With 20,550 new coronavirus infections and 286 deaths in the past 24 hours, India's overall tally stood at 1,02,44,853 on Wednesday, while the death toll touched 1,48,439, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

Till now, 9,83,4141 have recovered. Currently, there are 2,62,272 active cases. The recovery rate stands at 95.99 per cent while the fatality rate is 1.45 as per cent.

Kerala currently has the highest number of active cases at 65,039, while Maharashtra currently has 55,672 active coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Delhi has 6,122 coronavirus cases, while the death toll in the national capital stands at 10,502.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 17,09,22,030 samples have been tested for COVID-19 so far, including 11,20,281 COVID-19 samples in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With 20,550 new coronavirus infections and 286 deaths in the past 24 hours, India's overall tally stood at 1,02,44,853 on Wednesday, while the death toll touched 1,48,439, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

With 20,550 new coronavirus infections and 286 deaths in the past 24 hours, India's overall tally stood at 1,02,44,853 on Wednesday, while the death toll touched 1,48,439, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Till now, 9,83,4141 have recovered. Currently, there are 2,62,272 active cases. The recovery rate stands at 95.99 per cent while the fatality rate is 1.45 as per cent. Kerala currently has the highest number of active cases at 65,039, while Maharashtra currently has 55,672 active coronavirus cases. Delhi has 6,122 coronavirus cases, while the death toll in the national capital stands at 10,502. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 17,09,22,030 samples have been tested for COVID-19 so far, including 11,20,281 COVID-19 samples in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports 20,550 new COVID-19 cases, 286 deaths

Almost immediately, Dr. Hisam Goueli could tell that the patient who came to his psychiatric hospital on Long Island this summer was unusual.

The patient, a 42-year-old physical therapist and mother of four young children, had never had psychiatric symptoms or any family history of mental illness. Yet there she was, sitting at a table in a beige-walled room at South Oaks Hospital in Amityville, New York, sobbing and saying that she kept seeing her children, ages 2 to 10, being gruesomely murdered and that she herself had crafted plans to kill them.

“It was like she was experiencing a movie, like ‘Kill Bill,’” Goueli, a psychiatrist, said.

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The patient described one of her children being run over by a truck and another decapitated. “It’s a horrifying thing that here’s this well-accomplished woman and she’s like ‘I love my kids, and I don’t know why I feel this way that I want to decapitate them,’” he said.

The only notable thing about her medical history was that the woman, who declined to be interviewed but allowed Goueli to describe her case, had become infected with the coronavirus in the spring. She had experienced only mild physical symptoms from the virus, but, months later, she heard a voice that first told her to kill herself and then told her to kill her children.

At South Oaks, which has an inpatient psychiatric treatment program for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 </a>patients, Goueli was unsure whether the coronavirus was connected to the woman’s psychological symptoms. “Maybe this is COVID-related, maybe it’s not,” he recalled thinking.

“But then,” he said, “we saw a second case, a third case and a fourth case, and we’re like, ‘There’s something happening.’”

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Indeed, doctors are reporting similar cases across the country and around the world. A small number of COVID patients who had never experienced mental health problems are developing severe psychotic symptoms weeks after contracting the coronavirus.

In interviews and scientific articles, doctors described:

A 36-year-old nursing home employee in North Carolina who became so paranoid that she believed her three children would be kidnapped and, to save them, tried to pass them through a fast-food restaurant’s drive-thru window.

A 30-year-old construction worker in New York City who became so delusional that he imagined his cousin was going to murder him, and, to protect himself, he tried to strangle his cousin in bed.

A 55-year-old woman in Britain had hallucinations of monkeys and a lion and became convinced a family member had been replaced by an impostor.

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Beyond individual reports, a British study of neurological or psychiatric complications in 153 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 found that 10 people had “new-onset psychosis.” Another study identified 10 such patients in one hospital in Spain. And in COVID-related social media groups, medical professionals discuss seeing patients with similar symptoms in the Midwest, Great Plains and elsewhere.

“My guess is any place that is seeing COVID is probably seeing this,” said Dr. Colin Smith at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, who helped treat the North Carolina woman. He and other doctors said their patients were too fragile to be asked whether they wanted to be interviewed for this article, but some, including the North Carolina woman, agreed to have their cases described in scientific papers.

Medical experts say they expect that such extreme psychiatric dysfunction will affect only a small proportion of patients. But the cases are considered examples of another way the COVID-19 disease process can affect mental health and brain function.

Although the coronavirus was initially thought primarily to cause respiratory distress, there is now ample evidence of many other symptoms, including neurological, cognitive and psychological effects, that could emerge even in patients who didn’t develop serious lung, heart or circulatory problems. Such symptoms can be just as debilitating to a person’s ability to function and work, and it’s often unclear how long they will last or how to treat them.

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Experts increasingly believe brain-related effects may be linked to the body’s immune system response to the coronavirus and possibly to vascular problems or surges of inflammation caused by the disease process.

“Some of the neurotoxins that are reactions to immune activation can go to the brain, through the blood-brain barrier, and can induce this damage,” said Dr. Vilma Gabbay, a co-director of the Psychiatry Research Institute at Montefiore Einstein in the Bronx, New York.

Brain scans, spinal fluid analyses and other tests didn’t find any brain infection, said Gabbay, whose hospital has treated two patients with post-COVID psychosis: a 49-year-old man who heard voices and believed he was the devil and a 34-year-old woman who began carrying a knife, disrobing in front of strangers and putting hand sanitizer in her food.

Physically, most of these patients didn’t get very sick from COVID-19, reports indicate. The patients that Goueli treated experienced no respiratory problems, but they did have subtle neurological symptoms like hand tingling, vertigo, headaches or diminished smell. Then, two weeks to several months later, he said, they “develop this profound psychosis, which is really dangerous and scary to all of the people around them.”

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Also striking is that most patients have been in their 30s, 40s and 50s. “It’s very rare for you to develop this type of psychosis in this age range,” Goueli said, since such symptoms more typically accompany schizophrenia in young people or dementia in older patients. And some patients — like the physical therapist who took herself to the hospital — understood something was wrong, while usually “people with psychosis don’t have an insight that they’ve lost touch with reality.”

Some post-COVID patients who developed psychosis needed weeks of hospitalization in which doctors tried different medications before finding one that helped.

Dr. Robert Yolken, a neurovirology expert at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, said that although people might recover physically from COVID-19, in some cases their immune systems might be unable to shut down or might remain engaged because of “delayed clearance of a small amount of virus.”

Persistent immune activation is also a leading explanation for brain fog and memory problems bedeviling many COVID survivors, and Emily Severance, a schizophrenia expert at Johns Hopkins, said post-COVID cognitive and psychiatric effects might result from “something similar happening in the brain.”

It may hinge on which brain region the immune response affects, Yolken said, adding, “some people have neurological symptoms, some people psychiatric and many people have a combination.”

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Experts don’t know whether genetic makeup or perhaps an undetected predisposition for psychiatric illness put some people at greater risk. Dr. Brian Kincaid, medical director of psychiatric emergency department services at Duke, said the North Carolina woman once had a skin reaction to another virus, which might suggest her immune system responds zealously to viral infections.

Sporadic cases of post-infectious psychosis and mania have occurred with other viruses, including the 1918 flu and the coronaviruses severe acute respiratory syndrome and Middle East respiratory syndrome.

“We think that it’s not unique to COVID,” said Dr. Jonathan Alpert, chairman of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who co-wrote the report on the Montefiore patients. He said studying these cases might help to increase doctors’ understanding of psychosis.

The symptoms have ranged widely, some surprisingly severe for a first psychotic episode, experts said. Goueli said a 46-year-old pharmacy technician, whose family brought her in after she became fearful that evil spirits had invaded her home, “cried literally for four days” in the hospital.

He said the 30-year-old construction worker, brought to the hospital by the police, became “extremely violent,” dismantling a hospital radiator and using its parts and his shoes to try to break out of a window. He also swung a chair at hospital staff.

How long the psychosis lasted and patients’ response to treatment has varied. The woman in Britain — whose symptoms included paranoia about the color red and terror that nurses were devils who would harm her and a family member — took about 40 days to recover, according to a case report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-reports-6-cases-of-new-covid-19-strain-as-uk-returnees-test-positive-353157">WATCH|</a>

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The 49-year-old man treated at Montefiore was discharged after several weeks’ hospitalization, but “he was still struggling two months out” and required readmission, Gabbay said.

The North Carolina woman, who was convinced that cellphones were tracking her and that her partner would steal her pandemic stimulus money, didn’t improve with the first medication, said Dr. Jonathan Komisar at Duke, who said doctors initially thought her symptoms reflected bipolar disorder. “When we began to realize that maybe this isn’t going to resolve immediately,” he said, she was given an antipsychotic, risperidone and discharged in a week.

The physical therapist who planned to murder her children had more difficulty. “Every day, she was getting worse,” Goueli said. “We tried probably eight different medicines,” including antidepressants, antipsychotics and lithium. “She was so ill that we were considering electroconvulsive therapy for her because nothing was working.”

About two weeks into her hospitalization, she couldn’t remember what her 2-year-old looked like. Calls with family were heartbreaking because “‘You could hear one in the background saying ‘When is Mom coming home?’” Goueli said. “That brought her a lot of shame because she was like, ‘I can’t be around my kids and here they are loving me.’”

Ultimately, risperidone proved effective and after four weeks, she returned home to her family, “95% perfect,” he said.

“We don’t know what the natural course of this is,” Goueli said. “Does this eventually go away? Do people get better? How long does that normally take? And are you then more prone to have other psychiatric issues as a result? There are just so many unanswered questions.”

Almost immediately, Dr. Hisam Goueli could tell that the patient who came to his psychiatric hospital on Long Island this summer was unusual. The patient, a 42-year-old physical therapist and mother of four young children, had never had psychiatric symptoms or any family history of mental illness.

Almost immediately, Dr. Hisam Goueli could tell that the patient who came to his psychiatric hospital on Long Island this summer was unusual. The patient, a 42-year-old physical therapist and mother of four young children, had never had psychiatric symptoms or any family history of mental illness. Yet there she was, sitting at a table in a beige-walled room at South Oaks Hospital in Amityville, New York, sobbing and saying that she kept seeing her children, ages 2 to 10, being gruesomely murdered and that she herself had crafted plans to kill them. “It was like she was experiencing a movie, like ‘Kill Bill,’” Goueli, a psychiatrist, said. Also read| This gene can protect you from mutant coronavirus strains The patient described one of her children being run over by a truck and another decapitated. “It’s a horrifying thing that here’s this well-accomplished woman and she’s like ‘I love my kids, and I don’t know why I feel this way that I want to decapitate them,’” he said. The only notable thing about her medical history was that the woman, who declined to be interviewed but allowed Goueli to describe her case, had become infected with the coronavirus in the spring. She had experienced only mild physical symptoms from the virus, but, months later, she heard a voice that first told her to kill herself and then told her to kill her children. At South Oaks, which has an inpatient psychiatric treatment program for COVID-19 patients, Goueli was unsure whether the coronavirus was connected to the woman’s psychological symptoms. “Maybe this is COVID-related, maybe it’s not,” he recalled thinking. “But then,” he said, “we saw a second case, a third case and a fourth case, and we’re like, ‘There’s something happening.’” Also read| ‘Super Gonorrhea’ on the rise due to Covid-19: WHO Indeed, doctors are reporting similar cases across the country and around the world. A small number of COVID patients who had never experienced mental health problems are developing severe psychotic symptoms weeks after contracting the coronavirus. In interviews and scientific articles, doctors described: A 36-year-old nursing home employee in North Carolina who became so paranoid that she believed her three children would be kidnapped and, to save them, tried to pass them through a fast-food restaurant’s drive-thru window. A 30-year-old construction worker in New York City who became so delusional that he imagined his cousin was going to murder him, and, to protect himself, he tried to strangle his cousin in bed. A 55-year-old woman in Britain had hallucinations of monkeys and a lion and became convinced a family member had been replaced by an impostor. Also read| British tourists flee Swiss resort overnight to escape quarantine amid fears of new covid strain Beyond individual reports, a British study of neurological or psychiatric complications in 153 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 found that 10 people had “new-onset psychosis.” Another study identified 10 such patients in one hospital in Spain. And in COVID-related social media groups, medical professionals discuss seeing patients with similar symptoms in the Midwest, Great Plains and elsewhere. “My guess is any place that is seeing COVID is probably seeing this,” said Dr. Colin Smith at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, who helped treat the North Carolina woman. He and other doctors said their patients were too fragile to be asked whether they wanted to be interviewed for this article, but some, including the North Carolina woman, agreed to have their cases described in scientific papers. Medical experts say they expect that such extreme psychiatric dysfunction will affect only a small proportion of patients. But the cases are considered examples of another way the COVID-19 disease process can affect mental health and brain function. Although the coronavirus was initially thought primarily to cause respiratory distress, there is now ample evidence of many other symptoms, including neurological, cognitive and psychological effects, that could emerge even in patients who didn’t develop serious lung, heart or circulatory problems. Such symptoms can be just as debilitating to a person’s ability to function and work, and it’s often unclear how long they will last or how to treat them. Also read| Italy turns to flower power to help spread vaccine message Experts increasingly believe brain-related effects may be linked to the body’s immune system response to the coronavirus and possibly to vascular problems or surges of inflammation caused by the disease process. “Some of the neurotoxins that are reactions to immune activation can go to the brain, through the blood-brain barrier, and can induce this damage,” said Dr. Vilma Gabbay, a co-director of the Psychiatry Research Institute at Montefiore Einstein in the Bronx, New York. Brain scans, spinal fluid analyses and other tests didn’t find any brain infection, said Gabbay, whose hospital has treated two patients with post-COVID psychosis: a 49-year-old man who heard voices and believed he was the devil and a 34-year-old woman who began carrying a knife, disrobing in front of strangers and putting hand sanitizer in her food. Physically, most of these patients didn’t get very sick from COVID-19, reports indicate. The patients that Goueli treated experienced no respiratory problems, but they did have subtle neurological symptoms like hand tingling, vertigo, headaches or diminished smell. Then, two weeks to several months later, he said, they “develop this profound psychosis, which is really dangerous and scary to all of the people around them.” Also read| New 'long COVID' symptoms may include stench of fish and burning Also striking is that most patients have been in their 30s, 40s and 50s. “It’s very rare for you to develop this type of psychosis in this age range,” Goueli said, since such symptoms more typically accompany schizophrenia in young people or dementia in older patients. And some patients — like the physical therapist who took herself to the hospital — understood something was wrong, while usually “people with psychosis don’t have an insight that they’ve lost touch with reality.” Some post-COVID patients who developed psychosis needed weeks of hospitalization in which doctors tried different medications before finding one that helped. Dr. Robert Yolken, a neurovirology expert at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, said that although people might recover physically from COVID-19, in some cases their immune systems might be unable to shut down or might remain engaged because of “delayed clearance of a small amount of virus.” Persistent immune activation is also a leading explanation for brain fog and memory problems bedeviling many COVID survivors, and Emily Severance, a schizophrenia expert at Johns Hopkins, said post-COVID cognitive and psychiatric effects might result from “something similar happening in the brain.” It may hinge on which brain region the immune response affects, Yolken said, adding, “some people have neurological symptoms, some people psychiatric and many people have a combination.” Also read| Coronavirus mutation tracker: New strain leading to chaos and confusion across the globe Experts don’t know whether genetic makeup or perhaps an undetected predisposition for psychiatric illness put some people at greater risk. Dr. Brian Kincaid, medical director of psychiatric emergency department services at Duke, said the North Carolina woman once had a skin reaction to another virus, which might suggest her immune system responds zealously to viral infections. Sporadic cases of post-infectious psychosis and mania have occurred with other viruses, including the 1918 flu and the coronaviruses severe acute respiratory syndrome and Middle East respiratory syndrome. “We think that it’s not unique to COVID,” said Dr. Jonathan Alpert, chairman of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who co-wrote the report on the Montefiore patients. He said studying these cases might help to increase doctors’ understanding of psychosis. The symptoms have ranged widely, some surprisingly severe for a first psychotic episode, experts said. Goueli said a 46-year-old pharmacy technician, whose family brought her in after she became fearful that evil spirits had invaded her home, “cried literally for four days” in the hospital. He said the 30-year-old construction worker, brought to the hospital by the police, became “extremely violent,” dismantling a hospital radiator and using its parts and his shoes to try to break out of a window. He also swung a chair at hospital staff. How long the psychosis lasted and patients’ response to treatment has varied. The woman in Britain — whose symptoms included paranoia about the color red and terror that nurses were devils who would harm her and a family member — took about 40 days to recover, according to a case report. WATCH| × The 49-year-old man treated at Montefiore was discharged after several weeks’ hospitalization, but “he was still struggling two months out” and required readmission, Gabbay said. The North Carolina woman, who was convinced that cellphones were tracking her and that her partner would steal her pandemic stimulus money, didn’t improve with the first medication, said Dr. Jonathan Komisar at Duke, who said doctors initially thought her symptoms reflected bipolar disorder. “When we began to realize that maybe this isn’t going to resolve immediately,” he said, she was given an antipsychotic, risperidone and discharged in a week. The physical therapist who planned to murder her children had more difficulty. “Every day, she was getting worse,” Goueli said. “We tried probably eight different medicines,” including antidepressants, antipsychotics and lithium. “She was so ill that we were considering electroconvulsive therapy for her because nothing was working.” About two weeks into her hospitalization, she couldn’t remember what her 2-year-old looked like. Calls with family were heartbreaking because “‘You could hear one in the background saying ‘When is Mom coming home?’” Goueli said. “That brought her a lot of shame because she was like, ‘I can’t be around my kids and here they are loving me.’” Ultimately, risperidone proved effective and after four weeks, she returned home to her family, “95% perfect,” he said. “We don’t know what the natural course of this is,” Goueli said. “Does this eventually go away? Do people get better? How long does that normally take? And are you then more prone to have other psychiatric issues as a result? There are just so many unanswered questions.”

Small number of COVID patients develop severe psychotic symptoms

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place.

Brazilian media said the Paris Saint Germain striker was the host of the five-day-long party in Mangaratiba, a beachside town around 105 km (65 miles) from Rio de Janeiro but his public relations team was quoted by one newspaper as saying he was only a guest.

Newspapers on Wednesday said guests had started arriving at the luxury condominium where the player owns property.

Reports said he had bought a disused hangar for the event and required all guests to give up their cell phones to prevent photos and videos leaking online.

The 28-year old has received widespread condemnation for the event, many of them Brazilian celebrities.

However, the mayor’s office in Mangaratiba said it cannot legislate private parties, adding “in the middle of a pandemic it is a question of each citizen’s responsibility and good sense” whether to host parties or attend big gatherings.

The pandemic has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil, a higher death toll than in any other country bar the United States. On Tuesday alone, 1,111 people were reported to have died from COVID-19, the Health Ministry said.

The city of Rio de Janeiro, where millions of people gather each year on Copacabana beach to watch the world famous firework display every New Year's Eve, has cancelled this year’s event.

And state prosecutors said they were “analyzing” what measures to take over the party if any.

Neymar did not immediately respond to requests for comment but the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper said his PR team described him as merely a guest at the event, not the host.

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place.

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place. Brazilian media said the Paris Saint Germain striker was the host of the five-day-long party in Mangaratiba, a beachside town around 105 km (65 miles) from Rio de Janeiro but his public relations team was quoted by one newspaper as saying he was only a guest. Newspapers on Wednesday said guests had started arriving at the luxury condominium where the player owns property. Reports said he had bought a disused hangar for the event and required all guests to give up their cell phones to prevent photos and videos leaking online. The 28-year old has received widespread condemnation for the event, many of them Brazilian celebrities. However, the mayor’s office in Mangaratiba said it cannot legislate private parties, adding “in the middle of a pandemic it is a question of each citizen’s responsibility and good sense” whether to host parties or attend big gatherings. The pandemic has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil, a higher death toll than in any other country bar the United States. On Tuesday alone, 1,111 people were reported to have died from COVID-19, the Health Ministry said. The city of Rio de Janeiro, where millions of people gather each year on Copacabana beach to watch the world famous firework display every New Year's Eve, has cancelled this year’s event. And state prosecutors said they were “analyzing” what measures to take over the party if any. Neymar did not immediately respond to requests for comment but the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper said his PR team described him as merely a guest at the event, not the host.

Authorities say they're powerless to halt Neymar party

India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23.&nbsp;

Of the total, only 2.68 lakh are active cases. Over 98 lakh have recovered from the disease.&nbsp;

With 252 additional deaths reported on Monday, the death toll now stands at over 1.48 lakh.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Tuesday said 9,83,695 samples have been tested for coronavirus till Monday.&nbsp;

The total number of samples tested so far in India are 16,98,01,749 the top medical body stated.

The coronavirus active caseload remained below 3 lakh for the seventh consecutive day.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23.

India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23. Of the total, only 2.68 lakh are active cases. Over 98 lakh have recovered from the disease. With 252 additional deaths reported on Monday, the death toll now stands at over 1.48 lakh. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Tuesday said 9,83,695 samples have been tested for coronavirus till Monday. The total number of samples tested so far in India are 16,98,01,749 the top medical body stated. The coronavirus active caseload remained below 3 lakh for the seventh consecutive day. (With inputs from agencies)

India records 16,432 new Covid-19 cases, lowest daily rise in over 6 months

The incoming US Vice-President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris </a>got vaccinated against the novel coronavirus on live television,&nbsp;the Biden transition team reported.

Harris, dressed in a black shirt, was given a jab of the&nbsp;vaccine on Tuesday morning at the&nbsp;United Medical Center in Washington, DC, administered by clinical nurse manager Patricia Cummings.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/take-it-there-is-nothing-to-worry-about-biden-receives-vaccine-live-on-television-351481">‘Take it, there is nothing to worry about': Biden receives vaccine live on television</a>

"I urge everyone, when it is your turn, get vaccinated. It's about saving your life, the life of your family members and the life of your community," Harris said.

She got vaccinated a week after the President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine&nbsp;on December 21, 2020. He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-milestone-us-administers-first-moderna-covid-19-vaccines-351449">Another milestone: US administers first Moderna COVID-19 vaccines</a>

Later, he took to Twitter to thank the scientists, researchers and all frontline workers who have tirelessly worked throughout the year to battle the novel coronavirus. "Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it," he tweeted.

The incoming US Vice-President Kamala Harris got vaccinated against the novel coronavirus on live television, the Biden transition team reported. Harris, dressed in a black shirt, was given a jab of the vaccine on Tuesday morning at the United Medical Center in Washington, DC, administered by clinical nurse manager Patricia Cummings.

The incoming US Vice-President Kamala Harris got vaccinated against the novel coronavirus on live television, the Biden transition team reported. Harris, dressed in a black shirt, was given a jab of the vaccine on Tuesday morning at the United Medical Center in Washington, DC, administered by clinical nurse manager Patricia Cummings. Also read| ‘Take it, there is nothing to worry about': Biden receives vaccine live on television "I urge everyone, when it is your turn, get vaccinated. It's about saving your life, the life of your family members and the life of your community," Harris said. She got vaccinated a week after the President-elect Joe Biden took a shot of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine on December 21, 2020. He was administered the vaccine at Christiana Care Hospital in Newark, Delaware. After saying "I'm ready", he rolled up the sleeve on his left arm and later assured Americans that "there's nothing to worry about". Also read| Another milestone: US administers first Moderna COVID-19 vaccines Later, he took to Twitter to thank the scientists, researchers and all frontline workers who have tirelessly worked throughout the year to battle the novel coronavirus. "Today, I received the COVID-19 vaccine. To the scientists and researchers who worked tirelessly to make this possible — thank you. We owe you an awful lot. And to the American people — know there is nothing to worry about. When the vaccine is available, I urge you to take it," he tweeted.

US Vice President-elect Kamala Harris gets COVID-19 vaccine

Leading by example: Political leaders who got vaccinated for Coronavirus

Argentina has officially launched COVID-19&nbsp;vaccinations with Russia's Sputnik V shots on Tuesday, the local government reported. The news has come a few days after the&nbsp;Russia health ministry approved the vaccine for people over the age of 60.

A few days after the announcement, Russia started transporting its first big international shipment, which was almost&nbsp;300,000 doses to Argentina. however, the shipment&nbsp;consisted only of the first dose of the two-shot vaccine, which is easier to make than the second dose.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-first-six-cases-of-mutant-coronavirus-from-britain-353077" hreflang="en">India reports first six cases of mutant coronavirus from Britain</a>

"We are going to have to keep taking care of ourselves. It will take a few months for the vaccine to have a widespread effect," said&nbsp;&nbsp;Health Minister Gines Gonzalez Garcia.

This news has attracted criticism from the locals in Russia who feel more doses should have been first available or the Russians rather than being shipped off to Argentina this week.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-reports-first-case-of-new-coronavirus-strain-that-emerged-in-south-africa-353072" hreflang="en">Japan reports first case of new coronavirus strain that emerged in South Africa</a>

While Argentina has received and started rolling out 300,000 doses, some regions of Rusia are reporting to have received only 2,000 doses or less than that till now.

This is Argentina's second coronavirus vaccine, which has been brought into action a few days after the elderly people of the country were administered the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-mutation-tracker-new-strain-leading-to-chaos-and-confusion-across-the-globe-353019" hreflang="en">Coronavirus mutation tracker: New strain leading to chaos across the globe</a>

The vaccination drive began simultaneously around the country with frontline healthcare workers given priority. Argentina has also become the first country in Ámericas'to use Russia's Sputnik V vaccine.

The Sputnik V vaccine was being hailed as the first COVID-19 vaccine but has since failed to gain the momentum similar to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which was first approved by the Uk and other countries followed the footsteps.

Argentina has officially launched COVID-19 vaccinations with Russia's Sputnik V shots on Tuesday, the local government reported. The news has come a few days after the Russia health ministry approved the vaccine for people over the age of 60.

Argentina has officially launched COVID-19 vaccinations with Russia's Sputnik V shots on Tuesday, the local government reported. The news has come a few days after the Russia health ministry approved the vaccine for people over the age of 60. A few days after the announcement, Russia started transporting its first big international shipment, which was almost 300,000 doses to Argentina. however, the shipment consisted only of the first dose of the two-shot vaccine, which is easier to make than the second dose. Also read| India reports first six cases of mutant coronavirus from Britain "We are going to have to keep taking care of ourselves. It will take a few months for the vaccine to have a widespread effect," said Health Minister Gines Gonzalez Garcia. This news has attracted criticism from the locals in Russia who feel more doses should have been first available or the Russians rather than being shipped off to Argentina this week. Also read| Japan reports first case of new coronavirus strain that emerged in South Africa While Argentina has received and started rolling out 300,000 doses, some regions of Rusia are reporting to have received only 2,000 doses or less than that till now. This is Argentina's second coronavirus vaccine, which has been brought into action a few days after the elderly people of the country were administered the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine. Also read| Coronavirus mutation tracker: New strain leading to chaos across the globe The vaccination drive began simultaneously around the country with frontline healthcare workers given priority. Argentina has also become the first country in Ámericas'to use Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. The Sputnik V vaccine was being hailed as the first COVID-19 vaccine but has since failed to gain the momentum similar to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which was first approved by the Uk and other countries followed the footsteps.

Argentina starts coronavirus vaccine with Russia's Sputnik V

Manchester City's Premier League visit to Everton on Monday was postponed after multiple new positive tests for coronavirus were detected at City, the club confirmed.

"Based on strong medical advice the Premier League, in consultation with both clubs, have decided to postpone the fixture," City said in a statement.

City announced on Christmas Day there had been four positive tests at the club for players Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus and two staff members.

"After the latest round of Covid-19 testing, the club returned a number of positive cases, in addition to the four already reported on Christmas Day," City's statement added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-wants-to-play-in-united-states-says-want-to-experience-life-there-352949" hreflang="en">Lionel Messi wants to play in United States, says 'want to experience life there'</a>

"With the security of the bubble compromised, there posed a risk that the virus could spread further amongst the squad, the staff and potentially beyond."

The club's training ground will now close for an "indeterminate period" with further testing on players and staff to take place before it can reopen.

City are due to face Chelsea away in the Premier League on Sunday.

It is just the second time that a Premier League match has been postponed due to Covid-19 since the 2019/20 season resumed in June.

Aston Villa's clash with Newcastle earlier this month was called off due to an outbreak at Newcastle's training ground.

City manager Pep Guardiola's mother died of coronavirus earlier this year and speaking after Saturday's 2-0 win over Newcastle, he said the health of his players must take priority.

"What we want is that Gabriel and Kyle don't get worse and can be asymptomatic and pass this 8-10 days without tough symptoms," said Guardiola.

"Covid is here. It is not just here in Man City, it is all around the world attacking hard so that's why we have to be careful and what we want is the next days is for them not to have symptoms and recov

Manchester City's Premier League visit to Everton on Monday was postponed after multiple new positive tests for coronavirus were detected at City, the club confirmed.

Manchester City's Premier League visit to Everton on Monday was postponed after multiple new positive tests for coronavirus were detected at City, the club confirmed. "Based on strong medical advice the Premier League, in consultation with both clubs, have decided to postpone the fixture," City said in a statement. City announced on Christmas Day there had been four positive tests at the club for players Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus and two staff members. "After the latest round of Covid-19 testing, the club returned a number of positive cases, in addition to the four already reported on Christmas Day," City's statement added. Also read| Lionel Messi wants to play in United States, says 'want to experience life there' "With the security of the bubble compromised, there posed a risk that the virus could spread further amongst the squad, the staff and potentially beyond." The club's training ground will now close for an "indeterminate period" with further testing on players and staff to take place before it can reopen. City are due to face Chelsea away in the Premier League on Sunday. It is just the second time that a Premier League match has been postponed due to Covid-19 since the 2019/20 season resumed in June. Aston Villa's clash with Newcastle earlier this month was called off due to an outbreak at Newcastle's training ground. City manager Pep Guardiola's mother died of coronavirus earlier this year and speaking after Saturday's 2-0 win over Newcastle, he said the health of his players must take priority. "What we want is that Gabriel and Kyle don't get worse and can be asymptomatic and pass this 8-10 days without tough symptoms," said Guardiola. "Covid is here. It is not just here in Man City, it is all around the world attacking hard so that's why we have to be careful and what we want is the next days is for them not to have symptoms and recov

Man City's clash at Everton postponed due to multiple Covid-19 cases

The Government of India is starting dry run in four states — Punjab, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat — from today. The exercise will continue for two days, December 28 and 29, in two districts each.

The mock drill will be like the actual vaccination drive but there will be no vaccine administration. Data will be fed to the Co-WIN app, cold storage will be tested and vaccine transportation from cold storage to the sites, crowd management etc will be checked

All the four states will report their observations to the centre recorded during the program. The government plans to cover 30 crore people in the first phase when it rolls out Covid vaccine. &nbsp;

A total of 2,360 training sessions have been held so far, and 7,000 officials have been trained, including medical officers and vaccinators.

Though India has not given a nod to any vaccine for emergency use, Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine, tested and manufactured in India by Serum Institute, is the front-runner. Once the UK drug regulator gives its approval to the vaccine, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is likely to hold a meeting where the details will be reviewed and the nod will be given after evaluation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of India is starting dry run in four states — Punjab, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat — from today. The exercise will continue for two days, December 28 and 29, in two districts each.

The Government of India is starting dry run in four states — Punjab, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat — from today. The exercise will continue for two days, December 28 and 29, in two districts each. The mock drill will be like the actual vaccination drive but there will be no vaccine administration. Data will be fed to the Co-WIN app, cold storage will be tested and vaccine transportation from cold storage to the sites, crowd management etc will be checked All the four states will report their observations to the centre recorded during the program. The government plans to cover 30 crore people in the first phase when it rolls out Covid vaccine. A total of 2,360 training sessions have been held so far, and 7,000 officials have been trained, including medical officers and vaccinators. Though India has not given a nod to any vaccine for emergency use, Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine, tested and manufactured in India by Serum Institute, is the front-runner. Once the UK drug regulator gives its approval to the vaccine, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is likely to hold a meeting where the details will be reviewed and the nod will be given after evaluation. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus vaccine dry run: India to hold two-day dummy drive in four states

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Union countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

Sweden imposes stricter COVID-19 regulations amid fear of new variant

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the&nbsp;Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday.

As of now, the pharmaceutical company has already produced 40 to million doses of the Oxford vaccine and is aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March, provided a new facility is established,&nbsp;Serum Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla reported.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

He is also hoping to ramp up the production to 300 million doses of the vaccine by July 2021 to meet the rising demand, considering the new variants being identified in several parts of the world.

"We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said.&nbsp;

He also assured that all related data has been provided to the concerned authorities of the UK and India. "All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. The re are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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Poonawalla has also reported&nbsp;that since India is a part of 'COVAX', at least 50 per cent of all the produce will be given to India. He also added that considering India's population, "probably end up giving the majority of those 50 million doses to India first".

Hinting towards a "good news from the UK very soon", he notified that the&nbsp;AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is aiming to get licensed by January 2021.&nbsp;

Poonawalla has also warned of an expected shortage of the COVID-19 vaccines in the first half of the new year, but added that "we will see easing off by August-September 2021 as other vaccine manufactures will also be able to supply"

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday.

Serum Institute of India is expecting the Indian government to give approval to the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine for emergency use in the next few days, the company said on Monday. As of now, the pharmaceutical company has already produced 40 to million doses of the Oxford vaccine and is aiming to ramp up production to at least 100 million doses a month by March, provided a new facility is established, Serum Chief Executive Adar Poonawalla reported. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus He is also hoping to ramp up the production to 300 million doses of the vaccine by July 2021 to meet the rising demand, considering the new variants being identified in several parts of the world. "We have 40-50 million doses of Covishield stockpiled. Once we get regulatory approvals in a few days, it'll be down to the government to decide how much they can take and how fast," Poonawalla said. He also assured that all related data has been provided to the concerned authorities of the UK and India. "All data on Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID19 vaccine submitted in India and UK. The re are no concerns, regulators are closely reviewing documents and data," he said. WATCH| × Poonawalla has also reported that since India is a part of 'COVAX', at least 50 per cent of all the produce will be given to India. He also added that considering India's population, "probably end up giving the majority of those 50 million doses to India first". Hinting towards a "good news from the UK very soon", he notified that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is aiming to get licensed by January 2021. Poonawalla has also warned of an expected shortage of the COVID-19 vaccines in the first half of the new year, but added that "we will see easing off by August-September 2021 as other vaccine manufactures will also be able to supply"

India to approve AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine soon: Adar Poonawalla

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions&nbsp; on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-chief-claims-vaccine-works-against-new-strain-of-coronavirus-352737">AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus</a>

This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine,"&nbsp;Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference.

The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines.

Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-launches-mass-covid-19-vaccination-drive-352837">WATCH|</a>

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As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint".

Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths.

The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

After the new strains of coronavirus have been found in several countries, Sweden's government has issued temporary rules to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. The new restrictions will bring limitations on the number of people to gather in specific public places, and will drop the old general restrictions on public gatherings. The new rules will be imposed from January 10 after the government approves the final draft. Also read| AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus This new law will also enable the government to temporarily shutdown several businesses, shopping malls, leisure and entertainment venues and public transports. "Those who violate restrictions that limit access to public places can be sentenced to a monetary fine," Health Minister Lena Hallengren said in a press conference. The new restrictions have come after months of non-coercive methods imposed by the Swedish government. However, with an alarming increase in the coronavirus cases in the country, the local government and the health experts decided to impose stricter guidelines. Decision of shutting down establishments has also been taken to make sure the new strain of coronavirus, first found in the United Kingdom, does not spread in Sweden. As of now, several countries such as Italy, UK, South Africa, Canada and a few more have reported new variants of the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × As of now, all public and private gatherings are allowed to have a maximum of eight members only. The government also urged citizens to maintain social distance and wear face masks while stepping out. This is the first time such an order has been issued as the government always believed the COVID-19 measures should be "a marathon, not a sprint". Till December 23, Swede has reported nearly 396,048 coronavirus cases with almost 8,279 deaths. The announcement has also come at a time when the European Un ion countries have started mass vaccination drive from Sunday after the EU regulatory body approved emergency usage of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine.

Several members of the&nbsp;Philippines's President's security team have been injected with a Chinese-made <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> making them the first&nbsp;Philippines nationals to receive any vaccine against<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus"> COVID-19</a>.

The alarming fact behind this news, reported by&nbsp;Philippines officials on Monday is that the local health regulators have not yet given official approval to any vaccine yet, although the government is in talks with several&nbsp;pharmaceutical firms including Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and China's&nbsp;Sinopharm.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-china-seek-to-jointly-develop-energy-projects-in-south-china-sea-335695">Philippines, China seek to jointly develop energy projects in South China Sea</a>

Philippines is hoping to secure nearly 60 million doses for the coronavirus vaccine, with the aim to start a mass vaccination drive in the second quarter of 2021.

"The PSG administered Covid-19 vaccine to its personnel performing close-in security operations to the President," said&nbsp;unit chief Brigadier General Jesus Durante in a statement.&nbsp;

Security personnel were immunised with a vaccine which has not yet been approved &nbsp;the country's Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, it is not yet clear how many security personnel were provided with the vaccine.

As of now, it is confirmed that the security team has been given the Chinese vaccine. However, how many doses of the Sinopharm drug were obtained and when has not yet been made clear.

While the President's security team,&nbsp;Presidential Security Group (PSG), has been immunised with the vaccine, the President himself is waiting "for the perfect or appropriate vaccine".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-protests-us-navys-provocative-actions-in-south-china-sea-334188">Also read|&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-protests-us-navys-provocative-actions-in-south-china-sea-334188" hreflang="en">China protests US Navy's 'provocative actions' in South China Sea</a>

The news has come after the President&nbsp;Rodrigo Duterte had expressed his desire to act as a tester of the Chinese and Russian vaccine, claiming he has extreme confidence in the vaccines being produced by these two countries.

President's spokesperson also took this opportunity to take a direct aim at the 'unfriendly' countries and said, "The news is that the vaccine is already here and if we cannot be given Western vaccines, our friend and neighbour China is willing to give us vaccine."

&nbsp;"It's not prohibited under the law to get inoculated with an unregistered (vaccine). What is illegal is the distribution and selling," he added.

As of now,&nbsp;Philippines has recorded more than&nbsp;Philippines cases, which excludes the Chirstmas and holidays surge.

Several members of the Philippines's President's security team have been injected with a Chinese-made coronavirus vaccine making them the first Philippines nationals to receive any vaccine against COVID-19.

Several members of the Philippines's President's security team have been injected with a Chinese-made coronavirus vaccine making them the first Philippines nationals to receive any vaccine against COVID-19. The alarming fact behind this news, reported by Philippines officials on Monday is that the local health regulators have not yet given official approval to any vaccine yet, although the government is in talks with several pharmaceutical firms including Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and China's Sinopharm. Also read| Philippines, China seek to jointly develop energy projects in South China Sea Philippines is hoping to secure nearly 60 million doses for the coronavirus vaccine, with the aim to start a mass vaccination drive in the second quarter of 2021. "The PSG administered Covid-19 vaccine to its personnel performing close-in security operations to the President," said unit chief Brigadier General Jesus Durante in a statement. Security personnel were immunised with a vaccine which has not yet been approved the country's Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, it is not yet clear how many security personnel were provided with the vaccine. As of now, it is confirmed that the security team has been given the Chinese vaccine. However, how many doses of the Sinopharm drug were obtained and when has not yet been made clear. While the President's security team, Presidential Security Group (PSG), has been immunised with the vaccine, the President himself is waiting "for the perfect or appropriate vaccine". Also read| China protests US Navy's 'provocative actions' in South China Sea The news has come after the President Rodrigo Duterte had expressed his desire to act as a tester of the Chinese and Russian vaccine, claiming he has extreme confidence in the vaccines being produced by these two countries. President's spokesperson also took this opportunity to take a direct aim at the 'unfriendly' countries and said, "The news is that the vaccine is already here and if we cannot be given Western vaccines, our friend and neighbour China is willing to give us vaccine." "It's not prohibited under the law to get inoculated with an unregistered (vaccine). What is illegal is the distribution and selling," he added. As of now, Philippines has recorded more than Philippines cases, which excludes the Chirstmas and holidays surge.

Philippines' Rodrigo Duterte's security team gets COVID-19 vaccine without approval

A day after the European Union countries started vaccinating locals for the&nbsp;novel coronavirus, Spain officials have reported that the country has not yet got their full share of doses of the Pfizer vaccine yet.

Pfizer has postponed the delivery of new batches of COVID-19 vaccines to eight European Union countries, including Spain, the&nbsp;Spanish health ministry&nbsp;reported on Monday. The statement has come a few days after the EU chief&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen announced all EU nations have received their share of vaccines.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-in-emergency-mode-after-five-new-coronavirus-cases-found-in-chinese-capital-352858" hreflang="en">Beijing in emergency mode after five new cases found in Chinese capital</a>

The delay in the fresh batch of vaccines has occurred due to a "problem in the loading and shipment process" at the Pfizer plant in Belgium, the health ministry reported on Monday. Spain was informed about the delay on Sunday night.

While Spain has issued a statement, the names of the other seven EU countries who have felt the brunt of this delay have not ben named yet.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/history-tells-us-this-wont-be-last-pandemic-says-who-chief-on-coronavirus-352865" hreflang="en">History tells us this won't be last pandemic, says WHO chief on coronavirus</a>

Pfizer has reported that thee issue "was already resolved "but added that the next delivery of coronavirus vaccines "will be a few hours late". The vaccine is now expected to reach Spain on Tuesday — which is a day after the original arrival date.

Health Minister Salvador Illa said the problem was apparently "linked to the control of the temperature" of the shipments which is now "apparently fixed". These vaccines need to be stored at&nbsp;ultra-low temperatures of about -70 degrees Celsius (-112 Fahrenheit) before being shipped in cool boxes which are custom designed and filled with dry ice.&nbsp;Once out of ultra-low temperature storage, the vaccine must be kept at 2 Celsius to 8 Celsius to remain effective for up to five days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-begins-2-day-dry-run-vaccination-process-across-four-states-352900">WATCH|</a>

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"Due to a minor logistical issue, we have rescheduled a limited number of our deliveries," Andrew Widger, Pfizer's director for media relations said. "The logistical matter has been resolved and those deliveries are now being dispatched. There are no manufacturing issues to report."

The European country, Spain, has to receive 350,000 doses of vaccines per week for the next three months, which is expected to arrive by Tuesday now for this week.

A day after the European Union countries started vaccinating locals for the novel coronavirus, Spain officials have reported that the country has not yet got their full share of doses of the Pfizer vaccine yet.

A day after the European Union countries started vaccinating locals for the novel coronavirus, Spain officials have reported that the country has not yet got their full share of doses of the Pfizer vaccine yet. Pfizer has postponed the delivery of new batches of COVID-19 vaccines to eight European Union countries, including Spain, the Spanish health ministry reported on Monday. The statement has come a few days after the EU chief Ursula von der Leyen announced all EU nations have received their share of vaccines. Also read| Beijing in emergency mode after five new cases found in Chinese capital The delay in the fresh batch of vaccines has occurred due to a "problem in the loading and shipment process" at the Pfizer plant in Belgium, the health ministry reported on Monday. Spain was informed about the delay on Sunday night. While Spain has issued a statement, the names of the other seven EU countries who have felt the brunt of this delay have not ben named yet. Also read| History tells us this won't be last pandemic, says WHO chief on coronavirus Pfizer has reported that thee issue "was already resolved "but added that the next delivery of coronavirus vaccines "will be a few hours late". The vaccine is now expected to reach Spain on Tuesday — which is a day after the original arrival date. Health Minister Salvador Illa said the problem was apparently "linked to the control of the temperature" of the shipments which is now "apparently fixed". These vaccines need to be stored at ultra-low temperatures of about -70 degrees Celsius (-112 Fahrenheit) before being shipped in cool boxes which are custom designed and filled with dry ice. Once out of ultra-low temperature storage, the vaccine must be kept at 2 Celsius to 8 Celsius to remain effective for up to five days. WATCH| × "Due to a minor logistical issue, we have rescheduled a limited number of our deliveries," Andrew Widger, Pfizer's director for media relations said. "The logistical matter has been resolved and those deliveries are now being dispatched. There are no manufacturing issues to report." The European country, Spain, has to receive 350,000 doses of vaccines per week for the next three months, which is expected to arrive by Tuesday now for this week.

Pfizer vaccine delivery delayed in Spain and other EU countries

Two new cases of a new coronavirus variant have been detected in Jordan in a couple who had returned from the UK, Health Minister reported on Sunday.

The Jordanian couple had returned from the UK recently after travelling on December 19, reported&nbsp;Health Minister Nazir Obeidat.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-begins-vaccine-rollout-as-new-virus-strain-spreads-fears-352641">Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears</a>

This new strain spotted is a particularly infectious coronavirus variant. The couple has since been isolated, although they are reportedly in "excellent health" condition. The couple is still being monitored by a team of doctors.&nbsp;

The cases have been identified a few hours after Jordan, like other countries, imposed restrictions on all incoming passengers from the UK, over fears of the new strain infiltering the country's borders.

Jordan announced the new strain a few hours after&nbsp;Canada's Ontario confirmed two cases of the new variant of coronavirus.

In mid-December, Jordan announced it had approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, which will be distributed free of cost to the locals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadas-ontario-finds-two-cases-of-virus-variant-first-seen-in-uk-352756">WATCH|</a>&nbsp;

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In addition to Jordan and Canada, several other countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, South Africa and a few more have also detected new variants of the virus.

While the AstraZeneca chief has claimed the Oxford vaccine will be effective against the new strains too, scientists believe the new variants is&nbsp;about 40-70 percent more transmissible than the original strain.

Two new cases of a new coronavirus variant have been detected in Jordan in a couple who had returned from the UK, Health Minister reported on Sunday. The Jordanian couple had returned from the UK recently after travelling on December 19, reported Health Minister Nazir Obeidat.

Two new cases of a new coronavirus variant have been detected in Jordan in a couple who had returned from the UK, Health Minister reported on Sunday. The Jordanian couple had returned from the UK recently after travelling on December 19, reported Health Minister Nazir Obeidat. Also read| Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears This new strain spotted is a particularly infectious coronavirus variant. The couple has since been isolated, although they are reportedly in "excellent health" condition. The couple is still being monitored by a team of doctors. The cases have been identified a few hours after Jordan, like other countries, imposed restrictions on all incoming passengers from the UK, over fears of the new strain infiltering the country's borders. Jordan announced the new strain a few hours after Canada's Ontario confirmed two cases of the new variant of coronavirus. In mid-December, Jordan announced it had approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, which will be distributed free of cost to the locals. WATCH| × In addition to Jordan and Canada, several other countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, South Africa and a few more have also detected new variants of the virus. While the AstraZeneca chief has claimed the Oxford vaccine will be effective against the new strains too, scientists believe the new variants is about 40-70 percent more transmissible than the original strain.

Jordan reports two cases of new 'infectious' strain of coronavirus

A group of scientists are urging the UK government to impose a complete lockdown in the country as the cases have increased alarmingly following the birth of the new variant of the deadly virus.

Scientists from the Independent Sage group have requested the government to out the entire country under the 'Tier 4' category of lockdown, rather than a selected few areas.

As per the scientists, all nonessential shops such as&nbsp;hairdressers and entertainment venues should be temporarily closed down in all areas. They have also called for stricter travel restrictions and bring in safer education programme in the initial months of 2021.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canadas-ontario-finds-two-cases-of-virus-variant-first-seen-in-uk-352756">WATCH|</a>

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This plan has been supported by several unions and teachers who believe schools should again be shifted to online teaching to make sure children and teachers do not get infected by the novel coronavirus, and the new strain of it.

The suggestion has come at a time when several countries around the world have closed their borders to all incoming British travellers, with several stuck at borders and airports.

A similar strain of coronavirus has also been found in several other countries, after the UK, such as South Africa, Italy, Canada, Spain, Japan and a few more.

As of now, the UK has been out under lockdown on basis of tier-based division, with some critical areas in 'tier 4' restrictions, and others enjoying the privilege of moving around in tiers 3,2 and 1.

A group of scientists are urging the UK government to impose a complete lockdown in the country as the cases have increased alarmingly following the birth of the new variant of the deadly virus.

A group of scientists are urging the UK government to impose a complete lockdown in the country as the cases have increased alarmingly following the birth of the new variant of the deadly virus. Scientists from the Independent Sage group have requested the government to out the entire country under the 'Tier 4' category of lockdown, rather than a selected few areas. As per the scientists, all nonessential shops such as hairdressers and entertainment venues should be temporarily closed down in all areas. They have also called for stricter travel restrictions and bring in safer education programme in the initial months of 2021. WATCH| × This plan has been supported by several unions and teachers who believe schools should again be shifted to online teaching to make sure children and teachers do not get infected by the novel coronavirus, and the new strain of it. The suggestion has come at a time when several countries around the world have closed their borders to all incoming British travellers, with several stuck at borders and airports. A similar strain of coronavirus has also been found in several other countries, after the UK, such as South Africa, Italy, Canada, Spain, Japan and a few more. As of now, the UK has been out under lockdown on basis of tier-based division, with some critical areas in 'tier 4' restrictions, and others enjoying the privilege of moving around in tiers 3,2 and 1.

Scientists urge nationwide 'tier 4' lockdown in UK

A pilot has vowed to spread awareness about the novel coronavirus&nbsp;and thank the efforts of the frontline workers who have been&nbsp;working round the clock to help the world battle COVID-19 pandemic.

Samy Kramer, a trained pilot, took to the skies to form the shape of a syringe to celebrate the first day of European Union's vaccination drive for the masses.

Kramer said he hoped his aerial stunt will be&nbsp;"a fun and unconventional way to raise awareness" about the coronavirus and vaccines being made available to the masses in several European countries from today.

By performing this stunt, he became one of the four pilots who have summarized 2020 — the pandemic year — in four of such routes. The other pilots drew a 'thumbs up' with the medical plus sign, a 'stay at home' warning' and 'NHS' in the skies.

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The year 2020 summarized by 4 pilots.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Flightradar24?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Flightradar24</a> <a href="https://t.co/LTNP0OAO9m">pic.twitter.com/LTNP0OAO9m</a>
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) <a href="https://twitter.com/flightradar24/status/1342423262102491138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Kramer flew&nbsp;in a Diamond DA20 single-propeller plane and traced the shape of the syringe above&nbsp;Friedrichshafen, a German town 126km (78miles) from Stuttgart.

"It was to set sort of a reminder to people and raise awareness that the vaccine will be available," Kramer said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-european-union-nations-to-start-vaccination-process-together-352646">WATCH|</a>&nbsp;

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The European countries have started mass vaccination drive a day after the&nbsp;European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen announced that the vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries.

The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said.

A pilot has vowed to spread awareness about the novel coronavirus and thank the efforts of the frontline workers who have been working round the clock to help the world battle COVID-19 pandemic.

A pilot has vowed to spread awareness about the novel coronavirus and thank the efforts of the frontline workers who have been working round the clock to help the world battle COVID-19 pandemic. Samy Kramer, a trained pilot, took to the skies to form the shape of a syringe to celebrate the first day of European Union's vaccination drive for the masses. Kramer said he hoped his aerial stunt will be "a fun and unconventional way to raise awareness" about the coronavirus and vaccines being made available to the masses in several European countries from today. By performing this stunt, he became one of the four pilots who have summarized 2020 — the pandemic year — in four of such routes. The other pilots drew a 'thumbs up' with the medical plus sign, a 'stay at home' warning' and 'NHS' in the skies. The year 2020 summarized by 4 pilots.#Covid19 #Flightradar24 pic.twitter.com/LTNP0OAO9m — Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) December 25, 2020 × Kramer flew in a Diamond DA20 single-propeller plane and traced the shape of the syringe above Friedrichshafen, a German town 126km (78miles) from Stuttgart. "It was to set sort of a reminder to people and raise awareness that the vaccine will be available," Kramer said. WATCH| × The European countries have started mass vaccination drive a day after the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen announced that the vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said.

Pilot draws syringe in sky as COVID-19 vaccination drive begins

With an alarming increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country, a nationwide lockdown has bene reimposed in Israel for the third time in this pandemic year.

Voicing a tone of optimism and hope, Israel's&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a "world record" vaccination will bring things back to normal within weeks, but urged people to stay indoors till the point of normal is reached.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-inoculate-quarter-of-its-population-against-coronavirus-in-a-month-says-netanyahu-352705">Israel to inoculate quarter of its population against coronavirus in a month, says Netanyahu</a>

The country went into a third nationwide lockdown to limit the transmission by following strict regulations that have previously, too, helped the country bounce back to near-normal conditions.

Starting from 5 pm on Sunday, people will not be allowed to step out of their houses unless they are seeking&nbsp;medical care, attending legal proceedings, going to school or exercising.&nbsp;

Unlike last time, the Israel government has decided to keep the schools open amid this lockdown. However, children under the age of six, students in grade one to four and teenagers finishing secondary school in grades 11 and 12 will only be allowed to attend the school physically. Grades five to 10 will stay closed and continue with virtual classes.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-third-nationwide-virus-lockdown-352002">&nbsp;Israel announces third nationwide virus lockdown</a>

The decision to keep&nbsp;grades five through 10 home has attracted criticism from experts who believe this decision will negatively affect the emotional and mental wellbeing of these teenagers.

"The decision to ignore this age bracket means the abandonment of hundreds of thousands of children, only because in theory they can be left at home alone while (their parents) go to work," NCC head Vered Windman was quoted by a local newspaper. "But this is precisely the age group that is at a higher risk of developing emotional difficulties, fears and isolation."

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister, on Saturday after&nbsp;Shabbat, told the masses he has personally spoken to head of companies developing the coronavirus vaccine and has been assured that the companies will be able to provide the requisite number of doses to Israel.

Appreciating the efforts of the local officials for starting the vaccine drive, he said the targets set by the country's administration for vaccination drive of "such a magnitude (they amount to) a world record".

With an alarming increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country, a nationwide lockdown has bene reimposed in Israel for the third time in this pandemic year.

With an alarming increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country, a nationwide lockdown has bene reimposed in Israel for the third time in this pandemic year. Voicing a tone of optimism and hope, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a "world record" vaccination will bring things back to normal within weeks, but urged people to stay indoors till the point of normal is reached. Also read| Israel to inoculate quarter of its population against coronavirus in a month, says Netanyahu The country went into a third nationwide lockdown to limit the transmission by following strict regulations that have previously, too, helped the country bounce back to near-normal conditions. Starting from 5 pm on Sunday, people will not be allowed to step out of their houses unless they are seeking medical care, attending legal proceedings, going to school or exercising. Unlike last time, the Israel government has decided to keep the schools open amid this lockdown. However, children under the age of six, students in grade one to four and teenagers finishing secondary school in grades 11 and 12 will only be allowed to attend the school physically. Grades five to 10 will stay closed and continue with virtual classes. Also read| Israel announces third nationwide virus lockdown The decision to keep grades five through 10 home has attracted criticism from experts who believe this decision will negatively affect the emotional and mental wellbeing of these teenagers. "The decision to ignore this age bracket means the abandonment of hundreds of thousands of children, only because in theory they can be left at home alone while (their parents) go to work," NCC head Vered Windman was quoted by a local newspaper. "But this is precisely the age group that is at a higher risk of developing emotional difficulties, fears and isolation." Meanwhile, the Prime Minister, on Saturday after Shabbat, told the masses he has personally spoken to head of companies developing the coronavirus vaccine and has been assured that the companies will be able to provide the requisite number of doses to Israel. Appreciating the efforts of the local officials for starting the vaccine drive, he said the targets set by the country's administration for vaccination drive of "such a magnitude (they amount to) a world record".

Israel enters third nationwide lockdown; PM hopes for 'world record' of vaccinated people

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too.

Considering the same,&nbsp;AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-confirms-two-cases-of-coronavirus-variant-first-seen-in-uk-352638" hreflang="en">Canada confirms two cases of coronavirus variant first seen in UK</a>

While Soriot is almost sure about this, he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said.

Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-inoculate-quarter-of-its-population-against-coronavirus-in-a-month-says-netanyahu-352705" hreflang="en">Israel to inoculate quarter of its population in a month, says Netanyahu</a>

"We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published.

As AstraZeneca got the approval of emergency use, the vaccine is expected to be rolled out by January first week. However, the experts are raising doubts against it.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-begins-vaccine-rollout-as-new-virus-strain-spreads-fears-352641" hreflang="en">Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears</a>

"The medicines regulator is reviewing the final data from the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca phase three clinical trials to determine whether the vaccine meets their strict standards of quality, safety and effectiveness,"&nbsp;a government spokesperson said. "We must now give the MHRA the time to carry out its important work and we must wait for its advice."

AstraZeneca's chief's statements came after the European Union countries, too, started their vaccination drive from Sunday after the US, UK, Britain, Israel and many other countries have set their targets to vaccinate majority population.

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too.

While the world is battling a new strain of coronavirus, experts have now turned their attention to making sure the existing vaccines work against the new variant too. Considering the same, AstraZeneca chief executive, Pascal Soriot, said his team of researchers are almost sure that the Oxford vaccine will be able to fight against the novel coronavirus. Also read| Canada confirms two cases of coronavirus variant first seen in UK While Soriot is almost sure about this, he said more tests need to be performed to be sure about this. "So far, we think the vaccine should remain effective. But we can’t be sure, so we’re going to test that," Soriot said. Hailing it as a "winning formula", Soriot thanked the team of researchers and said he hopes it will be able to contain the new variant of the virus found in several countries such as the UK, South Africa, Italy, etc. Also read| Israel to inoculate quarter of its population in a month, says Netanyahu "We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else," Soriot said, refusing to reveal any more information before it is officially published. As AstraZeneca got the approval of emergency use, the vaccine is expected to be rolled out by January first week. However, the experts are raising doubts against it. Also read| Europe begins vaccine rollout as new virus strain spreads fears "The medicines regulator is reviewing the final data from the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca phase three clinical trials to determine whether the vaccine meets their strict standards of quality, safety and effectiveness," a government spokesperson said. "We must now give the MHRA the time to carry out its important work and we must wait for its advice." AstraZeneca's chief's statements came after the European Union countries, too, started their vaccination drive from Sunday after the US, UK, Britain, Israel and many other countries have set their targets to vaccinate majority population.

AstraZeneca chief claims vaccine works against new strain of coronavirus

A fire broke out in a coronavirus hospital facility located in the north of the capital city of Egypt, Cairo. The fire took seven lives, as per initial reports.

The intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital caught fire and claimed seven coronavirus patients, and injured five others who were getting treated for the deadly virus in the hospital.

As of now, the cause of the fire has not been identified. However, an investigation has been launched to find out the origin of the deadly blaze.

The fire broke out on Saturday, and several units of firefighters were dispatched to the scene of the incident immediately. The officers were able to stop the blaze from spreading within an hour of the breakout.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-world-in-2020-needs-batman-egyptian-enthusiast-in-cosplay-352374">WATCH|</a>

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The incident has come at a time when the Arabic country is struggling to contain the spread of coronavirus and Egyptian hospitals are running out of space for coronavirus patients.

As of now, Egypt has recorded nearly 130,126 coronavirus cases and almost 7,309 deaths due to the deadly virus.

This is the second such fire after a hospital&nbsp;in Egypt's coastal city of Alexandria killed seven coronavirus patients and injured seven others in June.

A fire broke out in a coronavirus hospital facility located in the north of the capital city of Egypt, Cairo. The fire took seven lives, as per initial reports. The intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital caught fire and claimed seven coronavirus patients, and injured five others who were getting treated for the deadly virus in the hospital.

A fire broke out in a coronavirus hospital facility located in the north of the capital city of Egypt, Cairo. The fire took seven lives, as per initial reports. The intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital caught fire and claimed seven coronavirus patients, and injured five others who were getting treated for the deadly virus in the hospital. As of now, the cause of the fire has not been identified. However, an investigation has been launched to find out the origin of the deadly blaze. The fire broke out on Saturday, and several units of firefighters were dispatched to the scene of the incident immediately. The officers were able to stop the blaze from spreading within an hour of the breakout. WATCH| × The incident has come at a time when the Arabic country is struggling to contain the spread of coronavirus and Egyptian hospitals are running out of space for coronavirus patients. As of now, Egypt has recorded nearly 130,126 coronavirus cases and almost 7,309 deaths due to the deadly virus. This is the second such fire after a hospital in Egypt's coastal city of Alexandria killed seven coronavirus patients and injured seven others in June.

Egypt: Hospital fire kills seven coronavirus patients, injures five

A journalist in Jordan has been arrested after he reported the kingdom has received coronavirus vaccine and the local officials had already received shots of the vaccine.

The journalist,&nbsp;Jamal Haddad, is an editor with a local news website. Haddad claimed several government officials had received the Pfizer vaccine.

"The state security court prosecutor ordered the arrest Thursday of journalist Jamal Haddad, editor of news website Al-Wakaai, for writing that government officials had been vaccinated against the coronavirus," a source revealed.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordan-israel-go-in-huddle-on-palestine-issue-347573">Jordan, Israel go in huddle on Palestine issue</a>

Haddad's report has, as per the government officials, put lives of the general public at risk. He has been accused of "endangering public security and causing sedition and public disorder".

The arrest has been made a few days after the website published an article titled "What about the people? Did the Pfizer (vaccine) arrive in secret, and have senior officials in the Jordanian government been vaccinated?"

While Jordan has already announced that the kingdom has approved&nbsp;emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, the doses are expected to be delivered by the end of January or February first week, the&nbsp;Health Ministry official Wael al-Hayajneh reported.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-israel-saudi-arabia-cool-tensions-jordans-custodianship-of-al-aqsa-mosque-under-scrutiny-345856">As Israel, Saudi Arabia cool tensions, Jordan's custodianship of al-Aqsa mosque under scrutiny</a>

Haddad's report, therefore, allegedly, sends out the wrong information and puts public health at risk. He has been detained and is awaiting trial, at the moment, as per local reports.

The country's journalists' syndicate called for Haddad's immediate release, saying his arrest "harms Jordan's image".

As of now, Jordan has recorded more than 285,000 coronavirus cases and nearly 3,700 deaths. The government has also decided to distribute vaccines free of charge to Jordan locals and foreign residents.

A journalist in Jordan has been arrested after he reported the kingdom has received coronavirus vaccine and the local officials had already received shots of the vaccine.

A journalist in Jordan has been arrested after he reported the kingdom has received coronavirus vaccine and the local officials had already received shots of the vaccine. The journalist, Jamal Haddad, is an editor with a local news website. Haddad claimed several government officials had received the Pfizer vaccine. "The state security court prosecutor ordered the arrest Thursday of journalist Jamal Haddad, editor of news website Al-Wakaai, for writing that government officials had been vaccinated against the coronavirus," a source revealed. Also read| Jordan, Israel go in huddle on Palestine issue Haddad's report has, as per the government officials, put lives of the general public at risk. He has been accused of "endangering public security and causing sedition and public disorder". The arrest has been made a few days after the website published an article titled "What about the people? Did the Pfizer (vaccine) arrive in secret, and have senior officials in the Jordanian government been vaccinated?" While Jordan has already announced that the kingdom has approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, the doses are expected to be delivered by the end of January or February first week, the Health Ministry official Wael al-Hayajneh reported. Also read| As Israel, Saudi Arabia cool tensions, Jordan's custodianship of al-Aqsa mosque under scrutiny Haddad's report, therefore, allegedly, sends out the wrong information and puts public health at risk. He has been detained and is awaiting trial, at the moment, as per local reports. The country's journalists' syndicate called for Haddad's immediate release, saying his arrest "harms Jordan's image". As of now, Jordan has recorded more than 285,000 coronavirus cases and nearly 3,700 deaths. The government has also decided to distribute vaccines free of charge to Jordan locals and foreign residents.

Jordan: Journalist arrested for claiming officials received jabs of coronavirus vaccine

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA),&nbsp;approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe.

Ursula had earlier set a target start date of December 27-29 to vaccinate the masses in the EU, and keeping her promise to the masses, the leader announced on Saturday that the vaccine has been successfully delivered to all EU countries.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-works-against-new-variant-too-eu-approves-pfizer-biontech-coronavirus-vaccine-351418">'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine</a>

The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said.

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Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. 
 
Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU. 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUvaccinationdays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUvaccinationdays</a> are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/pYOj5vS2gV">pic.twitter.com/pYOj5vS2gV</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1342751465274806273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We are starting to turn the page on a difficult year. Today is delivery day and tomorrow vaccination against COVID-19 is beginning across the European Union," she said in a video message.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-confirms-new-virus-strain-as-vaccines-begin-arriving-in-european-nations-352576" hreflang="en">Spain confirms new virus strain as vaccines begin arriving in European nations</a>

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been made available to all the EU countries at the same time. Calling it a 'European success story', she reported that the EU has enough doses for everyone. "The European Union has secured enough doses of vaccines for our whole population of 450 million people," she said. "We also secured vaccines for our EEA neighbours like Iceland or Norway."

Ursula also assured that other coronavirus vaccines will be made available as soon as they are tested and&nbsp;approved by the experts.

Acknowledging the grim and socially distanced holiday season this year, she assured the world can return back to normal once the majority of the population is vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. She also urged people to stay cautious till then and follow the basic guidelines laid down by the health experts.

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA), approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe.

A few days after the EU regulator, European Medicines Agency (EMA), approved the coronavirus vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech for usage in the European Union countries, the European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen has said the vaccination drive will begin tomorrow across Europe. Ursula had earlier set a target start date of December 27-29 to vaccinate the masses in the EU, and keeping her promise to the masses, the leader announced on Saturday that the vaccine has been successfully delivered to all EU countries. Also read| 'It works against new variant too': EU approves Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine The leader took to Twitter to make the announcement. "The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic," she said. Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. The #COVID19 vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU. The #EUvaccinationdays are a touching moment of unity. Vaccination is the lasting way out of the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/pYOj5vS2gV — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) December 26, 2020 × "We are starting to turn the page on a difficult year. Today is delivery day and tomorrow vaccination against COVID-19 is beginning across the European Union," she said in a video message. Also read| Spain confirms new virus strain as vaccines begin arriving in European nations Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been made available to all the EU countries at the same time. Calling it a 'European success story', she reported that the EU has enough doses for everyone. "The European Union has secured enough doses of vaccines for our whole population of 450 million people," she said. "We also secured vaccines for our EEA neighbours like Iceland or Norway." Ursula also assured that other coronavirus vaccines will be made available as soon as they are tested and approved by the experts. Acknowledging the grim and socially distanced holiday season this year, she assured the world can return back to normal once the majority of the population is vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. She also urged people to stay cautious till then and follow the basic guidelines laid down by the health experts.

EU Chief says vaccine delivered to all EU countries; vaccination drive to start tomorrow

The mutant coronavirus strain is spreading. A few days after the UK reported multiple cases of the mutated virus, similar coronavirus strains have been discovered in multiple parts of the world. However,&nbsp;there are some countries where the identified variants are entirely different.

A new strain of the coronavirus is spreading —&nbsp;an advanced and scarier version. The first victim was the UK where the first case was detected in September. By November, the cases increased to a quarter of the total. Then, by December, two-thirds of the total infections were of the mutant virus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quiet-christmas-coronavirus-pandemic-keeps-crowds-at-home-352435">Quiet Christmas: Coronavirus pandemic keeps crowds at home</a>

The infections are still rising,&nbsp;the lockdown is back and&nbsp;there are travel restrictions where international flights have been banned and some countries are preparing themselves for the same.

South Africa

In South Africa, a new strain of the virus has caused a surge in infections. Officials say the variant is different from the one identified in the UK&nbsp;but it carries the same mutations and is equally infectious.

On Thursday, the South African health ministry registered a record 14,305 cases of the new strain. It is infecting not just adults but younger people with no existing medical conditions and it is&nbsp;spreading quickly.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-true-south-africa-denies-new-variant-is-deadlier-than-uks-strain-352306" hreflang="en">'Not true': South Africa denies new variant is deadlier than UK's strain</a>

"In terms of how dangerous this virus is, this is what we know about the virus so far: it transmits quickly. So that is why it's actually responsible for a vast majority of the second wave in South Africa. The viral loads are higher in, that is the burden of virus in an infected individual is (inaudible) among people that are infected with this variant," said&nbsp;Dr John Nkengasong, Director of the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Nigeria

In Nigeria,&nbsp;another mutant strain of the coronavirus has been discovered. This one's entirely different from the strains identified in the UK and South Africa but there's little evidence on whether its more infectious or potent than the original virus.

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/leading-by-example-political-leaders-who-got-vaccinated-for-coronavirus-352396" hreflang="en">Leading by example: Political leaders who got vaccinated for Coronavirus</a>

The only thing evident is the spike in cases. The African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;says the cases in Nigeria have risen by 52 per cent.

Israel

In Israel, the health ministry has detected three cases of the new strain in individuals who had recently returned from the UK. The infected have been sent to government-run quarantine centres&nbsp;but the Israeli Prime Minister is not taking any chances. He has declared that the mutant strain could already be spreading.

"At the moment we need to assume that the virus is spreading here. The good news is that the assessments of the companies that are supplying us with vaccines are that there is a high – but not absolute – likelihood that these vaccines will deal with the mutation as well. We will know this in a few days; we have no guarantee that this will be the case. We need to wait in order to know this," said Israel's Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu.

Several other countries have reported cases of the new strain — such as Denmark, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands in the UK. Australia, Malaysia, and South Africa.

In India,&nbsp;no cases of the mutant strain have been reported yet but the government is not taking any chances. At least six labs across India are conducting genome sequencing tests to detect the presence of the mutant strain.

The mutant coronavirus strain is spreading. A few days after the UK reported multiple cases of the mutated virus, similar coronavirus strains have been discovered in multiple parts of the world.

The mutant coronavirus strain is spreading. A few days after the UK reported multiple cases of the mutated virus, similar coronavirus strains have been discovered in multiple parts of the world. However, there are some countries where the identified variants are entirely different. A new strain of the coronavirus is spreading — an advanced and scarier version. The first victim was the UK where the first case was detected in September. By November, the cases increased to a quarter of the total. Then, by December, two-thirds of the total infections were of the mutant virus. Also read| Quiet Christmas: Coronavirus pandemic keeps crowds at home The infections are still rising, the lockdown is back and there are travel restrictions where international flights have been banned and some countries are preparing themselves for the same. South Africa In South Africa, a new strain of the virus has caused a surge in infections. Officials say the variant is different from the one identified in the UK but it carries the same mutations and is equally infectious. On Thursday, the South African health ministry registered a record 14,305 cases of the new strain. It is infecting not just adults but younger people with no existing medical conditions and it is spreading quickly. Also read| 'Not true': South Africa denies new variant is deadlier than UK's strain "In terms of how dangerous this virus is, this is what we know about the virus so far: it transmits quickly. So that is why it's actually responsible for a vast majority of the second wave in South Africa. The viral loads are higher in, that is the burden of virus in an infected individual is (inaudible) among people that are infected with this variant," said Dr John Nkengasong, Director of the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Nigeria In Nigeria, another mutant strain of the coronavirus has been discovered. This one's entirely different from the strains identified in the UK and South Africa but there's little evidence on whether its more infectious or potent than the original virus. Have a look| Leading by example: Political leaders who got vaccinated for Coronavirus The only thing evident is the spike in cases. The African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says the cases in Nigeria have risen by 52 per cent. Israel In Israel, the health ministry has detected three cases of the new strain in individuals who had recently returned from the UK. The infected have been sent to government-run quarantine centres but the Israeli Prime Minister is not taking any chances. He has declared that the mutant strain could already be spreading. "At the moment we need to assume that the virus is spreading here. The good news is that the assessments of the companies that are supplying us with vaccines are that there is a high – but not absolute – likelihood that these vaccines will deal with the mutation as well. We will know this in a few days; we have no guarantee that this will be the case. We need to wait in order to know this," said Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Several other countries have reported cases of the new strain — such as Denmark, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands in the UK. Australia, Malaysia, and South Africa. In India, no cases of the mutant strain have been reported yet but the government is not taking any chances. At least six labs across India are conducting genome sequencing tests to detect the presence of the mutant strain.

As 2020 comes to an end, Coronavirus 2.0 spreads across the globe

In what could be termed a "Christmas present" for the BMC, Asia`s largest slum Dharavi notched zero cases on Friday — first time since the COVID-19 pandemic appeared in the congested settlement on April 1, health officials said. 
 
At one point, it ranked as the worst hotspot and the most worrisome for the health authorities, but Dharavi now has a mere 12 active cases currently under treatment in local hospitals.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-23068-new-coronavirus-cases-336-deaths-in-last-24-hours-352227" hreflang="en">India reports 23,068 new coronavirus cases, 336 deaths in last 24 hours</a> 
 
"We salute the people of Dharavi for their full cooperation, following the BMC`s SOPs and other health guidelines that has helped immensely," an elated BMC Municipal Commissioner I.S. Chahal told IANS. 
 
"This is a major progress and achievement since the first case and death was reported from Dharavi on April 1. All our efforts to control the pandemic here have yielded fruitful results. Nevertheless, our vigil continues," said a local BMC Ward official, requesting anonymity.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-releases-over-rs-18000-crore-for-around-9-crore-farmers-352269" hreflang="en">PM Narendra Modi releases over Rs 18,000 crore for around 9 crore farmers</a> 
 
Till date, Dharavi has notched a total 3,788 cases, — compared with Mumbai's 289,800 — and just 12 active cases vis-a-vis the city`s current total of 20,128. 
 
After a quiet entry into Dharavi on April 1, the locality attracted national and even global attention as cases continued to soar in April-May-June, posing a huge challenge for the BMC and the Maharashtra government. 
 
As the state and civic administrations girdled their loins to tackle the COVID-19 onslaught by implementing the `Dharavi Model`, it yielded rich dividends and by the third week of June, the 2.25 square km neighbourhood was already off the `Corona critical` list.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-second-nationwide-lockdown-in-bhutan-india-hands-over-20000-rt-pcr-kits-to-tackle-pandemic-352114" hreflang="en">Amid second nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India hands over 20,000 RT-PCR kits to tackle pandemic</a> 
 
As Dharavi`s success spread cheer, the World Health Organisation, the World Bank, and the Centre praised the successful efforts while the Philippines announced that it would implement a similar model to control the contagion in the less affluent districts of Manila. 
 
At that time, a pleased Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray proudly observed that "Dharavi has now emerged as a global role-model in tackling the Coronavirus pandemic". 
 
For the area housing nearly a million souls living or working in the heart of south-central Mumbai, the BMC had deployed the 4-Ts strategy — Tracing, Tracking, Testing and Treating — to combat the scourge. 
 
Later, it followed up by an innovative `Chase The Virus` initiative in which for every single patient detected, 15 of his/her close contacts were also quarantined. 
 
Other precautionary measures included medicines distributed to all the frontline health care and health security workers, opening a fully-equipped new institutional quarantine facility, senior citizens shifted to various BMC-run hospitals for treatment and door-to-door health checks. 
 
With sterling results in its cap, the BMC started withdrawing from Dharavi, scaling or shutting down the facilities here by June-end, and the local businesses slowly started coming back to life and started limping back towards normalcy by August-September. 
 
Meanwhile, the rest of Maharashtra continued to cause worries with a total of 19,13,382 total cases till date, including 3,431 added on Friday, and the state death increased by 71 to touch 49,129 — both figures highest in the country.

In what could be termed a "Christmas present" for the BMC, Asia`s largest slum Dharavi notched zero cases on Friday — first time since the COVID-19 pandemic appeared in the congested settlement on April 1, health officials said.

In what could be termed a "Christmas present" for the BMC, Asia`s largest slum Dharavi notched zero cases on Friday — first time since the COVID-19 pandemic appeared in the congested settlement on April 1, health officials said. At one point, it ranked as the worst hotspot and the most worrisome for the health authorities, but Dharavi now has a mere 12 active cases currently under treatment in local hospitals. Also read| India reports 23,068 new coronavirus cases, 336 deaths in last 24 hours "We salute the people of Dharavi for their full cooperation, following the BMC`s SOPs and other health guidelines that has helped immensely," an elated BMC Municipal Commissioner I.S. Chahal told IANS. "This is a major progress and achievement since the first case and death was reported from Dharavi on April 1. All our efforts to control the pandemic here have yielded fruitful results. Nevertheless, our vigil continues," said a local BMC Ward official, requesting anonymity. Also read| PM Narendra Modi releases over Rs 18,000 crore for around 9 crore farmers Till date, Dharavi has notched a total 3,788 cases, — compared with Mumbai's 289,800 — and just 12 active cases vis-a-vis the city`s current total of 20,128. After a quiet entry into Dharavi on April 1, the locality attracted national and even global attention as cases continued to soar in April-May-June, posing a huge challenge for the BMC and the Maharashtra government. As the state and civic administrations girdled their loins to tackle the COVID-19 onslaught by implementing the `Dharavi Model`, it yielded rich dividends and by the third week of June, the 2.25 square km neighbourhood was already off the `Corona critical` list. Also read| Amid second nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India hands over 20,000 RT-PCR kits to tackle pandemic As Dharavi`s success spread cheer, the World Health Organisation, the World Bank, and the Centre praised the successful efforts while the Philippines announced that it would implement a similar model to control the contagion in the less affluent districts of Manila. At that time, a pleased Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray proudly observed that "Dharavi has now emerged as a global role-model in tackling the Coronavirus pandemic". For the area housing nearly a million souls living or working in the heart of south-central Mumbai, the BMC had deployed the 4-Ts strategy — Tracing, Tracking, Testing and Treating — to combat the scourge. Later, it followed up by an innovative `Chase The Virus` initiative in which for every single patient detected, 15 of his/her close contacts were also quarantined. Other precautionary measures included medicines distributed to all the frontline health care and health security workers, opening a fully-equipped new institutional quarantine facility, senior citizens shifted to various BMC-run hospitals for treatment and door-to-door health checks. With sterling results in its cap, the BMC started withdrawing from Dharavi, scaling or shutting down the facilities here by June-end, and the local businesses slowly started coming back to life and started limping back towards normalcy by August-September. Meanwhile, the rest of Maharashtra continued to cause worries with a total of 19,13,382 total cases till date, including 3,431 added on Friday, and the state death increased by 71 to touch 49,129 — both figures highest in the country.

On Christmas, Mumbai's Dharavi records zero coronavirus cases

The district health department said on Friday that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available to around 35,000 health workers of government and private hospitals in the district. 
 
Also, apart from the government facilities, COVID vaccine centres will also be set up at private hospitals across the district. 
 
A meeting of the Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) committee was conducted on Friday under the chairmanship of Virender Yadav, civil surgeon, Gurugram. The meeting was also attended by the representative of the World Health Organization, Bindu Yadav, officials of all private hospitals and the Indian Medical Association. 
 
Elaborating the COVID-19 vaccination process, deputy civil surgeon M.P. Singh said that the COVID-19 vaccination drive may start in the district by January. 
 
"For this, a training programme was organised at the mini secretariat recently about the procedure of giving vaccines and preparations related to it. Initially, this vaccine will be given to corona warriors in a phased manner. The vaccine will be first given to health workers, officials and employees associated with health services," Singh said. 
 
Singh also informed that the vaccination process would be monitored through the COVID portal. 
 
"The process of preparing data of COVID warriors has started on this portal," Singh said. 
 
According to the instructions of the government, the vaccine has been planned to be given in different stages so that it can be administered in a systematic manner. Also, the vaccine storage transmission work will be done under the observation of the government. 
 
"A team of five vaccinators will provide vaccines to a group of 100 people. Particular attention will be given to social distancing during this process. The person who is vaccinated will be informed through SMS on his mobile in advance so that this work can be done in a planned manner. After vaccination, the person will have to stay in the centre for 30 minutes so that any reaction can be cured immediately," he said. 
 
The official further stated that at the time of vaccination, the person`s information who came for the vaccination will be matched with the online Covid portal. 
 
"Vaccination will be given on getting the correct information and the person will be kept in the observation room for some time. We will soon start a campaign to give information about the process," he added.

The district health department said on Friday that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available to around 35,000 health workers of government and private hospitals in the district.

The district health department said on Friday that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available to around 35,000 health workers of government and private hospitals in the district. Also, apart from the government facilities, COVID vaccine centres will also be set up at private hospitals across the district. A meeting of the Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) committee was conducted on Friday under the chairmanship of Virender Yadav, civil surgeon, Gurugram. The meeting was also attended by the representative of the World Health Organization, Bindu Yadav, officials of all private hospitals and the Indian Medical Association. Elaborating the COVID-19 vaccination process, deputy civil surgeon M.P. Singh said that the COVID-19 vaccination drive may start in the district by January. "For this, a training programme was organised at the mini secretariat recently about the procedure of giving vaccines and preparations related to it. Initially, this vaccine will be given to corona warriors in a phased manner. The vaccine will be first given to health workers, officials and employees associated with health services," Singh said. Singh also informed that the vaccination process would be monitored through the COVID portal. "The process of preparing data of COVID warriors has started on this portal," Singh said. According to the instructions of the government, the vaccine has been planned to be given in different stages so that it can be administered in a systematic manner. Also, the vaccine storage transmission work will be done under the observation of the government. "A team of five vaccinators will provide vaccines to a group of 100 people. Particular attention will be given to social distancing during this process. The person who is vaccinated will be informed through SMS on his mobile in advance so that this work can be done in a planned manner. After vaccination, the person will have to stay in the centre for 30 minutes so that any reaction can be cured immediately," he said. The official further stated that at the time of vaccination, the person`s information who came for the vaccination will be matched with the online Covid portal. "Vaccination will be given on getting the correct information and the person will be kept in the observation room for some time. We will soon start a campaign to give information about the process," he added.

COVID-19 vaccine will be available to 35,000 health workers in Gurugram

The year of the pandemic has been tough and many people have sacrificed their time with family and friends to&nbsp;cater to the medical, mental and physical emergencies.

Now, as the holiday season has arrived,&nbsp;the World Health Organization (WHO) chief is requesting people not to let the sacrifices of&nbsp;the frontline workers go to waste.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-south-africa-another-coronavirus-variant-emerges-in-nigeria-352189">After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria</a>

The WHO chief&nbsp;Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to Twitter to share a video-recorded Christmas message urging g people to stay safe by staying apart. "&nbsp;wish everyone a safe and restful holiday season. This year by staying apart to stay safe from #COVID19, we can all give the most important gifts of all: the gifts of life and health. #InThisTogether," he tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I wish everyone a safe and restful holiday season. This year by staying apart to stay safe from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>, we can all give the most important gifts of all: the gifts of life and health. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InThisTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InThisTogether</a><a href="https://t.co/HlNobGujwg">pic.twitter.com/HlNobGujwg</a>
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1342160805450674180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"As 2020 draws to an end, a pandemic of historic proportions is preventing many of us from celebrating in the ways we would like," Tedros said in the message.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-impose-covid-19-screening-requirement-for-uk-flights-352207">US to impose COVID-19 screening requirement for UK flights</a>

Talking about the "heart-wrenching sacrifices" being made by the frontline workers, Tedros reminded the general public that these experts and workers "in doing so, they are giving the most precious gifts: the gifts of life and health."

He also talked about how the vaccines are now giving a ray of hope for the world, but also urged people to exercise caution to not let the sacrifices of the people who lost their loved ones in this pandemic go to waste.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-approves-use-of-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-rollout-to-begin-on-dec-30-352300" hreflang="en">Ireland approves use of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, rollout to begin on Dec 30</a>

"We must not squander their sacrifices, nor those made by so many families who, this holiday season, will sit at family tables missing a familiar face.

"Despite so much loss, we have built so much hope. Vaccines are offering the world a way out of this tragedy. But it will take time for the whole world to be vaccinated."

His message has come at a point when several countries are finding new variants of the novel coronavirus, such as the UK, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Nigeria and Ireland.

The year of the pandemic has been tough and many people have sacrificed their time with family and friends to cater to the medical, mental and physical emergencies.

The year of the pandemic has been tough and many people have sacrificed their time with family and friends to cater to the medical, mental and physical emergencies. Now, as the holiday season has arrived, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief is requesting people not to let the sacrifices of the frontline workers go to waste. Also read| After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria The WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to Twitter to share a video-recorded Christmas message urging g people to stay safe by staying apart. " wish everyone a safe and restful holiday season. This year by staying apart to stay safe from #COVID19, we can all give the most important gifts of all: the gifts of life and health. #InThisTogether," he tweeted. I wish everyone a safe and restful holiday season. This year by staying apart to stay safe from #COVID19, we can all give the most important gifts of all: the gifts of life and health. #InThisTogetherpic.twitter.com/HlNobGujwg — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) December 24, 2020 × "As 2020 draws to an end, a pandemic of historic proportions is preventing many of us from celebrating in the ways we would like," Tedros said in the message. Also read| US to impose COVID-19 screening requirement for UK flights Talking about the "heart-wrenching sacrifices" being made by the frontline workers, Tedros reminded the general public that these experts and workers "in doing so, they are giving the most precious gifts: the gifts of life and health." He also talked about how the vaccines are now giving a ray of hope for the world, but also urged people to exercise caution to not let the sacrifices of the people who lost their loved ones in this pandemic go to waste. Also read| Ireland approves use of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, rollout to begin on Dec 30 "We must not squander their sacrifices, nor those made by so many families who, this holiday season, will sit at family tables missing a familiar face. "Despite so much loss, we have built so much hope. Vaccines are offering the world a way out of this tragedy. But it will take time for the whole world to be vaccinated." His message has come at a point when several countries are finding new variants of the novel coronavirus, such as the UK, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Nigeria and Ireland.

'We will sit at family tables missing a familiar face: WHO chief Tedros shares Christmas message

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier,&nbsp;Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

"At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-uk-south-africa-another-coronavirus-variant-emerges-in-nigeria-352189">After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria</a>

The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason.

Hancock had issued travel restrictions&nbsp;on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further".&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-600000-people-in-britain-get-first-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-jab-352187">Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab</a>

"This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world."

To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that.

He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits".

As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims.

After the UK's health minister Matt Hancock claimed the new variant of coronavirus found in South Africa is deadlier, Zwelini Mkhize, his South African counterpart has denied these claims. "At present, there is no evidence that the 501.V2 (variant) is more transmissible than the United Kingdom variant — as suggested by the British Health Secretary," said South Africa's Mkhize in a statement. Also read| After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria The statement has come after the UK imposed travel restrictions from all incoming passengers from South Africa, citing the new coronavirus variant as a reason. Hancock had issued travel restrictions on Wednesday and had claimed the variant from South Africa was "highly concerning, because it is yet more transmissible, and it appears to have mutated further". However, Mkhize has denied any such claims and said Hancock's statements "have created a perception that the variant in SA has been a major factor in the second wave in the UK", which he says is not true. Also read| Over 600,000 people in Britain get first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine jab "This is not correct," he said. "There is also no evidence that (it) causes more severe disease or increased mortality than the UK variant or any variant that has been sequenced around the world." To further prove his point, he also pointed out that the new variant found in the UK appeared in Kent county near the month of September whereas the South African once developed around a month after that. He also said "banning travel between UK and SA is an unfortunate decision" as "the risks of travel bans may outweigh the benefits". As of now, a few other European countries, too, have restricted incoming passengers from South Africa, in addition to the UK passengers.

'Not true': South Africa denies new variant is deadlier than UK's strain

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/london-emerges-as-new-hotspot-in-uk-1-in-85-people-infected-352089">Also read | London emerges as new hotspot in UK, 1-in-85 people infected</a> 
 
The discovery could add to new alarm in the pandemic after similar variants were announced in Britain and South Africa, leading to the swift return of international travel restrictions and other measures just as the world enters a major holiday season. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-will-stay-with-us-for-the-next-10-years-says-vaccine-creator-351920">Also read | Coronavirus will stay with us for the next 10 years, says vaccine creator</a>

"It's a separate lineage from the UK and the South African lineages," John Nkengasong, director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told an online news conference from Addis Ababa.

"The one we are seeing in Nigeria, and this is based on very limited data yet, has the 501 mutation," Nkengasong added, referring to the variant termed 501.V2 identified in South Africa and announced by public health officials there on December 18.

The Nigeria CDC and the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases in Nigeria will study more samples, Nkengasong said.

The country's principal COVID-19 investigator has just released publicly the genomic sequences of the new variant, he added.

Nigeria's CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nkengasong's remarks.

Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with more than 200 million people, has seen fewer coronavirus cases than many others on the continent.

Total cases crept past 80,000 on Wednesday. Daily recorded cases exceeded 1,000 for the first time this month.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days.

In what could be a new alarm to the Covid-19 pandemic globally, another variant of coronavirus has emerged in Africa’s most populous country, after distinct mutants of the virus have been reported from the UK and South Africa over the last few days. Also read | London emerges as new hotspot in UK, 1-in-85 people infected The discovery could add to new alarm in the pandemic after similar variants were announced in Britain and South Africa, leading to the swift return of international travel restrictions and other measures just as the world enters a major holiday season. Also read | Coronavirus will stay with us for the next 10 years, says vaccine creator "It's a separate lineage from the UK and the South African lineages," John Nkengasong, director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told an online news conference from Addis Ababa. "The one we are seeing in Nigeria, and this is based on very limited data yet, has the 501 mutation," Nkengasong added, referring to the variant termed 501.V2 identified in South Africa and announced by public health officials there on December 18. The Nigeria CDC and the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases in Nigeria will study more samples, Nkengasong said. The country's principal COVID-19 investigator has just released publicly the genomic sequences of the new variant, he added. Nigeria's CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Nkengasong's remarks. Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with more than 200 million people, has seen fewer coronavirus cases than many others on the continent. Total cases crept past 80,000 on Wednesday. Daily recorded cases exceeded 1,000 for the first time this month. (With inputs from agencies)

After UK, South Africa, another coronavirus variant emerges in Nigeria

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s.

FIFA says “the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges for the hosting of international sporting events and to have a restrictive effect on international travel.”

The governing body added, “it became clear that the global situation has failed to normalize to a sufficient level to address the challenges associated with hosting both tournaments, including the feasibility of the relevant qualification pathways.”

Earlier, UEFA had decided to cancel this year's Euros and postponed it to 2021. Coronavirus pandemic has been the reason for many cancellations in the sporting fraternity.&nbsp;

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic. These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s.

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic. These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s. FIFA says “the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges for the hosting of international sporting events and to have a restrictive effect on international travel.” The governing body added, “it became clear that the global situation has failed to normalize to a sufficient level to address the challenges associated with hosting both tournaments, including the feasibility of the relevant qualification pathways.” Earlier, UEFA had decided to cancel this year's Euros and postponed it to 2021. Coronavirus pandemic has been the reason for many cancellations in the sporting fraternity.

FIFA Under-17 and Under-20 World Cup 2021 cancelled due to COVID-19

Clinical trials of the CoronaVac coronavirus vaccine developed by Chinese laboratory Sinovac have "reached the efficacy threshold" demanded by the World Health Organization, the Brazilian institute charged with its production and distribution said on Wednesday.

However, the Butantan Institute didn't publish the results of those trials -- the last before authorization.

"We've reached the efficacy threshold that allows us to seek an emergency use" authorization from Brazil's Anvisa regulatory agency, said Butantan director Dimas Covas.

He said a clause in the Sinovac contract insisted that these phase III test results could only be made public once all clinical trials around the world have been completed.

In Brazil, 13,000 volunteers took part in the trials, which were also performed in Turkey, Indonesia and China.

"Our entire program remains unchanged. The production of doses is continuing in our factory and the immunization campaign will begin as expected on January 25," said Sao Paulo state health secretary Jean Gorinchteyn.

The WHO's efficacy threshold is 50 per cent but other laboratories, such as Pfizer and BioNTech that are collaborating on a vaccine that has already been administered to thousands of people in the United States and Britain, have reached 90 per cent efficacy.

Covas said the federal government would order 100 million CoronaVac doses, more than double the 46 million initially publicized.

Immunization has been a highly politicized issue in Brazil where far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has repeatedly said he won't take a vaccine while he's also tried to discredit the CoronaVac jab.

The Butantan Institute is supported by Sao Paulo state, whose governor Joao Doria repeatedly clashed with Bolsonaro over the country's coronavirus response and is expected to challenge the incumbent in the 2022 presidential elections.

Brazil has suffered the second-largest number of coronavirus deaths in the world after the US with 188,000 dead.

Clinical trials of the CoronaVac coronavirus vaccine developed by Chinese laboratory Sinovac have "reached the efficacy threshold" demanded by the World Health Organization, the Brazilian institute charged with its production and distribution said on Wednesday.

Clinical trials of the CoronaVac coronavirus vaccine developed by Chinese laboratory Sinovac have "reached the efficacy threshold" demanded by the World Health Organization, the Brazilian institute charged with its production and distribution said on Wednesday. However, the Butantan Institute didn't publish the results of those trials -- the last before authorization. "We've reached the efficacy threshold that allows us to seek an emergency use" authorization from Brazil's Anvisa regulatory agency, said Butantan director Dimas Covas. He said a clause in the Sinovac contract insisted that these phase III test results could only be made public once all clinical trials around the world have been completed. In Brazil, 13,000 volunteers took part in the trials, which were also performed in Turkey, Indonesia and China. "Our entire program remains unchanged. The production of doses is continuing in our factory and the immunization campaign will begin as expected on January 25," said Sao Paulo state health secretary Jean Gorinchteyn. The WHO's efficacy threshold is 50 per cent but other laboratories, such as Pfizer and BioNTech that are collaborating on a vaccine that has already been administered to thousands of people in the United States and Britain, have reached 90 per cent efficacy. Covas said the federal government would order 100 million CoronaVac doses, more than double the 46 million initially publicized. Immunization has been a highly politicized issue in Brazil where far-right President Jair Bolsonaro has repeatedly said he won't take a vaccine while he's also tried to discredit the CoronaVac jab. The Butantan Institute is supported by Sao Paulo state, whose governor Joao Doria repeatedly clashed with Bolsonaro over the country's coronavirus response and is expected to challenge the incumbent in the 2022 presidential elections. Brazil has suffered the second-largest number of coronavirus deaths in the world after the US with 188,000 dead.

Chinese CoronaVac vaccine 'reached efficacy threshold': Brazilian institute

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims.

The study was part of a lab experiment done using mechanical mannequins and human subjects.&nbsp;

A woman standing two metres (yards) from a coughing man without a mask will be exposed to 10,000 times more such droplets than if he were wearing one, even if he is only 50 centimetres away, they reported in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

"There is no more doubt whatsoever that face masks can dramatically reduce the dispersion of potentially virus-laden droplets," senior author Ignazio Maria Viola, an expert in applied fluid dynamics at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, told AFP.

Large respiratory droplets -- which act like projectiles before being pulled toward the ground by gravity -- are thought to be the main driver of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, he noted.

Smaller ones, sometimes called aerosol droplets, can remain suspended in the air for longer periods.

"We continuously exhale a whole range of droplets, from micro-scale to millimetre-scale," Maria Viola said by phone.

"Some of the droplets will drop faster than others" depending on temperature, humidity and especially airspeed, he said.

The study focused on particles larger than 170 microns in diameter -- roughly two to four times the width of a human hair.

Aerosol particles, which tend to follow currents in the air, are generally described as smaller than 20 or 30 microns.

Intermediate-size droplets can behave, either way, the study found.

Universal mask-wearing

"If you wear a mask, you are mitigating the virus transmission by an order of magnitude -- 10 times less," Maria Viola said.

"In our study, for the larger droplets we measure, we're talking about 99.9 percent less."

According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in Seattle, Washington, 55,000 lives could be saved in the United States over the next four months if a policy of universal mask use were adopted.

The Institute's modellers -- who accurately predicted in mid-July that Covid-19 deaths in the US would top 224,000 by November 1 -- project 561,000 deaths on current trends by April 1, 2021.

Universal mask-wearing would reduce the global death toll by 400,000 over the same period, from 2.9 million to 2.5 million, they calculate. To date, the virus has claimed about 1.7 million lives.

Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its Covid-19 guidance on masks to recommend they be worn indoors in the presence of other people if ventilation is inadequate.

The guidelines apply especially in areas of known or suspected community transmission.

Masks serve primarily to reduce the emissions of virus-laden droplets by people when they cough, sneeze, sing, talk or simply breathe, but they can also help prevent the inhalation of droplets by the person wearing them.

"Cloth masks not only effectively block most large droplets -- 20-30 microns and larger -- but they can also block the exhalation of fine droplets and particles, also often referred to as aerosols," according to the CDC.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims.

Face masks can reduce the risk of spreading large COVID-19 droplets by up to 99.9 per cent while speaking or coughing, a new study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science claims. The study was part of a lab experiment done using mechanical mannequins and human subjects. A woman standing two metres (yards) from a coughing man without a mask will be exposed to 10,000 times more such droplets than if he were wearing one, even if he is only 50 centimetres away, they reported in the journal Royal Society Open Science. "There is no more doubt whatsoever that face masks can dramatically reduce the dispersion of potentially virus-laden droplets," senior author Ignazio Maria Viola, an expert in applied fluid dynamics at the University of Edinburgh's School of Engineering, told AFP. Large respiratory droplets -- which act like projectiles before being pulled toward the ground by gravity -- are thought to be the main driver of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, he noted. Smaller ones, sometimes called aerosol droplets, can remain suspended in the air for longer periods. "We continuously exhale a whole range of droplets, from micro-scale to millimetre-scale," Maria Viola said by phone. "Some of the droplets will drop faster than others" depending on temperature, humidity and especially airspeed, he said. The study focused on particles larger than 170 microns in diameter -- roughly two to four times the width of a human hair. Aerosol particles, which tend to follow currents in the air, are generally described as smaller than 20 or 30 microns. Intermediate-size droplets can behave, either way, the study found. Universal mask-wearing "If you wear a mask, you are mitigating the virus transmission by an order of magnitude -- 10 times less," Maria Viola said. "In our study, for the larger droplets we measure, we're talking about 99.9 percent less." According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in Seattle, Washington, 55,000 lives could be saved in the United States over the next four months if a policy of universal mask use were adopted. The Institute's modellers -- who accurately predicted in mid-July that Covid-19 deaths in the US would top 224,000 by November 1 -- project 561,000 deaths on current trends by April 1, 2021. Universal mask-wearing would reduce the global death toll by 400,000 over the same period, from 2.9 million to 2.5 million, they calculate. To date, the virus has claimed about 1.7 million lives. Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its Covid-19 guidance on masks to recommend they be worn indoors in the presence of other people if ventilation is inadequate. The guidelines apply especially in areas of known or suspected community transmission. Masks serve primarily to reduce the emissions of virus-laden droplets by people when they cough, sneeze, sing, talk or simply breathe, but they can also help prevent the inhalation of droplets by the person wearing them. "Cloth masks not only effectively block most large droplets -- 20-30 microns and larger -- but they can also block the exhalation of fine droplets and particles, also often referred to as aerosols," according to the CDC. (With inputs from AFP)

Large droplets are the major driver of Covid transmission, masks can stop them: Study

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