An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday.

The app's official account had said on Saturday it could not link to test results taken in Public Health England laboratories, via the National Health Service or as part of a survey run by the Office for National Statistics.

"Everyone who receives a positive test result can log their result on the app," a health ministry spokesman said.

"A minority of people, such as hospital patients, who were unable to log their positive result can now request a code when contacted by NHS Test and Trace to input on their app."

An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday.

An issue with England's COVID-19 smartphone app, launched to curb the spread of the virus, which meant it could not accept around a third of test results has been resolved, the government said on Sunday. The app's official account had said on Saturday it could not link to test results taken in Public Health England laboratories, via the National Health Service or as part of a survey run by the Office for National Statistics. "Everyone who receives a positive test result can log their result on the app," a health ministry spokesman said. "A minority of people, such as hospital patients, who were unable to log their positive result can now request a code when contacted by NHS Test and Trace to input on their app."

UK says test result issue on England's COVID-19 app resolved

New York is committed to making outdoor dining a permanent option for the thousands of restaurants that have embraced the concept since the coronavirus pandemic struck in the spring, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Friday.

The city, an early U.S. COVID-19 epicenter, aims to extend to year-round Open Restaurants, a now-temporary program credited with saving 90,000 jobs, the mayor said. The program has proved enormously popular with New Yorkers since it was introduced in June.

The mayor made the announcement days before indoor restaurant dining will resume in New York City on Sept. 30, with a limit of 25% occupancy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-to-review-any-covid-19-vaccine-authorised-by-federal-government-330095">Also read|&nbsp;New York to review any COVID-19 vaccine authorised by federal government</a>

"Open Restaurants was a big, bold experiment in supporting vital industry and reimagining our public space. And it worked," de Blasio said in a statement.

"We`re proud to extend and expand this effort to keep New York City the most vibrant city in the world. It`s time for a new tradition," de Blasio said.

The mayor`s office said it would work with the city council to make the regulatory changes necessary to transform the program into a permanent option.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-clock-turns-back-to-tell-the-time-remaining-329104">Also read|&nbsp;New York: Clock turns back to tell the time remaining</a>

The mayor said the city was also extending Open Streets, a program that created as many as 85 car-free streets during the pandemic in part to expand space for outdoor restaurant eating.

"The program allows people and small businesses rather than cars to use our curbside lanes," said James Patchett, president of New York City Economic Development Corporation, of Open Streets. "This all means more public space for New Yorkers and a healthier, more walkable city."

To keep outdoor patrons warm through the autumn and winter months, the city will allow restaurants to use electric heaters as well as propane and natural gas units, with some limitations.

Fully enclosed tents also are permitted, with an occupancy limit of 25% capacity. Plastic domes with adequate air ventilation also are approved for individual parties.

But winter weather could force the city to suspend the program, the city warned.

"Significant snow events may necessitate the temporary removal of some barriers from the roadway," the city said in a statement.

New York is committed to making outdoor dining a permanent option for the thousands of restaurants that have embraced the concept since the coronavirus pandemic struck in the spring, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Friday.

New York is committed to making outdoor dining a permanent option for the thousands of restaurants that have embraced the concept since the coronavirus pandemic struck in the spring, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Friday. The city, an early U.S. COVID-19 epicenter, aims to extend to year-round Open Restaurants, a now-temporary program credited with saving 90,000 jobs, the mayor said. The program has proved enormously popular with New Yorkers since it was introduced in June. The mayor made the announcement days before indoor restaurant dining will resume in New York City on Sept. 30, with a limit of 25% occupancy. Also read| New York to review any COVID-19 vaccine authorised by federal government "Open Restaurants was a big, bold experiment in supporting vital industry and reimagining our public space. And it worked," de Blasio said in a statement. "We`re proud to extend and expand this effort to keep New York City the most vibrant city in the world. It`s time for a new tradition," de Blasio said. The mayor`s office said it would work with the city council to make the regulatory changes necessary to transform the program into a permanent option. Also read| New York: Clock turns back to tell the time remaining The mayor said the city was also extending Open Streets, a program that created as many as 85 car-free streets during the pandemic in part to expand space for outdoor restaurant eating. "The program allows people and small businesses rather than cars to use our curbside lanes," said James Patchett, president of New York City Economic Development Corporation, of Open Streets. "This all means more public space for New Yorkers and a healthier, more walkable city." To keep outdoor patrons warm through the autumn and winter months, the city will allow restaurants to use electric heaters as well as propane and natural gas units, with some limitations. Fully enclosed tents also are permitted, with an occupancy limit of 25% capacity. Plastic domes with adequate air ventilation also are approved for individual parties. But winter weather could force the city to suspend the program, the city warned. "Significant snow events may necessitate the temporary removal of some barriers from the roadway," the city said in a statement.

'It worked': In New York City, pandemic-inspired outdoor dining to become permanent

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged the world leaders to ensure that the information about the COVID-19 vccine is shared with all countries, or the history will tell the tale.

"When it comes to a vaccine, Australia's view is very clear —&nbsp;whoever finds the vaccine must share it," Morrison said in a pre-recorded message to the virtual UN General Assembly.

"This is a global responsibility and it's a moral responsibility for a vaccine to be shared far and wide," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enough-is-enough-china-lashes-out-at-us-during-un-meeting-330064">Also read|&nbsp;'Enough is enough': China lashes out at US during UN meeting</a>

"Some might see short-term advantage or even profit, but I assure you, to anyone who may think along those lines — humanity will have a very long memory and be a very, very severe judge."

It is believed that the appeal was made in reference to the US — an ally of Australia which has hinted towards a resistance towards global combined efforts towards developing a vaccine.

The US President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;had, few days ago, boasted about several American companies being in the race to develop the vaccine. So much so, the Trump administration has refused to promise to share the coronavirus-related research claiming it fears theft of research by China.

He&nbsp;has also advocated mandatory vaccinations once a vaccine is available.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-diplomat-walks-out-of-unga-hall-as-pak-pm-mentions-kashmir-in-speech-330306">Also read|&nbsp;Indian diplomat walks out of UNGA hall as Pak PM mentions Kashmir in speech</a>

Morrison also went against&nbsp;Trump's&nbsp;accusations towards the World Health Organization (WHO) and applauded the organization for its efforts of containing the spread of the novel&nbsp;coronavirus.&nbsp;On the other hand,&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has warned the United Nations (UN) that the US will pull out of the WHO if it keeps (allegedly) favouring and aiding China.

The PM has also promised support for Covax — a UN initiative that promises to have two billion doses of a vaccine ready by the second half of 2021. The initiative has been rubbished by the&nbsp;United States, China and Russia.

However, Morrison did not completely abandon its ally, and urged the UN to find the origin of the&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;— a topic that has strained China's relationship with Australia and the US.

Unlike Trump,&nbsp;Morrison did not blame China directly for the origin of the virus and said, "We must do all we can to understand what happened for no other purpose than to prevent it from happening again."

The Australian PM gained support from the developing countries for vaccine sharing. "I urge that COVID-19 vaccines and medicines be considered as global public goods that can be accessible to all," said Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha.

Argentine President Alberto Fernandez also advocated for global sharing and warned that "With the pandemic, as with poverty, nobody will be saved on their own."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged the world leaders to ensure that the information about the COVID-19 vccine is shared with all countries, or the history will tell the tale.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged the world leaders to ensure that the information about the COVID-19 vccine is shared with all countries, or the history will tell the tale. "When it comes to a vaccine, Australia's view is very clear — whoever finds the vaccine must share it," Morrison said in a pre-recorded message to the virtual UN General Assembly. "This is a global responsibility and it's a moral responsibility for a vaccine to be shared far and wide," he said. Also read| 'Enough is enough': China lashes out at US during UN meeting "Some might see short-term advantage or even profit, but I assure you, to anyone who may think along those lines — humanity will have a very long memory and be a very, very severe judge." It is believed that the appeal was made in reference to the US — an ally of Australia which has hinted towards a resistance towards global combined efforts towards developing a vaccine. The US President Donald Trump had, few days ago, boasted about several American companies being in the race to develop the vaccine. So much so, the Trump administration has refused to promise to share the coronavirus-related research claiming it fears theft of research by China. He has also advocated mandatory vaccinations once a vaccine is available. Also read| Indian diplomat walks out of UNGA hall as Pak PM mentions Kashmir in speech Morrison also went against Trump's accusations towards the World Health Organization (WHO) and applauded the organization for its efforts of containing the spread of the novel coronavirus. On the other hand, Trump has warned the United Nations (UN) that the US will pull out of the WHO if it keeps (allegedly) favouring and aiding China. The PM has also promised support for Covax — a UN initiative that promises to have two billion doses of a vaccine ready by the second half of 2021. The initiative has been rubbished by the United States, China and Russia. However, Morrison did not completely abandon its ally, and urged the UN to find the origin of the coronavirus — a topic that has strained China's relationship with Australia and the US. Unlike Trump, Morrison did not blame China directly for the origin of the virus and said, "We must do all we can to understand what happened for no other purpose than to prevent it from happening again." The Australian PM gained support from the developing countries for vaccine sharing. "I urge that COVID-19 vaccines and medicines be considered as global public goods that can be accessible to all," said Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha. Argentine President Alberto Fernandez also advocated for global sharing and warned that "With the pandemic, as with poverty, nobody will be saved on their own."

Australian PM urges combined global efforts; takes indirect hit at Trump's secrecy

The&nbsp;New York Governor Andrew&nbsp;Cuomo has clearly stated that he will be asking his officials to review any COVID-19 vaccine that will be authorised by the federal government.

"Frankly, I'm not going to trust the federal government's opinion," Cuomo said. "New York state will have its own review when the federal government is finished with their review and says it's safe."

Cuomo has been a critic of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>'s handling of the novel coronavirus, which has affected more than 7 million people and taken nearly 200,000 deaths by now.

"The way the federal government has handled the vaccine, there are now serious questions about whether or not the vaccine has become politicized," Cuomo said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-top-7-million-as-midwest-states-battle-uptick-330068">Also read|&nbsp;Coronavirus: Cases top 7 million as Midwest states battle uptick</a>

He has said a committee will be set up to oversee the&nbsp;distribution and implementation plan for approved vaccines.

Trump&nbsp;has been accused of forcing CDC of releasing the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;vaccine pre-maturely just to help his agenda in the upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>&nbsp;that are scheduled for November 03.

The FDA may bring out more stringent FDA standards for an emergency authorization of a COVID-19 vaccine.

However,&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;hinted at not approving any such plans claiming it may appear as a political move. "We`re looking at that, and that has to be approved by the White House. We may or may not approve it," Trump told a White House news conference.

The New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has clearly stated that he will be asking his officials to review any COVID-19 vaccine that will be authorised by the federal government.

The New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has clearly stated that he will be asking his officials to review any COVID-19 vaccine that will be authorised by the federal government. "Frankly, I'm not going to trust the federal government's opinion," Cuomo said. "New York state will have its own review when the federal government is finished with their review and says it's safe." Cuomo has been a critic of Donald Trump's handling of the novel coronavirus, which has affected more than 7 million people and taken nearly 200,000 deaths by now. "The way the federal government has handled the vaccine, there are now serious questions about whether or not the vaccine has become politicized," Cuomo said. Also read| Coronavirus: Cases top 7 million as Midwest states battle uptick He has said a committee will be set up to oversee the distribution and implementation plan for approved vaccines. Trump has been accused of forcing CDC of releasing the coronavirus vaccine pre-maturely just to help his agenda in the upcoming US elections that are scheduled for November 03. The FDA may bring out more stringent FDA standards for an emergency authorization of a COVID-19 vaccine. However, Trump hinted at not approving any such plans claiming it may appear as a political move. "We`re looking at that, and that has to be approved by the White House. We may or may not approve it," Trump told a White House news conference.

New York to review any COVID-19 vaccine authorised by federal government

Israel toughened its coronavirus measures on Thursday as a second nationwide lockdown now nearing its second week failed to bring down the world's highest infection rate.

The new rules will close the vast majority of workplaces, shutter markets and further limit prayers and demonstrations.&nbsp;

"Over the past two days, we've heard from experts that if we don't take immediate and harsh measures, we'll reach an abyss," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said late Wednesday, at the start of a cabinet meeting to thrash out the new measures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-becomes-first-country-in-world-to-impose-second-national-lockdown-327306">Also read:&nbsp;Israel becomes first country in world to impose second national lockdown</a>&nbsp;

The government's latest move comes as the country is poised to enter the second week of a three-week lockdown imposed last Friday, which included the closure of schools and restrictions on work and leisure.

Under the new measures set to be approved in parliament later Thursday, synagogues will only be allowed to open on Yom Kippur, a Jewish holiday which begins Sunday afternoon.

At other times, only outdoor prayer will be allowed with a maximum of 20 people attending. The same restrictions have been applied to demonstrations.

"To save the lives of Israel's citizens we need to impose a full lockdown now for two weeks," Netanyahu said.

"This is also necessary for the economy. Whoever thinks we can work with a raging pandemic, with death and infections rising, without it affecting the economy, is wrong."

A decision on whether to close Ben Gurion international airport outside Tel Aviv will be made later on Thursday, the government said.

Israel has the world's highest coronavirus infection rate as a proportion of its population, according to an AFP tally of the past fortnight.

More than 200,000 coronavirus cases have been recorded, with 1,335 deaths, out of a population of nine million.

Netanyahu has faced fierce criticism from opposition politicians, who accuse him of tightening the rules to put an end to weeks of protest outside his Jerusalem residence.

Ayelet Shaked, a lawmaker with the far-right Yamina party, said the new rules are "destructive and unreasonable".

"Because of the demonstrations, they're pushing hundreds of thousands of people to unemployment and crushing the economy," she said in a statement.

Shaked said she will push to change the measures when they come before a parliamentary committee for approval later on Thursday.&nbsp;

Israel's health ministry registered 6,808 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, out of 54,364 tests processed.

Some hospitals have reached capacity and are having to turn people away, with some patients forced to wait for hours in ambulances, according to the emergency medical service Magen David Adom.

Israel toughened its coronavirus measures on Thursday as a second nationwide lockdown now nearing its second week failed to bring down the world's highest infection rate.

Israel toughened its coronavirus measures on Thursday as a second nationwide lockdown now nearing its second week failed to bring down the world's highest infection rate. The new rules will close the vast majority of workplaces, shutter markets and further limit prayers and demonstrations. "Over the past two days, we've heard from experts that if we don't take immediate and harsh measures, we'll reach an abyss," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said late Wednesday, at the start of a cabinet meeting to thrash out the new measures. Also read: Israel becomes first country in world to impose second national lockdown The government's latest move comes as the country is poised to enter the second week of a three-week lockdown imposed last Friday, which included the closure of schools and restrictions on work and leisure. Under the new measures set to be approved in parliament later Thursday, synagogues will only be allowed to open on Yom Kippur, a Jewish holiday which begins Sunday afternoon. At other times, only outdoor prayer will be allowed with a maximum of 20 people attending. The same restrictions have been applied to demonstrations. "To save the lives of Israel's citizens we need to impose a full lockdown now for two weeks," Netanyahu said. "This is also necessary for the economy. Whoever thinks we can work with a raging pandemic, with death and infections rising, without it affecting the economy, is wrong." A decision on whether to close Ben Gurion international airport outside Tel Aviv will be made later on Thursday, the government said. Israel has the world's highest coronavirus infection rate as a proportion of its population, according to an AFP tally of the past fortnight. More than 200,000 coronavirus cases have been recorded, with 1,335 deaths, out of a population of nine million. Netanyahu has faced fierce criticism from opposition politicians, who accuse him of tightening the rules to put an end to weeks of protest outside his Jerusalem residence. Ayelet Shaked, a lawmaker with the far-right Yamina party, said the new rules are "destructive and unreasonable". "Because of the demonstrations, they're pushing hundreds of thousands of people to unemployment and crushing the economy," she said in a statement. Shaked said she will push to change the measures when they come before a parliamentary committee for approval later on Thursday. Israel's health ministry registered 6,808 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, out of 54,364 tests processed. Some hospitals have reached capacity and are having to turn people away, with some patients forced to wait for hours in ambulances, according to the emergency medical service Magen David Adom.

Israel toughens second lockdown as virus cases surge

For centuries Iraqis leaned on religion to grieve the costs of war. Now a deadly pandemic and the deaths of young protestors have lent greater sorrow to their prayers.

Iraq's Shia majority is currently marking the apex of its religious calendar: a month of mourning that includes Ashura, the memorial of the seventh-century killing of Hussein, the Prophet Mohammed's grandson.

Every year since, Shia Muslims observe a 40-day grieving period for Hussein. Thousands of people visit Imam Hussein's resting place. The glittering city of Karbala is eclipsed by echoes of cries. Mourners pour out their heavy heart in front of the mausoleum's gates.&nbsp;

This is an annual catharsis for a country plagued by grief. One whose history has showered its people with grief. If in the 1980s, it was the war with Iran. In the 1990s, the country was crippled by US sanctions. America invaded them in 2003 soon, Dictator Saddam Hussein was hunted and killed. When his statue fell to the ground in April 2003.A sense of hope rose in the hearts of the Iraqis. They dreamt of a new beginning.

A happy beginning but history had other plans for Iraq. The country was soon engulfed in sectarian infighting the Islamic state added to their sorrow.

The country lost it all its infrastructure healthcare education the only thing that remained -- was their faith it stayed with them though the rare highs and daily lows every year, when Iraqis flocked to Karbala. They carried with them a heart full of worries and grief.

Sheikh Hassan Dhakeri, Cleric in Iraq's shrine city of Karbala said that “They ask us, why do you cry, if Imam Hussein was killed 1,400 years ago? They ask us, isn't that enough crying? When someone dies, their relatives cry for one day, one week, ten days, a year - and they get bored. But the cause of Imam Hussein, the favour in the hearts of believers never dies down. Every year, every catastrophe, every martyrdom, we renew our vow to him. We say, we are committed to this pledge, in performing our rituals,”.

"Even if you don't have a beautiful voice, as long as you are mentioning the tragedy and the story of Imam Hussein, people will be spiritually moved. The story of Imam Hussein is among the greatest stories. It hasn't happened and won't happen again in all of time. Anyone who lost someone close to them, their father or their mother, when they remember the ordeal of Imam Hussein, in its greatness and enormity, they also commemorate their family members the martyrs, their own departed - their mothers, fathers, grandparents. It's normal to have this spiritual link between the two issues," said Mohammad Karbalai, a religious chanter.

The holy month of grieving this year is very different. Despite the ban on large gatherings. Tens of thousands are attending the Ashura rituals with masks, disinfectants and temperature checks. Iraq is once again leaning on religion. Iraq is turning to faith for consolation. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

For centuries Iraqis leaned on religion to grieve the costs of war. Now a deadly pandemic and the deaths of young protestors have lent greater sorrow to their prayers.

For centuries Iraqis leaned on religion to grieve the costs of war. Now a deadly pandemic and the deaths of young protestors have lent greater sorrow to their prayers. Iraq's Shia majority is currently marking the apex of its religious calendar: a month of mourning that includes Ashura, the memorial of the seventh-century killing of Hussein, the Prophet Mohammed's grandson. Every year since, Shia Muslims observe a 40-day grieving period for Hussein. Thousands of people visit Imam Hussein's resting place. The glittering city of Karbala is eclipsed by echoes of cries. Mourners pour out their heavy heart in front of the mausoleum's gates. This is an annual catharsis for a country plagued by grief. One whose history has showered its people with grief. If in the 1980s, it was the war with Iran. In the 1990s, the country was crippled by US sanctions. America invaded them in 2003 soon, Dictator Saddam Hussein was hunted and killed. When his statue fell to the ground in April 2003.A sense of hope rose in the hearts of the Iraqis. They dreamt of a new beginning. A happy beginning but history had other plans for Iraq. The country was soon engulfed in sectarian infighting the Islamic state added to their sorrow. The country lost it all its infrastructure healthcare education the only thing that remained -- was their faith it stayed with them though the rare highs and daily lows every year, when Iraqis flocked to Karbala. They carried with them a heart full of worries and grief. Sheikh Hassan Dhakeri, Cleric in Iraq's shrine city of Karbala said that “They ask us, why do you cry, if Imam Hussein was killed 1,400 years ago? They ask us, isn't that enough crying? When someone dies, their relatives cry for one day, one week, ten days, a year - and they get bored. But the cause of Imam Hussein, the favour in the hearts of believers never dies down. Every year, every catastrophe, every martyrdom, we renew our vow to him. We say, we are committed to this pledge, in performing our rituals,”. "Even if you don't have a beautiful voice, as long as you are mentioning the tragedy and the story of Imam Hussein, people will be spiritually moved. The story of Imam Hussein is among the greatest stories. It hasn't happened and won't happen again in all of time. Anyone who lost someone close to them, their father or their mother, when they remember the ordeal of Imam Hussein, in its greatness and enormity, they also commemorate their family members the martyrs, their own departed - their mothers, fathers, grandparents. It's normal to have this spiritual link between the two issues," said Mohammad Karbalai, a religious chanter. The holy month of grieving this year is very different. Despite the ban on large gatherings. Tens of thousands are attending the Ashura rituals with masks, disinfectants and temperature checks. Iraq is once again leaning on religion. Iraq is turning to faith for consolation. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq’s religion, and fury, within the time of coronavirus

Spain is fighting an odd crisis it's high on cash, but low on ideas. Spain does not know how to spend.

It's got 166 billion dollars in grants and loans is from the European Union recovery fund for the covid-19 crisis and the crisis is severe.

Spain's economy slumped 18.5% in the second quarter the second worst in the region after the UK. Spain's ailing economy will receive around 140 billion euros or $166 billion out of the EU's 750-billion-euro coronavirus recovery package.

This includes 43 billion Euros in grants in the next two years alone — this is equivalent to about 8% of Spain’s annual expenditure.

Spain needs concrete investment projects to rescue the economy coming in the way is a prolonged political paralysis.

The country has not been able to approve a full-year budget since 2016, so suddenly absorbing all that extra cash is a challenge. There are concerns over how to set up the machinery to take on this amount of liquidity and this by the way is cash that the Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez fought hard for at an EU summit in July.

He has now put his office in charge and the economy minister is finalising a plan to be presented to Brussels by October 15.There are many countries that would love to be in Spain’s position.

In April when the pandemic began. Over 90 countries requested the international monetary fund for emergency funds and then, you have war-torn countries like Afghanistan and Yemen that have been combating covid-19 amid the raging conflicts. Spain's crisis sounds like a luxury.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain is fighting an odd crisis it's high on cash, but low on ideas. Spain does not know how to spend. It's got 166 billion dollars in grants and loans is from the European Union recovery fund for the covid-19 crisis and the crisis is severe.

Spain is fighting an odd crisis it's high on cash, but low on ideas. Spain does not know how to spend. It's got 166 billion dollars in grants and loans is from the European Union recovery fund for the covid-19 crisis and the crisis is severe. Spain's economy slumped 18.5% in the second quarter the second worst in the region after the UK. Spain's ailing economy will receive around 140 billion euros or $166 billion out of the EU's 750-billion-euro coronavirus recovery package. This includes 43 billion Euros in grants in the next two years alone — this is equivalent to about 8% of Spain’s annual expenditure. Spain needs concrete investment projects to rescue the economy coming in the way is a prolonged political paralysis. The country has not been able to approve a full-year budget since 2016, so suddenly absorbing all that extra cash is a challenge. There are concerns over how to set up the machinery to take on this amount of liquidity and this by the way is cash that the Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez fought hard for at an EU summit in July. He has now put his office in charge and the economy minister is finalising a plan to be presented to Brussels by October 15.There are many countries that would love to be in Spain’s position. In April when the pandemic began. Over 90 countries requested the international monetary fund for emergency funds and then, you have war-torn countries like Afghanistan and Yemen that have been combating covid-19 amid the raging conflicts. Spain's crisis sounds like a luxury. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid effect: Spain needs concrete investment projects to rescue the economy

The neagative effect of Covid-19 and ongoing US economic blockade have negatively impacted Cuba and Russia’s bilateral trade relations, Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, the vice president of Cuba’s Council of Ministers, said on Monday during his visit to Moscow. 
 
“This visit is taking place at a time when Cuba faces difficult economic conditions for two main reasons: the tightening of the financial, trade, and economic blockade of Cuba by the United States, and against the backdrop of a pandemic … These two factors are negatively impacting our economy, which, of course, impacts our bilateral economic ties,” Cabrisas Ruiz said during a meeting with Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the Russian parliament's upper chamber.

The vice president of the Council of Ministers said that Cuba was having difficulty meeting its economic obligations, although Havana was hopeful that the situation would improve and trade flows with Moscow would increase.

The United States has imposed an economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba for six decades, ever since the Cuban authorities nationalized US-owned oil refineries without compensation.&nbsp;

Last year, diplomats representing more than 135 countries, including India, had overwhelmingly called on the Trump administration to end America’s economic, commercial and financial embargo against the Caribbean island, saying the nearly six-decade-long blockade impedes Cuba’s right to development and its ability to participate fully in the global economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

The neagative effect of Covid-19 and ongoing US economic blockade have negatively impacted Cuba and Russia’s bilateral trade relations, Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, the vice president of Cuba’s Council of Ministers, said on Monday during his visit to Moscow.

The neagative effect of Covid-19 and ongoing US economic blockade have negatively impacted Cuba and Russia’s bilateral trade relations, Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, the vice president of Cuba’s Council of Ministers, said on Monday during his visit to Moscow. “This visit is taking place at a time when Cuba faces difficult economic conditions for two main reasons: the tightening of the financial, trade, and economic blockade of Cuba by the United States, and against the backdrop of a pandemic … These two factors are negatively impacting our economy, which, of course, impacts our bilateral economic ties,” Cabrisas Ruiz said during a meeting with Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the Russian parliament's upper chamber. The vice president of the Council of Ministers said that Cuba was having difficulty meeting its economic obligations, although Havana was hopeful that the situation would improve and trade flows with Moscow would increase. The United States has imposed an economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba for six decades, ever since the Cuban authorities nationalized US-owned oil refineries without compensation. Last year, diplomats representing more than 135 countries, including India, had overwhelmingly called on the Trump administration to end America’s economic, commercial and financial embargo against the Caribbean island, saying the nearly six-decade-long blockade impedes Cuba’s right to development and its ability to participate fully in the global economy. (With inputs from agencies)

US economic blockade during pandemic negatively affecting Cuba-Russia trade: Official

The novel coroanvirus has taken over the world and people are waiting for a vaccine while the countries are rushing to be the first one to roll out the vaccine.

However, some people have decided to not to wait for the vaccine and instead use the 'miracle cure' without realising that not only will it have zero effect on the virus, but it poses life-threatening dangers to a human body.

People are buying&nbsp;industrial bleach from the online retail website Amazon hoping it will act as an antidote against the novel coronavirus.

The&nbsp;US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already issued multiple warnings proving&nbsp;that drinking the fluid can kill humans.&nbsp;

According to a Guardian report, substances with&nbsp;chlorine dioxide solutions are being sold on Amazon under&nbsp;the brand name CD Kit and NatriChlor. These products are being marketed on the platform as "water treatment" and are being sold with a warning of&nbsp;“not marketed for internal use”.&nbsp;

However, the comments/reviews under these products are filled with numerous stories and experiences where people are claiming to have used certain amount to "disinfect" themselves.

The notion of drinking bleach to cure coronavirus started after the US President Donald Trump passed an irresponsible comment during one of his interactions in April that injection one with disinfectants can help cure coronavirus. This led to mass disruption as hospitals reported cases of people who drank bleach and other disinfectants to save themselves.

The products have ben spotted on the platform after Amazon vowed to take down any such products with false advertising or that will be caught spreading misinformation.

As per the Guardian report,&nbsp;the American Association of Poison Control Centers has recorded more than 16,000 cases of chlorine dioxide poisoning, including 2,500 cases of children under 12.

The products is being sold under the company name of&nbsp;&nbsp;Keavy’s Corner, an online shop based in Lake Placid, Florida. The owner of Keavy’s Corner, Steve Pardee, claims he has no knowledge of any such happenings and the product was put on Amazon for cleaning of cleaning dog kennels and equine use.&nbsp; “I have never advocated human consumption. My listings for all these items have included links to FDA warnings since 2013,” he told Guardian.

“I have never advocated human consumption. My listings for all these items have included links to FDA warnings since 2013,” he added.

The novel coroanvirus has taken over the world and people are waiting for a vaccine while the countries are rushing to be the first one to roll out the vaccine. However, some people have decided to not to wait for the vaccine and instead use the 'miracle cure' without realising that not only will it have zero effect on the virus, but it poses life-threatening dangers to a human body.

The novel coroanvirus has taken over the world and people are waiting for a vaccine while the countries are rushing to be the first one to roll out the vaccine. However, some people have decided to not to wait for the vaccine and instead use the 'miracle cure' without realising that not only will it have zero effect on the virus, but it poses life-threatening dangers to a human body. People are buying industrial bleach from the online retail website Amazon hoping it will act as an antidote against the novel coronavirus. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already issued multiple warnings proving that drinking the fluid can kill humans. According to a Guardian report, substances with chlorine dioxide solutions are being sold on Amazon under the brand name CD Kit and NatriChlor. These products are being marketed on the platform as "water treatment" and are being sold with a warning of “not marketed for internal use”. However, the comments/reviews under these products are filled with numerous stories and experiences where people are claiming to have used certain amount to "disinfect" themselves. The notion of drinking bleach to cure coronavirus started after the US President Donald Trump passed an irresponsible comment during one of his interactions in April that injection one with disinfectants can help cure coronavirus. This led to mass disruption as hospitals reported cases of people who drank bleach and other disinfectants to save themselves. The products have ben spotted on the platform after Amazon vowed to take down any such products with false advertising or that will be caught spreading misinformation. As per the Guardian report, the American Association of Poison Control Centers has recorded more than 16,000 cases of chlorine dioxide poisoning, including 2,500 cases of children under 12. The products is being sold under the company name of Keavy’s Corner, an online shop based in Lake Placid, Florida. The owner of Keavy’s Corner, Steve Pardee, claims he has no knowledge of any such happenings and the product was put on Amazon for cleaning of cleaning dog kennels and equine use. “I have never advocated human consumption. My listings for all these items have included links to FDA warnings since 2013,” he told Guardian. “I have never advocated human consumption. My listings for all these items have included links to FDA warnings since 2013,” he added.

Industrial bleach being sold on Amazon as 'miracle mineral solution' of COVID-19

Pakistan's number coronavirus cases reached 305,671 on Sunday after 640 new cases were detected in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said.

One patient died during the period, taking the number of COVID-19 fatalities to 6,416.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/legal-options-will-be-used-if-nawazs-mpc-address-is-aired-imran-khan-aide-328807">Also read:&nbsp;'Legal options' will be used if Nawaz's MPC address is aired: Imran Khan aide</a>

A total of 292,303 people have recovered from the infection and at least 562 are in critical condition, the Ministry of National Health Services said.

Sindh reported a total 133,626 cases, Punjab 98,368, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 37,317, Islamabad 16,126, Balochistan 14,269, Gilgit-Baltistan 3,450 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 2,517 cases.

The authorities have so far conducted 3,160,924 tests, including 34,544 in the last 24 hours, it said.

Pakistan's number coronavirus cases reached 305,671 on Sunday after 640 new cases were detected in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said. One patient died during the period, taking the number of COVID-19 fatalities to 6,416.

Pakistan's number coronavirus cases reached 305,671 on Sunday after 640 new cases were detected in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said. One patient died during the period, taking the number of COVID-19 fatalities to 6,416. Also read: 'Legal options' will be used if Nawaz's MPC address is aired: Imran Khan aide A total of 292,303 people have recovered from the infection and at least 562 are in critical condition, the Ministry of National Health Services said. Sindh reported a total 133,626 cases, Punjab 98,368, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 37,317, Islamabad 16,126, Balochistan 14,269, Gilgit-Baltistan 3,450 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 2,517 cases. The authorities have so far conducted 3,160,924 tests, including 34,544 in the last 24 hours, it said.

Pakistan reports 640 new COVID-19 cases

Rule breakers in the United Kingdom will have to face a heavy fine if caught. The fine is specifically for the people who will defy the coronavirus-related rules.

The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Saturday that anyone who is caught defying the self-isolation rules will have to pay a fine upto&nbsp;£10,000&nbsp;($12,914).

This will include the people who have been told to self-isolate themselves after coming in contact with someone who has been infected by the virus.

The rule will come in place from September 28.&nbsp;“People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines,” Johnson said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-says-second-wave-of-virus-inevitable-new-restrictions-possible-328559">Also read: UK PM Johnson says second wave of virus inevitable, new restrictions possible</a>

The first-time offender will have to pay&nbsp;£1,000, and the amount will keep rising with the number of repeated offenses.

New rule will also include the companies who have been threatening their employees about firing them if they do not report to the ofice.

As per the existing rules, people have been told to stay at home for 14 days if they show symptoms of the novel coronavirus.

This rule has come after the UK saw a rapid increase in the number of coronavirus cases. Some have even termed it as the second wave. Many counties are now re-imposing lockdowns.

In addition to this,&nbsp;some low-income workers who suffer a loss of earnings will receive a support payment of £500 along with other benefits&nbsp;such as sick pay to which they may be entitled.

Rule breakers in the United Kingdom will have to face a heavy fine if caught. The fine is specifically for the people who will defy the coronavirus-related rules.

Rule breakers in the United Kingdom will have to face a heavy fine if caught. The fine is specifically for the people who will defy the coronavirus-related rules. The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Saturday that anyone who is caught defying the self-isolation rules will have to pay a fine upto £10,000 ($12,914). This will include the people who have been told to self-isolate themselves after coming in contact with someone who has been infected by the virus. The rule will come in place from September 28. “People who choose to ignore the rules will face significant fines,” Johnson said in a statement. Also read: UK PM Johnson says second wave of virus inevitable, new restrictions possible The first-time offender will have to pay £1,000, and the amount will keep rising with the number of repeated offenses. New rule will also include the companies who have been threatening their employees about firing them if they do not report to the ofice. As per the existing rules, people have been told to stay at home for 14 days if they show symptoms of the novel coronavirus. This rule has come after the UK saw a rapid increase in the number of coronavirus cases. Some have even termed it as the second wave. Many counties are now re-imposing lockdowns. In addition to this, some low-income workers who suffer a loss of earnings will receive a support payment of £500 along with other benefits such as sick pay to which they may be entitled.

UK: People who defy coronavirus rules will pay fines upto £10,000

India recroded 92,605 new coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally to 5,400,620 including 1,010,824 active cases, 4,303,044 cured/discharged/migrated patients.

The death toll reached 86,752 as&nbsp;1,113 people lost their battle to the novel coronavirus in the past one day. The mortality rate&nbsp;is a relatively low 1.6 per cent of all cases.

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There are 1,010,824 active cases in the country which comprises 18.72 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

Maharashtra, one of the biggest states, is still one of the worst affected states in the country with&nbsp;301,273 active cases.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 1,206,806 samples on Saturday. As of now, a total of&nbsp;63,661,060 samples have been tetsted in India till September 19 night.

India recroded 92,605 new coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally to 5,400,620 including 1,010,824 active cases, 4,303,044 cured/discharged/migrated patients.

India recroded 92,605 new coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally to 5,400,620 including 1,010,824 active cases, 4,303,044 cured/discharged/migrated patients. The death toll reached 86,752 as 1,113 people lost their battle to the novel coronavirus in the past one day. The mortality rate is a relatively low 1.6 per cent of all cases. Also read: Second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia to reach on September 24 There are 1,010,824 active cases in the country which comprises 18.72 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. Maharashtra, one of the biggest states, is still one of the worst affected states in the country with 301,273 active cases. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 1,206,806 samples on Saturday. As of now, a total of 63,661,060 samples have been tetsted in India till September 19 night.

India records 92,605 new COVID-19 cases; death toll crosses 86,000

The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday.

Noting that there are no established pharmaceutical interventions that can break the chain of transmission, Mr Choubey said non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand and respiratory hygiene, wearing of mask/face cover, physical distancing measures, preventing large gatherings, etc are the only tools to suppress and break the chain of transmission.

This has to be in turn supported by heightened community awareness and behavioral change communication.

He was responding to a question on the reasons for spread of COVID-19 at an increased rate despite lower numbers at the initial stage in India as compared to other countries.

"COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease. Many of the epidemiological parameters such as agent-host interaction, socio-cultural and environmental factors, modes of transmission, susceptibility of individuals, immune response are still under research," Mr Choubey said in a written reply.

The Government of India since January, has followed a pre-emptive, graded and proactive approach for managing COVID-19, the minister said.

States have been supported in terms of logistics, funding and technical guidance right from the beginning.

To blunt the progression of cases in the country, the government had taken series of steps under Disaster Management Act, 2005 including lockdown, Mr Choubey highlighted.

"This in effect reduced the growth rate of cases, increased community awareness, and the period was utilized to upgrade health infrastructure and health staff capacities which has supported the country in terms of managing the disease.

"In effect, the overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries," Mr Choubey said.

The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday.

The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday. Noting that there are no established pharmaceutical interventions that can break the chain of transmission, Mr Choubey said non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand and respiratory hygiene, wearing of mask/face cover, physical distancing measures, preventing large gatherings, etc are the only tools to suppress and break the chain of transmission. This has to be in turn supported by heightened community awareness and behavioral change communication. He was responding to a question on the reasons for spread of COVID-19 at an increased rate despite lower numbers at the initial stage in India as compared to other countries. "COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease. Many of the epidemiological parameters such as agent-host interaction, socio-cultural and environmental factors, modes of transmission, susceptibility of individuals, immune response are still under research," Mr Choubey said in a written reply. The Government of India since January, has followed a pre-emptive, graded and proactive approach for managing COVID-19, the minister said. States have been supported in terms of logistics, funding and technical guidance right from the beginning. To blunt the progression of cases in the country, the government had taken series of steps under Disaster Management Act, 2005 including lockdown, Mr Choubey highlighted. "This in effect reduced the growth rate of cases, increased community awareness, and the period was utilized to upgrade health infrastructure and health staff capacities which has supported the country in terms of managing the disease. "In effect, the overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries," Mr Choubey said.

India's Covid deaths per million population among lowest in world: Centre 

India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis.&nbsp;

It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.&nbsp;

The Indian mission in Maldives in a statement said,"The budgetary support of USD 250 million is extended without conditions".

Explaining, "Government of Maldives is at liberty to use the money in repairing the domestic economic situation in line with its own priorities".

The loan of USD 250 million has a tenor of 10 years and since the "principal payment is due only at the end of 10 years, it will not put any immediate debt servicing liability other than bi-annual very low interest payment," the statement added futher.

Development stands in contrast to Chinese loans to the country in previous Yameen administration which has been a concern in terms of the debt crisis it has precipitated.&nbsp;

Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with COVID's economic impact.

The loan has been extended in response to the request made by Maldives President Solih to PM Modi for financial assistance and was announced after the virtual meeting between External Affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Maldives Financial Minister earlier this year.&nbsp;

Amdist the COVID crisis, India has reached out to Maldives in number of ways including by sending a rapid response team of doctors and specialists, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May.&nbsp;

Also, approximately 500 Maldivians in eight batches of Maldivian patients have travelled to India in the past few weeks.

India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis. It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.

India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis. It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra. The Indian mission in Maldives in a statement said,"The budgetary support of USD 250 million is extended without conditions". Explaining, "Government of Maldives is at liberty to use the money in repairing the domestic economic situation in line with its own priorities". The loan of USD 250 million has a tenor of 10 years and since the "principal payment is due only at the end of 10 years, it will not put any immediate debt servicing liability other than bi-annual very low interest payment," the statement added futher. Development stands in contrast to Chinese loans to the country in previous Yameen administration which has been a concern in terms of the debt crisis it has precipitated. Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with COVID's economic impact. The loan has been extended in response to the request made by Maldives President Solih to PM Modi for financial assistance and was announced after the virtual meeting between External Affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Maldives Financial Minister earlier this year. Amdist the COVID crisis, India has reached out to Maldives in number of ways including by sending a rapid response team of doctors and specialists, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May. Also, approximately 500 Maldivians in eight batches of Maldivian patients have travelled to India in the past few weeks.

India extends $250 million loan to Maldives to deal with COVID economic impact 'without conditions'

South Korea on Sunday extended level two social distancing for a week until September 27, which limits indoor gatherings to below 50 and outdoor to less than 100, and may tighten limits for the Chuseok holiday when people traditionally reunite with families.

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said the level 2 restrictions need to be kept ahead of Chuseok as "cases with untraceable origins are steadily increasing and fewer tests being carried out on weekends means we should be on high alert."

Social distancing policies for the September 30 to October 02 holiday will be announced in the coming days.

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South Korea reported 82 new coronavirus cases as of midnight Saturday, the lowest daily infections since mid August, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of the total, 72 were locally transmitted, bringing the total tally to 22,975, with 383 deaths.

Clusters of infections from a church and political rally sparked a second wave of outbreaks in August, driving the daily tally to more than 400, before the numbers began dropping to the low 100s in early September.

South Korea on Sunday extended level two social distancing for a week until September 27, which limits indoor gatherings to below 50 and outdoor to less than 100, and may tighten limits for the Chuseok holiday when people traditionally reunite with families.

South Korea on Sunday extended level two social distancing for a week until September 27, which limits indoor gatherings to below 50 and outdoor to less than 100, and may tighten limits for the Chuseok holiday when people traditionally reunite with families. Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said the level 2 restrictions need to be kept ahead of Chuseok as "cases with untraceable origins are steadily increasing and fewer tests being carried out on weekends means we should be on high alert." Social distancing policies for the September 30 to October 02 holiday will be announced in the coming days. div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"> × South Korea reported 82 new coronavirus cases as of midnight Saturday, the lowest daily infections since mid August, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of the total, 72 were locally transmitted, bringing the total tally to 22,975, with 383 deaths. Clusters of infections from a church and political rally sparked a second wave of outbreaks in August, driving the daily tally to more than 400, before the numbers began dropping to the low 100s in early September.

South Korea keeps social distancing curbs ahead of major national holiday

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.3 million, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

The figures released at 8 am showed that while 95,880 people recovered from COVID-19 in a span of 24 hours, 93,337 new infections were recorded during the period.

With the latest inclusions, the total number of cases mounted to 5,308,014 and the recoveries to 4,208,431, pushing the recovery rate to 79.28 per cent.

The death toll, meanwhile, climbed to 85,619 with the virus claiming 1,247 lives in a span of 24 hours, the updated data showed.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further dropped at 1.61 per cent, the data showed.

There are 10,13,964 active cases of COVID-19 in the country, which constitute 19.10 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

The country's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, the 3 million mark on August 23, 4 million on September 5, and it went past 5 million on September 16.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a cumulative 62,454,254 COVID-19 samples have been tested up to September 18 — 881,911 of them on Friday.

The 1,247 new deaths include 440 from Maharashtra, 179 from Karnataka, 98 from Uttar Pradesh, 67 each from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, 62 from Punjab, 59 from West Bengal, 31 from Puducherry and 30 from Delhi.

The total 85,619 deaths reported so far in the country include 1,791 from Maharashtra followed by 8,685 from Tamil Nadu, 7,808 from Karnataka, 5,244 from Andhra Pradesh.

The national capital has reported 4,907 deaths while 4,869 fatalities have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh, 4,242 in West Bengal, 3,286 in Gujarat, 2,708 in Punjab and 1,901 in Madhya Pradesh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths have occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.

India's single-day recovery outstripped the number of new infections as nearly 96,000 people recuperated from the novel coronavirus, even as the total caseload went past 5.3 million, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday. The figures released at 8 am showed that while 95,880 people recovered from COVID-19 in a span of 24 hours, 93,337 new infections were recorded during the period. With the latest inclusions, the total number of cases mounted to 5,308,014 and the recoveries to 4,208,431, pushing the recovery rate to 79.28 per cent. The death toll, meanwhile, climbed to 85,619 with the virus claiming 1,247 lives in a span of 24 hours, the updated data showed. The COVID-19 case fatality rate has further dropped at 1.61 per cent, the data showed. There are 10,13,964 active cases of COVID-19 in the country, which constitute 19.10 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The country's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, the 3 million mark on August 23, 4 million on September 5, and it went past 5 million on September 16. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a cumulative 62,454,254 COVID-19 samples have been tested up to September 18 — 881,911 of them on Friday. The 1,247 new deaths include 440 from Maharashtra, 179 from Karnataka, 98 from Uttar Pradesh, 67 each from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, 62 from Punjab, 59 from West Bengal, 31 from Puducherry and 30 from Delhi. The total 85,619 deaths reported so far in the country include 1,791 from Maharashtra followed by 8,685 from Tamil Nadu, 7,808 from Karnataka, 5,244 from Andhra Pradesh. The national capital has reported 4,907 deaths while 4,869 fatalities have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh, 4,242 in West Bengal, 3,286 in Gujarat, 2,708 in Punjab and 1,901 in Madhya Pradesh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths have occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61%

Pakistan has reported 645 new cases of coronavirus, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 305,031, the health ministry said on Saturday.

The Ministry of National Health Services said the nation also reported deaths of seven more patients due to which the toll has surged to 6,415.

"The total number of coronavirus infections in Pakistan stands at 305,031 while the deaths have touched 6,451," the ministry said in a statement.

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The ministry also said 292,044 people have fully recovered from the disease.

"The number of active patients was 6,572," it said.

Sindh reported 133,362 cases, Punjab 98,272, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 37,270, Islamabad, 16,086, Balochistan 14,138, Gilgit-Baltistan 3,412 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 2,491 cases.

The authorities so far have conducted 3,126,380 tests, including 35,720 in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan has reported 645 new cases of coronavirus, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 305,031, the health ministry said on Saturday. The Ministry of National Health Services said the nation also reported deaths of seven more patients due to which the toll has surged to 6,415.

Pakistan has reported 645 new cases of coronavirus, taking the total number of infections in the nation to 305,031, the health ministry said on Saturday. The Ministry of National Health Services said the nation also reported deaths of seven more patients due to which the toll has surged to 6,415. "The total number of coronavirus infections in Pakistan stands at 305,031 while the deaths have touched 6,451," the ministry said in a statement. Also read: Attacks surge in northwest Pakistan as Afghan peace effort brings shifting sands The ministry also said 292,044 people have fully recovered from the disease. "The number of active patients was 6,572," it said. Sindh reported 133,362 cases, Punjab 98,272, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 37,270, Islamabad, 16,086, Balochistan 14,138, Gilgit-Baltistan 3,412 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 2,491 cases. The authorities so far have conducted 3,126,380 tests, including 35,720 in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan reports 645 new cases of coronavirus: Health ministry

The United Nations will mark its 75th anniversary Monday, celebrating the mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity," even as the coronavirus underscores the fragility of international cooperation.

The anniversary will kick off the global body's annual General Assembly, when normally the leaders and representatives of nearly 200 countries gather en masse to sound off about the world's problems and offer myriad solutions.

But this year, a part of Manhattan will not be sealed off for the "UNGA"; there will be no endless limousine convoys, and no busy beehive of diplomats, journalists and translators in the halls of the UN.

Instead, with COVID-19 still limiting global movement, just one representative from each of the 193 UN members will be allowed, and only someone already in the United States.

Everyone else will have to appear by videoconference, including some 160-170 heads of state and government planning addresses.

Appearing by video on Tuesday will be Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping, who in the past have let their top diplomats speak for them; and US leader Donald Trump.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Venezuela's president Nicolas Maduro, who much of the world sees as illegitimate, will address the assembly by video. Missing as speakers are the leaders of Syria and North Korea.&nbsp;

"Diplomacy, to be effective, requires personal contacts, and I am very sorry that we are not going to have the opportunity to bring together leaders of countries," said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

Even so, he said, there would be "many virtual meetings" on the sidelines of the assembly, convening by teleconference on subjects such as climate change, biodiversity and the conflicts in Libya and Lebanon.

Missed opportunity

The event kicks off with a joint declaration full of good intentions and a call to combat unilateralism.

But that belies the reality of what has happened since Covid-19 erupted early this year, with borders closed, cooperation limited and countries forced to go it alone.

Bertrand Badie, professor at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, said the great powers missed a chance with the coronavirus to strengthen global cooperation.

Instead, cooperation broke apart amid allegations that China and the World Health Organization moved slowly on the initial outbreak, and the US declared it would act alone and pulled out of the WHO.

The superpowers' behavior has "caused the failure, even the collapse, of the UN Security Council," which was set up to lead on such world-shaking challenges as a pandemic, Badie said.

The powers have clung to a "very conservative vision of security, that humanity is only threatened by rivalries between countries," Badie told AFP, calling it "a very bad sign for the future."

'Moments of disappointment'

The declaration admits that, over seven and a half decades, the UN "has had its moments of disappointment."

"Our world is not yet the world our founders envisaged 75 years ago," it says, citing growing inequality and the persistence of poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism and climate change.&nbsp;

However, the declaration also notes the United Nations has helped bring about decolonization, promote freedom, set standards for development and eradicate disease.

"The United Nations has helped mitigate dozens of conflicts, saved hundreds of thousands of lives through humanitarian action and provided millions of children with the education that every child deserves," the declaration says.

In the wake of coronavirus, it says, "we have a historic opportunity to build back better and greener."

Paralysis

Yet the coronavirus has placed a spotlight on the paralyzing rivalry of the superpowers, especially between the United States and China, rapidly eroding Washington's global leadership.

"Everyone has been too focused on the domestic impact of the pandemic to really look at the global picture," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group.

"I am frankly deeply pessimistic about the chances for real UN reform or innovations in global governance. I cannot see China and the US agreeing on big reforms now," Gowan said.

Badie said the organization was immobilized by a power rivalry that dates back to the UN's creation.

To embark on reforms, he said, it is necessary for the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- the United States, Britain, Russia, France and China -- to change their Cold War mentality.

The five, though, "will always refuse, because that would lead to an overhaul of the 'international community' and the loss of the privileges of the nuclear oligarchy," Badie said.

The United Nations will mark its 75th anniversary Monday, celebrating the mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity," even as the coronavirus underscores the fragility of international cooperation.

The United Nations will mark its 75th anniversary Monday, celebrating the mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity," even as the coronavirus underscores the fragility of international cooperation. The anniversary will kick off the global body's annual General Assembly, when normally the leaders and representatives of nearly 200 countries gather en masse to sound off about the world's problems and offer myriad solutions. But this year, a part of Manhattan will not be sealed off for the "UNGA"; there will be no endless limousine convoys, and no busy beehive of diplomats, journalists and translators in the halls of the UN. Instead, with COVID-19 still limiting global movement, just one representative from each of the 193 UN members will be allowed, and only someone already in the United States. Everyone else will have to appear by videoconference, including some 160-170 heads of state and government planning addresses. Appearing by video on Tuesday will be Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping, who in the past have let their top diplomats speak for them; and US leader Donald Trump. On Wednesday, Venezuela's president Nicolas Maduro, who much of the world sees as illegitimate, will address the assembly by video. Missing as speakers are the leaders of Syria and North Korea. "Diplomacy, to be effective, requires personal contacts, and I am very sorry that we are not going to have the opportunity to bring together leaders of countries," said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Even so, he said, there would be "many virtual meetings" on the sidelines of the assembly, convening by teleconference on subjects such as climate change, biodiversity and the conflicts in Libya and Lebanon. Missed opportunity The event kicks off with a joint declaration full of good intentions and a call to combat unilateralism. But that belies the reality of what has happened since Covid-19 erupted early this year, with borders closed, cooperation limited and countries forced to go it alone. Bertrand Badie, professor at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, said the great powers missed a chance with the coronavirus to strengthen global cooperation. Instead, cooperation broke apart amid allegations that China and the World Health Organization moved slowly on the initial outbreak, and the US declared it would act alone and pulled out of the WHO. The superpowers' behavior has "caused the failure, even the collapse, of the UN Security Council," which was set up to lead on such world-shaking challenges as a pandemic, Badie said. The powers have clung to a "very conservative vision of security, that humanity is only threatened by rivalries between countries," Badie told AFP, calling it "a very bad sign for the future." 'Moments of disappointment' The declaration admits that, over seven and a half decades, the UN "has had its moments of disappointment." "Our world is not yet the world our founders envisaged 75 years ago," it says, citing growing inequality and the persistence of poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism and climate change. However, the declaration also notes the United Nations has helped bring about decolonization, promote freedom, set standards for development and eradicate disease. "The United Nations has helped mitigate dozens of conflicts, saved hundreds of thousands of lives through humanitarian action and provided millions of children with the education that every child deserves," the declaration says. In the wake of coronavirus, it says, "we have a historic opportunity to build back better and greener." Paralysis Yet the coronavirus has placed a spotlight on the paralyzing rivalry of the superpowers, especially between the United States and China, rapidly eroding Washington's global leadership. "Everyone has been too focused on the domestic impact of the pandemic to really look at the global picture," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group. "I am frankly deeply pessimistic about the chances for real UN reform or innovations in global governance. I cannot see China and the US agreeing on big reforms now," Gowan said. Badie said the organization was immobilized by a power rivalry that dates back to the UN's creation. To embark on reforms, he said, it is necessary for the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- the United States, Britain, Russia, France and China -- to change their Cold War mentality. The five, though, "will always refuse, because that would lead to an overhaul of the 'international community' and the loss of the privileges of the nuclear oligarchy," Badie said.

The UN marks 75th anniversary facing world split by COVID-19

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.3 million.

The Indian parliament met for the first time in six months on September 14 and was to function until October 1, but the two officials said its duration could be reduced by a week.

"Since the commencement of the session the number of positive cases have gone up so the government is thinking of cutting short the session," said one of the two officials, who are involved in the functioning of parliament proceedings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-death-tally-crosses-85000-fatality-rate-drops-to-161-328573">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61%</a>

The government has also mandated daily tests for journalist entering parliament to cover the session from Saturday. 
Piyush Soperna, joint director at the country`s upper house`s secretariat, said in an email response that it has no information on the issue of prematurely ending the parliament session next week.

India, which recorded 93,337 new infections in the last 24 hours, has been posting the highest single-day caseload in the world since early August, according to a Reuters tally.

India is the second-most badly hit country after United States with total recorded coronavirus cases at 5.3 million. 
However, deaths in India have been relatively low.

The virus has killed 1,247 people in last 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 85,619, government data showed on Saturday.

The lawmakers who have been infected include Nitin Gadkari, highways and medium and small enterprises minister in Prime Minister`s Narendra Modi`s cabinet.

On Wednesday, India`s government ordered its states not to hoard oxygen supplies and allow free movement to cope with the rising number of cases.

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.

India`s parliament session that began this week is likely to be cut short after 30 lawmakers were found infected with the coronavirus, two senior parliament officials said, as the number of cases in the country rose to 5.3 million. The Indian parliament met for the first time in six months on September 14 and was to function until October 1, but the two officials said its duration could be reduced by a week. "Since the commencement of the session the number of positive cases have gone up so the government is thinking of cutting short the session," said one of the two officials, who are involved in the functioning of parliament proceedings. Also read| COVID 19: India's death tally crosses 85,000; fatality rate drops to 1.61% The government has also mandated daily tests for journalist entering parliament to cover the session from Saturday. Piyush Soperna, joint director at the country`s upper house`s secretariat, said in an email response that it has no information on the issue of prematurely ending the parliament session next week. India, which recorded 93,337 new infections in the last 24 hours, has been posting the highest single-day caseload in the world since early August, according to a Reuters tally. India is the second-most badly hit country after United States with total recorded coronavirus cases at 5.3 million. However, deaths in India have been relatively low. The virus has killed 1,247 people in last 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 85,619, government data showed on Saturday. The lawmakers who have been infected include Nitin Gadkari, highways and medium and small enterprises minister in Prime Minister`s Narendra Modi`s cabinet. On Wednesday, India`s government ordered its states not to hoard oxygen supplies and allow free movement to cope with the rising number of cases.

Parliament session may be cut short as COVID-19 cases among Indian lawmakers rise: Sources

Ahead of the US elections, a former Mike Pence aide has released a video revealing how the US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;carelessly avoided doing better to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Olivia Troye, who worked for Pence's team and was a part of the coronavirus task force set up by the trump administration, released a video claiming&nbsp;"the truth is he doesn't actually care about anyone else but himself."

Troye was&nbsp;Pence's former homeland security advisor and has claimed that working for Trump was "terrifying". She alleged that the President was more concerned about his reelection in the upcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-up-played-coronavirus-trump-answers-question-of-a-voter-before-us-elections-327856">Also read|&nbsp;'I up-played coronavirus': Trump answers question of a voter before US elections</a>

"Towards the middle of February, we knew it wasn't a matter of if Covid would become a big pandemic here, it was a matter of when," said Troye. "But the President didn't want to hear that, because his biggest concern was that we were in an election year, and how was this going to affect what he considered to be his record of success?"

The biggest allegation sha has made against the President in this video is that during one of the meetings she was a part of, Trump said maybe COVID-19 is a good thing because "I don't like shaking hands with people. I don't have to shake hands with these disgusting people."

While the White House denied these accusations by calling this a personal revenge for being fired by the administration, Donald Trump did not rubbish these accusations but simply stated that she was a "lower level person".

Talking to local reporters, Trump said, "I don't know her. She worked for the Vice President. She was on the task force as some kind of lower level person. I have no idea who she is."

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Pence, too, rubbished the accusations by calling Troye another "disgruntled employee".

"I haven't read her comments in any detail, but it reads to me like one more disgruntled employee who's left the White House and now has decided to play politics during an election year," Pence told local reporters. "I think my staff has indicated that she made no comments like that when she was serving on our team here at the White House coronavirus task force."

The WHite House has also claimed that Troye was fired by the administration, and while leaving she wrote the "most beautiful going-away letter," Trump said.

Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Pence's national security adviser, said Troye never complained about the handling of the virus during her time at the White House.&nbsp;"Ms. Troye directly reported to me, and never once during her detail did she every express any concern regarding the Administration's response to the Coronavirus to anyone in her chain of command," he said in a statement.

However, the letter released by the White House, does not offer any praise for the President or the Vice President. While Troye does claim that it was an "absolute honor" to serve at the taskforce, but she has not mentioned the same&nbsp;about working with Trump or Pence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-donald-trump-admits-downplaying-seriousness-of-covid-19-326412">Also read|&nbsp;US election 2020: Donald Trump admits 'downplaying' seriousness of COVID-19</a>

This is not the first former Trump administration employee to protest against re-election of Trump.&nbsp;Miles Taylor, former chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security, and former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci are few of the other big names, along with several more who have urged people to vote for Biden instead of Trump.

Recently, investigative journalists, Bob Woodward, released a book in which he has provided proof of Trump admitting that he downplayed the coronavirus response intentionally.

He has also been accused of forcing CDC to pre-maturely release the COVID-19 vaccine to satisfy his campaign agenda for the elections scheduled on Nomber 03.

Ahead of the US elections, a former Mike Pence aide has released a video revealing how the US President Donald Trump carelessly avoided doing better to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Ahead of the US elections, a former Mike Pence aide has released a video revealing how the US President Donald Trump carelessly avoided doing better to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Olivia Troye, who worked for Pence's team and was a part of the coronavirus task force set up by the trump administration, released a video claiming "the truth is he doesn't actually care about anyone else but himself." Troye was Pence's former homeland security advisor and has claimed that working for Trump was "terrifying". She alleged that the President was more concerned about his reelection in the upcoming US elections. Also read| 'I up-played coronavirus': Trump answers question of a voter before US elections "Towards the middle of February, we knew it wasn't a matter of if Covid would become a big pandemic here, it was a matter of when," said Troye. "But the President didn't want to hear that, because his biggest concern was that we were in an election year, and how was this going to affect what he considered to be his record of success?" The biggest allegation sha has made against the President in this video is that during one of the meetings she was a part of, Trump said maybe COVID-19 is a good thing because "I don't like shaking hands with people. I don't have to shake hands with these disgusting people." While the White House denied these accusations by calling this a personal revenge for being fired by the administration, Donald Trump did not rubbish these accusations but simply stated that she was a "lower level person". Talking to local reporters, Trump said, "I don't know her. She worked for the Vice President. She was on the task force as some kind of lower level person. I have no idea who she is." × Pence, too, rubbished the accusations by calling Troye another "disgruntled employee". "I haven't read her comments in any detail, but it reads to me like one more disgruntled employee who's left the White House and now has decided to play politics during an election year," Pence told local reporters. "I think my staff has indicated that she made no comments like that when she was serving on our team here at the White House coronavirus task force." The WHite House has also claimed that Troye was fired by the administration, and while leaving she wrote the "most beautiful going-away letter," Trump said. Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Pence's national security adviser, said Troye never complained about the handling of the virus during her time at the White House. "Ms. Troye directly reported to me, and never once during her detail did she every express any concern regarding the Administration's response to the Coronavirus to anyone in her chain of command," he said in a statement. However, the letter released by the White House, does not offer any praise for the President or the Vice President. While Troye does claim that it was an "absolute honor" to serve at the taskforce, but she has not mentioned the same about working with Trump or Pence. Also read| US election 2020: Donald Trump admits 'downplaying' seriousness of COVID-19 This is not the first former Trump administration employee to protest against re-election of Trump. Miles Taylor, former chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security, and former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci are few of the other big names, along with several more who have urged people to vote for Biden instead of Trump. Recently, investigative journalists, Bob Woodward, released a book in which he has provided proof of Trump admitting that he downplayed the coronavirus response intentionally. He has also been accused of forcing CDC to pre-maturely release the COVID-19 vaccine to satisfy his campaign agenda for the elections scheduled on Nomber 03.

US elections: Pence aide slams Trump on coronavirus; urges people to vote for Biden

Large parts of Europe on Friday geared up for broad new restrictions to stop the coronavirus, after infections worldwide topped 30 million and the World Health Organization warned of "alarming rates of transmission".

Britain is limiting gatherings and France is set to roll out new curbs for major cities as governments across the continent battle fresh spikes of the disease.

More than 943,000 people have now died from COVID-19 since it first emerged in China late last year, according to an AFP tally, with Europe accounting for more than 200,000.

WHO regional director for Europe Hans Kluge said a surge seen this month "should serve as a wake-up call" after the continent recorded 54,000 infections in a single day last week — a new record.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-pence-aid-slams-trump-on-coronavirus-urges-people-to-vote-for-biden-328292">Also read|&nbsp;US elections: Pence aid slams Trump on coronavirus; urges people to vote for Biden</a>

"Although the numbers reflect more comprehensive testing, it also shows alarming rates of transmission across the region," Kluge told an online news conference from Copenhagen.

The Spanish capital of Madrid said it had been overwhelmed by the virus and called for "decisive" action from the central government, which is set to unveil a raft of new restrictions Friday.

Madrid officials warned that the region's healthcare system was coming under increasing pressure, with one in five hospital beds occupied by Covid patients amid a second wave of the illness.

Anxiety has been growing in the city about the prospect of a return to lockdown after a top regional health official on Wednesday raised the possibility for the worst-hit areas.

"It would be bad for shops, for small businesses and little bars that survive on people coming in," said 55-year-old Maribel Quesada.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-seek-emergency-authorization-if-vaccine-70-effective-moderna-328202">Also read|&nbsp;Will seek emergency authorization if vaccine 70% effective: Moderna</a>

"People are really sick of being at home, the (spring) lockdown was very difficult."

In Britain, new curbs will take effect Friday, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson warning that pubs may have to close earlier to help avoid a "second hump" of infections.

About two million people in northeast England, including in the cities of Newcastle and Sunderland, will no longer be allowed to meet people outside their homes. Only table service will be allowed in bars and entertainment venues will have to close by 10pm.

The government already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six or fewer, as daily cases reached levels not seen since early May.

French authorities are also preparing tighter restrictions in several cities to curtail a resurgence that has seen nearly 10,000 new cases per day in the past week.

Health minister Olivier Veran said Lyon and Nice would be under new rules by Saturday, after curbs on public gatherings were imposed this week in Bordeaux and Marseille.

'Depressed'

Israel is set to become the first developed country in the world to enforce a second nationwide shutdown, beginning Friday afternoon.

The move sparked protests in Tel Aviv late Thursday when hundreds took to the streets against the restrictions, which are set to take effect just hours before Jewish New Year and will cover other religious holidays including Yom Kippur.

"The economy is in freefall, people are losing their jobs, they're depressed," said 60-year-old Yael.&nbsp;

"And all this for what? For nothing!"

The country has the world's second-highest virus infection rate after Bahrain, according to AFP figures. Under its new measures, residents will be limited to within 500 metres (yards) of their home.

As anger grows over how authorities worldwide have responded to the virus, some governments are facing legal action from citizens for alleged failures.

A French association of Covid-19 victims plans to file a legal complaint against Prime Minister Jean Castex, its lawyer said.

Suits have also been filed in China by bereaved relatives but many have had them abruptly rejected, while dozens of others face pressure from authorities not to file, according to people involved.

Families of victims accuse the governments in Wuhan and Hubei province, ground zero for the global pandemic, of concealing the outbreak when it first emerged, failing to alert the public, and bungling the response, allowing Covid-19 to explode.

"They say the epidemic was a natural calamity. But these serious outcomes are man-made, and you need to find who's to blame," said pensioner Zhong Hanneng, whose son died with the virus.

"Our family is shattered," she added. "I can never be happy again."

Large parts of Europe on Friday geared up for broad new restrictions to stop the coronavirus, after infections worldwide topped 30 million and the World Health Organization warned of "alarming rates of transmission".

Large parts of Europe on Friday geared up for broad new restrictions to stop the coronavirus, after infections worldwide topped 30 million and the World Health Organization warned of "alarming rates of transmission". Britain is limiting gatherings and France is set to roll out new curbs for major cities as governments across the continent battle fresh spikes of the disease. More than 943,000 people have now died from COVID-19 since it first emerged in China late last year, according to an AFP tally, with Europe accounting for more than 200,000. WHO regional director for Europe Hans Kluge said a surge seen this month "should serve as a wake-up call" after the continent recorded 54,000 infections in a single day last week — a new record. Also read| US elections: Pence aid slams Trump on coronavirus; urges people to vote for Biden "Although the numbers reflect more comprehensive testing, it also shows alarming rates of transmission across the region," Kluge told an online news conference from Copenhagen. The Spanish capital of Madrid said it had been overwhelmed by the virus and called for "decisive" action from the central government, which is set to unveil a raft of new restrictions Friday. Madrid officials warned that the region's healthcare system was coming under increasing pressure, with one in five hospital beds occupied by Covid patients amid a second wave of the illness. Anxiety has been growing in the city about the prospect of a return to lockdown after a top regional health official on Wednesday raised the possibility for the worst-hit areas. "It would be bad for shops, for small businesses and little bars that survive on people coming in," said 55-year-old Maribel Quesada. Also read| Will seek emergency authorization if vaccine 70% effective: Moderna "People are really sick of being at home, the (spring) lockdown was very difficult." In Britain, new curbs will take effect Friday, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson warning that pubs may have to close earlier to help avoid a "second hump" of infections. About two million people in northeast England, including in the cities of Newcastle and Sunderland, will no longer be allowed to meet people outside their homes. Only table service will be allowed in bars and entertainment venues will have to close by 10pm. The government already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six or fewer, as daily cases reached levels not seen since early May. French authorities are also preparing tighter restrictions in several cities to curtail a resurgence that has seen nearly 10,000 new cases per day in the past week. Health minister Olivier Veran said Lyon and Nice would be under new rules by Saturday, after curbs on public gatherings were imposed this week in Bordeaux and Marseille. 'Depressed' Israel is set to become the first developed country in the world to enforce a second nationwide shutdown, beginning Friday afternoon. The move sparked protests in Tel Aviv late Thursday when hundreds took to the streets against the restrictions, which are set to take effect just hours before Jewish New Year and will cover other religious holidays including Yom Kippur. "The economy is in freefall, people are losing their jobs, they're depressed," said 60-year-old Yael. "And all this for what? For nothing!" The country has the world's second-highest virus infection rate after Bahrain, according to AFP figures. Under its new measures, residents will be limited to within 500 metres (yards) of their home. As anger grows over how authorities worldwide have responded to the virus, some governments are facing legal action from citizens for alleged failures. A French association of Covid-19 victims plans to file a legal complaint against Prime Minister Jean Castex, its lawyer said. Suits have also been filed in China by bereaved relatives but many have had them abruptly rejected, while dozens of others face pressure from authorities not to file, according to people involved. Families of victims accuse the governments in Wuhan and Hubei province, ground zero for the global pandemic, of concealing the outbreak when it first emerged, failing to alert the public, and bungling the response, allowing Covid-19 to explode. "They say the epidemic was a natural calamity. But these serious outcomes are man-made, and you need to find who's to blame," said pensioner Zhong Hanneng, whose son died with the virus. "Our family is shattered," she added. "I can never be happy again."

Europe imposes fresh curbs as global cases top 30 million

Chinese virologist Dr Li-Meng Yan, last week, accused China of not taking proper precuations to contain the spread of coronavirus, and offered scientific proof that COVID-19 is lab-made in Wuhan.

Less than a week later, her Twitter account has been suspended by the social media giant claiming the account violated the "Twitter rules".
<img alt="'Dr. Li Meng Yan's Twitter account suspended after she claimed to have scientific proof that COVID-19 is Wuhan lab-made." data-align="center" data-caption="'Dr. Li Meng Yan's Twitter account suspended after she claimed to have scientific proof that COVID-19 is Wuhan lab-made." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5fa1230-0027-4424-9814-5f1e2e54d4af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dr.%20Li%20Meng%20Yan.jpg" />
The virologist gained a lot of followers and likes on social media after her claim of&nbsp;SARS CoV-2 being lab-made in Wuhan went viral.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-virologist-claims-covid-19-was-made-in-wuhan-lab-offers-scientific-proof-327153">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese virologist claims COVID-19 was made in Wuhan lab; offers scientific proof</a>

Dr. Yan had, in an interview with a talk show, revealed that she had to flee to the US for her safety after&nbsp;being threatened by the Chinese officials when she wanted to alert the world about the pandemic. She had also alleged the Chinese authorities&nbsp;of&nbsp;employing people to spread rumours about her and deleting all her information.

She claimed that while she was in Wuhan to investigate&nbsp;Pneumonia outbreak, she stumbled upon information about&nbsp;coronavirus. She tried to alert the authorities but got no response from&nbsp;the World Health Organisation. She also accused the Chinese authorities of ignoring her warnings and letting the world suffer through the pandemic, when it could have been avoided.

"This virus is not from nature," she stressed. “The genome sequence is like a human finger print. So based on this you can identify these things. I use the evidence … to tell people why this has come from the lab in China, why they are the only ones who made it.”

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The peculiar thing is that Twitter did not label any of tweets, like it has earlier done for various other political leaders and scientists. However, within days of the claims being made, her account was directly suspended.

Twitter had earlier this year announced that the social media platform will start labelling the tweets that could lead to spreading misleading information on sensitive and important topics.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Yan has already published her report and put it out on internet for the world to access it. Titled, "Unusual Features of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome Suggesting Sophisticated Laboratory Modification Rather Than Natural Evolution and Delineation of Its Probable Synthetic Route", the report is available at the internet.

Twitter has not yet issued a statement on this matter.

Chinese virologist Dr Li-Meng Yan, last week, accused China of not taking proper precuations to contain the spread of coronavirus, and offered scientific proof that COVID-19 is lab-made in Wuhan.

Chinese virologist Dr Li-Meng Yan, last week, accused China of not taking proper precuations to contain the spread of coronavirus, and offered scientific proof that COVID-19 is lab-made in Wuhan. Less than a week later, her Twitter account has been suspended by the social media giant claiming the account violated the "Twitter rules". The virologist gained a lot of followers and likes on social media after her claim of SARS CoV-2 being lab-made in Wuhan went viral. Also read: Chinese virologist claims COVID-19 was made in Wuhan lab; offers scientific proof Dr. Yan had, in an interview with a talk show, revealed that she had to flee to the US for her safety after being threatened by the Chinese officials when she wanted to alert the world about the pandemic. She had also alleged the Chinese authorities of employing people to spread rumours about her and deleting all her information. She claimed that while she was in Wuhan to investigate Pneumonia outbreak, she stumbled upon information about coronavirus. She tried to alert the authorities but got no response from the World Health Organisation. She also accused the Chinese authorities of ignoring her warnings and letting the world suffer through the pandemic, when it could have been avoided. "This virus is not from nature," she stressed. “The genome sequence is like a human finger print. So based on this you can identify these things. I use the evidence … to tell people why this has come from the lab in China, why they are the only ones who made it.” × The peculiar thing is that Twitter did not label any of tweets, like it has earlier done for various other political leaders and scientists. However, within days of the claims being made, her account was directly suspended. Twitter had earlier this year announced that the social media platform will start labelling the tweets that could lead to spreading misleading information on sensitive and important topics. × Meanwhile, Yan has already published her report and put it out on internet for the world to access it. Titled, "Unusual Features of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome Suggesting Sophisticated Laboratory Modification Rather Than Natural Evolution and Delineation of Its Probable Synthetic Route", the report is available at the internet. Twitter has not yet issued a statement on this matter.

Twitter account suspended of Chinese virologist who claimed COVID was lab-made

The top health experts can be wrong, but the US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;can never be wrong even in scientific proofs, or so he believes.

On Tuesday, in an interview with Fox News, Trump had claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available after "four weeks, it could be eight weeks." However, hours later at a town hall event, he shortened the wait time by amonth and claimed,&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-could-be-ready-within-3-4-weeks-donald-trump-327823">We're very close to having a vaccine</a>. We're within weeks of getting it you know — could be three weeks, four weeks."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-donald-trump-admits-downplaying-seriousness-of-covid-19-326412">Also read|&nbsp;US election 2020: Donald Trump admits 'downplaying' seriousness of COVID-19</a>

So&nbsp;now that a whole day has passed, the timeline was expected to get shorter, and so it did. In an interaction with few local reporters on Wednesday, Trump told them the vaccine will be ready till October, i.e. two weeks.

In a race to win the&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>, which are scheduled for November 03, Trump seems to be ready to play with every possible trick down his sleeve and COVID-19 vaccine happens to be one of them.

The recent claim of the vaccine being ready within two weeks has come after the remarks made in the&nbsp;Senate testimony by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Robert Redfield.

On Wednesday, Redfield had told lawmakers that a "very limited" distribution to of the vaccine will be made available to priority groups including first responders, and the timeline for that may be around November or December, clearing that this was not guaranteed. He had also added&nbsp;that full implementation would take many more months at least.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/calm-no-panic-donald-trump-says-he-didnt-lie-about-coronavirus-after-bob-woodwards-book-reveal-326725">Also read|&nbsp;'Calm, no panic': Donald Trump says he didn't lie about coronavirus after Bob Woodward's book-reveal</a>

When asked when would a safe vaccine be available for masses, Redfield has said,&nbsp;"I think we're probably looking at late second quarter, third quarter 2021."

However, Trump quickly dismissed the experts' scientifically-backed information by saying, "I think he made a mistake when he said that. That's just incorrect information."

"We're very close to that vaccine as you know... We think we can start sometime in October," Trump said.

"I believe he was confused," he said of Redfield. "I am just telling you we are ready to go as soon as the vaccine happens."

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The best defense we currently have against this virus are the important mitigation efforts of wearing a mask, washing your hands, social distancing and being careful about crowds. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>
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This is not the first time a contradiction has occurred between these two. Earlier this week, when Redfield was busy urging people to wear masks to contain the spread of coronavirus, Trump told people to wear masks only when needed and not 'all the time' as they are not very helpful. He even added,&nbsp;"I think there are a lot of problems with masks. It's not more effective than a vaccine."

The comment was also criticised by his rival, Joe Biden, who expressed concern about the president's approach towards the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The top health experts can be wrong, but the US President Donald Trump can never be wrong even in scientific proofs, or so he believes. On Tuesday, in an interview with Fox News, Trump had claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available after "four weeks, it could be eight weeks.

The top health experts can be wrong, but the US President Donald Trump can never be wrong even in scientific proofs, or so he believes. On Tuesday, in an interview with Fox News, Trump had claimed that the COVID-19 vaccine will be available after "four weeks, it could be eight weeks." However, hours later at a town hall event, he shortened the wait time by amonth and claimed, "We're very close to having a vaccine. We're within weeks of getting it you know — could be three weeks, four weeks." Also read| US election 2020: Donald Trump admits 'downplaying' seriousness of COVID-19 So now that a whole day has passed, the timeline was expected to get shorter, and so it did. In an interaction with few local reporters on Wednesday, Trump told them the vaccine will be ready till October, i.e. two weeks. In a race to win the US elections, which are scheduled for November 03, Trump seems to be ready to play with every possible trick down his sleeve and COVID-19 vaccine happens to be one of them. The recent claim of the vaccine being ready within two weeks has come after the remarks made in the Senate testimony by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Robert Redfield. On Wednesday, Redfield had told lawmakers that a "very limited" distribution to of the vaccine will be made available to priority groups including first responders, and the timeline for that may be around November or December, clearing that this was not guaranteed. He had also added that full implementation would take many more months at least. Also read| 'Calm, no panic': Donald Trump says he didn't lie about coronavirus after Bob Woodward's book-reveal When asked when would a safe vaccine be available for masses, Redfield has said, "I think we're probably looking at late second quarter, third quarter 2021." However, Trump quickly dismissed the experts' scientifically-backed information by saying, "I think he made a mistake when he said that. That's just incorrect information." "We're very close to that vaccine as you know... We think we can start sometime in October," Trump said. "I believe he was confused," he said of Redfield. "I am just telling you we are ready to go as soon as the vaccine happens." The best defense we currently have against this virus are the important mitigation efforts of wearing a mask, washing your hands, social distancing and being careful about crowds. #COVID19 — Dr. Robert R. Redfield (@CDCDirector) September 16, 2020 × This is not the first time a contradiction has occurred between these two. Earlier this week, when Redfield was busy urging people to wear masks to contain the spread of coronavirus, Trump told people to wear masks only when needed and not 'all the time' as they are not very helpful. He even added, "I think there are a lot of problems with masks. It's not more effective than a vaccine." The comment was also criticised by his rival, Joe Biden, who expressed concern about the president's approach towards the coronavirus.

Trump says top health expert was 'confused' about vaccine, but not him

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging.

It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sees-a-way-through-parliamentary-maze-for-brexit-treaty-breach-bill-327894">Also read:&nbsp;UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill</a>

In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown.&nbsp;

"What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said.

"We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor.

"Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-faces-rebellion-over-plan-to-break-brexit-treaty-327474">Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty</a>

Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump.

Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June.

But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer.

The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services.

It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days.

"I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand".

"Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic."

Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October.

Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths.

The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Thursday he could close pubs earlier to "stop the second hump" of coronavirus cases, comparing the country's trajectory of resurgent transmission to a camel's profile. His government is set to unveil new restrictions in England, which could also include greater social curbs, later on Thursday, initially targeting the northeast region where Covid-19 cases are surging. It already imposed rules across England on Monday limiting socialising to groups of six people or fewer, as daily cases reach levels not seen since early May. Also read: UK sees 'a way through' parliamentary maze for Brexit treaty breach bill In an interview with The Sun newspaper, Johnson said new measures may be needed as "the only way to make sure the country is able to enjoy Christmas" and an alternative to another full lockdown. "What I don't want to be doing is locking down sections of the economy," he said. "We can grip it now, stop the surge, arrest the spike, stop the second hump of the dromedary, flatten the second hump," Johnson told the tabloid, before musing on his metaphor. "Dromedary or camel? I can't remember if it is a dromedary or a camel that has two humps? Umm. Please check." Also read: UK PM Boris Johnson faces rebellion over plan to break Brexit treaty Dromedaries are Arabian camels which have only one hump. Johnson had compared Britain's first wave of virus cases to a sombrero hat, imploring people to "squash it" by obeying the nationwide lockdown in place from late March until June. But the prime minister has faced stinging criticism this week over the failure to achieve the "world-beating" testing and tracing system he promised by the summer. The government admits that increasing demand for virus tests is posing problems, after hospital bosses warned delays in the system were jeopardising healthcare services. It has blamed people who do not need tests overburdening the system, with ministers vowing to unveil new prioritisation rules in the coming days. "I really sympathise for those that can't get the test that they want," Johnson added, conceding "the system is really struggling with the real weight of demand". "Often, and I don't in any way reproach people for doing this, but it's a fact, a significant proportion of those people are asymptomatic." Johnson vowed to "continue to ramp it up" and has promised to have the capacity to test 500,000 people a day in place by October. Britain has been the worst-hit country in Europe from the pandemic, with the government registering nearly 42,000 deaths. The Office of National Statistics, which uses broader criteria for counting Covid-19 fatalities, has said closer to 58,000 Britons have died from the virus.

UK's PM urges Britons to flatten pandemic's 'second hump'

India crossed 5 million coronavirus cases on Wednesday morning&nbsp;with a spike of 90,123 new cases and 1,290 deaths in last 24 hours.

The total case tally stands at 5,020,360 including 995,933 active cases, 3,942,361 cured/discharged/migrated and 82,066 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported.

In the last 11 days, India has recorded a little more than 1 million cases, which is a world record, as no country has recorded so many cases within 10 days.

India is now the second-worst affected country of the world with nearly 5.02 million cases. The United States still remains the worst affected with&nbsp;6.59 million cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-saving-lives-as-well-as-livelihoods-india-lists-covid-19-strategy-at-un-327721">Also read:&nbsp;Focus on saving lives as well as livelihoods, India lists COVID-19 strategy at UN</a>

In the beginning, India took nearly 160 days to reach a million cases. However, next million came within 21 days and the difference has been shortening since then with India reporting four million cases within 29 days.

A total of&nbsp;59,429,115 samples have been tested till September, out of which 1,116,842 samples were tested in the last 24 hours. However, experts believe these tests are not enough, and the ICMR needs to step up the testing speed to reach locals from all areas, including rural areas.

Maharashtra reported 20,482 new cases and 515 deaths in the last 24 hours&nbsp;with 19,423 patients being discharged. Total cases in the state rose to 1,097,856 including 30,409 deaths and &nbsp;775,273 patients getting discharged. Active cases stand at 291,797.

The national capital New Delhi reported 4,263 new cases and 36 deaths&nbsp;, taking the tally to 225,796. The numbers of active and recovered cases are 29,787 and 191,203, respectively, and a&nbsp;death toll of 4,806. Meanwhile, the city&nbsp;reopened its gyms on September 14 — a move which has attracted mix reviews from locals and experts.

India crossed 5 million coronavirus cases on Wednesday morning with a spike of 90,123 new cases and 1,290 deaths in last 24 hours. The total case tally stands at 5,020,360 including 995,933 active cases, 3,942,361 cured/discharged/migrated and 82,066 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported.

India crossed 5 million coronavirus cases on Wednesday morning with a spike of 90,123 new cases and 1,290 deaths in last 24 hours. The total case tally stands at 5,020,360 including 995,933 active cases, 3,942,361 cured/discharged/migrated and 82,066 deaths, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported. In the last 11 days, India has recorded a little more than 1 million cases, which is a world record, as no country has recorded so many cases within 10 days. India is now the second-worst affected country of the world with nearly 5.02 million cases. The United States still remains the worst affected with 6.59 million cases. Also read: Focus on saving lives as well as livelihoods, India lists COVID-19 strategy at UN In the beginning, India took nearly 160 days to reach a million cases. However, next million came within 21 days and the difference has been shortening since then with India reporting four million cases within 29 days. A total of 59,429,115 samples have been tested till September, out of which 1,116,842 samples were tested in the last 24 hours. However, experts believe these tests are not enough, and the ICMR needs to step up the testing speed to reach locals from all areas, including rural areas. Maharashtra reported 20,482 new cases and 515 deaths in the last 24 hours with 19,423 patients being discharged. Total cases in the state rose to 1,097,856 including 30,409 deaths and 775,273 patients getting discharged. Active cases stand at 291,797. The national capital New Delhi reported 4,263 new cases and 36 deaths , taking the tally to 225,796. The numbers of active and recovered cases are 29,787 and 191,203, respectively, and a death toll of 4,806. Meanwhile, the city reopened its gyms on September 14 — a move which has attracted mix reviews from locals and experts.

COVID-19: India crosses 5 million cases with 90,123 new cases

In a big boost to the expectations regarding the covid-19 vaccine, US President Donald Trump has said that the vaccine for the deadly coronavirus may be available within a month. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pushes-37-million-people-into-extreme-poverty-gates-foundation-327805">Also read | Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation</a> 
 
At a town hall event hosted by a news channel Donald Trump said that the shot could be ready within four weeks.

"We're very close to having a vaccine. We're within weeks of getting it you know -- could be three weeks, four weeks," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-coronavirus-cases-surpass-292-million-mark-johns-hopkins-university-327675">Also read | Worldwide coronavirus cases surpass 29.2 million-mark: Johns Hopkins University</a>

“The previous administration would have taken perhaps years to have a vaccine, because of the FDA and all the approvals,” Trump said.

Only hours earlier, speaking to Fox News on Tuesday morning, Trump had said a vaccine could come in "four weeks, it could be eight weeks."

Democrats have expressed concern that Trump is putting political pressure on government health regulators and scientists to approve a rushed vaccine in time to help turn around his uphill bid for reelection against challenger Joe Biden on November 3.

Experts including top US government infectious diseases doctor Anthony Fauci say vaccine approval is more likely toward the end of the year.

At the ABC town hall Trump was asked why he'd downplayed the gravity of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has now killed close to 200,000 people in the US.

Trump replied by saying: "I didn't downplay it. I actually, in many ways, I up-played it in terms of action."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a big boost to the expectations regarding the covid-19 vaccine, US President Donald Trump has said that the vaccine for the deadly coronavirus may be available within a month.

In a big boost to the expectations regarding the covid-19 vaccine, US President Donald Trump has said that the vaccine for the deadly coronavirus may be available within a month. Also read | Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation At a town hall event hosted by a news channel Donald Trump said that the shot could be ready within four weeks. "We're very close to having a vaccine. We're within weeks of getting it you know -- could be three weeks, four weeks," he said. Also read | Worldwide coronavirus cases surpass 29.2 million-mark: Johns Hopkins University “The previous administration would have taken perhaps years to have a vaccine, because of the FDA and all the approvals,” Trump said. Only hours earlier, speaking to Fox News on Tuesday morning, Trump had said a vaccine could come in "four weeks, it could be eight weeks." Democrats have expressed concern that Trump is putting political pressure on government health regulators and scientists to approve a rushed vaccine in time to help turn around his uphill bid for reelection against challenger Joe Biden on November 3. Experts including top US government infectious diseases doctor Anthony Fauci say vaccine approval is more likely toward the end of the year. At the ABC town hall Trump was asked why he'd downplayed the gravity of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has now killed close to 200,000 people in the US. Trump replied by saying: "I didn't downplay it. I actually, in many ways, I up-played it in terms of action." (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus vaccine could be ready within 3-4 weeks: Donald Trump

Coronavirus has affected millions of lives, and, contrary to the intial belief, it has not just affected the elderly but the youngsters too.&nbsp;

A recent study&nbsp;by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently revealed that some minority communities have been more affected by other communities, especially the children.

As per this study, 78 per cent of the coronavirus-related deaths of the under 21 year olds, have been from minority communities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pushes-37-million-people-into-extreme-poverty-gates-foundation-327805">Also read|&nbsp;Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation</a>

The study was conducted specifically in the United States, which is world's worst affected country by coronavirus right now, between the months of February and July.

In the US, under-21s make up a total of 26 per cent of the country and 41 per cent of this population is represented by the children of minority communities.

Out of total deaths of under-21, 12 deaths have been of children under the&nbsp;age of 1, and nearly half of the deaths were of children between the age of 18-20.

Out of 121 deaths among under-21s, 45 per cent were among Hispanics, 29 per cent among blacks and four per cent among American Indians or Alaskan Natives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-lost-100-million-hectares-of-forest-in-two-decades-un-327807">Also read|&nbsp;World lost 100 million hectares of forest in two decades: UN</a>

Overall, mortality among children and youths is far lower than adults: the CDC identified 392,000 cases in the time period, which was eight percent of the total figure, and only 0.08 percent of all deaths.

It has also been observed that boys are at greater risk of getting affected by the virus, as out of the total deaths in the US, 63 per cent were of boys and men.

As per the study, three-quarters of the coronavirus-deaths have been of the people who had some underlying condition such as lung disease and obesity.

However, the study also stated that children are not immune to the novel coronavirus&nbsp;and a post-viral condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C).

Trump administration, however, reportedly, has objected to include the term "pediatric population" to describe the casualties&nbsp;under the age of 21.

Coronavirus has affected millions of lives, and, contrary to the intial belief, it has not just affected the elderly but the youngsters too. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently revealed that some minority communities have been more affected by other communities, especially the children.

Coronavirus has affected millions of lives, and, contrary to the intial belief, it has not just affected the elderly but the youngsters too. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently revealed that some minority communities have been more affected by other communities, especially the children. As per this study, 78 per cent of the coronavirus-related deaths of the under 21 year olds, have been from minority communities. Also read| Coronavirus pushes 37 million people into extreme poverty: Gates Foundation The study was conducted specifically in the United States, which is world's worst affected country by coronavirus right now, between the months of February and July. In the US, under-21s make up a total of 26 per cent of the country and 41 per cent of this population is represented by the children of minority communities. Out of total deaths of under-21, 12 deaths have been of children under the age of 1, and nearly half of the deaths were of children between the age of 18-20. Out of 121 deaths among under-21s, 45 per cent were among Hispanics, 29 per cent among blacks and four per cent among American Indians or Alaskan Natives. Also read| World lost 100 million hectares of forest in two decades: UN Overall, mortality among children and youths is far lower than adults: the CDC identified 392,000 cases in the time period, which was eight percent of the total figure, and only 0.08 percent of all deaths. It has also been observed that boys are at greater risk of getting affected by the virus, as out of the total deaths in the US, 63 per cent were of boys and men. As per the study, three-quarters of the coronavirus-deaths have been of the people who had some underlying condition such as lung disease and obesity. However, the study also stated that children are not immune to the novel coronavirus and a post-viral condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Trump administration, however, reportedly, has objected to include the term "pediatric population" to describe the casualties under the age of 21.

Children from minority communities make up of 78% coronavirus deaths in US: CDC

Controversies seem to be never-ending for the US President Donald Trump, especially with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/us-election">US elections</a>&nbsp;few weeks away.

Last week, investigative journalist Bob Woodward released few excerpts from his new book, Rage, backed with audio clips as proof where&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;can be heard telling Woodward that he 'downplayed' the novel coronavirus because he wanted to.

However, when an undecided voter asked Trump a question about this controversy in an interview, he responded back with a completely different answer saying,&nbsp;"Well I didn't downplay it. I actually, in many ways, I up-played it in terms of action."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/calm-no-panic-donald-trump-says-he-didnt-lie-about-coronavirus-after-bob-woodwards-book-reveal-326725">Also read|&nbsp;'Calm, no panic': Donald Trump says he didn't lie about coronavirus after Bob Woodward's book-reveal</a>

He further&nbsp;justified it by saying,&nbsp;"My action was very strong because what I did with China. I put a ban on. With Europe, I put a ban on. And we would have lost thousands of more people had I not put the ban on. So that was called action, not with the mouth but in actual fact. We did a very, very good job when we put that ban on, whether you call it talent or luck, it was very important so we saved a lot of lives when we did that."

Trump did not stop there. He also claimed that wearing masks was not necessary as masks are not always useful, justifying his move of not announcing a nation-wide mask ma ndate, like other countries.&nbsp;"They said at the Democrat(ic) National Convention they're going to do a national mandate. They never did it, because they've checked out and they didn't do it. And ... Like Joe Biden. They said, 'We're going to a national mandate on masks.' ... But he didn't do it. He never did it," Trump said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-journalist-defends-decision-for-halt-in-publishing-trumps-remarks-on-coronavirus-crisis-326841">Also read|&nbsp;US journalist defends decision for halt in publishing Trump's remarks on coronavirus crisis</a>

His statement of mask mandate has come out a few hours after his&nbsp;administration's top health advisers' urged people to wear face masks when stepping outside to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus which has affected the US in the worst way with the total number of cases above six million.

Justifying his thought process yet again, he cited an example of his day-to-day life, "They come over, they serve you and they have a mask. And I saw it the other day, where they were serving me and they're playing with the mask. I'm not blaming them ... they're playing with the mask ... they're touching it and then they're touching the plate. That can't be good," Trump said.

Controversies seem to be never-ending for the US President Donald Trump, especially with the US elections few weeks away. Last week, investigative journalist Bob Woodward released few excerpts from his new book, Rage, backed with audio clips as proof where Donald Trump can be heard telling Woodward that he 'downplayed' the novel coronavirus because he wanted to.

Controversies seem to be never-ending for the US President Donald Trump, especially with the US elections few weeks away. Last week, investigative journalist Bob Woodward released few excerpts from his new book, Rage, backed with audio clips as proof where Donald Trump can be heard telling Woodward that he 'downplayed' the novel coronavirus because he wanted to. However, when an undecided voter asked Trump a question about this controversy in an interview, he responded back with a completely different answer saying, "Well I didn't downplay it. I actually, in many ways, I up-played it in terms of action." Also read| 'Calm, no panic': Donald Trump says he didn't lie about coronavirus after Bob Woodward's book-reveal He further justified it by saying, "My action was very strong because what I did with China. I put a ban on. With Europe, I put a ban on. And we would have lost thousands of more people had I not put the ban on. So that was called action, not with the mouth but in actual fact. We did a very, very good job when we put that ban on, whether you call it talent or luck, it was very important so we saved a lot of lives when we did that." Trump did not stop there. He also claimed that wearing masks was not necessary as masks are not always useful, justifying his move of not announcing a nation-wide mask ma ndate, like other countries. "They said at the Democrat(ic) National Convention they're going to do a national mandate. They never did it, because they've checked out and they didn't do it. And ... Like Joe Biden. They said, 'We're going to a national mandate on masks.' ... But he didn't do it. He never did it," Trump said. Also read| US journalist defends decision for halt in publishing Trump's remarks on coronavirus crisis His statement of mask mandate has come out a few hours after his administration's top health advisers' urged people to wear face masks when stepping outside to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus which has affected the US in the worst way with the total number of cases above six million. Justifying his thought process yet again, he cited an example of his day-to-day life, "They come over, they serve you and they have a mask. And I saw it the other day, where they were serving me and they're playing with the mask. I'm not blaming them ... they're playing with the mask ... they're touching it and then they're touching the plate. That can't be good," Trump said.

'I up-played coronavirus': Trump answers question of a voter before US elections

India on the 3rd anniversary of India-UN Development Partnership Fund has highlighted how its focus has been on "cooperation over conflict" and amidst the COVID pandemic it reached out to countries.

India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti at an event in New York said," India has through history prioritized cooperation over conflict, co-existence over the competition, sharing over receiving, plurality over hegemony and inclusivity and democracy over exclusion and control. This has underpinned our approach to development cooperation as well."

The Fund was established in 2017 in collaboration with the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation. It is currently undertaking 59 development projects in 48 developing countries through $47.8 million in contributions from a $150 million multi-year pledge by the Indian government.

In a veiled message on Pakistan and China, the envoy said, "at a time when some countries are busy taking undue advantage ofCOVID-19 to spread divisive disinformation or to enhance even more their support to terrorism or to adopt aggressive policies "India's answer has been to "immediately come to the support of countries vulnerable to the pandemic, rush urgently needed medical supplies, strengthen national health capacities and mitigate the diverse socio-economic impact of this crisis."

During the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Fund provided financial support to nine developing countries to procure medical supplies and protective equipment as well as to implement socio-economic response measures. These were Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Saint Lucia, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Tuvalu.

The Fund has made contributions in the area of poverty reduction. For example, in Chad, a project trained 200 local farmers in innovative farming techniques. Across 7 Pacific Island Countries, the fund supported climate resilience project like climate early warning system, including installation of weather monitoring equipment.

It is much appreciated by everyone especially the Pacific Islands countries and the Caribbean.

Envoy of Kiribati to UN said, "India is taking good leadership of the multilateral partnership" while Antigua and Barbuda envoy said, "The Fund has been extremely cooperative with us. PM has asked to offer congratulations to PM and Govt and people of India for the partnership."

In the neighbourhood, Maldives envoy to UN lauded India by saying "everyone has to follow India’s lead as an example of multilateralism" while Nepal envoy said," Nepal is one of the beneficiaries of India’s generous assistance. Appreciate India’s efforts on South-South cooperation".

India on the 3rd anniversary of India-UN Development Partnership Fund has highlighted how its focus has been on "cooperation over conflict" and amidst the COVID pandemic it reached out to countries.

India on the 3rd anniversary of India-UN Development Partnership Fund has highlighted how its focus has been on "cooperation over conflict" and amidst the COVID pandemic it reached out to countries. India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti at an event in New York said," India has through history prioritized cooperation over conflict, co-existence over the competition, sharing over receiving, plurality over hegemony and inclusivity and democracy over exclusion and control. This has underpinned our approach to development cooperation as well." The Fund was established in 2017 in collaboration with the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation. It is currently undertaking 59 development projects in 48 developing countries through $47.8 million in contributions from a $150 million multi-year pledge by the Indian government. In a veiled message on Pakistan and China, the envoy said, "at a time when some countries are busy taking undue advantage ofCOVID-19 to spread divisive disinformation or to enhance even more their support to terrorism or to adopt aggressive policies "India's answer has been to "immediately come to the support of countries vulnerable to the pandemic, rush urgently needed medical supplies, strengthen national health capacities and mitigate the diverse socio-economic impact of this crisis." During the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Fund provided financial support to nine developing countries to procure medical supplies and protective equipment as well as to implement socio-economic response measures. These were Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Saint Lucia, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Tuvalu. The Fund has made contributions in the area of poverty reduction. For example, in Chad, a project trained 200 local farmers in innovative farming techniques. Across 7 Pacific Island Countries, the fund supported climate resilience project like climate early warning system, including installation of weather monitoring equipment. It is much appreciated by everyone especially the Pacific Islands countries and the Caribbean. Envoy of Kiribati to UN said, "India is taking good leadership of the multilateral partnership" while Antigua and Barbuda envoy said, "The Fund has been extremely cooperative with us. PM has asked to offer congratulations to PM and Govt and people of India for the partnership." In the neighbourhood, Maldives envoy to UN lauded India by saying "everyone has to follow India’s lead as an example of multilateralism" while Nepal envoy said," Nepal is one of the beneficiaries of India’s generous assistance. Appreciate India’s efforts on South-South cooperation".

‘Cooperation over conflict’ as India celebrates third anniversary of India-UN development partnership fund

A Chinese virologist has claimed in a video interview that she has scientific proof that the novel coronavirus was made in a Wuhan laboratory.

Dr. Li-Meng Yan is a Chinese scientist had been researching on the novel coronavirus since last year. She was working at the Hong Kong School of Public Health when she came across the proof of coronavirus being lab-made.&nbsp;

She claimed that during her investigation on Pneumonia in Wuhan, she got to know about coronavirus and found that there was no response from the World Health Organisation when coronavirus was reported. The Chinese officials ignored her warnings despite being aware of the danger the world was about to face.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-resumes-trials-of-coronavirus-vaccine-in-uk-327085">Also read:&nbsp;AstraZeneca resumes trials of coronavirus vaccine in UK</a>

Yan, in a video interview, claimed that the virus was lab made in Wuhan, and that particular lab is controlled by the Chinese government.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Lq3_rsBJ9w" width="560"></iframe>

She also stressed that the reasoning being given of the coronavirus originating from a wet market in Wuhan is simply “a smokescreen.” She claimed to be sure about it as she got “her intelligence from the CDC in China, from the local doctors.”

She further claimed that the Chinese officials knew that a human-to-human transmission already exists, and SARS CoV-2 is a high mutant virus which will become an outbreak if nobody controls it.

"This virus is not from nature," she stressed. “The genome sequence is like a human finger print. So based on this you can identify these things. I use the evidence … to tell people why this has come from the lab in China, why they are the only ones who made it.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/superbug-is-deadlier-than-covid-19-situation-worse-in-pacific-326824">Also read:&nbsp;Superbug is deadlier than COVID-19; situation worse in Pacific</a>

She alleged the Chinese officials of silencing her when she tried to warn the world about the dangers of this pandemic.

“Anyone, even if you have no biology knowledge, you can read it, and you can check and identify and verify by yourself.”

“This is the critical thing for us to know the origin of the virus,” she said. “If not we cannot overcome it — it will be life-threatening for everyone.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-trials-of-nasal-spray-vaccine-for-coronavirus-326770">Also read:&nbsp;China approves trials of nasal spray vaccine for coronavirus</a>

Yan said she had to flee to the United States after being threatened by the Chinese officials when she wanted to sound the alarm. She also alleged the Chinese authorities of employing people to spread rumours about her and deleting all her information. Yan is now hiding in the United States as she is worried about her safety after being labelled as a whistleblower.

However,&nbsp;Yuan Zhiming, the director of the Wuhan Institute of Virology, had previously declined all these allegations. Chinese authorities have not acknowledged this video claim yet.&nbsp;

A Chinese virologist has claimed in a video interview that she has scientific proof that the novel coronavirus was made in a Wuhan laboratory. Dr. Li-Meng Yan is a Chinese scientist had been researching on the novel coronavirus since last year.

A Chinese virologist has claimed in a video interview that she has scientific proof that the novel coronavirus was made in a Wuhan laboratory. Dr. Li-Meng Yan is a Chinese scientist had been researching on the novel coronavirus since last year. She was working at the Hong Kong School of Public Health when she came across the proof of coronavirus being lab-made. She claimed that during her investigation on Pneumonia in Wuhan, she got to know about coronavirus and found that there was no response from the World Health Organisation when coronavirus was reported. The Chinese officials ignored her warnings despite being aware of the danger the world was about to face. Also read: AstraZeneca resumes trials of coronavirus vaccine in UK Yan, in a video interview, claimed that the virus was lab made in Wuhan, and that particular lab is controlled by the Chinese government. She also stressed that the reasoning being given of the coronavirus originating from a wet market in Wuhan is simply “a smokescreen.” She claimed to be sure about it as she got “her intelligence from the CDC in China, from the local doctors.” She further claimed that the Chinese officials knew that a human-to-human transmission already exists, and SARS CoV-2 is a high mutant virus which will become an outbreak if nobody controls it. "This virus is not from nature," she stressed. “The genome sequence is like a human finger print. So based on this you can identify these things. I use the evidence … to tell people why this has come from the lab in China, why they are the only ones who made it.” Also read: Superbug is deadlier than COVID-19; situation worse in Pacific She alleged the Chinese officials of silencing her when she tried to warn the world about the dangers of this pandemic. “Anyone, even if you have no biology knowledge, you can read it, and you can check and identify and verify by yourself.” “This is the critical thing for us to know the origin of the virus,” she said. “If not we cannot overcome it — it will be life-threatening for everyone.” Also read: China approves trials of nasal spray vaccine for coronavirus Yan said she had to flee to the United States after being threatened by the Chinese officials when she wanted to sound the alarm. She also alleged the Chinese authorities of employing people to spread rumours about her and deleting all her information. Yan is now hiding in the United States as she is worried about her safety after being labelled as a whistleblower. However, Yuan Zhiming, the director of the Wuhan Institute of Virology, had previously declined all these allegations. Chinese authorities have not acknowledged this video claim yet.

Chinese virologist claims COVID-19 was made in Wuhan lab; offers scientific proof

Brazil has recorded more than 130,000 deaths linked to Covid-19, the world's second-highest figure, as the outbreak in the country shows no sign of easing. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalists-are-wimps-more-likely-to-die-of-coronavirus-says-brazils-bolsonaro-322872">Also read | Journalists are 'wimps'; more likely to die of coronavirus, says Brazil's Bolsonaro</a> 
 
Since the first case came to light on February 26, the South American colossus has registered more than 4.32 million infections. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-president-bolsonaro-says-covid-19-vaccinations-will-not-be-mandatory-325087">Also read | Brazil President Bolsonaro says COVID-19 vaccinations will not be mandatory</a> 
 
But the government has responded to the crisis by distributing so much cash directly to citizens that poverty and inequality are approaching national historic lows.

According to a report published in news agency Bloomberg "some 66 million people, 30% of the population, have been getting 600 reais ($110) a month, making it the most ambitious social program ever undertaken in Brazil, a shocking shift under President Jair Bolsonaro who railed against welfare dismissed the virus — and now finds himself newly popular. The government hasn’t published its figures yet but data from the Getulio Vargas Foundation, one of Brazil’s top universities, show that those living on less than $1.9 a day fell to 3.3% in June from 8% last year, and those below the poverty line were at 21.7% compared with 25.6%. Both represent 16-year lows."

Brazil’s emergency pandemic payments, known as the “coronavoucher,” has benefited 30 million households, or 44% of the country’s total, since March.

Recent opinion polls show these payments were a key factor in boosting the popularity of right-wing Bolsonaro to its highest since taking office last year, especially in the poorest region, northeastern Brazil, once a stronghold of the left.

But Guedes has said the pandemic handouts cost the Treasury 50 billion reais a month and are fiscally unsustainable.

To hold on to his newfound support, Bolsonaro is seeking to rebrand Bolsa Familia, the popular cash transfer program launched in 2003 by former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, which helped build a bastion of support for his Workers’ Party. 
 
Renamed Renda Brasil, Bolsonaro hopes to expand the welfare payments to an additional 7 million poor families, taking it to a total of 21 million, and to increase the stipend.

But the president said he was unhappy with the way the Economy Ministry had proposed funding Renda Brasil, via cuts in other social programs such as the salary allowance scheme that many low-paid workers qualify for.

Bolsa Familia, which enjoys widespread popularity and support, costs the Treasury around 30 billion reais ($5.5 billion) a year.

“I can’t take from the poor to give to the poor. I cannot take away 12 million people’s salary allowance to give to a Bolsa Familia or Renda Brasil, or whatever,” Bolsonaro said at an event in the state of Minas Gerais.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brazil has recorded more than 130,000 deaths linked to Covid-19, the world's second-highest figure, as the outbreak in the country shows no sign of easing. Also read | Journalists are 'wimps'; more likely to die of coronavirus, says Brazil's Bolsonaro Since the first case came to light on February 26, the South American colossus has registered more than 4.

Brazil has recorded more than 130,000 deaths linked to Covid-19, the world's second-highest figure, as the outbreak in the country shows no sign of easing. Also read | Journalists are 'wimps'; more likely to die of coronavirus, says Brazil's Bolsonaro Since the first case came to light on February 26, the South American colossus has registered more than 4.32 million infections. Also read | Brazil President Bolsonaro says COVID-19 vaccinations will not be mandatory But the government has responded to the crisis by distributing so much cash directly to citizens that poverty and inequality are approaching national historic lows. According to a report published in news agency Bloomberg "some 66 million people, 30% of the population, have been getting 600 reais ($110) a month, making it the most ambitious social program ever undertaken in Brazil, a shocking shift under President Jair Bolsonaro who railed against welfare dismissed the virus — and now finds himself newly popular. The government hasn’t published its figures yet but data from the Getulio Vargas Foundation, one of Brazil’s top universities, show that those living on less than $1.9 a day fell to 3.3% in June from 8% last year, and those below the poverty line were at 21.7% compared with 25.6%. Both represent 16-year lows." Brazil’s emergency pandemic payments, known as the “coronavoucher,” has benefited 30 million households, or 44% of the country’s total, since March. Recent opinion polls show these payments were a key factor in boosting the popularity of right-wing Bolsonaro to its highest since taking office last year, especially in the poorest region, northeastern Brazil, once a stronghold of the left. But Guedes has said the pandemic handouts cost the Treasury 50 billion reais a month and are fiscally unsustainable. To hold on to his newfound support, Bolsonaro is seeking to rebrand Bolsa Familia, the popular cash transfer program launched in 2003 by former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, which helped build a bastion of support for his Workers’ Party. Renamed Renda Brasil, Bolsonaro hopes to expand the welfare payments to an additional 7 million poor families, taking it to a total of 21 million, and to increase the stipend. But the president said he was unhappy with the way the Economy Ministry had proposed funding Renda Brasil, via cuts in other social programs such as the salary allowance scheme that many low-paid workers qualify for. Bolsa Familia, which enjoys widespread popularity and support, costs the Treasury around 30 billion reais ($5.5 billion) a year. “I can’t take from the poor to give to the poor. I cannot take away 12 million people’s salary allowance to give to a Bolsa Familia or Renda Brasil, or whatever,” Bolsonaro said at an event in the state of Minas Gerais. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil hands out so much Covid cash that poverty nears historic low

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