiah ($1,400). But his jail sentence would be reduced to three months to account for time already served, the court said. Five other senior FPI members each got eight-month jail terms for organising the mass gatherings. Also read | Government issues guidelines on vaccinating elderly, differently-abled near home About 2,300 security personnel were deployed around the courthouse to keep Shihab supporters at a distance, with nearly two dozen briefly detained, local media reported. Shihab — who has served jail time in the past, including for an attack by FPI members on an interfaith gathering in 2008 — denied the latest charges and said he may appeal. His December arrest came as Jakarta police shot dead six FPI followers in a highway gun battle that authorities described as an act of self-defence — a claim disputed by the group. The charismatic Islamic leader fled to Saudi Arabia shortly after police named him as a suspect in a pornography case in 2017, and he remained in self-imposed exile for three years. Those charges have been dropped. When he returned to Indonesia in November, Shihab was welcomed by tens of thousands of followers at Jakarta airport, in violation of a Covid-19 ban on gatherings. Shihab's FPI was notorious for targeting nightclubs and other establishments it deemed "immoral", and has also attacked minority Muslim sects it considers "deviant". The cleric was among the main figures behind mass rallies in 2016 against the then governor of Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, over allegations that he insulted the Koran. Basuki, who is Christian, was sentenced to two years in prison for blasphemy.

Indonesia jails firebrand cleric for breaking virus rules

Sri Lanka on Wednesday announced the lifting of its temporary travel ban on inbound travellers from June 1, except for passengers who spent time in India during the last 14 days.

All incoming flights, however, will be limited to a maximum of 75 passengers and they will be subjected to a 14 day quarantine period.

"Any passenger with a travel history to India including transit in the past 14 days will not be permitted to arrive," the civil aviation office said in a statement.

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Foreign nationals, seafarers, businessmen, investors and others are required to obtain approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enter the island along with the entry visa.

A negative PCR test must be taken by all categories of travellers before departure point of origin as per airline or country requirements. And all passengers must adhere to the paid quarantine procedure.&nbsp;The Colombo airport was acting as a transit hub for Indians travelling to West Asia, but the facility was withdrawn in early May due to the current surge in the pandemic.

Before the current wave, Sri Lanka and India were making arrangements for a tourism travel bubble.

India remained Sri Lanka's top inbound travel market before the onset of the pandemic.

Sri Lanka has reported 1.7 lakh COVID-19 cases so far with 1,269 deaths.

Sri Lanka on Wednesday announced the lifting of its temporary travel ban on inbound travellers from June 1, except for passengers who spent time in India during the last 14 days.

Sri Lanka on Wednesday announced the lifting of its temporary travel ban on inbound travellers from June 1, except for passengers who spent time in India during the last 14 days. All incoming flights, however, will be limited to a maximum of 75 passengers and they will be subjected to a 14 day quarantine period. "Any passenger with a travel history to India including transit in the past 14 days will not be permitted to arrive," the civil aviation office said in a statement. Also read | Vaccines can be redesigned to avoid blood clots, German scientists claim Foreign nationals, seafarers, businessmen, investors and others are required to obtain approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enter the island along with the entry visa. A negative PCR test must be taken by all categories of travellers before departure point of origin as per airline or country requirements. And all passengers must adhere to the paid quarantine procedure. The Colombo airport was acting as a transit hub for Indians travelling to West Asia, but the facility was withdrawn in early May due to the current surge in the pandemic. Before the current wave, Sri Lanka and India were making arrangements for a tourism travel bubble. India remained Sri Lanka's top inbound travel market before the onset of the pandemic. Sri Lanka has reported 1.7 lakh COVID-19 cases so far with 1,269 deaths.

Sri Lanka lifts travel ban but restrictions on those who've been to India remain

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's inept handling of the COVID-19 pandemic led to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths, and officials even feared he would ask to be injected with the virus on television to show it was benign, his former chief adviser said on Wednesday.

With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth-highest official COVID-19 toll, far higher than the government's initial worst-case estimates of only 20,000.

During seven hours of explosive testimony to a parliamentary committee, Dominic Cummings told lawmakers Johnson was like a shopping cart that could not be guided, and that it was "crackers" that someone like him should be prime minister.

"Everybody was screaming, on quarantine - 'Have a policy, and set it out clearly and stick to it!'," Cummings said.

"But nobody could find a way around the problem of the prime minister - just like a shopping trolley, smashing around from one side of the aisle to the other."

Asked about Cummings's criticisms at a weekly question-and-answer session in parliament, Johnson said nobody could credibly accuse him or his government of complacency.

"We have worked flat out to minimise loss of life," he said, without directly addressing many of the claims of the man who had been his closest adviser before an acrimonious split late last year, and who personally witnessed many of his actions.

Cummings's evidence gave an alarming insight into the heart of the British government as it grappled with the onset of what would become the most devastating public health crisis in a century.

Britain was completely unprepared, and Johnson's government lacked plans, brains, urgency and leadership, he said.

DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT

As danger loomed in February 2020, many ministers were away on ski holidays. Johnson initially dismissed the new virus as a scare story, Cummings said.

He said officials saw Johnson's attitude as "Don't worry about it, and I'm going to get (Chief Medical Advisor) Chris Whitty to inject me live on TV with coronavirus".

"When the public needed us most, the government failed," Cummings said. "Tens of thousands of people died who didn't need to die."

Johnson subsequently caught COVID-19 early in the pandemic and was moved to intensive care in hospital, where he received litres of oxygen. He later said plans had been prepared to announce his death.

Cummings cast the state as woefully disorganised, dominated by "groupthink", and run by ministers such as Health Secretary Matt Hancock who, he said, should be sacked for lying to the public and the government.

Johnson's spokesman said the prime minister had full confidence in Hancock.

Cummings's attacks have so far failed to dent Johnson's popularity, but his testimony is likely to form the broad lines of scrutiny of a public inquiry next year into the response to COVID-19.

Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, left Downing Street late last year, carrying his personal belongings in a box, after falling out with the prime minister.

He said the West had failed during the crisis, and that British officials had resisted the idea that they should follow the example of Asian countries in locking the country down:

"The truth is that senior ministers, senior officials, senior advisers like me, fell disastrously short of the standards that the public has a right to expect of its government in a crisis like this."

'WE'RE GOING TO KILL THOUSANDS'

He related meetings in early 2020 when it started to dawn on some officials that Johnson's resistance to a lockdown was a deadly mistake. Cummings said there was had been no plan for the epidemic, and certainly no plan for a lockdown.

He quoted Helen MacNamara, deputy cabinet secretary, as saying "I've come through here to the prime minister's office to tell you, quote, I think we are f**ed. I think this country is headed for disaster. I think we're going to kill thousands of people".

Reuters has reported how Britain was slow to spot the infections arriving, was late with a lockdown and continued to discharge infected elderly hospital patients into care homes.

Cummings repeated an allegation, which Johnson has denied, that the prime minister late last year said he would rather "let the bodies pile high" than impose a second lockdown.

"I heard that in the prime minister's study," he told the committee.

Cummings said there had been no data system to deal with COVID, no way to understand its spread and "not even a plan to bury all the bodies".

Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were having to work fast, under pressure, in the face of a huge crisis.

"I take full responsibility for everything that has happened," Johnson told lawmakers on Wednesday. "As I've said before ... I am truly sorry for the suffering that the people of this country have experienced."

He has pointed to Britain's rapid vaccination programme as a success that will allow the economy to rebound before its peers.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's inept handling of the COVID-19 pandemic led to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths, and officials even feared he would ask to be injected with the virus on television to show it was benign, his former chief adviser said on Wednesday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's inept handling of the COVID-19 pandemic led to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths, and officials even feared he would ask to be injected with the virus on television to show it was benign, his former chief adviser said on Wednesday. With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth-highest official COVID-19 toll, far higher than the government's initial worst-case estimates of only 20,000. During seven hours of explosive testimony to a parliamentary committee, Dominic Cummings told lawmakers Johnson was like a shopping cart that could not be guided, and that it was "crackers" that someone like him should be prime minister. "Everybody was screaming, on quarantine - 'Have a policy, and set it out clearly and stick to it!'," Cummings said. "But nobody could find a way around the problem of the prime minister - just like a shopping trolley, smashing around from one side of the aisle to the other." Asked about Cummings's criticisms at a weekly question-and-answer session in parliament, Johnson said nobody could credibly accuse him or his government of complacency. "We have worked flat out to minimise loss of life," he said, without directly addressing many of the claims of the man who had been his closest adviser before an acrimonious split late last year, and who personally witnessed many of his actions. Cummings's evidence gave an alarming insight into the heart of the British government as it grappled with the onset of what would become the most devastating public health crisis in a century. Britain was completely unprepared, and Johnson's government lacked plans, brains, urgency and leadership, he said. DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT As danger loomed in February 2020, many ministers were away on ski holidays. Johnson initially dismissed the new virus as a scare story, Cummings said. He said officials saw Johnson's attitude as "Don't worry about it, and I'm going to get (Chief Medical Advisor) Chris Whitty to inject me live on TV with coronavirus". "When the public needed us most, the government failed," Cummings said. "Tens of thousands of people died who didn't need to die." Johnson subsequently caught COVID-19 early in the pandemic and was moved to intensive care in hospital, where he received litres of oxygen. He later said plans had been prepared to announce his death. Cummings cast the state as woefully disorganised, dominated by "groupthink", and run by ministers such as Health Secretary Matt Hancock who, he said, should be sacked for lying to the public and the government. Johnson's spokesman said the prime minister had full confidence in Hancock. Cummings's attacks have so far failed to dent Johnson's popularity, but his testimony is likely to form the broad lines of scrutiny of a public inquiry next year into the response to COVID-19. Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, left Downing Street late last year, carrying his personal belongings in a box, after falling out with the prime minister. He said the West had failed during the crisis, and that British officials had resisted the idea that they should follow the example of Asian countries in locking the country down: "The truth is that senior ministers, senior officials, senior advisers like me, fell disastrously short of the standards that the public has a right to expect of its government in a crisis like this." 'WE'RE GOING TO KILL THOUSANDS' He related meetings in early 2020 when it started to dawn on some officials that Johnson's resistance to a lockdown was a deadly mistake. Cummings said there was had been no plan for the epidemic, and certainly no plan for a lockdown. He quoted Helen MacNamara, deputy cabinet secretary, as saying "I've come through here to the prime minister's office to tell you, quote, I think we are f**ed. I think this country is headed for disaster. I think we're going to kill thousands of people". Reuters has reported how Britain was slow to spot the infections arriving, was late with a lockdown and continued to discharge infected elderly hospital patients into care homes. Cummings repeated an allegation, which Johnson has denied, that the prime minister late last year said he would rather "let the bodies pile high" than impose a second lockdown. "I heard that in the prime minister's study," he told the committee. Cummings said there had been no data system to deal with COVID, no way to understand its spread and "not even a plan to bury all the bodies". Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were having to work fast, under pressure, in the face of a huge crisis. "I take full responsibility for everything that has happened," Johnson told lawmakers on Wednesday. "As I've said before ... I am truly sorry for the suffering that the people of this country have experienced." He has pointed to Britain's rapid vaccination programme as a success that will allow the economy to rebound before its peers.

UK PM's ineptitude led to tens of thousands of Covid deaths, says ex-aide

Prevention is better than cure -- but when it comes to Covid, what happens when people can't get the vaccine, don't want it, or they're immune suppressed and it fails to stop infection?

The hunt is on for a coronavirus treatment that can be taken as a pill soon after a confirmed positive, halting the disease in its tracks so that cases that might have been severe end up being nothing more than a bad cold.

Several companies are working on so-called oral antivirals, which would mimic what the drug Tamiflu does for influenza.

"It's great that we have vaccine rollout that has been significant, but it certainly will not be taken by everybody in our population, and not everybody who takes the vaccine will have a full response to it," David Hirschwerk, an infectious diseases physician at Northwell Health in New York told AFP.

An easily storable and transportable pill would also offer practical advantages over existing treatments such as monoclonal antibodies, which are mainly injected by drips at hospital infusion centers.

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Promising results

One of the frontrunners in these efforts is a twice-a-day drug called Molnupiravir, which is being developed by Merck in partnership with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics.

Early results from a Phase 2 trial showed that, among dozens of volunteers who tested positive at the start, none of those who received the drug had any detectable virus by day five; while a quarter of those who received a placebo did.

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The numbers are promising but too small to draw firm conclusions from, and the company is now enrolling for a Phase 3 trial involving 1,850 people with results expected by fall.

"Viruses are basically little machines and they need certain components to replicate themselves," Merck's chief scientific officer Daria Hazuda told AFP. Antivirals are designed to interfere with that process.

Molnupiravir belongs to a class of antiviral called "polymerase inhibitors," which work by targeting an enzyme that viruses need to copy their genetic material, and introducing mutations that leave them unable to replicate.

Because antibodies target a surface protein of the coronavirus that is continually evolving, antivirals are expected to be more variant-proof.

Early use

Currently, there's just one antiviral approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat Covid, which is Remdesivir by Gilead Sciences.

Like Molnupiravir, it is a polymerase inhibitor, though their precise actions differ.

Remdesivir's biggest disadvantage is that it was developed as an intravenous drug and targeted at hospitalized Covid patients, among whom it was shown to modestly reduce recovery time.

But by the time Covid has progressed to severe, much of the harm to patients' health comes from their own immune systems going into overdrive and damaging their organs, rather than viral replication.&nbsp;

That's why the focus now is on oral formulations that can be taken within days of infection, and apart from Merck, there are a few other notable entrants.

Roche and Atea have begun a 1,400 patient trial to study their own oral polymerase inhibitor, AT-527.

"This drug has so far been shown to be very potent in vitro," Jean-Pierre Sommadossi, founder and CEO of Atea told AFP.

"I think that after the pandemic, you're going to have a phase which is going to be endemic," he predicted, with the company hoping to file for authorization by the end of the year and launch the drug by 2022.

Curing the cold?

Pfizer, which has developed one of pandemic's foremost vaccines, is also attracting significant attention for its oral drug PF-07321332, which has begun Phase 1 human trials in healthy patients.

Its timeline is a little behind the others, because the medicine, which belongs to a class called "protease inhibitors," was designed specifically against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with work beginning in March 2020.

Protease enzymes act as molecular scissors that cut long protein chains into smaller pieces, that are then re-assembled as part of viral replication.

"Our investigational orally-administered protease inhibitor was designed to 'fit into' the protease (ie stick into the scissors) and 'block it' (i.e. keep the scissors from working)," Charlotte Allerton, head of medicine design for Pfizer, told AFP.

The company is hoping to expand to late stage studies by the middle of this year, she added.

All the drugmakers also plan to study their medicines for preventative use among close contacts of infected people.

The antivirals under development have demonstrated effectiveness in lab studies against other types of coronaviruses -- some of which cause serious diseases like SARS and MERs, while others cause the cold.

"If it is proven to be very safe and proven to be effective, then it can be used broadly, irrespective of the diagnosis, to treat and prevent multiple respiratory infections," said Hazuda of Merck's product.

Prevention is better than cure -- but when it comes to Covid, what happens when people can't get the vaccine, don't want it, or they're immune suppressed and it fails to stop infection?

Prevention is better than cure -- but when it comes to Covid, what happens when people can't get the vaccine, don't want it, or they're immune suppressed and it fails to stop infection? The hunt is on for a coronavirus treatment that can be taken as a pill soon after a confirmed positive, halting the disease in its tracks so that cases that might have been severe end up being nothing more than a bad cold. Several companies are working on so-called oral antivirals, which would mimic what the drug Tamiflu does for influenza. "It's great that we have vaccine rollout that has been significant, but it certainly will not be taken by everybody in our population, and not everybody who takes the vaccine will have a full response to it," David Hirschwerk, an infectious diseases physician at Northwell Health in New York told AFP. An easily storable and transportable pill would also offer practical advantages over existing treatments such as monoclonal antibodies, which are mainly injected by drips at hospital infusion centers. Also read | Vaccines can be redesigned to avoid blood clots, German scientists claim Promising results One of the frontrunners in these efforts is a twice-a-day drug called Molnupiravir, which is being developed by Merck in partnership with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics. Early results from a Phase 2 trial showed that, among dozens of volunteers who tested positive at the start, none of those who received the drug had any detectable virus by day five; while a quarter of those who received a placebo did. Also read | 'Pioneering operation': Morocco to start vaccinating prisoners against Covid The numbers are promising but too small to draw firm conclusions from, and the company is now enrolling for a Phase 3 trial involving 1,850 people with results expected by fall. "Viruses are basically little machines and they need certain components to replicate themselves," Merck's chief scientific officer Daria Hazuda told AFP. Antivirals are designed to interfere with that process. Molnupiravir belongs to a class of antiviral called "polymerase inhibitors," which work by targeting an enzyme that viruses need to copy their genetic material, and introducing mutations that leave them unable to replicate. Because antibodies target a surface protein of the coronavirus that is continually evolving, antivirals are expected to be more variant-proof. Early use Currently, there's just one antiviral approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat Covid, which is Remdesivir by Gilead Sciences. Like Molnupiravir, it is a polymerase inhibitor, though their precise actions differ. Remdesivir's biggest disadvantage is that it was developed as an intravenous drug and targeted at hospitalized Covid patients, among whom it was shown to modestly reduce recovery time. But by the time Covid has progressed to severe, much of the harm to patients' health comes from their own immune systems going into overdrive and damaging their organs, rather than viral replication. That's why the focus now is on oral formulations that can be taken within days of infection, and apart from Merck, there are a few other notable entrants. Roche and Atea have begun a 1,400 patient trial to study their own oral polymerase inhibitor, AT-527. "This drug has so far been shown to be very potent in vitro," Jean-Pierre Sommadossi, founder and CEO of Atea told AFP. "I think that after the pandemic, you're going to have a phase which is going to be endemic," he predicted, with the company hoping to file for authorization by the end of the year and launch the drug by 2022. Curing the cold? Pfizer, which has developed one of pandemic's foremost vaccines, is also attracting significant attention for its oral drug PF-07321332, which has begun Phase 1 human trials in healthy patients. Its timeline is a little behind the others, because the medicine, which belongs to a class called "protease inhibitors," was designed specifically against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with work beginning in March 2020. Protease enzymes act as molecular scissors that cut long protein chains into smaller pieces, that are then re-assembled as part of viral replication. "Our investigational orally-administered protease inhibitor was designed to 'fit into' the protease (ie stick into the scissors) and 'block it' (i.e. keep the scissors from working)," Charlotte Allerton, head of medicine design for Pfizer, told AFP. The company is hoping to expand to late stage studies by the middle of this year, she added. All the drugmakers also plan to study their medicines for preventative use among close contacts of infected people. The antivirals under development have demonstrated effectiveness in lab studies against other types of coronaviruses -- some of which cause serious diseases like SARS and MERs, while others cause the cold. "If it is proven to be very safe and proven to be effective, then it can be used broadly, irrespective of the diagnosis, to treat and prevent multiple respiratory infections," said Hazuda of Merck's product.

Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades.&nbsp;

With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth worst official Covid toll, and Johnson was slow to appreciate the significance of the threat from the virus in early 2020 as it spread from China towards Britain's shores.&nbsp;

Dominic Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, will be quizzed by British lawmakers from 0830 GMT on the lessons that can be learned from the pandemic.&nbsp;

Cummings, who left the government late last year, has said the British health ministry was a 'smoking ruin', that Western governments failed during the crisis, and that the secretive British state was woefully unprepared for the pandemic.&nbsp;

"The Covid plan was supposed to be 'world class' but turned out to be part disaster, part non-existent," Cummings said on May 18 in one of dozens of tweets forming a critique of Britain's response.&nbsp;

"If we'd had the right preparations + competent people in charge, we would probably have avoided lockdown1, *definitely* no need for lockdowns 2&amp;3," he said.&nbsp;

Cummings, played by Benedict Cumberbatch in the film 'Brexit: The Uncivil War', casts the British state as an outdated system run by incompetent amateurs, who are resistant to any innovation that would bring them closer to the modern world.&nbsp;

British officials, he said, failed to learn the early Covid lessons from Asia, were resistant to new ideas from young scientists, overly secretive, overly bureaucratic and lacked any real scrutiny from a compliant domestic media.&nbsp;

Asked about Cummings' criticism, Johnson's spokesman said. "At all times, we have been guided by the data and the latest evidence we had."&nbsp;

In a series of investigations, it was reported how the British government made several errors: it was slow to spot the infections arriving, it was late with a lockdown and it continued to discharge infected hospital patients into care homes.&nbsp;

The government's chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, said in March 2020 that 20,000 deaths would be a good outcome. Soon after, a worst-case scenario prepared by government scientific advisers put the possible death toll at 50,000. The toll is now close to 128,000.&nbsp;

Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were working at pace in the biggest public health crisis in a century.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former chief adviser will on Wednesday cast his former boss as a dithering leader surrounded by fools whose ineptitude led to a 'disastrous' response to the most devastating global pandemic in decades. With almost 128,000 deaths, the United Kingdom has the world's fifth worst official Covid toll, and Johnson was slow to appreciate the significance of the threat from the virus in early 2020 as it spread from China towards Britain's shores. Dominic Cummings, the strategist behind the 2016 Brexit campaign and Johnson's landslide election win in 2019, will be quizzed by British lawmakers from 0830 GMT on the lessons that can be learned from the pandemic. Cummings, who left the government late last year, has said the British health ministry was a 'smoking ruin', that Western governments failed during the crisis, and that the secretive British state was woefully unprepared for the pandemic. "The Covid plan was supposed to be 'world class' but turned out to be part disaster, part non-existent," Cummings said on May 18 in one of dozens of tweets forming a critique of Britain's response. "If we'd had the right preparations + competent people in charge, we would probably have avoided lockdown1, *definitely* no need for lockdowns 2&3," he said. Cummings, played by Benedict Cumberbatch in the film 'Brexit: The Uncivil War', casts the British state as an outdated system run by incompetent amateurs, who are resistant to any innovation that would bring them closer to the modern world. British officials, he said, failed to learn the early Covid lessons from Asia, were resistant to new ideas from young scientists, overly secretive, overly bureaucratic and lacked any real scrutiny from a compliant domestic media. Asked about Cummings' criticism, Johnson's spokesman said. "At all times, we have been guided by the data and the latest evidence we had." In a series of investigations, it was reported how the British government made several errors: it was slow to spot the infections arriving, it was late with a lockdown and it continued to discharge infected hospital patients into care homes. The government's chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, said in March 2020 that 20,000 deaths would be a good outcome. Soon after, a worst-case scenario prepared by government scientific advisers put the possible death toll at 50,000. The toll is now close to 128,000. Johnson has admitted that mistakes were made and that lessons need to be learned, but his ministers say they were working at pace in the biggest public health crisis in a century. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Covid 'disaster' to be laid bare by PM Johnson's ex-chief adviser Dominic Cummings

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-agency-hires-influencers-to-spread-fake-news-about-pfizer-vaccine-387419" hreflang="en">Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine</a>

A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said.

This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376">WATCH |</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million&nbsp;mark on August 7, three&nbsp;million on August 23, four&nbsp;million on September 5 and five&nbsp;million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4.

The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data.

A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data. The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also read | Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said. This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours. WATCH | The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million mark on August 7, three million on August 23, four million on September 5 and five million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4. The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data. A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India reports 208,921 COVID-19 infections; positivity rate stays below 10%

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-agency-hires-influencers-to-spread-fake-news-about-pfizer-vaccine-387419" hreflang="en">Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine</a>

A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said.

This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million&nbsp;mark on August 7, three&nbsp;million on August 23, four&nbsp;million on September 5 and five&nbsp;million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4.

The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data.

A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

Canada has been increasingly urging citizens to get <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> against the deadly coronavirus that has sent the country into repeated lockdowns. However, a Canadian soldier decided to go against the government.

Ladislas Kenderesi, a Canadian officer cadet, will be facing rare mutiny charges for allegedly urging his fellow soldiers to not help the Canadian government in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-agency-hires-influencers-to-spread-fake-news-about-pfizer-vaccine-387419" hreflang="en">Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine</a>

The Department of National Defence has charged him with “endeavoring to persuade another person to join in a mutiny” and “behaving in a scandalous manner unbecoming of an officer”.

Kenderesi had appeared in an anti-lockdown rally in Toronto in his military uniform and urged people to not get tempted by the “killer” vaccines. He also asked his fellow mates to directly disobey orders of distributing vaccines in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-says-covid-vaccine-highly-effective-among-adolescents-aged-12-and-above-387313" hreflang="en">Moderna says Covid vaccine 'highly effective' among adolescents aged 12 and above</a>

“I’m asking the military, right now serving, truck drivers, medical, engineers, whatever you are, do not take this unlawful order in distribution of this vaccine,” he was heard preaching at the rally. “I might get in a lot of shit for doing this. But I don’t care any more.”

He was relieved of his duties on May 12, as soon as the officials got a hint about his appearance at the anti-lockdown rally.

If proven guilty, Kenderesi might face life imprisonment or five years behind the bars. Charges of mutiny are very rare in Canada as nobody has been charged for the past few decades.

Meanwhile, supporters of Kenderesi have started a crowdfunding campaign to raise the legal fees for him, although a court martial date is still pending for the officer.

Canada has been increasingly urging citizens to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus that has sent the country into repeated lockdowns. However, a Canadian soldier decided to go against the government.

Canada has been increasingly urging citizens to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus that has sent the country into repeated lockdowns. However, a Canadian soldier decided to go against the government. Ladislas Kenderesi, a Canadian officer cadet, will be facing rare mutiny charges for allegedly urging his fellow soldiers to not help the Canadian government in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Also read | Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine The Department of National Defence has charged him with “endeavoring to persuade another person to join in a mutiny” and “behaving in a scandalous manner unbecoming of an officer”. Kenderesi had appeared in an anti-lockdown rally in Toronto in his military uniform and urged people to not get tempted by the “killer” vaccines. He also asked his fellow mates to directly disobey orders of distributing vaccines in the country. Also read | Moderna says Covid vaccine 'highly effective' among adolescents aged 12 and above “I’m asking the military, right now serving, truck drivers, medical, engineers, whatever you are, do not take this unlawful order in distribution of this vaccine,” he was heard preaching at the rally. “I might get in a lot of shit for doing this. But I don’t care any more.” He was relieved of his duties on May 12, as soon as the officials got a hint about his appearance at the anti-lockdown rally. If proven guilty, Kenderesi might face life imprisonment or five years behind the bars. Charges of mutiny are very rare in Canada as nobody has been charged for the past few decades. Meanwhile, supporters of Kenderesi have started a crowdfunding campaign to raise the legal fees for him, although a court martial date is still pending for the officer.

Canadian soldier charged with mutiny for blocking vaccine distribution

The Indian multinational pharmaceutical company Cipla’s real-time COVID-19 testing kit, ‘ViraGen’ which was launched last week, will be available in the market from today, the company said.

ViraGen is a real-time detection kit approved by the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and is based on multiplex PCR technology. It helps to identify and detect SARS CoV-2 N Gene and ORF Lab Gene with a sensitivity of 98.6% and a specificity of 98.8% as compared to a standard ICMR test.

This test is designed for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in the upper and lower respiratory specimens from individuals suspected of COVID-19.

ViraGen used for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 is being manufactured by Ubio Biotechnology Systems and marketed and distributed by Cipla through its expansive distribution network across the country. In the current circumstances, COVID-19 RT PCR testing is extensively used throughout the country as governments, communities, and organisations are working tirelessly to track and curb the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

Cipla told news agency PTI, “This launch will help address the current testing services and capacity issues while reaffirming the company’s ongoing expansion in the diagnostic space.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian multinational pharmaceutical company Cipla’s real-time COVID-19 testing kit, ‘ViraGen’ which was launched last week, will be available in the market from today, the company said.

The Indian multinational pharmaceutical company Cipla’s real-time COVID-19 testing kit, ‘ViraGen’ which was launched last week, will be available in the market from today, the company said. ViraGen is a real-time detection kit approved by the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and is based on multiplex PCR technology. It helps to identify and detect SARS CoV-2 N Gene and ORF Lab Gene with a sensitivity of 98.6% and a specificity of 98.8% as compared to a standard ICMR test. This test is designed for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in the upper and lower respiratory specimens from individuals suspected of COVID-19. ViraGen used for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 is being manufactured by Ubio Biotechnology Systems and marketed and distributed by Cipla through its expansive distribution network across the country. In the current circumstances, COVID-19 RT PCR testing is extensively used throughout the country as governments, communities, and organisations are working tirelessly to track and curb the spread of the virus. Cipla told news agency PTI, “This launch will help address the current testing services and capacity issues while reaffirming the company’s ongoing expansion in the diagnostic space.” (With inputs from agencies)

Cipla's real-time COVID-19 testing kit 'ViraGen' to be sold from today

Japanese tycoon Masayoshi Son warned of significant dangers around holding the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;in Tokyo, where the government on Monday kicked off a mass vaccination drive to catch up with other countries and ensure a "safe and secure" Games.

In a series of tweets, the influential SoftBank Group CEO expressed bewilderment and concern about the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics, calling Japan a "vaccine laggard" and saying the slow inoculation drive less than two months before the start of the Games could put people's lives at risk.

"Currently more than 80% of people want the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;to be postponed or canceled. Who and on what authority is it being forced through?" the billionaire executive wrote in a Twitter post in Japanese over the weekend.

In a follow-up tweet late on Sunday, Son wrote: "Does the IOC (International Olympic Committee) have the power to decide that the Games would go ahead?

"There's talk about a huge penalty (if the Games are canceled). But if 100,000 people from 200 countries descend on vaccine-laggard Japan and the mutant variant spreads, lives could be lost, subsidies could result if a state of emergency is called, and the gross domestic product could fall. If we consider what the public has to endure, I think we could have a lot more to lose."

Son's tweets followed comments on Friday https://www.reuters.com/article/olympics-2020-idCNL2N2N80BL from IOC Vice President John Coates that the games would "absolutely" go ahead even if Tokyo was under COVID-19 restrictions.

Earlier this month, Son said in a TV interview he was "afraid" of having the&nbsp;Olympics, partly due to the severity of the pandemic in some countries.

Japan remains under state-of-emergency curbs https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-approve-more-covid-19-vaccines-state-emergency-set-widen-2021-05-21 that have progressively been expanded as the fourth wave of infections rips through the population.

That contrasts with some other major economies that are beginning to ease lockdown measures as vaccinations race ahead. The Games begin on July 23.

Japan has delivered vaccinations to just 4.4% of its population, the slowest among the world's larger, rich countries, and has recorded 711,360 infections and 12,232 COVID-19 deaths from the virus.

The military began mass vaccinations in Tokyo and Osaka on Monday with the newly approved Moderna Inc dose. The medical system in the western city of Osaka is particularly feeling the pressure of surging infections.

The government has vowed to finish vaccinating all eligible elderly who wish to be inoculated by the end of July.

Japan's slow vaccination progress has kept the majority of the public opposed to holding the Games this year. A Reuters corporate survey found nearly 70% of Japanese firms also want the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;either canceled or postponed.

While opinion polls show strong opposition to the Games, public protests have been limited.

On Sunday, a group of fewer than 20 gathered in Tokyo's Shinjuku district, calling on the government to cancel the Games, holding placards like "No&nbsp;Olympics".

Meanwhile, aspiring Olympians continue to succumb to the virus that has killed more than three million worldwide.

A team of Australian skateboarders was disqualified from a qualifying event in the United States after three positive COVID-19 tests in their group.

IOC President Thomas Bach on the weekend added his voice to those insisting the Games proceed.

"The athletes definitely can make their Olympic dreams come true," Bach said in comments to the International Hockey Federation on Saturday, Indian media reported.

"We have to make some sacrifices to make this possible," he added.

Japanese tycoon Masayoshi Son warned of significant dangers around holding the Olympics in Tokyo, where the government on Monday kicked off a mass vaccination drive to catch up with other countries and ensure a "safe and secure" Games.

Japanese tycoon Masayoshi Son warned of significant dangers around holding the Olympics in Tokyo, where the government on Monday kicked off a mass vaccination drive to catch up with other countries and ensure a "safe and secure" Games. In a series of tweets, the influential SoftBank Group CEO expressed bewilderment and concern about the Tokyo Olympics, calling Japan a "vaccine laggard" and saying the slow inoculation drive less than two months before the start of the Games could put people's lives at risk. "Currently more than 80% of people want the Olympics to be postponed or canceled. Who and on what authority is it being forced through?" the billionaire executive wrote in a Twitter post in Japanese over the weekend. In a follow-up tweet late on Sunday, Son wrote: "Does the IOC (International Olympic Committee) have the power to decide that the Games would go ahead? "There's talk about a huge penalty (if the Games are canceled). But if 100,000 people from 200 countries descend on vaccine-laggard Japan and the mutant variant spreads, lives could be lost, subsidies could result if a state of emergency is called, and the gross domestic product could fall. If we consider what the public has to endure, I think we could have a lot more to lose." Son's tweets followed comments on Friday https://www.reuters.com/article/olympics-2020-idCNL2N2N80BL from IOC Vice President John Coates that the games would "absolutely" go ahead even if Tokyo was under COVID-19 restrictions. Earlier this month, Son said in a TV interview he was "afraid" of having the Olympics, partly due to the severity of the pandemic in some countries. Japan remains under state-of-emergency curbs https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-approve-more-covid-19-vaccines-state-emergency-set-widen-2021-05-21 that have progressively been expanded as the fourth wave of infections rips through the population. That contrasts with some other major economies that are beginning to ease lockdown measures as vaccinations race ahead. The Games begin on July 23. Japan has delivered vaccinations to just 4.4% of its population, the slowest among the world's larger, rich countries, and has recorded 711,360 infections and 12,232 COVID-19 deaths from the virus. The military began mass vaccinations in Tokyo and Osaka on Monday with the newly approved Moderna Inc dose. The medical system in the western city of Osaka is particularly feeling the pressure of surging infections. The government has vowed to finish vaccinating all eligible elderly who wish to be inoculated by the end of July. Japan's slow vaccination progress has kept the majority of the public opposed to holding the Games this year. A Reuters corporate survey found nearly 70% of Japanese firms also want the Olympics either canceled or postponed. While opinion polls show strong opposition to the Games, public protests have been limited. On Sunday, a group of fewer than 20 gathered in Tokyo's Shinjuku district, calling on the government to cancel the Games, holding placards like "No Olympics". Meanwhile, aspiring Olympians continue to succumb to the virus that has killed more than three million worldwide. A team of Australian skateboarders was disqualified from a qualifying event in the United States after three positive COVID-19 tests in their group. IOC President Thomas Bach on the weekend added his voice to those insisting the Games proceed. "The athletes definitely can make their Olympic dreams come true," Bach said in comments to the International Hockey Federation on Saturday, Indian media reported. "We have to make some sacrifices to make this possible," he added.

Olympics: SoftBank CEO slams Games as Japan races to catch up on vaccinations

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hasan has vowed to strengthen the bio-bubble after a COVID-19 alarm in the&nbsp;Bangladesh-Sri Lanka series.&nbsp;

Billows of vulnerability drifted over the arrangement after Sri Lankan players Isuru Udana and Shiran Fernando, bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and two of Bangladesh's calculated staff tested positive for Covid. However, Vaas and Udana went on to test negative.

In any case, BCB stays sure of the series will go on as scheduled. The initial ODI match went on after players other than Fernando tried negative after a test on Saturday.

“It can happen at times someone getting positive, but there is a protocol in place what we need to do and how many times we need to do the test to make sure that he is negative," said&nbsp;Nazmul Hasan as quoted by Cricbuzz.

“We are following the protocol, and we feel nothing serious happened that we need to panic. But definitely, we will increase our vigilance. Fernando recovered from COVID very recently, the PCR may have detected the dead RNA from the virus, many individuals have it on them up to 28 days,"&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

Repeating the assumptions of Bangladesh opposition, Sri Lanka's group chief Manuja Kariyapperuma communicated his satisfaction with the game plans made by BCB. The report cited him as saying:

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-big-shoes-to-fill-tom-blundell-on-taking-over-as-new-zealand-wicket-keeper-after-wtc-final-387011" hreflang="en">ricket: 'Big shoes to fill' - Tom Blundell on taking over as New Zealand wicket-keeper after WTC final</a>

“Yes, we had two players, and one support staff member that tested positive, but two of them were declared negative after the second test, so these things happen. There is a thing you know, false-positive reports, and I think it might have been that. The facilities offered to us are good, that is more than adequate, and we made use of the facilities that were afforded to us and looking forward to a very good series”.

There has been a great deal of talk worldwide about the players' psychological wellness due to the bio-bubble. Nazmul Hasan likewise recognized something very similar and expressed it was the same for their national team because of consistent cricket.&nbsp;

“I don’t know about the others, but it’s very difficult for us. There are two reasons, as each country has its own culture. About us, we are used to working closely with the players. The second thing is the way the players need to practice before going on a tour, this is not prepared at all" - he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-assessing-conditions-will-be-key-to-batting-in-england-shubman-gill-387002" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Assessing conditions will be key to batting in England': Shubman Gill</a>

“If we consider each match, we went to New Zealand, followed by playing Test matches at home, and played ODIs and T20Is in New Zealand. Then on coming back, completing the quarantine process, we went to Sri Lanka to play Test matches, and now we are taking on Sri Lanka" - he added.

Bangladesh won the initial ODI against Sri Lanka in Dhaka by 33 runs. The second of the three-ODI arrangement will be played on Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hasan has vowed to strengthen the bio-bubble after a COVID-19 alarm in the Bangladesh-Sri Lanka series. Billows of vulnerability drifted over the arrangement after Sri Lankan players Isuru Udana and Shiran Fernando, bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and two of Bangladesh's calculated staff tested positive for Covid.

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hasan has vowed to strengthen the bio-bubble after a COVID-19 alarm in the Bangladesh-Sri Lanka series. Billows of vulnerability drifted over the arrangement after Sri Lankan players Isuru Udana and Shiran Fernando, bowling coach Chaminda Vaas and two of Bangladesh's calculated staff tested positive for Covid. However, Vaas and Udana went on to test negative. In any case, BCB stays sure of the series will go on as scheduled. The initial ODI match went on after players other than Fernando tried negative after a test on Saturday. “It can happen at times someone getting positive, but there is a protocol in place what we need to do and how many times we need to do the test to make sure that he is negative," said Nazmul Hasan as quoted by Cricbuzz. “We are following the protocol, and we feel nothing serious happened that we need to panic. But definitely, we will increase our vigilance. Fernando recovered from COVID very recently, the PCR may have detected the dead RNA from the virus, many individuals have it on them up to 28 days," he said. Repeating the assumptions of Bangladesh opposition, Sri Lanka's group chief Manuja Kariyapperuma communicated his satisfaction with the game plans made by BCB. The report cited him as saying: ALSO READ: ricket: 'Big shoes to fill' - Tom Blundell on taking over as New Zealand wicket-keeper after WTC final “Yes, we had two players, and one support staff member that tested positive, but two of them were declared negative after the second test, so these things happen. There is a thing you know, false-positive reports, and I think it might have been that. The facilities offered to us are good, that is more than adequate, and we made use of the facilities that were afforded to us and looking forward to a very good series”. There has been a great deal of talk worldwide about the players' psychological wellness due to the bio-bubble. Nazmul Hasan likewise recognized something very similar and expressed it was the same for their national team because of consistent cricket. “I don’t know about the others, but it’s very difficult for us. There are two reasons, as each country has its own culture. About us, we are used to working closely with the players. The second thing is the way the players need to practice before going on a tour, this is not prepared at all" - he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Assessing conditions will be key to batting in England': Shubman Gill “If we consider each match, we went to New Zealand, followed by playing Test matches at home, and played ODIs and T20Is in New Zealand. Then on coming back, completing the quarantine process, we went to Sri Lanka to play Test matches, and now we are taking on Sri Lanka" - he added. Bangladesh won the initial ODI against Sri Lanka in Dhaka by 33 runs. The second of the three-ODI arrangement will be played on Tuesday.

Cricket: Bangladesh promise to increase bio-bubble vigilance after COVID-19 scare

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro has been fined for not adhering to the coronavirus regulations imposed by the health officials of the country.

The fine came as the President participated in a mega motorcade rally along Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro.
<img alt="Bolsonaro" data-align="center" data-caption="Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro (C) greets his supporters as he gives a speech in front of the World War II Brazilian Veterans monument, after leading a motorcade rally in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on May 23, 2021.&amp;nbsp;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="beeb6fde-c4dd-4eb1-ac61-e3fb3aaee451" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bolsonaro%20%281%29.jpg" />
Bolsonaro was spotted participating in the motorcade dressed in a black jacket and helmet. However, face mask and social distancing were missing from the rally.

His rally came as the country has been under strict orders of not hosting gatherings of more than 100 people and face masks are a compulsion for everyone stepping outside.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bolsonaro-leads-motorcade-rally-in-rio-de-janeiro-amid-coronavirus-surge-386938">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bolsonaro-leads-motorcade-rally-in-rio-de-janeiro-amid-coronavirus-surge-386938/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The case has been filed against the country’s President “for the promotion in Maranhao of gatherings with no sanitary safeguards. The law applies to everyone,” Flavio Dino, governor and member of Communist Party of Brazil said, describing Bolsonaro as a “chubby dictator”.

Bolsonaro has been given a period of 15 days to respond to appeal, following which a fine amount will be decided by the court.

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro has been fined for not adhering to the coronavirus regulations imposed by the health officials of the country. The fine came as the President participated in a mega motorcade rally along Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro has been fined for not adhering to the coronavirus regulations imposed by the health officials of the country. The fine came as the President participated in a mega motorcade rally along Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. Bolsonaro was spotted participating in the motorcade dressed in a black jacket and helmet. However, face mask and social distancing were missing from the rally. His rally came as the country has been under strict orders of not hosting gatherings of more than 100 people and face masks are a compulsion for everyone stepping outside. Watch | The case has been filed against the country’s President “for the promotion in Maranhao of gatherings with no sanitary safeguards. The law applies to everyone,” Flavio Dino, governor and member of Communist Party of Brazil said, describing Bolsonaro as a “chubby dictator”. Bolsonaro has been given a period of 15 days to respond to appeal, following which a fine amount will be decided by the court.

'Chubby dictator': Bolsonaro fined for flouting covid restrictions

Taiwan's abrupt decision to add 400 new domestic Covid-19 cases has prompted catcalls from opposition politicians and jokes online about fishy statistics, putting the government on the back foot to explain where the number came from.&nbsp;

Taiwan is dealing with a spike in cases after months of keeping the pandemic well under control, with restrictions in place across the island to limit gatherings.&nbsp;

Health Minister Chen Shih-chung announced 721 new domestic infections on Saturday, including 400 infections over the past six days whose positive tests had not been included in previous reports due to a delay following a spike in cases.&nbsp;

Chen said the 'regression calibration' was needed to more accurately reflect the state of infections, while the trend was stable.&nbsp;

But the move went down poorly with Taiwan's opposition parties, who said Chen was inventing words and spreading fear.&nbsp;

"Today, the command centre created a new expression, ‘regression calibration’, adding 400 new infections," Johnny Chiang, chairman of the main opposition party the Kuomintang, wrote on his Facebook page late on Saturday.&nbsp;

"This information has terrified everyone, as the daily numbers being received were inaccurate."&nbsp;

The small Taiwan People’s Party, led by Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je, called on the government not to engage in ‘cognitive warfare’, riffing off accusations Taiwan has levelled at China about spreading propaganda and misinformation.&nbsp;

Ko said the rise in tests and infections was causing delays in reporting numbers to the central government for collation, but added the reporting system needed improving, rather than ‘creating new expressions’.&nbsp;

The government has strenuously denied a cover-up, saying it is working to improve the reporting and testing system.&nbsp;

"From the central to the local level, no one wants to conceal the pandemic, and no medical staff would conceal the number of confirmed diagnoses," Premier Su Tseng-chang wrote on his Facebook page.&nbsp;

Still, the term ‘regression calibration’ has caused some amusement online, and black humour.&nbsp;

In one joke, a woman asks her boyfriend how many girlfriends he has had before, to which he replies "just you".&nbsp;

"After getting married, with regression calibration I'd had about 50."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taiwan's abrupt decision to add 400 new domestic Covid-19 cases has prompted catcalls from opposition politicians and jokes online about fishy statistics, putting the government on the back foot to explain where the number came from.

Taiwan's abrupt decision to add 400 new domestic Covid-19 cases has prompted catcalls from opposition politicians and jokes online about fishy statistics, putting the government on the back foot to explain where the number came from. Taiwan is dealing with a spike in cases after months of keeping the pandemic well under control, with restrictions in place across the island to limit gatherings. Health Minister Chen Shih-chung announced 721 new domestic infections on Saturday, including 400 infections over the past six days whose positive tests had not been included in previous reports due to a delay following a spike in cases. Chen said the 'regression calibration' was needed to more accurately reflect the state of infections, while the trend was stable. But the move went down poorly with Taiwan's opposition parties, who said Chen was inventing words and spreading fear. "Today, the command centre created a new expression, ‘regression calibration’, adding 400 new infections," Johnny Chiang, chairman of the main opposition party the Kuomintang, wrote on his Facebook page late on Saturday. "This information has terrified everyone, as the daily numbers being received were inaccurate." The small Taiwan People’s Party, led by Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je, called on the government not to engage in ‘cognitive warfare’, riffing off accusations Taiwan has levelled at China about spreading propaganda and misinformation. Ko said the rise in tests and infections was causing delays in reporting numbers to the central government for collation, but added the reporting system needed improving, rather than ‘creating new expressions’. The government has strenuously denied a cover-up, saying it is working to improve the reporting and testing system. "From the central to the local level, no one wants to conceal the pandemic, and no medical staff would conceal the number of confirmed diagnoses," Premier Su Tseng-chang wrote on his Facebook page. Still, the term ‘regression calibration’ has caused some amusement online, and black humour. In one joke, a woman asks her boyfriend how many girlfriends he has had before, to which he replies "just you". "After getting married, with regression calibration I'd had about 50." (With inputs from agencies)

Catcalls and jokes after Taiwan's Covid 'regression calibration' 

As Taiwan is struggling to control the rising number of coronavirus infections in the country, the health minister has assured locals that the government will find a solution to the testing issue.

The country’s healthcare system is struggling to test people for infection and the overflow of covid tests has led to a massive delay in the reports, which the officials are referring to as a "traffic jam".

However, the health department has assured that the government is already working on clearing the backlog and finding solutions to make sure such a situation does not take place again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-imf-pitches-50bn-plan-to-end-coronavirus-386814">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-imf-pitches-50bn-plan-to-end-coronavirus-386814/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I believe that we will quickly be able to resolve this systemic issue," Health Minister Chen Shih-chung said.

He also announced 570 positive cases which has not been included in the previous reports due to the same “traffic jam”.

However, the government is being criticised for not being able to report the right figures of positive cases.

"Today the command centre created a new expression, 'regression calibration', adding 400 new infections," Johnny Chiang, chairman of the main opposition party the Kuomintang said. "This information has terrified everyone, as the daily numbers being received were inaccurate."

This term has also brought amusement for locals in form of jokes and memes. While some are poking fun at the term, others are skeptical of the government’s capacity to handle the worsening situation.

As Taiwan is struggling to control the rising number of coronavirus infections in the country, the health minister has assured locals that the government will find a solution to the testing issue.

As Taiwan is struggling to control the rising number of coronavirus infections in the country, the health minister has assured locals that the government will find a solution to the testing issue. The country’s healthcare system is struggling to test people for infection and the overflow of covid tests has led to a massive delay in the reports, which the officials are referring to as a "traffic jam". However, the health department has assured that the government is already working on clearing the backlog and finding solutions to make sure such a situation does not take place again. Watch | "I believe that we will quickly be able to resolve this systemic issue," Health Minister Chen Shih-chung said. He also announced 570 positive cases which has not been included in the previous reports due to the same “traffic jam”. However, the government is being criticised for not being able to report the right figures of positive cases. "Today the command centre created a new expression, 'regression calibration', adding 400 new infections," Johnny Chiang, chairman of the main opposition party the Kuomintang said. "This information has terrified everyone, as the daily numbers being received were inaccurate." This term has also brought amusement for locals in form of jokes and memes. While some are poking fun at the term, others are skeptical of the government’s capacity to handle the worsening situation.

Taiwan reassures on clearing covid 'traffic jam'

Dozens of countries have revised a proposal at the WTO for patent waivers for medical tools needed to combat Covid, insisting it must be broader than just vaccines, non-governmental organisations said Saturday.

More than 60 countries have presented a revision of their text before the World Trade Organization on ditching intellectual property protections for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> jabs and other medical tools while the pandemic rages, according to the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) charity and NGO Knowledge Ecology International (KEI).

KEI published what it said was the revised text, which pushed for the waiver to be broad and long-lasting.

The WTO did not immediately verify the authenticity of the document, but a Western diplomat close to the waiver discussions confirmed it was genuine and had been distributed to all WTO members.

That text said the waiver should cover all medical "prevention, treatment and containment" tools needed to battle Covid.

In addition to vaccines, it should include treatments, diagnostics, vaccines, medical devices and protective equipment, along with the material and components needed to produce them, it said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-patent-waiver-will-not-be-enough-to-bridge-supply-gap-wto-386296">COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver will not be enough to bridge supply gap: WTO</a>

It also said the waiver should last for "at least three years" from the date it takes effect, following which, the WTO's General Council should determine whether it could be lifted or should be prolonged.

'Frightening increase'

"We are pleased to see the governments sponsoring the COVID-19 intellectual property waiver proposal reaffirm that the waiver aims to remove monopoly barriers for all medical tools ... needed to tackle this pandemic," MSF South Asia chief Leena Manghaney said in a statement.

"With a frightening increase in infections and deaths in developing countries, and with potentially promising treatments in the pipeline, it is crucial that governments have every flexibility at their disposal to beat back this pandemic," she said.

The WTO has since October faced calls led by India and South Africa for the temporary removal of such IP protections, in what proponents argue will boost production in developing countries and address the dramatic inequity in access.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-big-pharma-is-trying-to-block-vaccine-patent-waivers-385902">How big pharma is trying to block vaccine patent waivers</a>

That notion has 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 appeared to shift earlier this month, when Washington came out in support of a global patent waiver for the jabs, with other long-time opponents voicing openness to discuss the matter.

The European Parliament voted narrowly this week to urge Brussels to get behind the proposal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eu-parliament-extends-support-to-india-south-africas-covid-vaccine-patent-waiver-386638">EU Parliament extends support to India, South Africa's Covid vaccine patent waiver</a>

Observers have however said the ambitions for the waiver appear to differ significantly among the longtime supporters and those now coming around to the idea, who have seemed to focus more narrowly on vaccines.

It remains unclear if countries will be able to see eye to eye, but with the pandemic that has killed over 3.4 million people still far from over, there is intense pressure on them to do so.

With the new revision on the table, MSF called for "governments to immediately move towards text-based negotiations," insisting there was no time to lose.

In light of the WTO's usual glacial pace in decision-making, with agreements requiring consensus backing by all 164 member states, a deal could meanwhile take time.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-backs-talks-on-intellectual-property-waiver-for-covid-19-vaccines-384946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to MSF, more than 100 countries overall now support the proposal, including China and Russia.

A full 62 countries are now official co-sponsors of the proposal, with Indonesia, Fiji, Vanuatu and Namibia having joined in recent weeks.

Dozens of countries have revised a proposal at the WTO for patent waivers for medical tools needed to combat Covid, insisting it must be broader than just vaccines, non-governmental organisations said Saturday.

Dozens of countries have revised a proposal at the WTO for patent waivers for medical tools needed to combat Covid, insisting it must be broader than just vaccines, non-governmental organisations said Saturday. More than 60 countries have presented a revision of their text before the World Trade Organization on ditching intellectual property protections for COVID-19 jabs and other medical tools while the pandemic rages, according to the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) charity and NGO Knowledge Ecology International (KEI). KEI published what it said was the revised text, which pushed for the waiver to be broad and long-lasting. The WTO did not immediately verify the authenticity of the document, but a Western diplomat close to the waiver discussions confirmed it was genuine and had been distributed to all WTO members. That text said the waiver should cover all medical "prevention, treatment and containment" tools needed to battle Covid. In addition to vaccines, it should include treatments, diagnostics, vaccines, medical devices and protective equipment, along with the material and components needed to produce them, it said. Also Read | COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver will not be enough to bridge supply gap: WTO It also said the waiver should last for "at least three years" from the date it takes effect, following which, the WTO's General Council should determine whether it could be lifted or should be prolonged. 'Frightening increase' "We are pleased to see the governments sponsoring the COVID-19 intellectual property waiver proposal reaffirm that the waiver aims to remove monopoly barriers for all medical tools ... needed to tackle this pandemic," MSF South Asia chief Leena Manghaney said in a statement. "With a frightening increase in infections and deaths in developing countries, and with potentially promising treatments in the pipeline, it is crucial that governments have every flexibility at their disposal to beat back this pandemic," she said. The WTO has since October faced calls led by India and South Africa for the temporary removal of such IP protections, in what proponents argue will boost production in developing countries and address the dramatic inequity in access. Also Read | How big pharma is trying to block vaccine patent waivers That notion has 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 appeared to shift earlier this month, when Washington came out in support of a global patent waiver for the jabs, with other long-time opponents voicing openness to discuss the matter. The European Parliament voted narrowly this week to urge Brussels to get behind the proposal. Also Read | EU Parliament extends support to India, South Africa's Covid vaccine patent waiver Observers have however said the ambitions for the waiver appear to differ significantly among the longtime supporters and those now coming around to the idea, who have seemed to focus more narrowly on vaccines. It remains unclear if countries will be able to see eye to eye, but with the pandemic that has killed over 3.4 million people still far from over, there is intense pressure on them to do so. With the new revision on the table, MSF called for "governments to immediately move towards text-based negotiations," insisting there was no time to lose. In light of the WTO's usual glacial pace in decision-making, with agreements requiring consensus backing by all 164 member states, a deal could meanwhile take time. According to MSF, more than 100 countries overall now support the proposal, including China and Russia. A full 62 countries are now official co-sponsors of the proposal, with Indonesia, Fiji, Vanuatu and Namibia having joined in recent weeks.

Countries urge broader patent waivers than just Covid vaccines

As the UK locals enjoy the unlocking of the economy, cases of a specific variant of coronavirus have doubled this week.

Experts have reported an increase of 3,424 cases of the B1.617.2 variant, also known as VOC-21APR-02, Public Health England reported.

Last week, the country had registered 1,313 cases and 520 the week before that. The rise in cases of this specific variant, which was first identified in India, has raised concerns in the UK.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-donald-trump-sued-for-referring-to-covid-19-as-china-virus-386663" hreflang="en">Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus'</a>

The experts in the UK are also inspecting a new mutation VUI-21MAY-01, which has infected nearly 50 people in the country, as of now.

"There is currently no evidence that this variant causes more severe disease or renders the vaccines currently deployed any less effective," a PHE statement read.

While the country reopened its bars, restaurants, shops, cafes and other entertainment venues, the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, said he is “anxious” and worried about the increase of cases of this variant.

Experts and the government have urged the locals to not let their guards down, as the residents have now also been given permission to hug.

"As we start to get back to normal life, it is very important that we do not become complacent," Health Security Agency Chief Executive Officer Jenny Harries said. "All of us need to remain responsible and vigilant."

As the UK locals enjoy the unlocking of the economy, cases of a specific variant of coronavirus have doubled this week. Experts have reported an increase of 3,424 cases of the B1.

As the UK locals enjoy the unlocking of the economy, cases of a specific variant of coronavirus have doubled this week. Experts have reported an increase of 3,424 cases of the B1.617.2 variant, also known as VOC-21APR-02, Public Health England reported. Last week, the country had registered 1,313 cases and 520 the week before that. The rise in cases of this specific variant, which was first identified in India, has raised concerns in the UK. Also read | Former US President Donald Trump sued for referring to COVID-19 as 'China virus' The experts in the UK are also inspecting a new mutation VUI-21MAY-01, which has infected nearly 50 people in the country, as of now. "There is currently no evidence that this variant causes more severe disease or renders the vaccines currently deployed any less effective," a PHE statement read. While the country reopened its bars, restaurants, shops, cafes and other entertainment venues, the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, said he is “anxious” and worried about the increase of cases of this variant. Experts and the government have urged the locals to not let their guards down, as the residents have now also been given permission to hug. "As we start to get back to normal life, it is very important that we do not become complacent," Health Security Agency Chief Executive Officer Jenny Harries said. "All of us need to remain responsible and vigilant."

UK reports alarming increase in cases of covid variant, first found in India

Cautioning people to maintain social distancing&nbsp;the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has released an advisory that coronavirus&nbsp;aerosoles can travel up to 10 metres.

Highlighting the importance of well-ventilated places, this advisory reiterates the importance of simple tools and practices that can help reduce the spread of SARS-COV-2 or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Coronavirus</a>.

<o:p>Also&nbsp;Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-highest-single-day-covid-deaths-in-the-world-385958">COVID-19: India records highest single-day Covid deaths in the world</a></o:p>

As the pandemic rages in India, we need to once again remember that simple tools and practices can reduce the spread of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">SARS-CoV-2</a> virus.

<o:p></o:p>

According to it, well-ventilated places can play a major role in diluting the viral load. Compared to a poorly ventilated house, a well-ventilated house can help decrease the risk of transmission from one person to other. Introducing outdoor air in offices, homes and larger public spaces is also advised.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Highlighting the role of aerosols in the spread of this virus, the advisory mentions that “Saliva and nasal discharge in the form of droplets and aerosols carry the virus from one person to another” and that when these aerosols can be carried in the air to great distances, even up to 10 meters far.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-health-ministry-issues-travel-advisory-bans-passengers-from-afghanistan-and-malaysia-287037">Coronavirus outbreak: Health ministry issues travel advisory, bans passengers from Afghanistan and Malaysia</a>

Just as smells can be diluted or watered down by ventilation, the dangerous concentration of the coronavirus can be reduced by ensuring that outdoor air flows in, a feat which can be achieved simply through good ventilation.<o:p></o:p>

The advisory also highlights the role of asymptomatic individuals in the spread of this virus. <o:p></o:p>

Coronavirus symptoms can take anywhere up to two weeks to appear in an infected person, and even before the symptoms such a person is capable of transmitting the virus to others in their vicinity. So, it is advised that one must always wear a mask, when they are around others, even when they themselves or the others are not showing any symptoms of infection. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-govt-issues-advisory-asking-people-to-wear-homemade-face-covers-290562">Coronavirus: Govt issues advisory asking people to wear 'homemade face covers'</a>

<o:p></o:p>

While some may take some time in shoeing active symptoms, others may even never show any symptoms but can still transmit the virus. <o:p></o:p>

“Even one infected person showing no symptoms can release enough droplets to create a “viral load” that can infect many others.”<o:p></o:p>

The most effective way to limit the spread of coronavirus continues to be&nbsp;by wearing a mask or better yet double-masking, good ventilation in homes, offices, sanitation, social distancing and isolation. <o:p></o:p>

Cautioning people to maintain social distancing the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has released an advisory that coronavirus aerosoles can travel up to 10 metres.

Cautioning people to maintain social distancing the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has released an advisory that coronavirus aerosoles can travel up to 10 metres. Highlighting the importance of well-ventilated places, this advisory reiterates the importance of simple tools and practices that can help reduce the spread of SARS-COV-2 or Coronavirus. Also Read | COVID-19: India records highest single-day Covid deaths in the world As the pandemic rages in India, we need to once again remember that simple tools and practices can reduce the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. According to it, well-ventilated places can play a major role in diluting the viral load. Compared to a poorly ventilated house, a well-ventilated house can help decrease the risk of transmission from one person to other. Introducing outdoor air in offices, homes and larger public spaces is also advised. Highlighting the role of aerosols in the spread of this virus, the advisory mentions that “Saliva and nasal discharge in the form of droplets and aerosols carry the virus from one person to another” and that when these aerosols can be carried in the air to great distances, even up to 10 meters far. Also Read | Coronavirus outbreak: Health ministry issues travel advisory, bans passengers from Afghanistan and Malaysia Just as smells can be diluted or watered down by ventilation, the dangerous concentration of the coronavirus can be reduced by ensuring that outdoor air flows in, a feat which can be achieved simply through good ventilation. The advisory also highlights the role of asymptomatic individuals in the spread of this virus. Coronavirus symptoms can take anywhere up to two weeks to appear in an infected person, and even before the symptoms such a person is capable of transmitting the virus to others in their vicinity. So, it is advised that one must always wear a mask, when they are around others, even when they themselves or the others are not showing any symptoms of infection. Also Read | Coronavirus: Govt issues advisory asking people to wear 'homemade face covers' While some may take some time in shoeing active symptoms, others may even never show any symptoms but can still transmit the virus. “Even one infected person showing no symptoms can release enough droplets to create a “viral load” that can infect many others.” The most effective way to limit the spread of coronavirus continues to be by wearing a mask or better yet double-masking, good ventilation in homes, offices, sanitation, social distancing and isolation.

Centre's new COVID-19 advisory says virus aerosoles can travel up to 10 metres

A group of researchers from Malaysia have found traces of canine<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus"> coronavirus</a> in local patients and revealed that the virus has been understudied for many years and was being passed along as a common cold.

Professor Gregory Gray from Duke University's Global Health Institute&nbsp;asked his students to develop a pan-species test for coronavirus that could help identify the virus and assist in preventing another such event in the future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/first-dose-of-covid-vaccines-created-antibodies-in-over-96-people-in-uk-new-study-finds-385833" hreflang="en">First dose of Covid vaccines created antibodies in over 96% people in UK, new study finds</a>

While conducting their research, Gray’s team found out traces of a canine coronavirus in children who were hospitalised for pneumonia in 2017 and 2018, in Malaysia.

After studying the genetic makeup of the said virus, the researchers believe it is unlikely that this virus is currently circulating between humans, but they also believe that this canine virus is what caused the illness of the patients in question.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-us-scientists-grow-human-brain-tissues-in-a-3d-printed-apparatus-385687" hreflang="en">Indian, US scientists grow human brain tissues in a 3D printed apparatus</a>

"What we're advocating for... is more application of pan-species diagnostics to look for five different viral families we think are the most problematic in causing epidemics in humans," Gray told news agency, AFP.

Gray's student-scholar, Lishan Xiu, conducted his research to find the alignment of the genetic sequences of the various family members of the virus. The pan-species coronavirus test was then performed on swab samples collected from pneumonia patients of hospitals in Sarawak, Malaysia.

Xiu found that out of 301 collected samples, nearly eight children had traces of the canine virus.

To be sure about their findings, Gray’s team formed a partnership with a&nbsp;virologist Anastasia Vlasova at Ohio State University, who grew more of the virus and sequenced its entire genome. Out of this experiment, a virus, called CCoV-HuPn-2018, was found which also had traces of feline and swine components, in addition to its canine origin.

Gray feels this small study can help identify bigger problems and can help avert future epidemics.

"If we set up surveillance of pig workers, poultry workers, cattle workers, we're going to be amazed at what their immune systems are being challenged with," Gray said. "That doesn't mean that they're going to be the match that lights the next pandemic, but they would be a good resource to study."

(With inputs from agencies)

A group of researchers from Malaysia have found traces of canine coronavirus in local patients and revealed that the virus has been understudied for many years and was being passed along as a common cold.

A group of researchers from Malaysia have found traces of canine coronavirus in local patients and revealed that the virus has been understudied for many years and was being passed along as a common cold. Professor Gregory Gray from Duke University's Global Health Institute asked his students to develop a pan-species test for coronavirus that could help identify the virus and assist in preventing another such event in the future. Also read | First dose of Covid vaccines created antibodies in over 96% people in UK, new study finds While conducting their research, Gray’s team found out traces of a canine coronavirus in children who were hospitalised for pneumonia in 2017 and 2018, in Malaysia. After studying the genetic makeup of the said virus, the researchers believe it is unlikely that this virus is currently circulating between humans, but they also believe that this canine virus is what caused the illness of the patients in question. Also read | Indian, US scientists grow human brain tissues in a 3D printed apparatus "What we're advocating for... is more application of pan-species diagnostics to look for five different viral families we think are the most problematic in causing epidemics in humans," Gray told news agency, AFP. Gray's student-scholar, Lishan Xiu, conducted his research to find the alignment of the genetic sequences of the various family members of the virus. The pan-species coronavirus test was then performed on swab samples collected from pneumonia patients of hospitals in Sarawak, Malaysia. Xiu found that out of 301 collected samples, nearly eight children had traces of the canine virus. To be sure about their findings, Gray’s team formed a partnership with a virologist Anastasia Vlasova at Ohio State University, who grew more of the virus and sequenced its entire genome. Out of this experiment, a virus, called CCoV-HuPn-2018, was found which also had traces of feline and swine components, in addition to its canine origin. Gray feels this small study can help identify bigger problems and can help avert future epidemics. "If we set up surveillance of pig workers, poultry workers, cattle workers, we're going to be amazed at what their immune systems are being challenged with," Gray said. "That doesn't mean that they're going to be the match that lights the next pandemic, but they would be a good resource to study." (With inputs from agencies)

Canine coronavirus detected in Malaysian children admitted in 2017-2018: Study

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan">Pakistan</a> Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held telephonic talks on Thursday and reaffirmed their resolve to further diversify and deepen strategic cooperation between the all-weather allies.

The two leaders held the talks on the eve of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China and discussed bilateral relations and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> vaccine cooperation, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Prime Minister Khan emphasised that Pakistan and China have transformed their relationship into an "all-weather strategic cooperative partnership" through their collective and tireless efforts over the years.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-pakistan-to-strengthen-cooperation-in-un-multilateral-bodies-376504">China, Pakistan to strengthen cooperation in UN, multilateral bodies</a>

Khan highlighted Pakistan-China cooperation in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and deeply appreciated China's continued support to Pakistan for the supply of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID vaccines</a>.

He thanked China for providing assistance to the National Institute of Health (NIH) for establishing a vaccine manufacturing facility in Pakistan, saying, "this will further solidify Pakistan's efforts to combat COVID-19".

The two leaders also discussed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Prime Minister Khan said the project has generated economic activity, employment and will further enhance bilateral and regional trade.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-inaugurates-first-transport-project-under-cpec-337860">Pakistan inaugurates first transport project under CPEC</a>

The USD 60 billion CPEC connecting China's resource-rich Xinjiang province with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar port in Balochistan is regarded as the flagship project of the multi-billion Belt and Road initiative, the pet scheme of Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at furthering China's influence globally with Chinese funded infrastructure projects.

During the talks, Prime Minister Khan stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high level exchanges to further diversify and deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries.

He congratulated the Chinese premier on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-completes-historic-mars-spacecraft-landing-385148">China completes historic Mars spacecraft landing</a>&nbsp;

Prime Minister Khan also congratulated the Chinese leadership for successful landing of Chinese spacecraft on Mars, saying this showed the rising technological prowess of China.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held telephonic talks on Thursday and reaffirmed their resolve to further diversify and deepen strategic cooperation between the all-weather allies.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held telephonic talks on Thursday and reaffirmed their resolve to further diversify and deepen strategic cooperation between the all-weather allies. The two leaders held the talks on the eve of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China and discussed bilateral relations and COVID-19 vaccine cooperation, state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Prime Minister Khan emphasised that Pakistan and China have transformed their relationship into an "all-weather strategic cooperative partnership" through their collective and tireless efforts over the years. Also Read | China, Pakistan to strengthen cooperation in UN, multilateral bodies Khan highlighted Pakistan-China cooperation in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and deeply appreciated China's continued support to Pakistan for the supply of COVID vaccines. He thanked China for providing assistance to the National Institute of Health (NIH) for establishing a vaccine manufacturing facility in Pakistan, saying, "this will further solidify Pakistan's efforts to combat COVID-19". The two leaders also discussed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Prime Minister Khan said the project has generated economic activity, employment and will further enhance bilateral and regional trade. Also Read | Pakistan inaugurates first transport project under CPEC The USD 60 billion CPEC connecting China's resource-rich Xinjiang province with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar port in Balochistan is regarded as the flagship project of the multi-billion Belt and Road initiative, the pet scheme of Chinese President Xi Jinping aimed at furthering China's influence globally with Chinese funded infrastructure projects. During the talks, Prime Minister Khan stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high level exchanges to further diversify and deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries. He congratulated the Chinese premier on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. Also Read | China completes historic Mars spacecraft landing Prime Minister Khan also congratulated the Chinese leadership for successful landing of Chinese spacecraft on Mars, saying this showed the rising technological prowess of China.

Pak PM Khan, Chinese Premier Li hold talks, vow to further diversify bilateral ties

The celebrated doctor and former president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dr KK Aggarwal, lost his battle to the deadly coronavirus recently.

Now, a few days after, his last video message to the masses has resurfaced on the internet in which Dr Aggarwal can be heard telling people, 'the show must go on'.

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Dr KK Agrawal In His last video : 'Show must go on' <a href="https://t.co/WKgUqr4udI">pic.twitter.com/WKgUqr4udI</a>
— Hemant Rajaura (@hemantrajora_) <a href="https://twitter.com/hemantrajora_/status/1394540407061499906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The doctor helped people through the raging pandemic by releasing videos on common myths, symptoms, cures, precautions, and more through his social media accounts. He bore a special place in hearts of people as he was known for taking out time to listen to people’s problems and giving medical solutions.

His efforts were hugely appreciated when he continued advising people even when he got infected with the deadly virus during India’s second wave. However, he was declared dead at 11:30 pm on Monday "after a lengthy battle".

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"Ever since he became a doctor, Padma Shri Dr KK Aggarwal has dedicated his life to the welfare of the public and raising health awareness. Even during the pandemic, he made constant efforts to educate the masses and was able to reach out to over 100 million people through numerous videos and educational programs and saved countless lives," his family said in a statement on social media.

The video, which has recently resurfaced, shows Dr Aggarwal saying, “I'm having Covid pneumonia which is progressive. But even then remember Raj Kapoor's words -&nbsp;'picture abhi baaki hai... the show must go on."

The celebrated doctor and former president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dr KK Aggarwal, lost his battle to the deadly coronavirus recently. Now, a few days after, his last video message to the masses has resurfaced on the internet in which Dr Aggarwal can be heard telling people, 'the show must go on'.

The celebrated doctor and former president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dr KK Aggarwal, lost his battle to the deadly coronavirus recently. Now, a few days after, his last video message to the masses has resurfaced on the internet in which Dr Aggarwal can be heard telling people, 'the show must go on'. Dr KK Agrawal In His last video : 'Show must go on' pic.twitter.com/WKgUqr4udI — Hemant Rajaura (@hemantrajora_) May 18, 2021 × The doctor helped people through the raging pandemic by releasing videos on common myths, symptoms, cures, precautions, and more through his social media accounts. He bore a special place in hearts of people as he was known for taking out time to listen to people’s problems and giving medical solutions. His efforts were hugely appreciated when he continued advising people even when he got infected with the deadly virus during India’s second wave. However, he was declared dead at 11:30 pm on Monday "after a lengthy battle". × "Ever since he became a doctor, Padma Shri Dr KK Aggarwal has dedicated his life to the welfare of the public and raising health awareness. Even during the pandemic, he made constant efforts to educate the masses and was able to reach out to over 100 million people through numerous videos and educational programs and saved countless lives," his family said in a statement on social media. The video, which has recently resurfaced, shows Dr Aggarwal saying, “I'm having Covid pneumonia which is progressive. But even then remember Raj Kapoor's words - 'picture abhi baaki hai... the show must go on."

'Show must go on': Indian doctor who died of Covid says in his last video

'For coffee!': Paris cafes and restaurants reopen after covid lockdown

The majority of the US schools have decided to make students wear <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">face masks</a> even now, as the US President has decided to let people roam around without masks if fully <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a>.

However, a 10-year-old student of a Florida school decided to voice his opinion against the mask mandate of his school, and his video has spread on the internet like wildfire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-for-asia-singapore-approves-pfizer-vaccine-for-teens-amid-surge-in-covid-19-cases-386055" hreflang="en">First for Asia: Singapore approves Pfizer vaccine for teens amid surge in COVID-19 cases</a>

During a three-minute-long speech, John, a student of Felix A. Williams Elementary School in Florida, called out&nbsp;the school's mask guidelines.

"It seems unfair teachers take their masks off while they yell at us kids, and that we need to pull ours up. I asked my mom if there's a word for this and she said there is: hypocrisy," the kid says in the video.

He also claims that the students have been forbidden from going into the playground, face each other during lunchtime and hold student council meetings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fourth-grader-who-spoke-out-against-school-mask-mandate-386161">Watch |</a>

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"We also have to wear masks outside at [physical education] and on track," he said. "I love my school and all, but my teachers seem really stressed and that makes me feel bad ... Breathing really doesn't seem like something we should have to ask any other people's permission for."

Another surprising guideline issued, by a teacher, has been to not drink water outside at all. He claims one teacher, in particular, asks students to not drink water outside till they are with their parents. She is also infamous for handing out referrals to discipline and punish students who lower their face masks at any point in the school.

Calling it ‘stressful’, he said the masks make him claustrophobic, anxious and make it difficult for him to breathe freely, leading to bad headaches.

He urged the district to make face masks optional in schools. “It would be so awesome to end the school year on a really happy note like that,” he concluded.

The majority of the US schools have decided to make students wear face masks even now, as the US President has decided to let people roam around without masks if fully vaccinated.

The majority of the US schools have decided to make students wear face masks even now, as the US President has decided to let people roam around without masks if fully vaccinated. However, a 10-year-old student of a Florida school decided to voice his opinion against the mask mandate of his school, and his video has spread on the internet like wildfire. Also read | First for Asia: Singapore approves Pfizer vaccine for teens amid surge in COVID-19 cases During a three-minute-long speech, John, a student of Felix A. Williams Elementary School in Florida, called out the school's mask guidelines. "It seems unfair teachers take their masks off while they yell at us kids, and that we need to pull ours up. I asked my mom if there's a word for this and she said there is: hypocrisy," the kid says in the video. He also claims that the students have been forbidden from going into the playground, face each other during lunchtime and hold student council meetings. Watch | "We also have to wear masks outside at [physical education] and on track," he said. "I love my school and all, but my teachers seem really stressed and that makes me feel bad ... Breathing really doesn't seem like something we should have to ask any other people's permission for." Another surprising guideline issued, by a teacher, has been to not drink water outside at all. He claims one teacher, in particular, asks students to not drink water outside till they are with their parents. She is also infamous for handing out referrals to discipline and punish students who lower their face masks at any point in the school. Calling it ‘stressful’, he said the masks make him claustrophobic, anxious and make it difficult for him to breathe freely, leading to bad headaches. He urged the district to make face masks optional in schools. “It would be so awesome to end the school year on a really happy note like that,” he concluded.

Watch: 'Hypocrisy' - 10-year-old Florida kid calls out his school for masks guidelines

Taiwan&nbsp;on Wednesday raised its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> alert level, tightening social distancing measures as it battled a widening outbreak.

The Level 3 alert was imposed on the entire island with entertainment venues, libraries, sports facilities and community centres closed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-discourages-people-from-panic-buying-as-covid-restrictions-come-into-force-385320">Taiwan discourages people from panic buying as Covid restrictions come into force</a>

People are required to wear masks all the time when going out while indoor gatherings of more than five and outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people are banned.

"(Infections) are successively increasing in other cities and counties besides Taipei and New Taipei," said health minister Chen Shih-chung while announcing the new measures.

Those cities,&nbsp;Taiwan's largest, were already on Level 3 because of the coronavirus spike, which had prompted the government to close the island to non-resident foreigners for a month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risky-for-businesses-taiwan-warns-against-freezing-of-jimmy-lais-assets-385486">'Risky for businesses': Taiwan warns against freezing of Jimmy Lai's assets</a>

On Wednesday, an additional 267 locally transmitted infections were reported. The island has recorded more than 1,200 local infections in five days.

Level 4 restrictions in&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;involve a lockdown with people only allowed to go out to buy necessities or medical treatment, all gatherings banned and schools shut down.

Health Minister Chen said that was not being considered, but the mayor of New Taipei said his city was preparing for Level 4 restrictions and urged residents to do the same.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-quarantine-pilots-of-its-largest-airline-amid-covid-19-outbreak-384086">Taiwan to quarantine pilots of its largest airline amid COVID-19 outbreak</a>

Taiwan&nbsp;was hailed as a global leader in containing Covid-19 with minimal social distancing needed after it quelled the initial outbreak. Last year, it went 253 days straight without any local infections.

But an outbreak first detected among pilots last month has spread into the community, forcing the reimposition of restrictions.

A similar cluster centred around a hospital led to the suspension of large-scale Lantern Festival events during the Lunar New Year in February.

That outbreak was quickly brought under control.

Taiwan on Wednesday raised its coronavirus alert level, tightening social distancing measures as it battled a widening outbreak. The Level 3 alert was imposed on the entire island with entertainment venues, libraries, sports facilities and community centres closed.

Taiwan on Wednesday raised its coronavirus alert level, tightening social distancing measures as it battled a widening outbreak. The Level 3 alert was imposed on the entire island with entertainment venues, libraries, sports facilities and community centres closed. Also read | Taiwan discourages people from panic buying as Covid restrictions come into force People are required to wear masks all the time when going out while indoor gatherings of more than five and outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people are banned. "(Infections) are successively increasing in other cities and counties besides Taipei and New Taipei," said health minister Chen Shih-chung while announcing the new measures. Those cities, Taiwan's largest, were already on Level 3 because of the coronavirus spike, which had prompted the government to close the island to non-resident foreigners for a month. Also read | 'Risky for businesses': Taiwan warns against freezing of Jimmy Lai's assets On Wednesday, an additional 267 locally transmitted infections were reported. The island has recorded more than 1,200 local infections in five days. Level 4 restrictions in Taiwan involve a lockdown with people only allowed to go out to buy necessities or medical treatment, all gatherings banned and schools shut down. Health Minister Chen said that was not being considered, but the mayor of New Taipei said his city was preparing for Level 4 restrictions and urged residents to do the same. Also read | Taiwan to quarantine pilots of its largest airline amid COVID-19 outbreak Taiwan was hailed as a global leader in containing Covid-19 with minimal social distancing needed after it quelled the initial outbreak. Last year, it went 253 days straight without any local infections. But an outbreak first detected among pilots last month has spread into the community, forcing the reimposition of restrictions. A similar cluster centred around a hospital led to the suspension of large-scale Lantern Festival events during the Lunar New Year in February. That outbreak was quickly brought under control.

Taiwan raises coronavirus alert level after spike in infections

A top medical organisation has thrown its weight behind calls to cancel the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;saying hospitals are already overwhelmed as the country battles a spike in coronavirus infections less than three months from the start of the Games.

The Tokyo Medical Practitioners Association representing about 6,000 primary care doctors said hospitals in the Games host city "have their hands full and have almost no spare capacity" amid a surge in infections.

"We strongly request that the authorities convince the IOC (International Olympic Committee) that holding the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;is difficult and obtain its decision to cancel the Games," the association said in a May 14 open letter to Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga which was posted to its website on Monday.

A jump in infections has stoked alarm amid a shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas of the Japanese capital, promoting the government to extend the third state of emergency in Tokyo and several other prefectures until May 31.

Doctors would soon face the added difficulty of dealing with heat exhaustion patients during the summer months and if the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;contributed to a rise in deaths "Japan will bear the maximum responsibility", it added.

Other health experts and medical groups have voiced their concerns https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyo-olympics-must-be-reconsidered-due-japans-failure-contain-pandemic-report-2021-04-16 about the&nbsp;Olympics, while an online petition calling for the Games to be cancelled was signed by hundreds of thousands of people.

Overall, Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by other nations, but the government has come under sharp criticism&nbsp;for its sluggish vaccination roll-out.

Only about 3.5% of its population of about 126 million has been vaccinated, according to a Reuter's tracker.

Underscoring the challenges with the vaccinations, booking systems for mass inoculation sites being launched in Tokyo and Osaka - which started accepting bookings on Monday - were marred by technical glitches.

Still, Suga says Japan can host "a safe and secure&nbsp;Olympics" while following appropriate COVID-19 containment measures.

Preparations for the July 23-Aug. 8 Games are progressing under tight COVID-19 protocols, such as an athletics test event https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyos-olympic-stadium-holds-track-field-test-event-minus-fans-2021-05-09 featuring 420 athletes in early May.

But multiple pre-Olympic training camps, including one for the United States' track and field team, have been cancelled, and athletes have voiced concerns about the Games taking place in the midst of a global pandemic.

Canadian equestrian athlete and gold medalist Eric Lamaze announced on Monday that he had pulled out of being an Olympic candidate, citing personal health concerns. He has been treated for a brain tumour over the past three years.

"My health is something that I take very seriously, and I've decided that Tokyo is not the best venue for me," Lamaze said in the statement.

"The&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;are a celebration of the athletes and I don't think we're going to have a true celebration in Tokyo," he added. "It's not the time to celebrate."

The Games have already been postponed once due to the pandemic.

With cases surging across much of Asia, the World Economic Forum on Monday cancelled its annual meeting of the global elite due to be held in Singapore in August.

Under the state of emergency in parts of Japan, bars, restaurants, karaoke parlours and other places serving alcohol will remain closed, although large commercial facilities can re-open under shorter hours. Hard-hit Tokyo and Osaka will continue to keep these larger facilities closed.

The number of COVID-19 cases nationwide dropped to 3,680 on Monday, the lowest level since April 26, according to public broadcaster NHK, but the number of heavy infections hit a record high of 1,235, the health ministry said on Tuesday.

A top medical organisation has thrown its weight behind calls to cancel the Tokyo Olympics saying hospitals are already overwhelmed as the country battles a spike in coronavirus infections less than three months from the start of the Games.

A top medical organisation has thrown its weight behind calls to cancel the Tokyo Olympics saying hospitals are already overwhelmed as the country battles a spike in coronavirus infections less than three months from the start of the Games. The Tokyo Medical Practitioners Association representing about 6,000 primary care doctors said hospitals in the Games host city "have their hands full and have almost no spare capacity" amid a surge in infections. "We strongly request that the authorities convince the IOC (International Olympic Committee) that holding the Olympics is difficult and obtain its decision to cancel the Games," the association said in a May 14 open letter to Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga which was posted to its website on Monday. A jump in infections has stoked alarm amid a shortage of medical staff and hospital beds in some areas of the Japanese capital, promoting the government to extend the third state of emergency in Tokyo and several other prefectures until May 31. Doctors would soon face the added difficulty of dealing with heat exhaustion patients during the summer months and if the Olympics contributed to a rise in deaths "Japan will bear the maximum responsibility", it added. Other health experts and medical groups have voiced their concerns https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyo-olympics-must-be-reconsidered-due-japans-failure-contain-pandemic-report-2021-04-16 about the Olympics, while an online petition calling for the Games to be cancelled was signed by hundreds of thousands of people. Overall, Japan has avoided an explosive spread of the virus experienced by other nations, but the government has come under sharp criticism for its sluggish vaccination roll-out. Only about 3.5% of its population of about 126 million has been vaccinated, according to a Reuter's tracker. Underscoring the challenges with the vaccinations, booking systems for mass inoculation sites being launched in Tokyo and Osaka - which started accepting bookings on Monday - were marred by technical glitches. Still, Suga says Japan can host "a safe and secure Olympics" while following appropriate COVID-19 containment measures. Preparations for the July 23-Aug. 8 Games are progressing under tight COVID-19 protocols, such as an athletics test event https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/tokyos-olympic-stadium-holds-track-field-test-event-minus-fans-2021-05-09 featuring 420 athletes in early May. But multiple pre-Olympic training camps, including one for the United States' track and field team, have been cancelled, and athletes have voiced concerns about the Games taking place in the midst of a global pandemic. Canadian equestrian athlete and gold medalist Eric Lamaze announced on Monday that he had pulled out of being an Olympic candidate, citing personal health concerns. He has been treated for a brain tumour over the past three years. "My health is something that I take very seriously, and I've decided that Tokyo is not the best venue for me," Lamaze said in the statement. "The Olympics are a celebration of the athletes and I don't think we're going to have a true celebration in Tokyo," he added. "It's not the time to celebrate." The Games have already been postponed once due to the pandemic. With cases surging across much of Asia, the World Economic Forum on Monday cancelled its annual meeting of the global elite due to be held in Singapore in August. Under the state of emergency in parts of Japan, bars, restaurants, karaoke parlours and other places serving alcohol will remain closed, although large commercial facilities can re-open under shorter hours. Hard-hit Tokyo and Osaka will continue to keep these larger facilities closed. The number of COVID-19 cases nationwide dropped to 3,680 on Monday, the lowest level since April 26, according to public broadcaster NHK, but the number of heavy infections hit a record high of 1,235, the health ministry said on Tuesday.

Tokyo doctors call for cancellation of Olympic Games due to COVID-19

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said&nbsp;a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles. The 48-year-old, who played international cricket from 1989 to 2013, further uncovered he has had sleepless nights before a few matches, and expected to do different errands to remove his psyche.&nbsp;

In an interaction with Unacademy, Sachin Tendulkar opened up on how he managed uneasiness for a significant part of his profession.

"I felt the anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before a game. Later on, I started accepting that it was part of my preparation. Then I made peace with times I was not able to sleep in the night. I would start doing something to keep my mind comfortable," Tendulkar said.

"Making tea, ironing my clothes also helped me prepare for the game. I would pack my bag the day before the game, my brother taught me all of it and it became a habit. I followed the same drill even in the last match I played for India,"&nbsp;he added.

"Over a period of time I realized that besides preparing physically for a game, you have to prepare yourself mentally also. In my mind, the match started long before I entered the ground,"&nbsp;the Master Blaster further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-reaches-out-to-cameron-bancroft-after-revelation-on-ball-tampering-issue-385562" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue</a>

The psychological well-being of players has been in the more prominent focal point of late, with players secured steady bio-bubbles attributable to the progressing fight with COVID-19.

Tendulkar expressed that any player will undoubtedly go through high points and low points. At such critical times, imperative to have the correct individuals around you.

"When there is an injury, physios and doctors examine you and diagnose what is wrong with you. The same is the case with mental health. It is normal for anyone to go through ups and downs and when you hit those lows you need people around. Acceptability is the key here. Not just for the player, for people around him also. Once you have accepted you start looking for solutions,"&nbsp;he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-played-extraordinary-cricket-in-recent-times-says-pace-maestro-mohammed-shami-385426" hreflang="en">'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami</a>

"That person got me dosa in the room and after keeping it on the table, he offered advice. He pointed out that my elbow guard was restricting my bat swing, which was actually the case. He helped me address that issue.” – he signed off. 
&nbsp;

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles.

Sachin Tendulkar has revealed that he battled nervousness for 10-12 years of his career. The right-hander said a player needs to get ready mentally too for the game separated from the physical angles. The 48-year-old, who played international cricket from 1989 to 2013, further uncovered he has had sleepless nights before a few matches, and expected to do different errands to remove his psyche. In an interaction with Unacademy, Sachin Tendulkar opened up on how he managed uneasiness for a significant part of his profession. "I felt the anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before a game. Later on, I started accepting that it was part of my preparation. Then I made peace with times I was not able to sleep in the night. I would start doing something to keep my mind comfortable," Tendulkar said. "Making tea, ironing my clothes also helped me prepare for the game. I would pack my bag the day before the game, my brother taught me all of it and it became a habit. I followed the same drill even in the last match I played for India," he added. "Over a period of time I realized that besides preparing physically for a game, you have to prepare yourself mentally also. In my mind, the match started long before I entered the ground," the Master Blaster further said. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia reaches out to Cameron Bancroft after revelation on ball-tampering issue The psychological well-being of players has been in the more prominent focal point of late, with players secured steady bio-bubbles attributable to the progressing fight with COVID-19. Tendulkar expressed that any player will undoubtedly go through high points and low points. At such critical times, imperative to have the correct individuals around you. "When there is an injury, physios and doctors examine you and diagnose what is wrong with you. The same is the case with mental health. It is normal for anyone to go through ups and downs and when you hit those lows you need people around. Acceptability is the key here. Not just for the player, for people around him also. Once you have accepted you start looking for solutions," he added. ALSO READ: 'Have played extraordinary cricket in recent times', says pace maestro Mohammed Shami "That person got me dosa in the room and after keeping it on the table, he offered advice. He pointed out that my elbow guard was restricting my bat swing, which was actually the case. He helped me address that issue.” – he signed off.

Battled anxiety for 10-12 years, had many sleepless nights before matches, reveals Sachin Tendulkar

It is believed that children, around the age of two, usually go through a turbulent period of uncontrollable emotions. However, similar emotional distress is now being observed in children much older, due to coronavirus.

The emotional stress that young children and youngsters have gone through in the coronavirus pandemic can lead to serious and dangerous mental health problems in their later years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/high-amount-of-forever-chemicals-found-in-breast-milk-study-384738" hreflang="en">High amount of 'forever chemicals' found in breast milk: Study</a>

Research, conducted by experts at the University of Bristol, found children as old as eight have also shown difficult and emotional behaviour, and thrown tantrums which are usually associated with the "terrible twos".

For this research, the experts collected and compared data from a time before the covid crisis took over the world and from the time after covid has taken millions of lives through second (and in some countries, third) waves all over the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/we-finally-know-why-cats-love-to-sit-in-square-like-boxes-384538" hreflang="en">We finally know why cats love to sit in square-like boxes!</a>

"Emotional problems usually peak around age two and then decline over childhood, but during the pandemic older children had much higher levels of emotional difficulties than would be expected at their age," Rebecca Pearson, a senior lecturer in psychiatric epidemiology at the University of Bristol explained.

"Our findings suggest that primary school children may have emotional difficulties at the level expected during the 'terrible twos'. This could reflect a delay in emotional development that, if not supported,&nbsp;may far outlive the pandemic and have long-term consequences for this generation of children," she added.

Many parents have also reported cases where the children, usually in their early teenage years, have started behaving like much younger kids as the world is slowly returning back to normalcy. Stomping feet, screaming and shouting, not brushing teeth or not getting dressed, and not wanting to step out of the house have been some of the common problems that parents are observing in their grown-up children after multiple lockdowns.

This study has not been peer-reviewed yet and the research&nbsp;is preliminary.

It is believed that children, around the age of two, usually go through a turbulent period of uncontrollable emotions. However, similar emotional distress is now being observed in children much older, due to coronavirus.

It is believed that children, around the age of two, usually go through a turbulent period of uncontrollable emotions. However, similar emotional distress is now being observed in children much older, due to coronavirus. The emotional stress that young children and youngsters have gone through in the coronavirus pandemic can lead to serious and dangerous mental health problems in their later years. Also read | High amount of 'forever chemicals' found in breast milk: Study Research, conducted by experts at the University of Bristol, found children as old as eight have also shown difficult and emotional behaviour, and thrown tantrums which are usually associated with the "terrible twos". For this research, the experts collected and compared data from a time before the covid crisis took over the world and from the time after covid has taken millions of lives through second (and in some countries, third) waves all over the world. Also read | We finally know why cats love to sit in square-like boxes! "Emotional problems usually peak around age two and then decline over childhood, but during the pandemic older children had much higher levels of emotional difficulties than would be expected at their age," Rebecca Pearson, a senior lecturer in psychiatric epidemiology at the University of Bristol explained. "Our findings suggest that primary school children may have emotional difficulties at the level expected during the 'terrible twos'. This could reflect a delay in emotional development that, if not supported, may far outlive the pandemic and have long-term consequences for this generation of children," she added. Many parents have also reported cases where the children, usually in their early teenage years, have started behaving like much younger kids as the world is slowly returning back to normalcy. Stomping feet, screaming and shouting, not brushing teeth or not getting dressed, and not wanting to step out of the house have been some of the common problems that parents are observing in their grown-up children after multiple lockdowns. This study has not been peer-reviewed yet and the research is preliminary.

Pandemic can leave long-term effect on kids' mental health: Study

Four months into a&nbsp;Covid-19 vaccination campaign marred by shortages and delays, hard-hit&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;is still struggling to find enough doses, as political and diplomatic blunders prolong its pandemic nightmare.

Around 33 million people -- 15 percent of the population -- have received at least one vaccine dose in&nbsp;Brazil, a proportion still too small to have a substantial impact on the virus' spread.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women">Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women</a>

Targeted by a Senate inquiry over its handling of the pandemic, President Jair Bolsonaro's government is facing criticism for failing to secure more vaccines, including its refusal of offers to purchase millions of doses and diplomatic tension with China that may be slowing the import of vaccine ingredients.

'We don't have enough doses right now to&nbsp;vaccinate&nbsp;as fast as we should,'&nbsp;said Margareth Dalcolmo, a pulmonologist and researcher at leading public health institute Fiocruz.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Faced with the possibility of impeachment, Brazil President calls COVID-19 a bio-weapon">Faced with the possibility of impeachment, Brazil President calls COVID-19 a bio-weapon</a>

"We ought to be vaccinating younger people already, especially given that younger demographic groups are currently driving transmission," she told AFP.

But first,&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;still has to&nbsp;vaccinate&nbsp;80 million people from high-priority groups, including the elderly, indigenous people and health workers.

Vaccine doses meanwhile continue to arrive in a trickle -- although the government maintains it will be able to&nbsp;vaccinate&nbsp;all adults by the end of the year.

Brazil&nbsp;has lost more lives to&nbsp;Covid-19 than any country except the United States -- &nbsp;more than 430,000 -- and has one of the highest death tolls per capita in the world.

Though the current wave has eased somewhat since April, the virus is still killing a staggeringly high number of people in the country -- nearly 2,000 a day.

Despite its huge size, the South American country is known for executing turbo-charged vaccination campaigns.

In 2010,&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;vaccinated more than 80 million people against H1N1 -- the swine flu virus -- in less than three months.

'We need to be vaccinating two million people a day,'&nbsp;said Dalcolmo.

As it stands,&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;has rarely managed more than one million&nbsp;Covid-19 shots a day.

'We've gotten better since the start of the year, but we're still a long way from where we need to be,'&nbsp;said Joao Viola, president of the Brazilian Immunological Society's scientific committee.

Brazil&nbsp;started out using two vaccines, Oxford/AstraZeneca's and Chinese-developed CoronaVac, both of which it has licenses to produce locally.

The drive got a boost last month with the arrival of the Pfizer vaccine. But only about two million of the 100 million doses&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;has ordered have been delivered so far.

All three shots require two doses.

Brazil&nbsp;could have secured more Pfizer doses faster, but Bolsonaro's government refused an offer last August to purchase more than 70 million of them.

The far-right president, who has persistently snubbed expert advice on handling the pandemic, joked that the vaccine could 'turn you into an alligator'&nbsp;-- only to change course months later and allow a deal with the US pharmaceutical giant.

"Worldwide demand for vaccines is very high, so those who were slow to sign deals are receiving their orders later," said Viola.

Bolsonaro, whose government often has strained relations with China, also refused to purchase CoronaVac, calling it the vaccine from 'that other country.'

But a political opponent, Joao Doria, governor of&nbsp;Brazil's most populous state, Sao Paulo, pursued a deal for CoronaVac anyway.

The vaccine now accounts for more than 70 percent of the doses administered in&nbsp;Brazil.

However, the public health center manufacturing it in&nbsp;Brazil, the Butantan Institute, announced Friday it would have to halt production because it had run out of the active ingredient, which has to be imported from China.

Brazil&nbsp;is due to start producing the active ingredient for CoronaVac itself, but only in September.

The Butantan Institute said 'diplomatic problems'&nbsp;could prevent it from delivering new doses in June.

Last week, Bolsonaro provoked China by saying it may have created the novel coronavirus in a lab to wage 'germ warfare.'

"There are 10,000 liters (of active ingredient for CoronaVac) ready, just waiting for the Chinese government to authorize shipment," said Doria.

'But every time someone here makes a disparaging remark about China, that clearly makes it more difficult.'

Four months into a Covid-19 vaccination campaign marred by shortages and delays, hard-hit Brazil is still struggling to find enough doses, as political and diplomatic blunders prolong its pandemic nightmare.

Four months into a Covid-19 vaccination campaign marred by shortages and delays, hard-hit Brazil is still struggling to find enough doses, as political and diplomatic blunders prolong its pandemic nightmare. Around 33 million people -- 15 percent of the population -- have received at least one vaccine dose in Brazil, a proportion still too small to have a substantial impact on the virus' spread. Also read: Following a death, Brazil suspends use of AstraZeneca vaccine for pregnant women Targeted by a Senate inquiry over its handling of the pandemic, President Jair Bolsonaro's government is facing criticism for failing to secure more vaccines, including its refusal of offers to purchase millions of doses and diplomatic tension with China that may be slowing the import of vaccine ingredients. 'We don't have enough doses right now to vaccinate as fast as we should,' said Margareth Dalcolmo, a pulmonologist and researcher at leading public health institute Fiocruz. Also read: Faced with the possibility of impeachment, Brazil President calls COVID-19 a bio-weapon "We ought to be vaccinating younger people already, especially given that younger demographic groups are currently driving transmission," she told AFP. But first, Brazil still has to vaccinate 80 million people from high-priority groups, including the elderly, indigenous people and health workers. Vaccine doses meanwhile continue to arrive in a trickle -- although the government maintains it will be able to vaccinate all adults by the end of the year. Brazil has lost more lives to Covid-19 than any country except the United States -- more than 430,000 -- and has one of the highest death tolls per capita in the world. Though the current wave has eased somewhat since April, the virus is still killing a staggeringly high number of people in the country -- nearly 2,000 a day. Despite its huge size, the South American country is known for executing turbo-charged vaccination campaigns. In 2010, Brazil vaccinated more than 80 million people against H1N1 -- the swine flu virus -- in less than three months. 'We need to be vaccinating two million people a day,' said Dalcolmo. As it stands, Brazil has rarely managed more than one million Covid-19 shots a day. 'We've gotten better since the start of the year, but we're still a long way from where we need to be,' said Joao Viola, president of the Brazilian Immunological Society's scientific committee. Brazil started out using two vaccines, Oxford/AstraZeneca's and Chinese-developed CoronaVac, both of which it has licenses to produce locally. The drive got a boost last month with the arrival of the Pfizer vaccine. But only about two million of the 100 million doses Brazil has ordered have been delivered so far. All three shots require two doses. Brazil could have secured more Pfizer doses faster, but Bolsonaro's government refused an offer last August to purchase more than 70 million of them. The far-right president, who has persistently snubbed expert advice on handling the pandemic, joked that the vaccine could 'turn you into an alligator' -- only to change course months later and allow a deal with the US pharmaceutical giant. "Worldwide demand for vaccines is very high, so those who were slow to sign deals are receiving their orders later," said Viola. Bolsonaro, whose government often has strained relations with China, also refused to purchase CoronaVac, calling it the vaccine from 'that other country.' But a political opponent, Joao Doria, governor of Brazil's most populous state, Sao Paulo, pursued a deal for CoronaVac anyway. The vaccine now accounts for more than 70 percent of the doses administered in Brazil. However, the public health center manufacturing it in Brazil, the Butantan Institute, announced Friday it would have to halt production because it had run out of the active ingredient, which has to be imported from China. Brazil is due to start producing the active ingredient for CoronaVac itself, but only in September. The Butantan Institute said 'diplomatic problems' could prevent it from delivering new doses in June. Last week, Bolsonaro provoked China by saying it may have created the novel coronavirus in a lab to wage 'germ warfare.' "There are 10,000 liters (of active ingredient for CoronaVac) ready, just waiting for the Chinese government to authorize shipment," said Doria. 'But every time someone here makes a disparaging remark about China, that clearly makes it more difficult.'

Brazil struggles to vaccinate as Covid toll spirals

While the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">covid</a> cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year.

The Scott Morrison government has been facing increasing pressure from international leaders and groups about reopening the country's border and let residents return.

However,&nbsp;the Australian government has resisted the pressure citing 'safety of citizens first' as a reason to keeping borders closed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-carries-out-first-repatriation-flight-from-india-after-travel-ban-385348" hreflang="en">Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban</a>

Morrison closed international borders for all non-nationals and non-residents in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic took over the world. Since then, the country has only allowed limited international travellers, in addition to citizens living abroad.

"All the way through we will be guided by the medical advice," said Morrison in a televised briefing. "We will be guided by the economic advice."

The officials have also supported the policy of border closure as they believe this has 'served us very well through this crisis,' Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told the local media.

These statements have come a few hours after Australia welcomed citizens and permanent residents from India back to the country. The flight was an initiative taken by the Australian government after the government was criticised for imposing strict restrictions including monetary penalty and months behind jail for people entering Australia from India.

While the covid cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year.

While the covid cases have been constantly on decline, the Australian government has decided to stick to its plan of reopening its borders to the rest of the world only from the middle of next year. The Scott Morrison government has been facing increasing pressure from international leaders and groups about reopening the country's border and let residents return. However, the Australian government has resisted the pressure citing 'safety of citizens first' as a reason to keeping borders closed. Also read | Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban Morrison closed international borders for all non-nationals and non-residents in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic took over the world. Since then, the country has only allowed limited international travellers, in addition to citizens living abroad. "All the way through we will be guided by the medical advice," said Morrison in a televised briefing. "We will be guided by the economic advice." The officials have also supported the policy of border closure as they believe this has 'served us very well through this crisis,' Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told the local media. These statements have come a few hours after Australia welcomed citizens and permanent residents from India back to the country. The flight was an initiative taken by the Australian government after the government was criticised for imposing strict restrictions including monetary penalty and months behind jail for people entering Australia from India.

Australia to keep international borders closed till middle of 2022: Officials

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