India reported&nbsp;highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths.

Indian Council of Medical Research tested 2,82,511 yesterday. Till now, ICMR has tested 1,13,07,002 samples in total.

Maharashtra, India's worst affected state,&nbsp;reported 7,862 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 2,38,461. The death toll of the state has increased to&nbsp;9,893. Due to a rapid increase in the cases,&nbsp;the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation extended till July 19 in Maharashtra's Kalkan area. Pune, too, has reimposed a lockdown.

Mumbai reported 1,354 new&nbsp;cases and&nbsp;73 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 90,149 including 61,934 recovered, 22,738 active cases and&nbsp;5,202 deaths, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. A otal of 2,183 COVID-19 patients were&nbsp;discharged yesterday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-us-reports-record-single-day-spike-of-nearly-69000-new-cases-312437">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases</a>

India's national capital Delhi, on Friday night, reported 2,089 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 1,09,140. There were 42 deaths reported due to the virus in the last 24 hours which took the death toll to 3,300. The health department reported that 84,694 patients have recovered from the virus in the capital.

Tamil Nadu reported 3,680 new positive cases and 64 deaths, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,30,261 including 46,105 active, 82,324 discharges and 1,829 deaths.

Uttar Pradesh has also reimposed lockdown for the weekend after the state reported 1,347 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 11,024. The death toll has increased to 889.

Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued a statement clearing that the circular is making rounds on social media claiming that a new COVID-19 Monitoring Committee has been formed is fake. "Such a committee has not been set up by the Union Home Ministry. Beware of fake news and rumours," said spokesperson of&nbsp;Ministry of Home Affairs.

India reported highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths.

India reported highest single-day spike of 27,114 new cases and 519 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total positive cases stand at 8,20,916 including 2,83,407 active cases, 5,15,386 cured/discharged/migrated and 22,123 deaths. Indian Council of Medical Research tested 2,82,511 yesterday. Till now, ICMR has tested 1,13,07,002 samples in total. Maharashtra, India's worst affected state, reported 7,862 new coronavirus cases taking the total number of positive cases in the state to 2,38,461. The death toll of the state has increased to 9,893. Due to a rapid increase in the cases, the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation extended till July 19 in Maharashtra's Kalkan area. Pune, too, has reimposed a lockdown. Mumbai reported 1,354 new cases and 73 deaths. Total number of cases in the city is now at 90,149 including 61,934 recovered, 22,738 active cases and 5,202 deaths, according to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. A otal of 2,183 COVID-19 patients were discharged yesterday. Also read| COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases India's national capital Delhi, on Friday night, reported 2,089 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of cases to 1,09,140. There were 42 deaths reported due to the virus in the last 24 hours which took the death toll to 3,300. The health department reported that 84,694 patients have recovered from the virus in the capital. Tamil Nadu reported 3,680 new positive cases and 64 deaths, taking the total number of positive cases to 1,30,261 including 46,105 active, 82,324 discharges and 1,829 deaths. Uttar Pradesh has also reimposed lockdown for the weekend after the state reported 1,347 new coronavirus cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of active cases to 11,024. The death toll has increased to 889. Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued a statement clearing that the circular is making rounds on social media claiming that a new COVID-19 Monitoring Committee has been formed is fake. "Such a committee has not been set up by the Union Home Ministry. Beware of fake news and rumours," said spokesperson of Ministry of Home Affairs.

India COVID-19 tally crosses 8 lakh with highest single day spike of 27,114 cases

Brazil has been facing a tough time, whether it is coronavirus-related issues or a political turmoil. Brazilian President has changed Health Ministers in the past few months. Now, he has appointed a new Education Minister.

The decision was taken by&nbsp;Jair Bolsonaro to replace&nbsp;Abraham Weintraub by&nbsp;Milton Ribeiro, a pastor in an evangelical church of Sao Paulo.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-says-he-feels-very-well-praises-hydroxycholoroquine-312161">Also read:&nbsp;Bolsonaro says he feels 'very well', praises hydroxycholoroquine</a>

Weintraub stepped down from his position in June mid after he was&nbsp;alleged of&nbsp;libel and involvement in disinformation network run by Bolsonaro's supporters. He was also infamous for making racist comments against China and&nbsp;for stating that the&nbsp;Supreme Court judges should be locked up

In addition to his duties of a pastor, Ribeiro has degrees in education, constitutional law and theology, according to information posted on a government website. He was also&nbsp;previously a lieutenant in Brazil's armed forces.

Ribeiro, however, was not Bolsonaro's first pick. Carlos Decotelli was the first choice of replacement. However, the&nbsp;economist stepped down before he was even sworn in due to various irregularities in his curriculum vitae being highlighted. His portfolio reflected a doctorate degree he claimed to have received and post-doctoral work, which, according to local media, was never completed.

Brazil has been facing a tough time, whether it is coronavirus-related issues or a political turmoil. Brazilian President has changed Health Ministers in the past few months.

Brazil has been facing a tough time, whether it is coronavirus-related issues or a political turmoil. Brazilian President has changed Health Ministers in the past few months. Now, he has appointed a new Education Minister. The decision was taken by Jair Bolsonaro to replace Abraham Weintraub by Milton Ribeiro, a pastor in an evangelical church of Sao Paulo. Also read: Bolsonaro says he feels 'very well', praises hydroxycholoroquine Weintraub stepped down from his position in June mid after he was alleged of libel and involvement in disinformation network run by Bolsonaro's supporters. He was also infamous for making racist comments against China and for stating that the Supreme Court judges should be locked up In addition to his duties of a pastor, Ribeiro has degrees in education, constitutional law and theology, according to information posted on a government website. He was also previously a lieutenant in Brazil's armed forces. Ribeiro, however, was not Bolsonaro's first pick. Carlos Decotelli was the first choice of replacement. However, the economist stepped down before he was even sworn in due to various irregularities in his curriculum vitae being highlighted. His portfolio reflected a doctorate degree he claimed to have received and post-doctoral work, which, according to local media, was never completed.

Brazil: Bolsonaro appoints evangelical church pastor as new education minister

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate.

The United States recorded&nbsp;69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally.

Alaska, Georgia, Louisiana, Montana, Ohio, Utah and Wisconsin are few of the states that saw a record spike in the number of cases on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-california-prisons-to-release-8000-prisoners-to-contain-rapid-spread-312434">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread</a>

While the number of cases on a rise, the country is divided on the opinion of reopening economy and schools. The US President Donald Trump feels that his opponents are trying to discourage reopening of economy to send the economy in a downward spiral that will adversely affect his re-election campaigns.

In addition to this, the reluctance of lawmakers towards wearing facemasks has also added to the increase in COVID-19 cases as the lawmakers come in contact with dozens of people on a daily basis which results in a rapid spread of the infection, experts believe.

About one in six state lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus,&nbsp;the Mississippi Health Department told a media channel.

(With inputs from Reuters)

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate. The United States recorded 69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally.

While the US President Donald Trump is asking schools to reopen, the number of coronavirus cases in the country seem to be increasing at an alarming rate. The United States recorded 69,000 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, a record daily increase for a third day in a row, according to a Reuters tally. Alaska, Georgia, Louisiana, Montana, Ohio, Utah and Wisconsin are few of the states that saw a record spike in the number of cases on Friday. Also read| COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread While the number of cases on a rise, the country is divided on the opinion of reopening economy and schools. The US President Donald Trump feels that his opponents are trying to discourage reopening of economy to send the economy in a downward spiral that will adversely affect his re-election campaigns. In addition to this, the reluctance of lawmakers towards wearing facemasks has also added to the increase in COVID-19 cases as the lawmakers come in contact with dozens of people on a daily basis which results in a rapid spread of the infection, experts believe. About one in six state lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus, the Mississippi Health Department told a media channel. (With inputs from Reuters)

COVID 19: US reports record single day spike of nearly 69,000 new cases

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises.

To contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, the state of California has decided to release up to 8,000 inmates from state prisons, the state authorities reported.

The prisoners will be allowed to leave the prison premises earlier than their set release date. The state corrections department is preparing a list of inmates who could be eligible for an an early release, probably by the end of August.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-to-sue-trump-over-order-revoking-foreign-student-visas-312110">Also read:&nbsp;California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas</a>

These actions are taken to provide for the health and safety of the incarcerated population and staff," California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary Ralph Diaz said in a statement.

This will be California's biggest move to contain the spread of the virus inside the state prisons, a matter which has been a rising concern for few months now.

The prisoners who will be eligible for the release would be the inmates who have only a year or less left to serve, and have not been convicted for violent felonies or sex-related crimes.

California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday nearly 2,400 people in California's 35 prisons have tested positive for the coronavirus, including 1,314 at San Quentin State Prison north of San Francisco.

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises.

As the coronavirus cases in the US are increasing on an alarming rate, the US prisons too have been observing a rapid increase in the number of positive cases in their premises. To contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, the state of California has decided to release up to 8,000 inmates from state prisons, the state authorities reported. The prisoners will be allowed to leave the prison premises earlier than their set release date. The state corrections department is preparing a list of inmates who could be eligible for an an early release, probably by the end of August. Also read: California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas These actions are taken to provide for the health and safety of the incarcerated population and staff," California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary Ralph Diaz said in a statement. This will be California's biggest move to contain the spread of the virus inside the state prisons, a matter which has been a rising concern for few months now. The prisoners who will be eligible for the release would be the inmates who have only a year or less left to serve, and have not been convicted for violent felonies or sex-related crimes. California Governor Gavin Newsom said on Thursday nearly 2,400 people in California's 35 prisons have tested positive for the coronavirus, including 1,314 at San Quentin State Prison north of San Francisco.

COVID 19: California prisons to release 8,000 prisoners to contain rapid spread

With a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the US and upcoming elections,&nbsp;the Trump administration is getting quite desperate to make all arrangements of not only finding a cure/vaccine, but also getting it to the citizens.

In such a move, the Trump administration has agreed to invest more than half a billion in tax dollars in ApiJect Systems America, a new company whose&nbsp;injector is not approved by federal health authorities and the company hasn't yet set up a factory to manufacture the devices.

“The fact of this matter is, it would be crazy for people to just rely on us. I would be the first to say it,” said ApiJect CEO Jay Walker. “We should be America's backup at this point, but probably not its primary.”

ApiJect, which has only developed 1,000 prototypes so far, is not clear whether those devices can deliver the vaccines that are currently in development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-going-to-be-bullied-or-threatened-by-the-president-experts-react-to-trumps-threats-of-reopening-us-schools-312427">Also read|&nbsp;Not going to be bullied or threatened by the President: Experts react to Trump's threats of reopening US schools</a>

The Founder of the company, Marc Koska, has been working on creating an ultra low-cost prefilled syringe that would reduce the need to reuse needles in the developing world. With no intentions of delivering a vaccine to the entire nation, the US government has now, in very surprising turns of events, become his biggest customer. The move was strange as the company received a no-bid contract from&nbsp;Defence Department under an exception for “unusual and compelling urgency."

The government promised ApiJect $138 million to produce 100 million of its devices by the end of the year, which will require the company to retrofit new manufacturing lines in existing factories.

In addition to this, the company has been offered another $456 million as part of a public-private partnership contract to bring online several new factories to make another 500 million devices to “contain the pandemic spread to minimize the loss of life and impact to the United States economy,” said the document.

The product was spotted by Admiral Brett P. Giroir, HHS's assistant secretary for health, at the World Health Organization's Global Conference on Primary Health Care in Astana, Kazakhstan. Walker had presented the prototype to Giroir just to explain the work that his company was trying to achieve, and Giroir was adamant on having this product in the US.

Koska said Giroir was “blown away” by their technology and told them that if a pandemic hit, the strategic national stockpile was going to need a very fast way to get injections filled with vaccines or therapeutics and ready to deliver.

So few weeks later when the pandemic hit and a call for a possible shortage of needles was made,&nbsp;ApiJect, unexpectedly, found a no-bid contract from the US government.

(With inputs from agencies)

With a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the US and upcoming elections, the Trump administration is getting quite desperate to make all arrangements of not only finding a cure/vaccine, but also getting it to the citizens.

With a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases in the US and upcoming elections, the Trump administration is getting quite desperate to make all arrangements of not only finding a cure/vaccine, but also getting it to the citizens. In such a move, the Trump administration has agreed to invest more than half a billion in tax dollars in ApiJect Systems America, a new company whose injector is not approved by federal health authorities and the company hasn't yet set up a factory to manufacture the devices. “The fact of this matter is, it would be crazy for people to just rely on us. I would be the first to say it,” said ApiJect CEO Jay Walker. “We should be America's backup at this point, but probably not its primary.” ApiJect, which has only developed 1,000 prototypes so far, is not clear whether those devices can deliver the vaccines that are currently in development. Also read| Not going to be bullied or threatened by the President: Experts react to Trump's threats of reopening US schools The Founder of the company, Marc Koska, has been working on creating an ultra low-cost prefilled syringe that would reduce the need to reuse needles in the developing world. With no intentions of delivering a vaccine to the entire nation, the US government has now, in very surprising turns of events, become his biggest customer. The move was strange as the company received a no-bid contract from Defence Department under an exception for “unusual and compelling urgency." The government promised ApiJect $138 million to produce 100 million of its devices by the end of the year, which will require the company to retrofit new manufacturing lines in existing factories. In addition to this, the company has been offered another $456 million as part of a public-private partnership contract to bring online several new factories to make another 500 million devices to “contain the pandemic spread to minimize the loss of life and impact to the United States economy,” said the document. The product was spotted by Admiral Brett P. Giroir, HHS's assistant secretary for health, at the World Health Organization's Global Conference on Primary Health Care in Astana, Kazakhstan. Walker had presented the prototype to Giroir just to explain the work that his company was trying to achieve, and Giroir was adamant on having this product in the US. Koska said Giroir was “blown away” by their technology and told them that if a pandemic hit, the strategic national stockpile was going to need a very fast way to get injections filled with vaccines or therapeutics and ready to deliver. So few weeks later when the pandemic hit and a call for a possible shortage of needles was made, ApiJect, unexpectedly, found a no-bid contract from the US government. (With inputs from agencies)

US invests heavily in a company, without a factory, to deliver COVID-19 vaccine

New Zealand's former Prime Minister Helen Clark has been appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead a review of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Describing this duty as "exceptionally challenging", she has warned that the danger of the pandemic will not decrease easily and the possibility of such a crisis rising again still exists. reminding everyone that this is the sixth time in the last 17 years that such a crisis has arised.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unknown-pneumonia-deadlier-than-coronavirus-sweeping-across-kazakhstan-warns-chinese-embassy-312099">Also read|&nbsp;'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy</a>

Clark said that&nbsp;if the world remained "flat-footed" in its response to pandemics, it faces future economic, social and political crisis.

"This is going to happen again. If the world is as flat-footed in response as it has been to this we are in serious ongoing economic, social, political crisis," she said in a local TV interview.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bubonic-plague-being-well-managed-in-china-not-high-risk-who-311353">Also read|&nbsp;Bubonic plague being 'well managed' in China, not high risk: WHO</a>

The statement came after the WHO on Thursday announced that Helen Clark and Liberia's former president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will lead a panel investigating and scrutinising the global response to the ongoing pandemic.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called both women "strong-minded, independent leaders" and gave them the freedom to&nbsp;assess WHO's and governments' responses to the pandemic.

Clark and Sirleaf have to choose their panel members. Clark has described this to be a challenging but important job. "But there's also a very real job to do, which is to look at how the WHO has been able to lead. Does it have the right mechanisms? What actually happened here? And there's a lot of politics in that," she said.

New Zealand's former Prime Minister Helen Clark has been appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead a review of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Zealand's former Prime Minister Helen Clark has been appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead a review of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Describing this duty as "exceptionally challenging", she has warned that the danger of the pandemic will not decrease easily and the possibility of such a crisis rising again still exists. reminding everyone that this is the sixth time in the last 17 years that such a crisis has arised. Also read| 'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy Clark said that if the world remained "flat-footed" in its response to pandemics, it faces future economic, social and political crisis. "This is going to happen again. If the world is as flat-footed in response as it has been to this we are in serious ongoing economic, social, political crisis," she said in a local TV interview. Also read| Bubonic plague being 'well managed' in China, not high risk: WHO The statement came after the WHO on Thursday announced that Helen Clark and Liberia's former president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will lead a panel investigating and scrutinising the global response to the ongoing pandemic. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called both women "strong-minded, independent leaders" and gave them the freedom to assess WHO's and governments' responses to the pandemic. Clark and Sirleaf have to choose their panel members. Clark has described this to be a challenging but important job. "But there's also a very real job to do, which is to look at how the WHO has been able to lead. Does it have the right mechanisms? What actually happened here? And there's a lot of politics in that," she said.

Flat-footed response will bring back crisis: former New Zealand PM Helen Clark

Interim President of Bolivia, Jeanine Anez Chavez, on Thursday (local time) said she has tested positive for COVID-19.

"The COVID-19 test turned out to be positive. I feel normal and will work in isolation," she tweeted, according to a Sputnik report.

Bolivia`s minister of health, head of the Central Bank and head of the presidential administration have already been diagnosed with the coronavirus, the report said.

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Worldwide, more than 12.1 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with fatalities related to the virus over 552,000, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

Bolivia has registered about 43,000 COVID-19 cases so far, with more than 1,500 fatalities.Earlier, this week, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro had tested positive for COVID-19.

Interim President of Bolivia, Jeanine Anez Chavez, on Thursday (local time) said she has tested positive for COVID-19. "The COVID-19 test turned out to be positive.

Interim President of Bolivia, Jeanine Anez Chavez, on Thursday (local time) said she has tested positive for COVID-19. "The COVID-19 test turned out to be positive. I feel normal and will work in isolation," she tweeted, according to a Sputnik report. Bolivia`s minister of health, head of the Central Bank and head of the presidential administration have already been diagnosed with the coronavirus, the report said. × Worldwide, more than 12.1 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with fatalities related to the virus over 552,000, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Bolivia has registered about 43,000 COVID-19 cases so far, with more than 1,500 fatalities.Earlier, this week, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro had tested positive for COVID-19.

Bolivia's president says she has tested positive for the coronavirus

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday.

The call from Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, tasked with leading Japan`s pandemic response, came as Tokyo reported a record daily high of 243 new infections on Friday.

Infections in the capital have been creeping up since the government lifted a state of emergency about a month ago, with the notorious Kabukicho red-light district becoming a major source of cases.

"We need to take steps quickly," Nishimura told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-theme-parks-instruct-riders-to-keep-their-screams-inside-and-be-serious-311970">Also read:&nbsp;Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious'</a>

Clusters were first found among Kabukicho`s many host clubs, where smartly dressed young men entertain women customers over drinks, and then at the female equivalent hostess or "cabaret" clubs.

Outbreaks have also been found in similar clubs in Ikebukuro`s red-light district, as well as in some cafes where women dress up as maids to entertain customers in the Akihabara electronics town.

"Infections are coming out of host and cabaret clubs and it`s important to take firm measures there," Nishimura said.

"We need to make sure they thoroughly follow guidelines."

He did not elaborate on exactly what steps he wants the clubs to take but said he would meet experts and chiefs of the nightlife districts later on Friday to decide on measures.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who will also join the meeting, said the metropolis would step up efforts to educate nightlife workers, including through a new video that will be available on its website next week.

At a media briefing, Koike showed a clip of the video in which a young host sits at a night club in one frame asking a doctor in the opposite frame, via video chat, what kind of symptoms young people could expect if they contracted the virus. The questions would be posed in relay form by a number of hosts and hostesses, Koike said.

"In this way, they can pose whatever questions they have directly to a doctor and get easy-to-understand explanations," she said, with questions ranging from how to safely greet customers to where to go to take a PCR test.

Tokyo will also provide a service for workers to make enquiries over a messaging app, she said.

Tokyo`s jump in cases has accompanied a rise in testing to around 3,000 a day, and Economy Minister Nishimura said authorities needed to be even more aggressive to stamp out the surge.

Japan has had about 20,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 980 deaths.

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday.

Japanese host and hostess clubs must act quickly to ensure they abide by rules to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus after nightlife districts became new hot spots in a resurgence of infections, the economy minister said on Friday. The call from Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, tasked with leading Japan`s pandemic response, came as Tokyo reported a record daily high of 243 new infections on Friday. Infections in the capital have been creeping up since the government lifted a state of emergency about a month ago, with the notorious Kabukicho red-light district becoming a major source of cases. "We need to take steps quickly," Nishimura told reporters. Also read: Japan: Theme parks instruct riders to keep their 'screams inside' and be 'serious' Clusters were first found among Kabukicho`s many host clubs, where smartly dressed young men entertain women customers over drinks, and then at the female equivalent hostess or "cabaret" clubs. Outbreaks have also been found in similar clubs in Ikebukuro`s red-light district, as well as in some cafes where women dress up as maids to entertain customers in the Akihabara electronics town. "Infections are coming out of host and cabaret clubs and it`s important to take firm measures there," Nishimura said. "We need to make sure they thoroughly follow guidelines." He did not elaborate on exactly what steps he wants the clubs to take but said he would meet experts and chiefs of the nightlife districts later on Friday to decide on measures. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, who will also join the meeting, said the metropolis would step up efforts to educate nightlife workers, including through a new video that will be available on its website next week. At a media briefing, Koike showed a clip of the video in which a young host sits at a night club in one frame asking a doctor in the opposite frame, via video chat, what kind of symptoms young people could expect if they contracted the virus. The questions would be posed in relay form by a number of hosts and hostesses, Koike said. "In this way, they can pose whatever questions they have directly to a doctor and get easy-to-understand explanations," she said, with questions ranging from how to safely greet customers to where to go to take a PCR test. Tokyo will also provide a service for workers to make enquiries over a messaging app, she said. Tokyo`s jump in cases has accompanied a rise in testing to around 3,000 a day, and Economy Minister Nishimura said authorities needed to be even more aggressive to stamp out the surge. Japan has had about 20,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 980 deaths.

Japan nightclub 'hotspots' must follow coronavirus rules to stop spread: government

With an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases despite a second lockdown, the Kazakh President is now getting frustrated with his cabinet.

On Saturday,&nbsp;Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said he may sack his whole cabinet if the second lockdown fails to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"It would raise questions about the government's ability to work in its current composition" if there is no improvement by the end of the lockdown, Tokayev's office quoted him as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unknown-pneumonia-deadlier-than-coronavirus-sweeping-across-kazakhstan-warns-chinese-embassy-312099">Also read:&nbsp;'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy</a>

Tokayev says the inability of the cabinet to handle the pandemic reflects poorly on the entire government. The statement came after the number of coronavirus cases rose to&nbsp;55,000, including 264 deaths. The country reported its highest daily spike of coronavirus cases on Thursday of 1,962 cases, and reduced to 1,726 on Friday.

The statement has also come after China alleged that the 'unknown pneumonia' in Kazakhistan is deadlier than the novel coronavirus.

He also ordered the cabinet to bring the crippling economy out of the downward spiral after the economy shrank by 1.8 per cent year-on-year in January-June due to the service sector being hit by the first lockdown in March-May.

Tokayev said the government would allocate an additional 150 billion tenge ($363 million) towards combating the COVID-19 outbreak and urged the central bank to lower its inflation target to 8.0-8.5% from 9.0-11.0% this year.&nbsp;

Along with the financial decisions, he has also&nbsp;permanently banned sales of agricultural land to foreigners, ending a long-running discussion about controversial land reform plans.

With an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases despite a second lockdown, the Kazakh President is now getting frustrated with his cabinet. On Saturday, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said he may sack his whole cabinet if the second lockdown fails to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

With an increase in the number of positive coronavirus cases despite a second lockdown, the Kazakh President is now getting frustrated with his cabinet. On Saturday, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said he may sack his whole cabinet if the second lockdown fails to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. "It would raise questions about the government's ability to work in its current composition" if there is no improvement by the end of the lockdown, Tokayev's office quoted him as saying. Also read: 'Unknown Pneumonia' deadlier than coronavirus sweeping across Kazakhstan, warns Chinese Embassy Tokayev says the inability of the cabinet to handle the pandemic reflects poorly on the entire government. The statement came after the number of coronavirus cases rose to 55,000, including 264 deaths. The country reported its highest daily spike of coronavirus cases on Thursday of 1,962 cases, and reduced to 1,726 on Friday. The statement has also come after China alleged that the 'unknown pneumonia' in Kazakhistan is deadlier than the novel coronavirus. He also ordered the cabinet to bring the crippling economy out of the downward spiral after the economy shrank by 1.8 per cent year-on-year in January-June due to the service sector being hit by the first lockdown in March-May. Tokayev said the government would allocate an additional 150 billion tenge ($363 million) towards combating the COVID-19 outbreak and urged the central bank to lower its inflation target to 8.0-8.5% from 9.0-11.0% this year. Along with the financial decisions, he has also permanently banned sales of agricultural land to foreigners, ending a long-running discussion about controversial land reform plans.

Stop the spread or go home: Kazakh president threatens the entire cabinet

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes.

As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deplores-australian-safe-haven-offer-to-hong-kongers-311927">Also read:&nbsp;China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers</a>

The&nbsp;Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents.

Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening.&nbsp;Many international schools are already on summer break.

The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to&nbsp;1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus.

The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching. Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted. Also read: China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers The Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents. Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening. Many international schools are already on summer break. The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to 1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus. The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

Hong Kong to close schools amid rise in COVID-19 cases

The coronavirus death toll in Pakistan crossed the 5,000-mark on Friday with 75 new fatalities, the health ministry said. 
According to the Ministry of National Health Services, another 2,751 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the national tally to 243,599.

The ministry data showed that Sindh became the first province of the country where the number of coronavirus patients crossed the 100,000-mark.

The ministry reported that 5,058 patients have died while 149,092 recovered while another 2,375 were in critical condition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-hit-pak-fm-qureshi-dismisses-reports-of-his-death-as-false-news-312071">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-hit Pak FM Qureshi dismisses reports of his death as 'false news'</a>

Out of the total 243,599 infections, Sindh reported 100,900 cases, Punjab 85,261, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 29,406, Islamabad, 13,829, Balochistan 11,099, Gilgit-Baltistan 1,619 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 1,485 cases.

A total of 1,514,858 coronavirus tests have been conducted, including 23,255 in the last 24 hours.

Minister for Planning Asad Umar has said that people adopted standard operating procedures and precautionary measures due to which the number of coronavirus cases have decreased to great extent.

Radio Pakistan reported that Umar told a private news channel that the government has taken solid steps and also instructed the masses to strictly follow Standard Of Procedures (SOPs) to contain the spread of the COVID-19. 
The minister said all the stakeholders were effectively working and devising strategies to combat the pandemic.

He hoped that people would follow the SOPs set by the government in connection with Eid-ul-Azha, which is in August 12, to contain the spread of outbreak.

The coronavirus death toll in Pakistan crossed the 5,000-mark on Friday with 75 new fatalities, the health ministry said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, another 2,751 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the national tally to 243,599.

The coronavirus death toll in Pakistan crossed the 5,000-mark on Friday with 75 new fatalities, the health ministry said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, another 2,751 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the national tally to 243,599. The ministry data showed that Sindh became the first province of the country where the number of coronavirus patients crossed the 100,000-mark. The ministry reported that 5,058 patients have died while 149,092 recovered while another 2,375 were in critical condition. Also read: COVID-hit Pak FM Qureshi dismisses reports of his death as 'false news' Out of the total 243,599 infections, Sindh reported 100,900 cases, Punjab 85,261, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 29,406, Islamabad, 13,829, Balochistan 11,099, Gilgit-Baltistan 1,619 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 1,485 cases. A total of 1,514,858 coronavirus tests have been conducted, including 23,255 in the last 24 hours. Minister for Planning Asad Umar has said that people adopted standard operating procedures and precautionary measures due to which the number of coronavirus cases have decreased to great extent. Radio Pakistan reported that Umar told a private news channel that the government has taken solid steps and also instructed the masses to strictly follow Standard Of Procedures (SOPs) to contain the spread of the COVID-19. The minister said all the stakeholders were effectively working and devising strategies to combat the pandemic. He hoped that people would follow the SOPs set by the government in connection with Eid-ul-Azha, which is in August 12, to contain the spread of outbreak.

Coronavirus death toll in Pakistan crosses 5,000-mark

No more hugs as schools all over the world reopen in 'new normal'

The country`s top drug regulator has directed all drug controller in the States and Union Territories to keep strict vigil to prevent the black marketing and sale of the anti-drug Remdesivir injection above the minimum retail price (MRP).

The country`s top drug regulator has directed all drug controller in the States and Union Territories to keep strict vigil to prevent the black marketing and sale of the anti-drug Remdesivir injection above the minimum retail price (MRP). The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) had granted approval to Remdesivir drug for restricted emergency use for the treatment of COVID-19 patients last month. The Union Health Ministry in its Clinical Management Protocols for COVID-19 has allowed the use of Remdesivir for restricted emergency use purposes in patients in the moderate stages of the COVID19 disease under "investigational therapies". Dr V G Somani wrote a letter to all State drug controllers stating: "Initially, Remdesivir formulation of the innovator was approved on June 1 for import and marketing the drug in the country. However, the importer is yet to import the drug after taking the import license from CDSCO. Subsequently, the CDSCO has granted permission to manufacture and market the drug to Cipla, Hetero, and Mylan laboratory for the same indication, conditions and restrictions." According to reports, the MRP of Remdesivir marketed by Hetero Healthcare Limited is Rs 5400 but it's being sold at a price of anywhere between Rs 15,000 to 60,000," the LocalCircles said. (with inputs from ANI)

UTs, States told to be vigilant to stop black marketing of Remdesivir

The United States said Monday it would not allow foreign students to remain in the country if all of their classes are moved online in the fall because of the coronavirus crisis. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-chinese-officials-over-hong-kong-issue-308910">Also read: US imposes visa restrictions on Chinese officials over Hong Kong issue</a> 
 
"Nonimmigrant F-1 and M-1 students attending schools operating entirely online may not take a full online course load and remain in the United States," US Immigration and Custom Enforcement said in a statement.

"Active students currently in the United States enrolled in such programs must depart the country or take other measures, such as transferring to a school with in-person instruction to remain in lawful status," ICE said.

"If not, they may face immigration consequences including, but not limited to, the initiation of removal proceedings."

ICE said the State Department "will not issue visas to students enrolled in schools and/or programs that are fully online for the fall semester nor will US Customs and Border Protection permit these students to enter the United States."

F-1 students pursue academic coursework and M-1 students pursue "vocational coursework," according to ICE.

Most US colleges and universities have not yet announced their plans for the fall semester.

A number of schools are looking at a hybrid model of in-person and online instruction but some, including Harvard University, have said all classes will be conducted online.

Harvard said 40 per cent of undergraduates would be allowed to return to campus but their instruction would be online.

There were more than one million international students in the United States for the 2018-19 academic year, according to the Institute of International Education (IIE).

That accounted for 5.5 per cent of the total US higher education population, the IIE said, and international students contributed $44.7 billion to the US economy in 2018.

The largest number of international students came from China, followed by India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Canada.

The United States said Monday it would not allow foreign students to remain in the country if all of their classes are moved online in the fall because of the coronavirus crisis.

The United States said Monday it would not allow foreign students to remain in the country if all of their classes are moved online in the fall because of the coronavirus crisis. Also read: US imposes visa restrictions on Chinese officials over Hong Kong issue "Nonimmigrant F-1 and M-1 students attending schools operating entirely online may not take a full online course load and remain in the United States," US Immigration and Custom Enforcement said in a statement. "Active students currently in the United States enrolled in such programs must depart the country or take other measures, such as transferring to a school with in-person instruction to remain in lawful status," ICE said. "If not, they may face immigration consequences including, but not limited to, the initiation of removal proceedings." ICE said the State Department "will not issue visas to students enrolled in schools and/or programs that are fully online for the fall semester nor will US Customs and Border Protection permit these students to enter the United States." F-1 students pursue academic coursework and M-1 students pursue "vocational coursework," according to ICE. Most US colleges and universities have not yet announced their plans for the fall semester. A number of schools are looking at a hybrid model of in-person and online instruction but some, including Harvard University, have said all classes will be conducted online. Harvard said 40 per cent of undergraduates would be allowed to return to campus but their instruction would be online. There were more than one million international students in the United States for the 2018-19 academic year, according to the Institute of International Education (IIE). That accounted for 5.5 per cent of the total US higher education population, the IIE said, and international students contributed $44.7 billion to the US economy in 2018. The largest number of international students came from China, followed by India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Canada.

US to withdraw visas for foreign students whose classes move online

What was once the world's most feared disease is back again because of china. From COVID-19, to Swine flu and now the Bubonic plague.

The Chinese city of Bayannur in inner Mongolia is the epicentre of what may be another epidemic. China's questionable healthcare and animal trade has risked the lives of millions, yet again.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-killer-viruses-that-emerged-in-china-and-ravaged-the-world-311142">Have a look|&nbsp;7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world</a>

A patient has been admitted to a hospital in Bayannur. He is a herdsman and is suspected to be infected by the Bubonic plague -- a disease which has long been synonymous to death.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-another-epidemic-outbreak-in-china-311234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bubonic plague

The Bubonic plague is a zoonotic disease. It is transmitted through flea bites, rodents and infected animals. This is highly infectious and often fatal.&nbsp;The disease results in&nbsp;painful and swollen lymph nodes. Patients have fever, chills and coughing.

Bayannur authorities have issued a level-3 warning for plague prevention. The residents of Bayannur have been told to minimise the risk of human-to-human transmission. They have also been told to avoid hunting, and eating certain animals like marmots.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/case-of-bubonic-plague-in-china-china-imposes-strict-control-measures-311098">Also read|&nbsp;Case of Bubonic plague in China: China imposes strict control measures</a>

Unlike COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) says the Bubonic plague can be cured using common antibiotics. However, the antibiotics need to be administered urgently.

If an infected adult is not urgently hospitalised then he or she can die in less than 24 hours. If untreated, the plague can kill at least 30 to 60 per cent of the infected people.&nbsp;

The scary part is, even Bubonic plague can explode, and it has in the past. The disease caused the Black Death pandemic in the 14th century. It spread to Asia, Europe and Africa. At least 50 million people were killed in Europe alone.

In 2017, Madagascar saw over 300 cases. Mongolia saw two cases last year; both the patients had eaten raw marmot meat.

It all comes down to China's animal trade and wet markets. Over the weekend, Chinese authorities asked people to report dead or sick marmots.

Our question is, how is this enough? The world is already battling the coronavirus -- one whose origin lies in one of the city's infamous wet markets.

Stamping out animal trade on paper is not enough. Marmots have a proven track record of spelling disaster, and in China, they are selling like hot cakes.

In other words, China is a threat to global healthcare and this is being proved over and over again.

What was once the world's most feared disease is back again because of china. From COVID-19, to Swine flu and now the Bubonic plague. The Chinese city of Bayannur in inner Mongolia is the epicentre of what may be another epidemic.

What was once the world's most feared disease is back again because of china. From COVID-19, to Swine flu and now the Bubonic plague. The Chinese city of Bayannur in inner Mongolia is the epicentre of what may be another epidemic. China's questionable healthcare and animal trade has risked the lives of millions, yet again. Have a look| 7 killer viruses that emerged in China and ravaged the world A patient has been admitted to a hospital in Bayannur. He is a herdsman and is suspected to be infected by the Bubonic plague -- a disease which has long been synonymous to death. Bubonic plague The Bubonic plague is a zoonotic disease. It is transmitted through flea bites, rodents and infected animals. This is highly infectious and often fatal. The disease results in painful and swollen lymph nodes. Patients have fever, chills and coughing. Bayannur authorities have issued a level-3 warning for plague prevention. The residents of Bayannur have been told to minimise the risk of human-to-human transmission. They have also been told to avoid hunting, and eating certain animals like marmots. Also read| Case of Bubonic plague in China: China imposes strict control measures Unlike COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) says the Bubonic plague can be cured using common antibiotics. However, the antibiotics need to be administered urgently. If an infected adult is not urgently hospitalised then he or she can die in less than 24 hours. If untreated, the plague can kill at least 30 to 60 per cent of the infected people. The scary part is, even Bubonic plague can explode, and it has in the past. The disease caused the Black Death pandemic in the 14th century. It spread to Asia, Europe and Africa. At least 50 million people were killed in Europe alone. In 2017, Madagascar saw over 300 cases. Mongolia saw two cases last year; both the patients had eaten raw marmot meat. It all comes down to China's animal trade and wet markets. Over the weekend, Chinese authorities asked people to report dead or sick marmots. Our question is, how is this enough? The world is already battling the coronavirus -- one whose origin lies in one of the city's infamous wet markets. Stamping out animal trade on paper is not enough. Marmots have a proven track record of spelling disaster, and in China, they are selling like hot cakes. In other words, China is a threat to global healthcare and this is being proved over and over again.

Bubonic plague: Yet another plague originating from China

In yet another grim&nbsp;development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated&nbsp;in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

Mumbai presently&nbsp;has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer.

China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone.

In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1.

The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer.

On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer.

Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK.

Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37.

In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday.

In yet another grim development, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Mumbai has now surpassed that of China where the virus first originated in late 2019, according to the official data here on Tuesday. Mumbai presently has 4,938 COVID-19 deaths and 85,724 cases, while China has a total of 4,634 fatalities and 83,565 patients, and stands 22nd on the Worldometer. China has slid to single-digit new cases daily -- or less than the new infectees recorded in Dharavi every day -- though with a series of stringent measures implemented by the state and civic governments, this Asia`s largest slum has now clawed out of the worry-zone. In comparison to China, Mumbai city has been recording new patients in excess of 1,100 every day since July 1. The development came a day after Maharashtra with 211,987 cases zoomed past Turkey (205,758 cases), which currently ranks 14 on the Worldometer. On June 4, Maharashtra had shot past Germany (198,064) and South Africa (205,721), both currently ranked at 16 and 15 respectively on the Worldometer. Last month, the state had whizzed past two major affected countries like Canada and France in terms of total patients, besides recording more daily cases than the UK. Maharashtra`s latest Covid-19 tally is 9,026 deaths and 211,987 patients, including 87,681 active cases, but with a mortality rate of 4.26 per cent and an encouraging recovery rate of 54.37. In a silver lining, of the 36 districts in the state, only two -- Bhandara and Chandrapur -- have recorded zero fatality, though they have 78 and 69 Covid-19 patients, respectively, while Gadchiroli, Hingoli and Wardha have only one death each till date.

Now, Mumbai overtakes China in COVID-19 deaths and cases

Israel has decided to reimpose restrictions and partial lockdown in the country after the number of positive coronavirus saw a surge in the past few weeks.

The Israeli government has announced an immediate temporary closure of&nbsp;&nbsp;bars, night clubs, gyms and event halls and all other cultural events.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-miracle-mask-sonovia-expects-99-coronavirus-success-after-lab-test-307664">Also read|&nbsp;Israel's miracle mask: Sonovia expects 99% coronavirus success after lab test</a>

"The pandemic is spreading - that`s as clear as day. It is rising steeping daily and it is dragging with it, contrary to what we had been told, a trail of critically ill patients," Netanyahu said.

The maximum capacity in restaurants, which was earlier increased to 50, has been brought down to 20 for indoor seating and 30 for outdoor seating.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-lawmaker-who-was-spotted-without-masks-tests-positive-700-employees-quarantined-303293">Also read|&nbsp;Israel's lawmaker who was spotted without masks tests positive; 700 employees quarantined</a>

The Israeli government had reopened the economy last month to save its crippling economy which was causing a rapid increase in the unemployment rate.

Attendance at synagogues was also capped at 19 worshippers, and buses would be allowed to carry only up to 20 passengers, the statement said.

The sudden increase in the coronavirus cases is believed to be a result of locals flouting the social distancing rules and not wearing face masks outdoors. The local government is urging people to not step out until it is important, and to maintain social distance and wear face masks at all times when outdoors.

Israel has decided to reimpose restrictions and partial lockdown in the country after the number of positive coronavirus saw a surge in the past few weeks. The Israeli government has announced an immediate temporary closure of bars, night clubs, gyms and event halls and all other cultural events.

Israel has decided to reimpose restrictions and partial lockdown in the country after the number of positive coronavirus saw a surge in the past few weeks. The Israeli government has announced an immediate temporary closure of bars, night clubs, gyms and event halls and all other cultural events. Also read| Israel's miracle mask: Sonovia expects 99% coronavirus success after lab test "The pandemic is spreading - that`s as clear as day. It is rising steeping daily and it is dragging with it, contrary to what we had been told, a trail of critically ill patients," Netanyahu said. The maximum capacity in restaurants, which was earlier increased to 50, has been brought down to 20 for indoor seating and 30 for outdoor seating. Also read| Israel's lawmaker who was spotted without masks tests positive; 700 employees quarantined The Israeli government had reopened the economy last month to save its crippling economy which was causing a rapid increase in the unemployment rate. Attendance at synagogues was also capped at 19 worshippers, and buses would be allowed to carry only up to 20 passengers, the statement said. The sudden increase in the coronavirus cases is believed to be a result of locals flouting the social distancing rules and not wearing face masks outdoors. The local government is urging people to not step out until it is important, and to maintain social distance and wear face masks at all times when outdoors.

Israel reimposes restrictions amid rising coronavirus cases

Spain conducted a nationwide study on the spread of the novel coronavirus. Researchers have now revealed that the according to their study, 5.2 per cent of the Spanish population is already infected by the coronavirus.

The study was conducted on nearly 70,000 people across Spain. It was done three times in the past three months and the scientists found that the affected population has not changed significantly since preliminary results were published in May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/businesses-breathe-sigh-of-relief-as-spain-portugal-open-border-to-tourism-309896">Also read:&nbsp;Businesses breathe sigh of relief as Spain, Portugal open border to tourism</a>

Scientists have also found out that immunity can be very short lived in the new coronavirus, as opposed to what is commonly believed by most.&nbsp;"Immunity can be incomplete, it can be transitory, it can last for just a short time and then disappear," said Dr Raquel Yotti, director of Spain`s Carlos III Health Institute, which co-led the study.

Talking at a press conference, the scientists have urged Spaniards to exercise caution and not relax. She has warned people that the novel coronavirus can come back and affect the population if proper caution is not exercised.

"We can't relax, we must keep protecting ourselves and protecting others," she said.

Spain was under a complete lockdown for almost three months. The country reopened as the death rate fell down. However, experts are not happy with the way the government has handled the pandemic, and are urging locals to take care of themselves to avert a possible second and worse wave of coronavirus.

Spain conducted a nationwide study on the spread of the novel coronavirus. Researchers have now revealed that the according to their study, 5.2 per cent of the Spanish population is already infected by the coronavirus.

Spain conducted a nationwide study on the spread of the novel coronavirus. Researchers have now revealed that the according to their study, 5.2 per cent of the Spanish population is already infected by the coronavirus. The study was conducted on nearly 70,000 people across Spain. It was done three times in the past three months and the scientists found that the affected population has not changed significantly since preliminary results were published in May. Also read: Businesses breathe sigh of relief as Spain, Portugal open border to tourism Scientists have also found out that immunity can be very short lived in the new coronavirus, as opposed to what is commonly believed by most. "Immunity can be incomplete, it can be transitory, it can last for just a short time and then disappear," said Dr Raquel Yotti, director of Spain`s Carlos III Health Institute, which co-led the study. Talking at a press conference, the scientists have urged Spaniards to exercise caution and not relax. She has warned people that the novel coronavirus can come back and affect the population if proper caution is not exercised. "We can't relax, we must keep protecting ourselves and protecting others," she said. Spain was under a complete lockdown for almost three months. The country reopened as the death rate fell down. However, experts are not happy with the way the government has handled the pandemic, and are urging locals to take care of themselves to avert a possible second and worse wave of coronavirus.

More than 5% Spanish population exposed to COVID-19; immunity is short lived: study

If you are suffering from severe diarrhoea, it may not be just a bad stomach. Doctors in India have added few more symptoms of coronavirus, that were being ignored as upset stomach or food poisoning.

Doctors from&nbsp;Chest and King Koti hospitals in Hyderabad have issued a medical report through local media networks that states that&nbsp;severe diarrhoea, headache and vomiting are also now symptoms of coronavirus in India. These symptoms are usually ignored and labelled as chaneg in season or food poisoning.

The symptoms have now been added to the list as the doctors believe that the novel coronavirus is changing its genomic structure according to the season to ensure its survival.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/unusual-things-weve-learned-about-the-coronavirus-since-the-start-of-the-pandemic-310122">Also read:&nbsp;Unusual things we’ve learned about the coronavirus since the start of the pandemic</a>

The patients are currently being treated only after they show the common known symptoms such as cough, fever and breathlessness. However, there have been few patients who had symptoms of diarrhoea or headache, but were later tested positive for coronavirus.

The lack of testing in such cases causes delays. The news report said that 30 deaths out of 67 reported cases&nbsp;at the hospital from June 20 to June 30 happened due to the delay in treatment as the patients earlier showed symptoms other than the regular symptoms.&nbsp;Therefore, the doctors have announced that if someone is suffering from diarrhoea, vomiting and headache, they too should get tested for coronavirus.

The doctors believe the virus is first attacking the gastro-intestinal track now, instead of the lungs. "These cases are presented as caused due to food-poisoning and seasonal change leading to stomach upset. But it is the virus which is attacking gastro-intestinal track first instead of lungs. It is presented in the form of severe diarrhoea and vomiting causing dehydration. This, in turn, leads to weakness, lower oxygen level, low BP, low sugar and sudden collapse," the report read.

If you are suffering from severe diarrhoea, it may not be just a bad stomach. Doctors in India have added few more symptoms of coronavirus, that were being ignored as upset stomach or food poisoning.

If you are suffering from severe diarrhoea, it may not be just a bad stomach. Doctors in India have added few more symptoms of coronavirus, that were being ignored as upset stomach or food poisoning. Doctors from Chest and King Koti hospitals in Hyderabad have issued a medical report through local media networks that states that severe diarrhoea, headache and vomiting are also now symptoms of coronavirus in India. These symptoms are usually ignored and labelled as chaneg in season or food poisoning. The symptoms have now been added to the list as the doctors believe that the novel coronavirus is changing its genomic structure according to the season to ensure its survival. Also read: Unusual things we’ve learned about the coronavirus since the start of the pandemic The patients are currently being treated only after they show the common known symptoms such as cough, fever and breathlessness. However, there have been few patients who had symptoms of diarrhoea or headache, but were later tested positive for coronavirus. The lack of testing in such cases causes delays. The news report said that 30 deaths out of 67 reported cases at the hospital from June 20 to June 30 happened due to the delay in treatment as the patients earlier showed symptoms other than the regular symptoms. Therefore, the doctors have announced that if someone is suffering from diarrhoea, vomiting and headache, they too should get tested for coronavirus. The doctors believe the virus is first attacking the gastro-intestinal track now, instead of the lungs. "These cases are presented as caused due to food-poisoning and seasonal change leading to stomach upset. But it is the virus which is attacking gastro-intestinal track first instead of lungs. It is presented in the form of severe diarrhoea and vomiting causing dehydration. This, in turn, leads to weakness, lower oxygen level, low BP, low sugar and sudden collapse," the report read.

COVID 19: Headache, vomiting and more added to list of symptoms in India

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded&nbsp;more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by&nbsp;state governments.

Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's&nbsp;Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.8 lakh cases, whereas India crossed the 6.9 lakh mark.

India is now the third worst-affected country in the world, preceded only by Brazil and the US on the second and first respectively.

On Sunday morning, Indian government reported&nbsp;the highest single-day jump of 24,850 COVID-19 cases, and 613 deaths.

The total number of coronavirus cases, on Sunday morning, were 6,73,165 cases of which 2,44,814 patients are active cases. India`s cured/discharged patients crossed the 4 lakh mark with 4,09,082 patients cured/discharged and while one patient has migrated.

India's worst-affected state, Maharashtra, reported 6,555 new cases and 151 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 2,06,619 and death toll to 8,822. Number of active cases stands at 86,040.&nbsp;

Maharashtra's epicentre, Mumbai, reported&nbsp;1,311 new&nbsp;cases and 69 deaths, taking total number of cases to 84,125 including 55,883 recoveries and 4,896 deaths, as reported by&nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.

Delhi reported&nbsp;63 deaths and 2,244 new positive cases today. Total number of positive cases stands at 99,444 including 71,339 recovered/discharged/migrated, 25,038 active cases and 3,067 deaths.

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Kerala recorded 225 new COVID-19 cases today, taking active cases to 2,228. A total of 3,174 patients have recovered from the disease so far: State Health Minister KK Shailaja (file photo) <a href="https://t.co/j8jZugCs5N">pic.twitter.com/j8jZugCs5N</a>
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Tamil Nadu crossed 1 lakh mark as the state recorded 4,150 fresh COVID-19 cases and 60 deaths today, taking total cases to 1,11,151 and death toll to 1,510. Number of active cases stands at 46,860.

Punjab reported 175 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 6,283 including 4,408 recoveries and 164 deaths.

Uttar Pradesh reported 1,155 COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 8,161 and death toll to 785.

A total of&nbsp;1,925 cases and 37 deaths were recorded in Karnataka in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 23,474 and death toll to 372. Number of active cases stands at 13,251.

(With inputs from agencies)

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by state governments. Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.

India crossed Russia's COVID-19 tally on Sunday evening as it recorded more than 6.9 lakh cases, as per the data released by state governments. Combining the data from Indian state governments and America's Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Russia has registered around 6.8 lakh cases, whereas India crossed the 6.9 lakh mark. India is now the third worst-affected country in the world, preceded only by Brazil and the US on the second and first respectively. On Sunday morning, Indian government reported the highest single-day jump of 24,850 COVID-19 cases, and 613 deaths. The total number of coronavirus cases, on Sunday morning, were 6,73,165 cases of which 2,44,814 patients are active cases. India`s cured/discharged patients crossed the 4 lakh mark with 4,09,082 patients cured/discharged and while one patient has migrated. India's worst-affected state, Maharashtra, reported 6,555 new cases and 151 deaths today, taking total number of cases to 2,06,619 and death toll to 8,822. Number of active cases stands at 86,040. Maharashtra's epicentre, Mumbai, reported 1,311 new cases and 69 deaths, taking total number of cases to 84,125 including 55,883 recoveries and 4,896 deaths, as reported by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Delhi reported 63 deaths and 2,244 new positive cases today. Total number of positive cases stands at 99,444 including 71,339 recovered/discharged/migrated, 25,038 active cases and 3,067 deaths. Kerala recorded 225 new COVID-19 cases today, taking active cases to 2,228. A total of 3,174 patients have recovered from the disease so far: State Health Minister KK Shailaja (file photo) pic.twitter.com/j8jZugCs5N — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2020 × Tamil Nadu crossed 1 lakh mark as the state recorded 4,150 fresh COVID-19 cases and 60 deaths today, taking total cases to 1,11,151 and death toll to 1,510. Number of active cases stands at 46,860. Punjab reported 175 new COVID-19 cases and two deaths in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 6,283 including 4,408 recoveries and 164 deaths. Uttar Pradesh reported 1,155 COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking active cases to 8,161 and death toll to 785. A total of 1,925 cases and 37 deaths were recorded in Karnataka in the last 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 23,474 and death toll to 372. Number of active cases stands at 13,251. (With inputs from agencies)

India COVID-19 tally surpasses Russia; third worst-affected country now

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-surge-in-covid-19-cases-us-president-donald-trump-says-tremendous-victory-nearby-in-fight-against-pandemic-310766">Despite surge in COVID-19 cases, US president Donald Trump says 'tremendous victory' nearby in fight against pandemic</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/02/147812-donald-trump-reuterss.jpg?itok=aJQWxeZS" />

The United States is the worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with over 2.8 million cases and 130,000 deaths.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-man-in-famous-911-attacks-photograph-dies-from-coronavirus-310906">US: Man in famous 9/11 attacks photograph dies from coronavirus</a>

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While Cooper was unaware that his photograph was being taken, he was later very proud of the click, his family said.

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Japan is currently in its rainy season, which often causes floods and landslides and prompts local authorities to issue evacuation orders.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/05/148247-coronavirus-in-ireland.jpg?itok=RKxf3IsW" />

The countries in the 'green list' will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/05/148211-ym-columbus-050720.jpg?itok=XCuXqAFt" />

Statues of figures connected to colonialism and slavery have been ripped from their plinths in the United States and around the world since Black Lives Matter protests were sparked by the killing of George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis in May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-expects-france-to-apologise-for-colonial-past-310862">Algeria expects France to apologise for colonial past</a>

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President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday expressed hope that Emmanuel Macron would build on recent conciliatory overtures.

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In the US, there have been 143 known infected cases of the amoeba, according to the Florida DOH. Only four have survived.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-researchers-discover-ancient-underwater-archaeological-sites-310889">Australian researchers discover ancient underwater archaeological sites</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/05/148244-underwater.jpg?itok=gQuk65A8" />

Archaeologists discovered hundreds of stone tools made by aboriginal people when the seabed was dry, at two ancient sites now submerged in the Dampier Archipelago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-secrecy-deception-and-cover-up-allowed-coronavirus-to-spread-all-over-world-trump-310775">China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed coronavirus to spread all over world: Trump</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/05/148155-0631254310339.jpg?itok=TK9O4X9a" />

“China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed it to spread all over the world and China must be held fully accountable”, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-supporters-slam-ivanka-for-wearing-face-mask-310837">Trump supporters slam Ivanka for wearing face mask</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/11/28/76154-untitled-design-9.jpg?itok=cWQiB4v8" />

The photo shows Ivanka and the two representatives outside. Rep. Westerman wears a suit and surgical mask, Rep. McCarthy has a gray cloth mask, and Ivanka is modeling a pretty blue watercolor mask.

Despite surge in COVID-19 cases, US president Donald Trump says 'tremendous victory' nearby in fight against pandemic The United States is the worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with over 2.

Despite surge in COVID-19 cases, US president Donald Trump says 'tremendous victory' nearby in fight against pandemic The United States is the worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with over 2.8 million cases and 130,000 deaths. US: Man in famous 9/11 attacks photograph dies from coronavirus While Cooper was unaware that his photograph was being taken, he was later very proud of the click, his family said. Several dead, missing in Japan as heavy rain causes floods Japan is currently in its rainy season, which often causes floods and landslides and prompts local authorities to issue evacuation orders. Columbus statue toppled by race protesters in US city of Baltimore The countries in the 'green list' will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland. Columbus statue toppled by race protesters in US city of Baltimore Statues of figures connected to colonialism and slavery have been ripped from their plinths in the United States and around the world since Black Lives Matter protests were sparked by the killing of George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis in May. Algeria expects France to apologise for colonial past President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday expressed hope that Emmanuel Macron would build on recent conciliatory overtures. Rare case of brain-destroying amoeba confirmed in Florida In the US, there have been 143 known infected cases of the amoeba, according to the Florida DOH. Only four have survived. Australian researchers discover ancient underwater archaeological sites Archaeologists discovered hundreds of stone tools made by aboriginal people when the seabed was dry, at two ancient sites now submerged in the Dampier Archipelago. China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed coronavirus to spread all over world: Trump “China’s secrecy, deception and cover-up allowed it to spread all over the world and China must be held fully accountable”, he added. Trump supporters slam Ivanka for wearing face mask The photo shows Ivanka and the two representatives outside. Rep. Westerman wears a suit and surgical mask, Rep. McCarthy has a gray cloth mask, and Ivanka is modeling a pretty blue watercolor mask.

Top 10 world news today: Columbus statue toppled in US, Japan's floods and more

A man known for being&nbsp;photographed in one of the pictures from the 9/11 World Trade Centre attack lost his life to the novel coronavirus, his family informed the local media.

Stephen Cooper, who was an electric engineer in the past, lost his battle to the coronavirus in the Delray Medical Center due to COVID-19.&nbsp;

The 78-year-old man was known for being photographed in one of the famous photographs from the tragic incident that took place at the World Trade Centre on September 11. He was 60 year old when he was photographed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-us-reports-over-43000-cases-252-deaths-in-last-24-hours-310769">Also read|&nbsp;Coronavirus: US reports over 43,000 cases, 252 deaths in last 24 hours</a>

“He didn’t even know the photograph was taken,” said Janet Rashes, Cooper’s partner for 33 years. “All of a sudden, he’s looking in Time magazine one day and he sees himself and says, ‘Oh my God. That’s me.’ He was amazed. Couldn’t believe it.”

His partner told that Cooper was present at the World Trade Centre to deliver some documents when he heard the police yell "You have to run", after which he realized what was happening.

While Cooper was unaware that his photograph was being taken, he was later very proud of the click, his family said.

“Every year on 9/11, he would go looking for the magazine and say, ’Look, it’s here again,” said Jessica Rashes, Cooper’s 27-year-old daughter. “He would bring it to family barbecues, parties, anywhere he could show it off.”

A man known for being photographed in one of the pictures from the 9/11 World Trade Centre attack lost his life to the novel coronavirus, his family informed the local media.

A man known for being photographed in one of the pictures from the 9/11 World Trade Centre attack lost his life to the novel coronavirus, his family informed the local media. Stephen Cooper, who was an electric engineer in the past, lost his battle to the coronavirus in the Delray Medical Center due to COVID-19. The 78-year-old man was known for being photographed in one of the famous photographs from the tragic incident that took place at the World Trade Centre on September 11. He was 60 year old when he was photographed. Also read| Coronavirus: US reports over 43,000 cases, 252 deaths in last 24 hours “He didn’t even know the photograph was taken,” said Janet Rashes, Cooper’s partner for 33 years. “All of a sudden, he’s looking in Time magazine one day and he sees himself and says, ‘Oh my God. That’s me.’ He was amazed. Couldn’t believe it.” His partner told that Cooper was present at the World Trade Centre to deliver some documents when he heard the police yell "You have to run", after which he realized what was happening. While Cooper was unaware that his photograph was being taken, he was later very proud of the click, his family said. “Every year on 9/11, he would go looking for the magazine and say, ’Look, it’s here again,” said Jessica Rashes, Cooper’s 27-year-old daughter. “He would bring it to family barbecues, parties, anywhere he could show it off.”

US: Man in famous 9/11 attacks photograph dies from coronavirus

Chennai has been the epicentre of coronavirus in the souther state of Tamil Nadu. The city has been seeing a dangerous surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases.

Following that, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister&nbsp;Edappadi K Palaniswami had announced a complete lockdown in the capital city Chennai to contain the spread of the virus.

However, the city is ready to ease lockdown now after imposing a stricter lockdown for nearly two weeks. The decision was announced on July 5.

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"Relaxations in Chennai lockdown will come in effect from July 6. Vegetable and grocery shops will be allowed to open from 6 am to 6 pm, textile, hardware shops from 10 am to 6 pm and restaurants from 6 am to 9 pm," Palaniswami said.

He has announced that all grocery and vegetable shops will be allowed to remain open for 12 hours, but wearing a face mask will be compulsory for everyone stepping outside.

The same will be followed for Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu, people are hoping. The state has nearly&nbsp;107,001 cases. Out of these 60,592 have recovered, while 8,671 people lost their lives due to the pandemic.

Chennai has been the epicentre of coronavirus in the souther state of Tamil Nadu. The city has been seeing a dangerous surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases.

Chennai has been the epicentre of coronavirus in the souther state of Tamil Nadu. The city has been seeing a dangerous surge in the number of positive coronavirus cases. Following that, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had announced a complete lockdown in the capital city Chennai to contain the spread of the virus. However, the city is ready to ease lockdown now after imposing a stricter lockdown for nearly two weeks. The decision was announced on July 5. Also read| Tamil Nadu surpasses 1 lakh Covid-19 cases; sees 40,000 new cases in last 10 days "Relaxations in Chennai lockdown will come in effect from July 6. Vegetable and grocery shops will be allowed to open from 6 am to 6 pm, textile, hardware shops from 10 am to 6 pm and restaurants from 6 am to 9 pm," Palaniswami said. He has announced that all grocery and vegetable shops will be allowed to remain open for 12 hours, but wearing a face mask will be compulsory for everyone stepping outside. The same will be followed for Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu, people are hoping. The state has nearly 107,001 cases. Out of these 60,592 have recovered, while 8,671 people lost their lives due to the pandemic.

COVID 19: Chennai set to ease lockdown amid rising cases

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20.

The Ireland government had earlier planned to ease travelling restrictions from July 09. However, the date has now been pushed to July 20 to make sure that the government is ready with all the necessaty protocols and arrangements.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-to-invest-10-million-in-a-new-study-health-minister-thanks-locals-310849">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals</a>

The officials have said they are coming up with ways to allow travelers coming in the country from "green list" to be exempted from the compulsory 14-day quarantine rule. The countries in this "green list" will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland.

"A so-called green list... will be published on July 20, or prior to that," Transport Minister&nbsp;Eamon Ryan said on Sunday. "The green list will be operating after that" date, he said.

Ryan also said that while every traveler will not be tested at the airport, the government is trying to come up with ways to conduct as many and accurate COVID-19 tests.

Ireland has, till this date, recorded 25,498 cases, including 1,740 deaths.

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20.

After being able to contain the spread of coronavirus to a certain satisfactory limit, Ireland has decided to delay easing of the travel restrictions until July 20. The Ireland government had earlier planned to ease travelling restrictions from July 09. However, the date has now been pushed to July 20 to make sure that the government is ready with all the necessaty protocols and arrangements. Also read| COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals The officials have said they are coming up with ways to allow travelers coming in the country from "green list" to be exempted from the compulsory 14-day quarantine rule. The countries in this "green list" will be the ones that have the similar, if not less, rate of coronavirus cases to Ireland. "A so-called green list... will be published on July 20, or prior to that," Transport Minister Eamon Ryan said on Sunday. "The green list will be operating after that" date, he said. Ryan also said that while every traveler will not be tested at the airport, the government is trying to come up with ways to conduct as many and accurate COVID-19 tests. Ireland has, till this date, recorded 25,498 cases, including 1,740 deaths.

COVID 19: Ireland delays lifting travelling ban to make quarantine arrangements

Donald Trump has been vocal about his thoughts on the topic of China allegedly spreading the novel coronavirus to the whole world. He has said it in various rallies, campaigns, press conferences and even on his favourite platform -- Twitter.

SO, when the whole country came together to celebrate Independence Day, US President Donald Trump made sure he reminds the country, and the rest of the world, that he blames China for coronavirus, or what he calls 'Kung Flu'.

On Saturday, in celebration of the 244th independence day, Trump also applauded his administration for handling the pandemic nicely, even though the number of cases are dangerously increasing in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-again-blames-china-for-covid-19-terms-it-kung-flu-307466">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu'</a>

"We have the manufacturing record for ventilators. We have the most and the finest testing anywhere in the world. We are producing gowns, masks, and surgical equipment in our country?It was almost exclusively made in foreign lands, in particular, China, where ironically this virus and others came from," he said in his address from the lawns of the White House.

"China's secrecy, deception, and cover-up allowed it to spread all over the world, 189 countries and China must be held fully accountable," he added.

Trump also said that China should be blamed and held accountable for the secrecy around the coronavirus and for hiding the truth about the pandemic. He expressed disappointment over the way China handled the pandemic and blamed China's&nbsp;"incompetence" attitude which led to the mass killing across the globe.

China, on the other hand, has denied the accusations made by Donald Trump. World Health Organization (WHO) has now started an investigation on how, where and when did the novel coronavoirus originate.

Donald Trump has been vocal about his thoughts on the topic of China allegedly spreading the novel coronavirus to the whole world. He has said it in various rallies, campaigns, press conferences and even on his favourite platform -- Twitter.

Donald Trump has been vocal about his thoughts on the topic of China allegedly spreading the novel coronavirus to the whole world. He has said it in various rallies, campaigns, press conferences and even on his favourite platform -- Twitter. SO, when the whole country came together to celebrate Independence Day, US President Donald Trump made sure he reminds the country, and the rest of the world, that he blames China for coronavirus, or what he calls 'Kung Flu'. On Saturday, in celebration of the 244th independence day, Trump also applauded his administration for handling the pandemic nicely, even though the number of cases are dangerously increasing in the country. Also read: Donald Trump again blames China for COVID-19, terms it ‘Kung flu' "We have the manufacturing record for ventilators. We have the most and the finest testing anywhere in the world. We are producing gowns, masks, and surgical equipment in our country?It was almost exclusively made in foreign lands, in particular, China, where ironically this virus and others came from," he said in his address from the lawns of the White House. "China's secrecy, deception, and cover-up allowed it to spread all over the world, 189 countries and China must be held fully accountable," he added. Trump also said that China should be blamed and held accountable for the secrecy around the coronavirus and for hiding the truth about the pandemic. He expressed disappointment over the way China handled the pandemic and blamed China's "incompetence" attitude which led to the mass killing across the globe. China, on the other hand, has denied the accusations made by Donald Trump. World Health Organization (WHO) has now started an investigation on how, where and when did the novel coronavoirus originate.

Secrecy, deception and cover-up: Trump blames China yet again for COVID-19

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks.

On Sunday, the Health Minister Matt Hancock has thanked people for 'behaving themselves' while they are enjoying their summer.

"From what I've seen, although there`s some pictures to the contrary, very very largely people have acted responsibly," he told a local media channel.

"Overall, I'm pleased with what happened yesterday. It was really good to see people out and about, and largely socially distancing," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-takes-its-first-steps-towards-normal-life-pubs-and-hairdressers-reopen-310715">Also read:&nbsp;England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen</a>

As the pubs reopened, British locals flocked outdoors to enjoy the summer time with a drink and a trip to the beaches. On the beaches and the pubs, people were urged to wear face masks and maintain social distance at all times.

Hancock has also announced the the government will be putting 8.4 million pounds ($10.49 million) into a new study to examine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients.

"As we continue our fight against this global pandemic, we are learning more and more about the impact the disease can have, not only on immediate health, but longer-term physical and mental health too," he said.

The study will be conducted by the&nbsp;University of Leicester and local hospitals. Around 1,000 people will take part in this study and their blood and lung samples will be taken. The participants will also be assessed through advanced imaging. The aim of the study is to learn about all the possible ways the novel coronavirus can affect a human body and to be able to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

Lung and blood samples of the patients will be taken and they will also be assessed by advanced imaging, and the findings will be used to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks.

As the UK reopened its pubs on Saturday after March, the Boris Johnson government was earlier worried if the people would maintain social distance and wear masks. On Sunday, the Health Minister Matt Hancock has thanked people for 'behaving themselves' while they are enjoying their summer. "From what I've seen, although there`s some pictures to the contrary, very very largely people have acted responsibly," he told a local media channel. "Overall, I'm pleased with what happened yesterday. It was really good to see people out and about, and largely socially distancing," he added. Also read: England takes its first steps towards normal life; pubs and hairdressers reopen As the pubs reopened, British locals flocked outdoors to enjoy the summer time with a drink and a trip to the beaches. On the beaches and the pubs, people were urged to wear face masks and maintain social distance at all times. Hancock has also announced the the government will be putting 8.4 million pounds ($10.49 million) into a new study to examine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on patients. "As we continue our fight against this global pandemic, we are learning more and more about the impact the disease can have, not only on immediate health, but longer-term physical and mental health too," he said. The study will be conducted by the University of Leicester and local hospitals. Around 1,000 people will take part in this study and their blood and lung samples will be taken. The participants will also be assessed through advanced imaging. The aim of the study is to learn about all the possible ways the novel coronavirus can affect a human body and to be able to develop new forms of personalised treatment. Lung and blood samples of the patients will be taken and they will also be assessed by advanced imaging, and the findings will be used to develop new forms of personalised treatment.

COVID 19: UK to invest 10 million in a new study; Health Minister thanks locals

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday.

A total of 29 people died from coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of fatalities to 1,997, said Dr Nasima Sultana, additional director general (administration) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/millions-at-risk-in-bangladesh-as-monsoon-floods-add-to-coronavirus-worries-309937">Also read:&nbsp;Millions at risk in Bangladesh as monsoon floods add to coronavirus worries</a>

Bangladesh remains the 18th worst affected country in the world in terms of the number of cases. Globally, 5.2 lakh people have died due to the disease and more than 11 million have been infected. The US leads both in terms of the number of deaths and infections, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

In Bangladesh, the total number of infections stands at 1,59,679. A total of 3,288 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. With this, the current infection rate is 22.33 per cent. The total infection rate so far stands at 19.19 per cent, The Daily Star reported.

As many as 2,673 COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours. The total number of recoveries has reached 70,721 and the current recovery rate is 44.29 per cent, the DGHS said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/23-die-several-missing-after-ferry-accident-in-bangladesh-report-309346">Also read:&nbsp;23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report</a>

The DGHS official said 13,871 samples had been collected from the suspected COVID-19 patients around the country in the last 24 hours.

In total, 832,074 tests have been conducted so far ? of which 19.19 per cent tested positive, she said.

"No personal protective equipment (PPE) has been collected in the last 24 hours. The government now has 120,881 in reserve. There are also enough general and ICU beds available in all hospitals dedicated for COVID-19 treatment,"Sultana was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune.

On March 8, health authorities in Bangladesh had reported the first three cases of COVID-19. The country recorded its first fatality on March 18.

The novel coronavirus originated in China's Wuhan city in late December last year and quickly spread throughout the world, becoming a pandemic in less than three months.

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday.

Bangladesh has reported 3, 288 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the country to 1,59,679, while nearly 2,000 people have succumbed to the novel coronavirus, a senior health official said on Saturday. A total of 29 people died from coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, pushing the number of fatalities to 1,997, said Dr Nasima Sultana, additional director general (administration) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Also read: Millions at risk in Bangladesh as monsoon floods add to coronavirus worries Bangladesh remains the 18th worst affected country in the world in terms of the number of cases. Globally, 5.2 lakh people have died due to the disease and more than 11 million have been infected. The US leads both in terms of the number of deaths and infections, according to Johns Hopkins University data. In Bangladesh, the total number of infections stands at 1,59,679. A total of 3,288 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. With this, the current infection rate is 22.33 per cent. The total infection rate so far stands at 19.19 per cent, The Daily Star reported. As many as 2,673 COVID-19 patients have recovered in the last 24 hours. The total number of recoveries has reached 70,721 and the current recovery rate is 44.29 per cent, the DGHS said. Also read: 23 die, several missing after ferry accident in Bangladesh: Report The DGHS official said 13,871 samples had been collected from the suspected COVID-19 patients around the country in the last 24 hours. In total, 832,074 tests have been conducted so far ? of which 19.19 per cent tested positive, she said. "No personal protective equipment (PPE) has been collected in the last 24 hours. The government now has 120,881 in reserve. There are also enough general and ICU beds available in all hospitals dedicated for COVID-19 treatment,"Sultana was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune. On March 8, health authorities in Bangladesh had reported the first three cases of COVID-19. The country recorded its first fatality on March 18. The novel coronavirus originated in China's Wuhan city in late December last year and quickly spread throughout the world, becoming a pandemic in less than three months.

Bangladesh records 3,288 new COVID-19 cases, death toll nears 2,000

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus.

Mexican consulates across the United States issued warnings last week on social media of the ramped-up measures scheduled for July 2 through July 5, and urged people to refrain from crossing for recreation or tourism.

A ban on non-essential border travel has been in place since March in an attempt by both governments to limit coronavirus infections, yet cross-border traffic has been busy.

Mexico`s northern border region is home to a large population of U.S. citizens, green card holders and dual nationals who are typically free to cross back and forth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/high-flying-face-masks-arrive-at-mexican-hospitals-by-drone-310547">Also watch|&nbsp;High-flying face masks arrive at Mexican hospitals by drone</a>

In Sonora, which has Mexico`s third-highest coronavirus rate per capita and sits opposite Arizona, Governor Claudia Pavlovich said health screenings would span beaches and towns frequented by Mexicans and tourists.

Neighboring Baja California, including the bustling border city of Tijuana across from San Diego, ranks fifth for most coronavirus cases per capita.

Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas states have each registered at least several thousand confirmed cases, and all sit opposite Texas, which is grappling with a surge in infections including a record number of hospitalizations on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-pandemic-mexico-earthquake-evacuations-clashed-with-social-distancing-308728">Also watch|&nbsp;COVID-19 Pandemic: Mexico earthquake evacuations clashed with social distancing</a>

U.S. Ambassador Christopher Landau last week urged people to stay put in one country or the other over the Independence Day weekend. Hundreds of thousands of people cross by land per day despite the ban on non-essential travel, he said.

"If U.S. citizens continue to make casual cross-border trips, the restrictions will increase, not decrease," Landau wrote on Twitter.

"Whichever side of the border you live on, this is NOT the time to cross to shop, eat, or visit family on the other side."Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus.

Mexican officials will install health checkpoints at various entry points along its northern border this weekend, as both Mexican and U.S. officials fear a surge of crossings for the July 4 holiday could spread the coronavirus. Mexican consulates across the United States issued warnings last week on social media of the ramped-up measures scheduled for July 2 through July 5, and urged people to refrain from crossing for recreation or tourism. A ban on non-essential border travel has been in place since March in an attempt by both governments to limit coronavirus infections, yet cross-border traffic has been busy. Mexico`s northern border region is home to a large population of U.S. citizens, green card holders and dual nationals who are typically free to cross back and forth. Also watch| High-flying face masks arrive at Mexican hospitals by drone In Sonora, which has Mexico`s third-highest coronavirus rate per capita and sits opposite Arizona, Governor Claudia Pavlovich said health screenings would span beaches and towns frequented by Mexicans and tourists. Neighboring Baja California, including the bustling border city of Tijuana across from San Diego, ranks fifth for most coronavirus cases per capita. Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas states have each registered at least several thousand confirmed cases, and all sit opposite Texas, which is grappling with a surge in infections including a record number of hospitalizations on Friday. Also watch| COVID-19 Pandemic: Mexico earthquake evacuations clashed with social distancing U.S. Ambassador Christopher Landau last week urged people to stay put in one country or the other over the Independence Day weekend. Hundreds of thousands of people cross by land per day despite the ban on non-essential travel, he said. "If U.S. citizens continue to make casual cross-border trips, the restrictions will increase, not decrease," Landau wrote on Twitter. "Whichever side of the border you live on, this is NOT the time to cross to shop, eat, or visit family on the other side."Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

Mexico steps up border checks to keep coronavirus at bay over July 4 holiday

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March.

The city reported&nbsp;108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and&nbsp;and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days.

This has increased the focus on the reimposition of the lockdown in Victoria, and has raised concerns of a possible second wave in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australia-witnesses-record-spike-in-months-amid-fears-of-second-wave-309265">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: Australia witnesses record spike in months amid fears of second wave</a>

"These numbers are a very real concern to all of us," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told a news conference.

Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

Meanwhile, Melbourne has sealed nine residential towers, which houses over 3,000 residents, after several residents in the towers tested positive. Police will be placed on each floor of the towers and law enforcement authorities will also control access points.

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March. The city reported 108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days.

Australia's second most populous state, Victoria, has recorded its biggest jump in number of positive coronavirus cases since late March. The city reported 108 new cases on Saturday, whereas there were 66 cases reported on Friday and and more than 70 new cases in each of the previous four days. This has increased the focus on the reimposition of the lockdown in Victoria, and has raised concerns of a possible second wave in the country. Also read| COVID-19: Australia witnesses record spike in months amid fears of second wave "These numbers are a very real concern to all of us," Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews told a news conference. Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and step out only in case of emergencies. They have also been been urging people to wear face masks and maintain social distance. Meanwhile, Melbourne has sealed nine residential towers, which houses over 3,000 residents, after several residents in the towers tested positive. Police will be placed on each floor of the towers and law enforcement authorities will also control access points.

COVID 19: Australia's Victoria reports highest jump since March with 108 cases

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus.

The US is one of the worst affected countries by coronavirus in the world. Amid rising cases, health officials are urging Americans to stay indoors and celebrate America's Independence day, July 04, with close family and friends only.

However, Donald Trump has decided to once again ignore the warnings and&nbsp;is going big for what he is promising will be a "special evening" in the nation's capital.

Trump started his holiday weekend by travelling to&nbsp;Mt. Rushmore for a fireworks display near the iconic mountain carvings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blasts-left-wing-cultural-revolution-rails-against-removal-of-statues-at-mount-rushmore-310621">Also read:&nbsp;Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore</a>

Now, he will be attending his "Salute for America" celebration on Saturday with a speech from the South lawn of the White House. Trump believes this evening will be a celebration of the American heritage. The speech will be followed by an extravagant display of fireworks, which is expected to be attended by thousands of people at the National Mall.

This pre-planned event has attracted a lot of criticism as thousands gathered even at Mt. Rushmore gathering where he did not talk much about the pandemic and the South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem insisted social distancing wasn't necessary and masks were optional.&nbsp;

While this has garnered a lot of criticism, it has&nbsp;not come as a surprise as Trump has been conducting his election rallies and all other social gatherings amid a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction.

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Just because someone invites you to a party doesn't mean you have to go
— Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurielBowser/status/1279127772867301376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Interior officials said they would hand out 300,000 face coverings to spectators who gather on the National Mall. Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt said visitors would be encouraged to wear masks and keep a six-foot distance from one another. However, this has not been made clear if these instructions will merely be suggestions or mandatory rules.

Health officials have warned against this gathering and have suggested cancelling it as they fear the event can spread the virus at a greater rate.

Majority of July 4 related events, including fireworks, parties and parades,&nbsp;have been cancelled in other parts of the country.

A country is always expected to follow their leader. However, the leader, in this case, has decided to lead his citizens astray.

(With inputs from agencies)

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus.

As usual the US President Donald Trump has decided to go against the expert opinions and defy all health protocols issued by health experts regarding spread of the novel coronavirus. The US is one of the worst affected countries by coronavirus in the world. Amid rising cases, health officials are urging Americans to stay indoors and celebrate America's Independence day, July 04, with close family and friends only. However, Donald Trump has decided to once again ignore the warnings and is going big for what he is promising will be a "special evening" in the nation's capital. Trump started his holiday weekend by travelling to Mt. Rushmore for a fireworks display near the iconic mountain carvings. Also read: Trump blasts 'left wing cultural revolution'; rails against removal of statues at Mount Rushmore Now, he will be attending his "Salute for America" celebration on Saturday with a speech from the South lawn of the White House. Trump believes this evening will be a celebration of the American heritage. The speech will be followed by an extravagant display of fireworks, which is expected to be attended by thousands of people at the National Mall. This pre-planned event has attracted a lot of criticism as thousands gathered even at Mt. Rushmore gathering where he did not talk much about the pandemic and the South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem insisted social distancing wasn't necessary and masks were optional. While this has garnered a lot of criticism, it has not come as a surprise as Trump has been conducting his election rallies and all other social gatherings amid a surge in number of positive coronavirus cases. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has made it clear that she has warned the federal government about the possible spread of the virus, but she cannot stop the event as it is happening on federal land, which is not in her jurisdiction. Just because someone invites you to a party doesn't mean you have to go — Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) July 3, 2020 × Interior officials said they would hand out 300,000 face coverings to spectators who gather on the National Mall. Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt said visitors would be encouraged to wear masks and keep a six-foot distance from one another. However, this has not been made clear if these instructions will merely be suggestions or mandatory rules. Health officials have warned against this gathering and have suggested cancelling it as they fear the event can spread the virus at a greater rate. Majority of July 4 related events, including fireworks, parties and parades, have been cancelled in other parts of the country. A country is always expected to follow their leader. However, the leader, in this case, has decided to lead his citizens astray. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump decides to 'go big' for July 4 amid rising coronavirus cases

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a&nbsp;body which in its attempts to please China&nbsp;left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic.

WHO downplayed the threat and&nbsp;tried to coverup, and eventually delayed the global response.

WION has discussed all these crimes in detail several times in the past. We were even promised an interview to clarify, but the WHO Chief chickened out.

So, we decided to find out just what the body has been upto after failing to live up to its core mission. What we found out is quite worrying.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-who-quietly-changes-coronavirus-timeline-310590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinablockswion-readers-stand-in-solidarity-with-us-310490">Also read|&nbsp;#ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us</a>

The World Health Organization has quietly altered the sequence of events that led to this pandemic, in simpler words, the WHO&nbsp;has changed the very timeline of the coronavirus pandemic.

For six months, WHO claimed that China informed it about the coronavirus on December 31. However, now it has taken a big U-turn

On December 31, 2019, WHO stated,&nbsp;"Wuhan municipal health commission reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified."

WHO clearly stated that the virus was identified on December 31. This statement implied that the virus was reported to the WHO by China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-never-reported-the-existence-of-coronavirus-outbreak-admits-who-310466">Also read|&nbsp;China never reported the existence of coronavirus outbreak, admits WHO</a>

Now, the updated timeline has the same date but WHO has now said, "WHO's country office in the people's republic of china picked up a media statement by the Wuhan municipal health commission from their website on cases of 'viral pneumonia' in Wuhan."

The mention of coronavirus being identified has quietly been removed. The fact that it was reported too has been blacked out. WHO is clearly stating that China did not report the existence of this virus on December 31.

This is not the only change that has been made. The archived timeline stated that on January 01, "WHO had put itself on an emergency footing for dealing with the outbreak..."

"Emergency footing" has smartly been rephrased into "coordinating activities" and an addition has been made.

The WHO says that it "requested information on the reported cluster in Wuhan from Chinese authorities". It took six months for this body to realise it was yet to receive information from China.

Why didn't it clarify back then that no information was provided? If altering information wasn't enough,&nbsp;the WHO has added new dates. The previous timeline made no mention that the WHO received information from China on january 03. This information has smartly been slipped into the new timeline.

"3 january 2020, Chinese officials provided information to WHO on the cluster of cases of viral pneumonia of unknown cause identified in Wuhan"

For six months, the WHO Chief publicly praised China's response. The organization&nbsp;urged the world to not politicise this pandemic, and now they're saying that china never provided information about the coronavirus.

These changes have not only exposed China further, but they have dented the WHO's credibility altogether.

WION strongly feels that the World Health Organization should be held accountable for facilitating this pandemic.

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a body which in its attempts to please China left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic.

It's been a while since we heard from the World Health Organization, a body which in its attempts to please China left the world unprepared to deal with this pandemic. WHO downplayed the threat and tried to coverup, and eventually delayed the global response. WION has discussed all these crimes in detail several times in the past. We were even promised an interview to clarify, but the WHO Chief chickened out. So, we decided to find out just what the body has been upto after failing to live up to its core mission. What we found out is quite worrying. Also read| #ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us The World Health Organization has quietly altered the sequence of events that led to this pandemic, in simpler words, the WHO has changed the very timeline of the coronavirus pandemic. For six months, WHO claimed that China informed it about the coronavirus on December 31. However, now it has taken a big U-turn On December 31, 2019, WHO stated, "Wuhan municipal health commission reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in Wuhan. A novel coronavirus was eventually identified." WHO clearly stated that the virus was identified on December 31. This statement implied that the virus was reported to the WHO by China. Also read| China never reported the existence of coronavirus outbreak, admits WHO Now, the updated timeline has the same date but WHO has now said, "WHO's country office in the people's republic of china picked up a media statement by the Wuhan municipal health commission from their website on cases of 'viral pneumonia' in Wuhan." The mention of coronavirus being identified has quietly been removed. The fact that it was reported too has been blacked out. WHO is clearly stating that China did not report the existence of this virus on December 31. This is not the only change that has been made. The archived timeline stated that on January 01, "WHO had put itself on an emergency footing for dealing with the outbreak..." "Emergency footing" has smartly been rephrased into "coordinating activities" and an addition has been made. The WHO says that it "requested information on the reported cluster in Wuhan from Chinese authorities". It took six months for this body to realise it was yet to receive information from China. Why didn't it clarify back then that no information was provided? If altering information wasn't enough, the WHO has added new dates. The previous timeline made no mention that the WHO received information from China on january 03. This information has smartly been slipped into the new timeline. "3 january 2020, Chinese officials provided information to WHO on the cluster of cases of viral pneumonia of unknown cause identified in Wuhan" For six months, the WHO Chief publicly praised China's response. The organization urged the world to not politicise this pandemic, and now they're saying that china never provided information about the coronavirus. These changes have not only exposed China further, but they have dented the WHO's credibility altogether. WION strongly feels that the World Health Organization should be held accountable for facilitating this pandemic.

COVID-19: WHO takes a U-turn on China; admits China never reported coronavirus

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