A man was kicked out of a train in Spain by fellow passengers after he refused to wear a mask, despite repeated requests from people on board.

While Spain does not have any monetary or legal penalty for not wearing masks in public spaces, locals have taken it upon themselves to urge fellow citizens to wear masks.

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🚨🇪🇸 | NEW: Passengers throw a guy off a train in Spain for not wearing a mask 
 
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When a man on a train was spotted without a mask, he was urged by fellow passengers to cover his face. However, he refused to give in to the requests of his fellow passengers.

A video being shared on Twitter shows passengers, who can be seen wearing masks, protesting against that one maskless man who was boarding the train. The incident started when a man stopped the maskless passenger from entering the carriage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nervous-londoners-think-its-too-early-to-end-covid-restrictions-399041">Nervous Londoners think it's 'too early' to end Covid restrictions</a>

However, when the man refused to give in, passengers started to corner the maskless man. The video shows two women pushing the man towards the door of the carriage, which forces him to exit the vehicle.

The man&nbsp;refused to wear a mask even then. In the video evidence, he can be seen going to a corner of the train station near a bench. He waited for the next train, but without wearing a mask.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and several other health experts urged people to wear a mask whenever stepping outdoors and meeting people indoors in a social gathering. Experts believe this is the only way to slow down the spread of deadly coronavirus, especially with the spread of new variants such as Delta, Beta, and Alpha.

A man was kicked out of a train in Spain by fellow passengers after he refused to wear a mask, despite repeated requests from people on board. While Spain does not have any monetary or legal penalty for not wearing masks in public spaces, locals have taken it upon themselves to urge fellow citizens to wear masks.

A man was kicked out of a train in Spain by fellow passengers after he refused to wear a mask, despite repeated requests from people on board. While Spain does not have any monetary or legal penalty for not wearing masks in public spaces, locals have taken it upon themselves to urge fellow citizens to wear masks. 🚨🇪🇸 | NEW: Passengers throw a guy off a train in Spain for not wearing a mask pic.twitter.com/CQNPidJHxk — News For All (@NewsForAllUK) July 15, 2021 × When a man on a train was spotted without a mask, he was urged by fellow passengers to cover his face. However, he refused to give in to the requests of his fellow passengers. A video being shared on Twitter shows passengers, who can be seen wearing masks, protesting against that one maskless man who was boarding the train. The incident started when a man stopped the maskless passenger from entering the carriage. Also read | Nervous Londoners think it's 'too early' to end Covid restrictions However, when the man refused to give in, passengers started to corner the maskless man. The video shows two women pushing the man towards the door of the carriage, which forces him to exit the vehicle. The man refused to wear a mask even then. In the video evidence, he can be seen going to a corner of the train station near a bench. He waited for the next train, but without wearing a mask. The World Health Organization (WHO) and several other health experts urged people to wear a mask whenever stepping outdoors and meeting people indoors in a social gathering. Experts believe this is the only way to slow down the spread of deadly coronavirus, especially with the spread of new variants such as Delta, Beta, and Alpha.

Man kicked out of Spanish train by fellow passengers for not wearing mask

As several countries inch towards completely lifting all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid regulations</a>, scientists are urging governments and people to continue wearing face coverings to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

UK scientists have come together to protest against unlocking the economy and have urged locals to continue wearing masks in enclosed public spaces. Experts believe wearing masks in cafes, restaurants, pubs, theatres and indoor gatherings is the best way to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-adults-in-britain-offered-a-covid-19-shot-ahead-of-monday-reopening-398792" hreflang="en">All adults in Britain offered a COVID-19 shot ahead of Monday reopening</a>

"If you don’t wear masks, the virus will spread further. It is as simple as that," Julian Tang, a clinical virologist at Leicester University was quoted by the Guardian.

As the cases in the country continue to rise and people are getting more comfortable with the idea of abandoning Covid precautions, the experts have warned that the country could be forced into another lockdown towards the end of the year if the trend continues.

He also explained that masks work both ways as it limits the spread of infected particles from a person and also helps the mask-wearer from getting infected by anyone else.

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-health-secretary-sajid-javid-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-398713" hreflang="en">UK's health secretary, Sajid Javid, tests positive for coronavirus</a>

"If you assume that a mask at least halves transmission, that means that for every 1,000 virus particles an infected person breathes out, only 500 will leave your mask. Then, when those particles reach someone else, similarly their masks will ensure at least a twofold reduction in the number&nbsp;of viruses reaching their mouths or noses,"&nbsp;Tang explained in the Observer. "In other words, of the 1,000 virus particles an infected person has breathed out, only 250 or so will reach another person. That should reduce infection rates, and that is why masks are important."

Scientists have warned people that there is a high probability that one out of several fellow restaurant guests or train passengers is infected by COVID-19, and thus, wearing a face mask in such situations becomes critical.

As several countries inch towards completely lifting all Covid regulations, scientists are urging governments and people to continue wearing face coverings to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

As several countries inch towards completely lifting all Covid regulations, scientists are urging governments and people to continue wearing face coverings to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus. UK scientists have come together to protest against unlocking the economy and have urged locals to continue wearing masks in enclosed public spaces. Experts believe wearing masks in cafes, restaurants, pubs, theatres and indoor gatherings is the best way to limit the spread of COVID-19. Also read | All adults in Britain offered a COVID-19 shot ahead of Monday reopening "If you don’t wear masks, the virus will spread further. It is as simple as that," Julian Tang, a clinical virologist at Leicester University was quoted by the Guardian. As the cases in the country continue to rise and people are getting more comfortable with the idea of abandoning Covid precautions, the experts have warned that the country could be forced into another lockdown towards the end of the year if the trend continues. He also explained that masks work both ways as it limits the spread of infected particles from a person and also helps the mask-wearer from getting infected by anyone else. ALso read | UK's health secretary, Sajid Javid, tests positive for coronavirus "If you assume that a mask at least halves transmission, that means that for every 1,000 virus particles an infected person breathes out, only 500 will leave your mask. Then, when those particles reach someone else, similarly their masks will ensure at least a twofold reduction in the number of viruses reaching their mouths or noses," Tang explained in the Observer. "In other words, of the 1,000 virus particles an infected person has breathed out, only 250 or so will reach another person. That should reduce infection rates, and that is why masks are important." Scientists have warned people that there is a high probability that one out of several fellow restaurant guests or train passengers is infected by COVID-19, and thus, wearing a face mask in such situations becomes critical.

Wearing masks only sure way to help slow spread of coronavirus: Scientists

A little after the Thailand government announced plans to extend coronavirus restrictions, locals took to the streets to denounce Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's handling of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid infections</a>.

Thailand is currently facing one of the worst Covid waves as hospitals are struggling to cater to the needs of patients. The government has been coming under pressure for the increasing infections and death toll.

Protestors defied the rule of small gatherings and took to the streets in hundreds to demand the resignation of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha. "We will die from Covid if we stay home, that is why we have to come out," a protestor was heard yelling before listing out three demands. "Prayut Chan-O-Cha must resign without any condition; the second is a budget cut to the&nbsp;monarchy and army to be used against Covid, and the third is to bring in mRNA vaccine."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-expands-lockdown-areas-as-covid-19-cases-surge-398803">Thailand expands lockdown areas as COVID-19 cases surge</a>

Locals also unveiled a large banner on road that had the face of the former military chief. Protestors took turns stomping the leader's face on the poster. Thailand police deployed water cannons to stop the protestors.

The protest came as Thailand extended the existing coronavirus regulations that include travel curbs, mall closures, and a night-time curfew.

This decision was taken after Thailand reported 11,397 new infections and 101 deaths, taking the toll to 403,386&nbsp;cases&nbsp;and 3,341 fatalities. The reason behind this new wave in Thailand is the new Alpha and Delta variants of COVID-19.

The government is also, reportedly, planning to introduce a few more restrictions on movement in and the country, to break the chain of new infections.

A little after the Thailand government announced plans to extend coronavirus restrictions, locals took to the streets to denounce Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's handling of the Covid infections.

A little after the Thailand government announced plans to extend coronavirus restrictions, locals took to the streets to denounce Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's handling of the Covid infections. Thailand is currently facing one of the worst Covid waves as hospitals are struggling to cater to the needs of patients. The government has been coming under pressure for the increasing infections and death toll. Protestors defied the rule of small gatherings and took to the streets in hundreds to demand the resignation of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha. "We will die from Covid if we stay home, that is why we have to come out," a protestor was heard yelling before listing out three demands. "Prayut Chan-O-Cha must resign without any condition; the second is a budget cut to the monarchy and army to be used against Covid, and the third is to bring in mRNA vaccine." Also read | Thailand expands lockdown areas as COVID-19 cases surge Locals also unveiled a large banner on road that had the face of the former military chief. Protestors took turns stomping the leader's face on the poster. Thailand police deployed water cannons to stop the protestors. The protest came as Thailand extended the existing coronavirus regulations that include travel curbs, mall closures, and a night-time curfew. This decision was taken after Thailand reported 11,397 new infections and 101 deaths, taking the toll to 403,386 cases and 3,341 fatalities. The reason behind this new wave in Thailand is the new Alpha and Delta variants of COVID-19. The government is also, reportedly, planning to introduce a few more restrictions on movement in and the country, to break the chain of new infections.

Thai police deploy water cannons, rubber bullets against protestors denouncing PM

British Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, has tested positive for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> on Saturday, and is currently self-isolating, he announced in a video message.

"I was feeling a bit groggy last night, so I took a lateral flow test this morning and it's come out positive," Javid said in a vide message he posted on his Twitter account. "So I'm now self-isolating at home with my family until I get the result of a PCR test. I'm grateful that I've had two jabs of the vaccine. And so far, my symptoms are very mild."

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This morning I tested positive for Covid. I’m waiting for my PCR result, but thankfully I have had my jabs and symptoms are mild. 
 
Please make sure you come forward for your vaccine if you haven’t already. <a href="https://t.co/NJYMg2VGzT">pic.twitter.com/NJYMg2VGzT</a>
— Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/sajidjavid/status/1416375392374513668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He also urged people to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible, in his video message. "Please make sure you come forward for your vaccine if you haven’t already," he tweeted.

His positive result has come a little before the UK is planning to lift all Covid regulations and reopen the economy, even as coronavirus infections are on a rise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnsons-unlocking-plan-is-threat-to-world-1200-scientists-warn-398688" hreflang="en">Boris Johnson's unlocking plan is threat to world, 1,200 scientists warn</a>

Javid took over the post of health Secretary on June 26, after the previous minister, Matt Hancock, had to resign after video evidence revealed he flouted Covid regulations by kissing a close aide in a secret affair.

As per regulations imposed by the Boris Johnson government, Javid will now have to self-isolate till he tests negative for coronavirus in a PCR test and reports no symptoms for the deadly virus.

British Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, has tested positive for coronavirus on Saturday, and is currently self-isolating, he announced in a video message. "I was feeling a bit groggy last night, so I took a lateral flow test this morning and it's come out positive," Javid said in a vide message he posted on his Twitter account.

British Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, has tested positive for coronavirus on Saturday, and is currently self-isolating, he announced in a video message. "I was feeling a bit groggy last night, so I took a lateral flow test this morning and it's come out positive," Javid said in a vide message he posted on his Twitter account. "So I'm now self-isolating at home with my family until I get the result of a PCR test. I'm grateful that I've had two jabs of the vaccine. And so far, my symptoms are very mild." This morning I tested positive for Covid. I’m waiting for my PCR result, but thankfully I have had my jabs and symptoms are mild. Please make sure you come forward for your vaccine if you haven’t already. pic.twitter.com/NJYMg2VGzT — Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) July 17, 2021 × He also urged people to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible, in his video message. "Please make sure you come forward for your vaccine if you haven’t already," he tweeted. His positive result has come a little before the UK is planning to lift all Covid regulations and reopen the economy, even as coronavirus infections are on a rise. Also read | Boris Johnson's unlocking plan is threat to world, 1,200 scientists warn Javid took over the post of health Secretary on June 26, after the previous minister, Matt Hancock, had to resign after video evidence revealed he flouted Covid regulations by kissing a close aide in a secret affair. As per regulations imposed by the Boris Johnson government, Javid will now have to self-isolate till he tests negative for coronavirus in a PCR test and reports no symptoms for the deadly virus.

UK's health secretary, Sajid Javid, tests positive for coronavirus

A little after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to completely reopen the economy, a group of scientists have said UK’s unlocking is a threat to the world.

Experts fear that when the society is completely unlocked, there is a chance that variants that are vaccine-resistant can cause another surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> cases around the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq6Z3uhOrxAhUHwzgGHfX2C4UQFjABegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Yg97deq3oox6CXe0RMDNK" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490" target="_blank">Drinking coffee reduces risk of contracting&nbsp;coronavirus: Study</a>

The UK is a global transportation hub, especially in Europe. So, if any new variant is found in the UK, it could easily spread around the world, scientists warned at an emergency summit.

Nearly 1,200 scientists signed a letter to the Lancet journal claiming that the strategy proposed by John’s team at Downing Street poses a danger that vaccine-resistant variants could develop faster.

Government advisers of Israel, Italy, and New Zealand were among few of the experts who warned the Johnson government against reopening the economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccinating-children-without-clinical-trials-can-be-disastrous-delhi-hc-398578" hreflang="en">Vaccinating children without clinical trials can be disastrous: Delhi HC</a>

"In New Zealand, we have always looked to the UK for leadership when it comes to scientific expertise, which is why it’s so remarkable that it is not following even basic public health principles," said Michael Baker, a professor of public health at the University of Otago.

Senior adviser of the World Health Organization (WHO), Prof José Martin-Moreno of the University of Valencia, questioned the UK government about its decision to reopen even though thousands have lost their lives to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We cannot understand why this is happening in spite of the scientific knowledge that you have," he asked.

A little after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to completely reopen the economy, a group of scientists have said UK’s unlocking is a threat to the world.

A little after the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced plans to completely reopen the economy, a group of scientists have said UK’s unlocking is a threat to the world. Experts fear that when the society is completely unlocked, there is a chance that variants that are vaccine-resistant can cause another surge in Covid cases around the world. Also read | Drinking coffee reduces risk of contracting coronavirus: Study The UK is a global transportation hub, especially in Europe. So, if any new variant is found in the UK, it could easily spread around the world, scientists warned at an emergency summit. Nearly 1,200 scientists signed a letter to the Lancet journal claiming that the strategy proposed by John’s team at Downing Street poses a danger that vaccine-resistant variants could develop faster. Government advisers of Israel, Italy, and New Zealand were among few of the experts who warned the Johnson government against reopening the economy. Also read | Vaccinating children without clinical trials can be disastrous: Delhi HC "In New Zealand, we have always looked to the UK for leadership when it comes to scientific expertise, which is why it’s so remarkable that it is not following even basic public health principles," said Michael Baker, a professor of public health at the University of Otago. Senior adviser of the World Health Organization (WHO), Prof José Martin-Moreno of the University of Valencia, questioned the UK government about its decision to reopen even though thousands have lost their lives to the coronavirus pandemic. "We cannot understand why this is happening in spite of the scientific knowledge that you have," he asked.

Boris Johnson's unlocking plan is threat to world, 1,200 scientists warn

In a speech about COVID-19, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday warned, "Unfortunately...we are now in the early stages of a third wave."

"The Delta variant is present in more than 111 countries, and if it isn't already, we expect it to become the main COVID-19 strain circulating worldwide soon," he said.&nbsp;

"The expansion of the Delta variant, together with increased social mobility and inconsistent application of proven public health measures, is driving an increase in both case numbers and deaths," the WHO's chief said.

Last week was the fourth week in a row that COVID-19 instances increased globally, with rises in all but one of the WHO's six regions.

Deaths are also on the rise again, following 10 weeks of steady decline.&nbsp;

Delta plus more transmissible than Delta

Sub-lineages of the Delta variant — AY.1, which is commonly known as the Delta Plus, and AY.2---are unlikely to be more transmissible than the parent, said INSACOG, a consortium of government panels involved in genome sequencing of coronavirus.

These two sub-lineages are also below 1 per cent in the genome samples sequenced in the country in June, it said in a recent bulletin.

INSACOG also said AY.3 has been identified as a new Delta sub-lineage and it is defined by ORF1a: I3731V common AY.1 mutations except for S: K417.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a speech about COVID-19, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday warned, "Unfortunately...we are now in the early stages of a third wave.

In a speech about COVID-19, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Thursday warned, "Unfortunately...we are now in the early stages of a third wave." "The Delta variant is present in more than 111 countries, and if it isn't already, we expect it to become the main COVID-19 strain circulating worldwide soon," he said. "The expansion of the Delta variant, together with increased social mobility and inconsistent application of proven public health measures, is driving an increase in both case numbers and deaths," the WHO's chief said. Last week was the fourth week in a row that COVID-19 instances increased globally, with rises in all but one of the WHO's six regions. Deaths are also on the rise again, following 10 weeks of steady decline. Delta plus more transmissible than Delta Sub-lineages of the Delta variant — AY.1, which is commonly known as the Delta Plus, and AY.2---are unlikely to be more transmissible than the parent, said INSACOG, a consortium of government panels involved in genome sequencing of coronavirus. These two sub-lineages are also below 1 per cent in the genome samples sequenced in the country in June, it said in a recent bulletin. INSACOG also said AY.3 has been identified as a new Delta sub-lineage and it is defined by ORF1a: I3731V common AY.1 mutations except for S: K417. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: WHO warns 'early stages' of third wave is here, amid Delta variant surge

Weeks after the World Health Organization (WHO) labelled the Delta variant of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> as a "variant of concern", the organisation’s chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had warned about the alarming increase of the ‘highly transmissible' variant.

Tedros warned that the Delta variant has now spread to 104 countries and will soon become the dominant variant of COVID-19 in the world. This will result in a deadly increase in the number of coronavirus infections and deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwia0Myk1ODxAhVvyzgGHUfWA24QFjAAegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3UXKMaieyzeR87nNuRMVuX" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" target="_blank">COVID-19: All you need to know about&nbsp;Delta Plus&nbsp;variant</a>

He also highlighted that the situation is worse in the countries that are struggling to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinate</a> their citizens, especially the third-world and poor countries.

"My message today is that we are experiencing a worsening public health emergency that further threatens lives, livelihoods and a sound global economic recovery. It is definitely worse in places that have very few vaccines, but the pandemic is not over anywhere," he said in a press briefing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-scientist-warns-against-mixing-and-matching-different-covid-vaccines-397774" hreflang="en">WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines</a>

His warning has come as the Covid related deaths have once again started increasing after observing a decline of only 10 days.

"In places with high vaccination coverage, Delta, first detected in India, is spreading quickly, especially infecting unprotected and vulnerable people and steadily putting pressure back on health systems. In countries with low vaccine coverage, the situation is particularly bad," he warned people.

He also stressed that the countries which had managed to stay clear of the first few waves of COVID-19 can also be targeted by the deadly variant. "Even countries that successfully managed to ward off the early waves of the virus, through public health measures alone, are now in the midst of devastating outbreaks," he warned.

Weeks after the World Health Organization (WHO) labelled the Delta variant of coronavirus as a "variant of concern", the organisation’s chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had warned about the alarming increase of the ‘highly transmissible' variant.

Weeks after the World Health Organization (WHO) labelled the Delta variant of coronavirus as a "variant of concern", the organisation’s chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had warned about the alarming increase of the ‘highly transmissible' variant. Tedros warned that the Delta variant has now spread to 104 countries and will soon become the dominant variant of COVID-19 in the world. This will result in a deadly increase in the number of coronavirus infections and deaths. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant He also highlighted that the situation is worse in the countries that are struggling to vaccinate their citizens, especially the third-world and poor countries. "My message today is that we are experiencing a worsening public health emergency that further threatens lives, livelihoods and a sound global economic recovery. It is definitely worse in places that have very few vaccines, but the pandemic is not over anywhere," he said in a press briefing. Also read | WHO chief scientist warns against 'mixing and matching' different Covid vaccines His warning has come as the Covid related deaths have once again started increasing after observing a decline of only 10 days. "In places with high vaccination coverage, Delta, first detected in India, is spreading quickly, especially infecting unprotected and vulnerable people and steadily putting pressure back on health systems. In countries with low vaccine coverage, the situation is particularly bad," he warned people. He also stressed that the countries which had managed to stay clear of the first few waves of COVID-19 can also be targeted by the deadly variant. "Even countries that successfully managed to ward off the early waves of the virus, through public health measures alone, are now in the midst of devastating outbreaks," he warned.

Delta variant getting more dangerous and can soon be dominant, WHO Chief warns

At least 52 people were killed and over 67 injured in a fire likely caused by an oxygen tank explosion at a coronavirus hospital in Iraq`s southern city of Nassiriya, health officials and police said on Monday.

As rescuers combed the smoke-charred building in search of more bodies, Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi held urgent meetings with senior ministers and ordered the suspension and arrest of health and civil defense managers in Nassiriya, his office said in a statement.

The manager of the hospital was also suspended and ordered to be arrested, the statement added.

Already decimated by war and sanctions, Iraq's healthcare system has struggled to cope with the coronavirus crisis, which has killed 17,592 people and infected more than 1.4 million. 
 
Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraq-52-dead-22-injured-in-a-massive-fire-at-al-hussein-hospital-in-nasiriyah-397727/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Health crews carried charred bodies out of the burning hospital while many patients were coughing from the rising smoke," a Reuters reporter at the site of the fire said.

Health officials at Nassiriya said search operations at the al-Hussain coronavirus hospital were continuing after the fire was brought under control, but thick smoke was making it difficult to enter some of the burnt wards.

"Raging fires have trapped many patients inside the coronavirus ward and rescue teams are struggling to reach them," a health worker told Reuters before entering the burning building.

Initial police reports suggested that an oxygen tank explosion inside the hospital's COVID-19 wards was the likely cause of the fire, a policeman at the scene of the fire said.

"I heard a big explosion inside the coronavirus wards and then fire erupted very quickly," said Ali Muhsin, a hospital guard who was helping carry wounded patients away from fires.

In April, a fire caused by an oxygen tank explosion at a COVID-19 hospital in Baghdad killed at least 82 people and injured 110 others.

Health sources said earlier the death toll from Monday's fire could rise as many patients were still missing. Two health workers were among the dead, they said.

Angry relatives gathered in front of the hospital and clashed with police, setting fire to two police vehicles, a Reuters witness said.

Weary of political violence, Iraqis also suffer frequent accidents due to under-investment, corruption and wrecked infrastructure. During the coronavirus crisis, hospitals have struggled with an influx of patients and short supplies.

"Corrupt officials must be held accountable for the fire and killing innocent patients. Where is my father`s body," said one young man as he searched among charred bodies wrapped in blankets in the hospital`s yard.

At least 52 people were killed and over 67 injured in a fire likely caused by an oxygen tank explosion at a coronavirus hospital in Iraq`s southern city of Nassiriya, health officials and police said on Monday.

At least 52 people were killed and over 67 injured in a fire likely caused by an oxygen tank explosion at a coronavirus hospital in Iraq`s southern city of Nassiriya, health officials and police said on Monday. As rescuers combed the smoke-charred building in search of more bodies, Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi held urgent meetings with senior ministers and ordered the suspension and arrest of health and civil defense managers in Nassiriya, his office said in a statement. The manager of the hospital was also suspended and ordered to be arrested, the statement added. Already decimated by war and sanctions, Iraq's healthcare system has struggled to cope with the coronavirus crisis, which has killed 17,592 people and infected more than 1.4 million. Watch: "Health crews carried charred bodies out of the burning hospital while many patients were coughing from the rising smoke," a Reuters reporter at the site of the fire said. Health officials at Nassiriya said search operations at the al-Hussain coronavirus hospital were continuing after the fire was brought under control, but thick smoke was making it difficult to enter some of the burnt wards. "Raging fires have trapped many patients inside the coronavirus ward and rescue teams are struggling to reach them," a health worker told Reuters before entering the burning building. Initial police reports suggested that an oxygen tank explosion inside the hospital's COVID-19 wards was the likely cause of the fire, a policeman at the scene of the fire said. "I heard a big explosion inside the coronavirus wards and then fire erupted very quickly," said Ali Muhsin, a hospital guard who was helping carry wounded patients away from fires. In April, a fire caused by an oxygen tank explosion at a COVID-19 hospital in Baghdad killed at least 82 people and injured 110 others. Health sources said earlier the death toll from Monday's fire could rise as many patients were still missing. Two health workers were among the dead, they said. Angry relatives gathered in front of the hospital and clashed with police, setting fire to two police vehicles, a Reuters witness said. Weary of political violence, Iraqis also suffer frequent accidents due to under-investment, corruption and wrecked infrastructure. During the coronavirus crisis, hospitals have struggled with an influx of patients and short supplies. "Corrupt officials must be held accountable for the fire and killing innocent patients. Where is my father`s body," said one young man as he searched among charred bodies wrapped in blankets in the hospital`s yard.

At least 52 killed, 67 injured in a coronavirus hospital fire in Iraq

As coronavirus cases decreased in Scotland, the government has decided to lift all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid restrictions</a> except face masks.

Scotland has decided to move to level zero of Covid restrictions from July 19. However, face masks will be mandatory for some more time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-johnson-johnson-vaccine-can-cause-rare-neurological-complication-warns-us-fda-397718" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can cause rare neurological complication, warns US FDA</a>

As per the 'level zero', locals will now be allowed to meet indoors and attend weddings or funerals. However, people will still be asked to work from home and outdoor meetings will be limited to a certain number that will be revealed soon.

For now, up to eight adults from four households can have indoor gatherings and 10 people can gather in a restaurant or a pub. Additionally, up to 15 people from 15 households can have outdoor gatherings and 200 people are allowed in weddings and funerals.

While many locals were hoping for total scrapping of Covid regulations, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the lifting of restrictions has been planned while&nbsp;keeping in mind the spread of Delta variant in other countries.

Also read |<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi81dXcrODxAhWeyzgGHURECrQQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0KwpjiCrlFu_J6PoFKxUe9" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drinking-coffee-reduces-risk-of-contracting-coronavirus-study-397490" target="_blank">Drinking coffee reduces risk of contracting&nbsp;coronavirus: Study</a>

The government is also hoping to remove the requirement of close contacts of Covid positive people to self-isolate of they have been fully vaccinated. In addition to this, authorities are also yet to decide whether school children of close contacts of Covid positive people will have to self-isolate or not.

As per the new guidelines, all fully vaccinated people who will be returning from amber list countries will not be asked to quarantine now, as long as they test negative upon arrival.

"We must stick to a cautious approach. We are easing restrictions next week, but we are not abandoning them," Sturgeon said. "And even when we move beyond level zero, we will continue to require some baseline measures such as face coverings."

As coronavirus cases decreased in Scotland, the government has decided to lift all Covid restrictions except face masks. Scotland has decided to move to level zero of Covid restrictions from July 19.

As coronavirus cases decreased in Scotland, the government has decided to lift all Covid restrictions except face masks. Scotland has decided to move to level zero of Covid restrictions from July 19. However, face masks will be mandatory for some more time. Also read | COVID-19: Johnson & Johnson vaccine can cause rare neurological complication, warns US FDA As per the 'level zero', locals will now be allowed to meet indoors and attend weddings or funerals. However, people will still be asked to work from home and outdoor meetings will be limited to a certain number that will be revealed soon. For now, up to eight adults from four households can have indoor gatherings and 10 people can gather in a restaurant or a pub. Additionally, up to 15 people from 15 households can have outdoor gatherings and 200 people are allowed in weddings and funerals. While many locals were hoping for total scrapping of Covid regulations, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the lifting of restrictions has been planned while keeping in mind the spread of Delta variant in other countries. Also read |Drinking coffee reduces risk of contracting coronavirus: Study The government is also hoping to remove the requirement of close contacts of Covid positive people to self-isolate of they have been fully vaccinated. In addition to this, authorities are also yet to decide whether school children of close contacts of Covid positive people will have to self-isolate or not. As per the new guidelines, all fully vaccinated people who will be returning from amber list countries will not be asked to quarantine now, as long as they test negative upon arrival. "We must stick to a cautious approach. We are easing restrictions next week, but we are not abandoning them," Sturgeon said. "And even when we move beyond level zero, we will continue to require some baseline measures such as face coverings."

Scotland to adopt 'zero level' Covid restrictions; face masks remain compulsory

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> regulations on tourists.

Three tourists in Bali were deported from the country after they were found flouting Covid rules in the open while vacationing in the tourist-friendly place.

These visitors were from the US, Russia, and Ireland. When they were found without face masks in the public spaces, the three visitors were out on a flight back to their home country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indonesia-scientist-leading-sinovac-trial-dies-of-suspected-covid-19-397083">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indonesia-scientist-leading-sinovac-trial-dies-of-suspected-covid-19-397083/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"They broke minimum virus rules requiring face masks during the emergency restriction period," said Jamaruli Manihuruk, head of&nbsp;Bali's legal and justice office, which oversees immigration enforcement.

Not just these three, another woman from Russia was deported back to her home country for refusing to self-quarantine following a positive Covid test. She was allowed to stay in Bali till she recovered from the virus and was immediately put on a flight back to Russia as soon as she was declared virus-free.

These restrictions are now an important part of the country’s road to being virus-free. Indonesia has been struggling with the wide spread of the Delta variant, which has caused a record increase in coronavirus cases.

The government, last week, rolled out a set of fresh guidelines for people, to ensure the country is able to break the chain of Covid infections.

On Monday, Indonesia reported a record 40,427 new infections and 891 deaths in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict coronavirus regulations on tourists.

As Indonesia is battling a Covid crisis and locals are struggling to find oxygen and hospital beds, Bali decided to impose strict coronavirus regulations on tourists. Three tourists in Bali were deported from the country after they were found flouting Covid rules in the open while vacationing in the tourist-friendly place. These visitors were from the US, Russia, and Ireland. When they were found without face masks in the public spaces, the three visitors were out on a flight back to their home country. WATCH | "They broke minimum virus rules requiring face masks during the emergency restriction period," said Jamaruli Manihuruk, head of Bali's legal and justice office, which oversees immigration enforcement. Not just these three, another woman from Russia was deported back to her home country for refusing to self-quarantine following a positive Covid test. She was allowed to stay in Bali till she recovered from the virus and was immediately put on a flight back to Russia as soon as she was declared virus-free. These restrictions are now an important part of the country’s road to being virus-free. Indonesia has been struggling with the wide spread of the Delta variant, which has caused a record increase in coronavirus cases. The government, last week, rolled out a set of fresh guidelines for people, to ensure the country is able to break the chain of Covid infections. On Monday, Indonesia reported a record 40,427 new infections and 891 deaths in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia: Bali deports four tourists for flouting Covid regulations

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday.

The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers. This has raised concerns for a city that is already in its third week of lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-records-first-covid-related-death-as-delta-variant-surges-through-australia-397467">Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia</a>

This increase in cases has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

After the record increase of Covid cases, authorities are urging people to follow the rules imposed by the government and stay at home to break the chain of infections. "We just want people to stay at home," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney on Monday. "The virus won't spread if people don't leave home. That is the bottom line."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-graphic-australias-covid-vaccination-awareness-advertisements-backfire-397637">Too graphic: Australia's Covid vaccination awareness advertisements backfire</a>

Sydney is Australia's one of the most populous cities as it houses nearly six million people who have been under a strict lockdown since June 26. However, some breaches have been spotted, especially in the hotel quarantines, which authorities believe have caused the increase in cases.

The increase in Covid cases has also put the Australian government’s slow vaccine rollout in the spotlight. Over the weekend, the federal government rolled out 'graphic'&nbsp;advertisements to spread awareness about the coronavirus. However, these adverts target young people who are not yet eligible for vaccinations. Locals are questioning the slow progress of inoculations and highlighting the government’s inability to procure Covid jabs.

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday. The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers.

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday. The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers. This has raised concerns for a city that is already in its third week of lockdown. Also read | Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia This increase in cases has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO). After the record increase of Covid cases, authorities are urging people to follow the rules imposed by the government and stay at home to break the chain of infections. "We just want people to stay at home," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney on Monday. "The virus won't spread if people don't leave home. That is the bottom line." Also read | Too graphic: Australia's Covid vaccination awareness advertisements backfire Sydney is Australia's one of the most populous cities as it houses nearly six million people who have been under a strict lockdown since June 26. However, some breaches have been spotted, especially in the hotel quarantines, which authorities believe have caused the increase in cases. The increase in Covid cases has also put the Australian government’s slow vaccine rollout in the spotlight. Over the weekend, the federal government rolled out 'graphic' advertisements to spread awareness about the coronavirus. However, these adverts target young people who are not yet eligible for vaccinations. Locals are questioning the slow progress of inoculations and highlighting the government’s inability to procure Covid jabs.

A day after first Covid death, Sydney now reports record coronavirus cases

To make people aware of the rise in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid infections</a> in the country, the Australian government rolled out awareness advertisements. However, these graphic adverts have received negative reviews from locals.

Two advertisements were released by the federal government over the weekend. One showed a young woman gasping for oxygen in a hospital. The aim of the advertisement was to urge people to stay at home and get tested for coronavirus if they develop any symptoms. The other advertisement showed a parade of arms carrying band-aids for after vaccination. With a tagline of "arm yourself against COVID-19", the advertisement encouraged people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-records-first-covid-related-death-as-delta-variant-surges-through-australia-397467" hreflang="en">Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia</a>

"That is the message as well with the more difficult, more challenging ad but a deliberately constructed ad which was prepared in anticipation of if there were a major outbreak and approved by the chief medical officer as being the appropriate time to release," federal health minister Greg Hunt told reporters.

However, the general public does not seem pleased by these graphic advertisements as many believe it is a scare tactic that can work opposite to its actual aim. Some experts said the advertisements are very close to scare tactics which can actually increase hesitancy towards vaccination, rather than motivating people to get vaccinated. It can also increase distrust in the government as people would feel manipulated considering the government has used paid actors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasal-covid-19-vaccine-protects-animals-from-the-deadly-infection-397522" hreflang="en">Nasal COVID-19 vaccine protects animals from the deadly infection</a>

"We've seen with vaccination in particular that fear campaigns or scary messages about diseases can actually cause people to become more fearful of vaccine side-effects," Dr Jessica Kaufman, a research fellow at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute told the Guardian.

Another fact that backfired at the government was that the advertisements are targeting young people. However, youngsters are not yet eligible for vaccination as the Australian government has failed to procure enough doses to vaccinate all of the adult population.

To make people aware of the rise in Covid infections in the country, the Australian government rolled out awareness advertisements. However, these graphic adverts have received negative reviews from locals.

To make people aware of the rise in Covid infections in the country, the Australian government rolled out awareness advertisements. However, these graphic adverts have received negative reviews from locals. Two advertisements were released by the federal government over the weekend. One showed a young woman gasping for oxygen in a hospital. The aim of the advertisement was to urge people to stay at home and get tested for coronavirus if they develop any symptoms. The other advertisement showed a parade of arms carrying band-aids for after vaccination. With a tagline of "arm yourself against COVID-19", the advertisement encouraged people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Also read | Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia "That is the message as well with the more difficult, more challenging ad but a deliberately constructed ad which was prepared in anticipation of if there were a major outbreak and approved by the chief medical officer as being the appropriate time to release," federal health minister Greg Hunt told reporters. However, the general public does not seem pleased by these graphic advertisements as many believe it is a scare tactic that can work opposite to its actual aim. Some experts said the advertisements are very close to scare tactics which can actually increase hesitancy towards vaccination, rather than motivating people to get vaccinated. It can also increase distrust in the government as people would feel manipulated considering the government has used paid actors. Also read | Nasal COVID-19 vaccine protects animals from the deadly infection "We've seen with vaccination in particular that fear campaigns or scary messages about diseases can actually cause people to become more fearful of vaccine side-effects," Dr Jessica Kaufman, a research fellow at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute told the Guardian. Another fact that backfired at the government was that the advertisements are targeting young people. However, youngsters are not yet eligible for vaccination as the Australian government has failed to procure enough doses to vaccinate all of the adult population.

Too graphic: Australia's Covid vaccination awareness advertisements backfire

Some health experts have raised concern about the increase of the word ‘leper’ since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a> took over the world in 2020.

Health campaigners have claimed that the term "leper" is being carelessly used by politicians and some other people during the pandemic to comment on stigma related to COVID-19 patients. Some politicians have also complained about their countries being portrayed as "leper countries".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/influenza-vaccines-can-protect-you-against-problems-caused-by-covid-study-397625" hreflang="en">Influenza vaccines can protect you against problems caused by Covid: Study</a>

However, it has increased the stigma around leprosy patients. "This type of language perpetuates a mindset against people still suffering," said Mathias Duck, global advocacy manager at The Leprosy Mission, a British charity. "People affected were already marginalised before the pandemic, and the pandemic has pushed leprosy even further down the priority list."

Campaigners have now urged a stop on the usage of the "L-word". This warning has come after a UN report stated that people who have been affected by leprosy have been having issues while gaining access to treatment and drugs. Some patients have also been laid off from work and some have died in large numbers due to COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasal-covid-19-vaccine-protects-animals-from-the-deadly-infection-397522" hreflang="en">Nasal COVID-19 vaccine protects animals from the deadly infection</a>

"People affected by leprosy have been denied testing, treatment, and vaccines for Covid. We insist on handwashing and masks, but these communities didn’t have access to that or even basic food because of the lockdowns," Duck said.

Volunteers have been raising voice against the discrimination and sense of abandonment that leprosy patients have to deal with. A UN report from 2019 stated that even though it is a curable disease, leprosy has pushed several people into vulnerable areas, be it work-related or personal life.

"What most people affected by leprosy want is to be called by their name, not to be marked by their condition," Duck said.

Some health experts have raised concern about the increase of the word ‘leper’ since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world in 2020. Health campaigners have claimed that the term "leper" is being carelessly used by politicians and some other people during the pandemic to comment on stigma related to COVID-19 patients.

Some health experts have raised concern about the increase of the word ‘leper’ since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world in 2020. Health campaigners have claimed that the term "leper" is being carelessly used by politicians and some other people during the pandemic to comment on stigma related to COVID-19 patients. Some politicians have also complained about their countries being portrayed as "leper countries". Also read | Influenza vaccines can protect you against problems caused by Covid: Study However, it has increased the stigma around leprosy patients. "This type of language perpetuates a mindset against people still suffering," said Mathias Duck, global advocacy manager at The Leprosy Mission, a British charity. "People affected were already marginalised before the pandemic, and the pandemic has pushed leprosy even further down the priority list." Campaigners have now urged a stop on the usage of the "L-word". This warning has come after a UN report stated that people who have been affected by leprosy have been having issues while gaining access to treatment and drugs. Some patients have also been laid off from work and some have died in large numbers due to COVID-19. Also read | Nasal COVID-19 vaccine protects animals from the deadly infection "People affected by leprosy have been denied testing, treatment, and vaccines for Covid. We insist on handwashing and masks, but these communities didn’t have access to that or even basic food because of the lockdowns," Duck said. Volunteers have been raising voice against the discrimination and sense of abandonment that leprosy patients have to deal with. A UN report from 2019 stated that even though it is a curable disease, leprosy has pushed several people into vulnerable areas, be it work-related or personal life. "What most people affected by leprosy want is to be called by their name, not to be marked by their condition," Duck said.

Experts urge an end to usage of 'leper' during Covid pandemic

If you are a coffee lover, scientists may have good news for you. A study has revealed that drinking a cup of coffee per day may reduce the chances of contracting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus.</a>

A study conducted by researchers from the Northwestern University has revealed that people who consume one or more cups of coffee per day have nearly 10 per cent less chance of getting infected by the deadly coronavirus, in comparison to those who are not consuming coffee at all.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-that-pets-are-at-risk-of-covid-infection-from-their-owners-not-the-other-way-around-397250" hreflang="en">Study finds that pets are at risk of covid infection from their owners, not the other way around</a>

"Coffee consumption favourably correlates with inflammatory biomarkers such as CRP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor I (TNF-I), which are also associated with Covid-19 severity and mortality,"&nbsp;the study read.

It further added, "Coffee consumption has also been associated with lower risk of pneumonia in elderly. Taken together, an immunoprotective effect of coffee against Covid-19 is plausible and merits further investigation."

The result has been declared after analysing records of 40,000 British adults in the UK Biobank. The scientists studied the link between diet factors such as daily consumption of coffee, oily fish, processed meat, green vegetables, fresh fruit, red meat, etc and Covid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-who-chief-scientist-lists-four-reasons-for-pandemic-not-slowing-down-397170" hreflang="en">COVID-19: WHO chief scientist lists four reasons for pandemic not slowing down</a>

It was also observed that consuming less processed meat and more vegetables could also cut down the chance of getting infected by COVID-19. Scientists revealed that consumption of at least 0.67 servings of vegetables (except potatoes) could help in reducing the risk of infection.

"Our results support the hypothesis that nutritional factors may influence distinct aspects of the immune system, hence susceptibility to COVID-19. Encouraging adherence to certain nutritional behaviours (eg, increasing vegetable intake and reducing processed meat intake) may be an additional tool to existing COVID-19 protection guidelines to limit the spread of this virus," said the researchers.

"Although these findings warrant independent confirmation, adherence to certain dietary behaviours may be an additional tool to existing COVID-19 protection guidelines to limit the spread of this virus," they added.

If you are a coffee lover, scientists may have good news for you. A study has revealed that drinking a cup of coffee per day may reduce the chances of contracting coronavirus.

If you are a coffee lover, scientists may have good news for you. A study has revealed that drinking a cup of coffee per day may reduce the chances of contracting coronavirus. A study conducted by researchers from the Northwestern University has revealed that people who consume one or more cups of coffee per day have nearly 10 per cent less chance of getting infected by the deadly coronavirus, in comparison to those who are not consuming coffee at all. Also read | Study finds that pets are at risk of covid infection from their owners, not the other way around "Coffee consumption favourably correlates with inflammatory biomarkers such as CRP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor I (TNF-I), which are also associated with Covid-19 severity and mortality," the study read. It further added, "Coffee consumption has also been associated with lower risk of pneumonia in elderly. Taken together, an immunoprotective effect of coffee against Covid-19 is plausible and merits further investigation." The result has been declared after analysing records of 40,000 British adults in the UK Biobank. The scientists studied the link between diet factors such as daily consumption of coffee, oily fish, processed meat, green vegetables, fresh fruit, red meat, etc and Covid. Also read | COVID-19: WHO chief scientist lists four reasons for pandemic not slowing down It was also observed that consuming less processed meat and more vegetables could also cut down the chance of getting infected by COVID-19. Scientists revealed that consumption of at least 0.67 servings of vegetables (except potatoes) could help in reducing the risk of infection. "Our results support the hypothesis that nutritional factors may influence distinct aspects of the immune system, hence susceptibility to COVID-19. Encouraging adherence to certain nutritional behaviours (eg, increasing vegetable intake and reducing processed meat intake) may be an additional tool to existing COVID-19 protection guidelines to limit the spread of this virus," said the researchers. "Although these findings warrant independent confirmation, adherence to certain dietary behaviours may be an additional tool to existing COVID-19 protection guidelines to limit the spread of this virus," they added.

Drinking coffee reduces risk of contracting coronavirus: Study

As part of a drawn out and highly politicised process for Taiwan to access the shot,&nbsp;Taiwan chipmaker TSMC said on Sunday, it was in the middle of the contract signing process to buy COVID-19 vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE. 
 
For months, Taiwan's government has tried to buy the coronavirus vaccine directly from BioNTech and has blamed China for nixing a deal the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory, has denied the accusations. 
 
After facing public pressure over the slow pace of inoculation programme last month, the Taiwan&nbsp;government agreed to allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Foxconn, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) to negotiate on its behalf for the vaccines, which would finally be donated to the country's government for distribution.

In a brief emailed statement, without elaborating,&nbsp;TSMC said,&nbsp;"There are multiple parties.&nbsp;We are in the middle of the contract signing process. We will make announcements once the process is completed." 
 
Gou's spokesperson, BioNTech and Fosun did not respond to requests for comment. 
 
While speaking to reporters later on Sunday, Premier Su Tseng-chang said that talks for the vaccine were ongoing. "Once there is an definite outcome, we'll naturally report it to everyone." 
 
A source briefed on the matter told Reuters that contract talks were 'not yet 100% complete', while another source said an announcement was expected this week.

(With inputs from agencies)

As part of a drawn out and highly politicised process for Taiwan to access the shot, Taiwan chipmaker TSMC said on Sunday, it was in the middle of the contract signing process to buy COVID-19 vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE.

As part of a drawn out and highly politicised process for Taiwan to access the shot, Taiwan chipmaker TSMC said on Sunday, it was in the middle of the contract signing process to buy COVID-19 vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE. For months, Taiwan's government has tried to buy the coronavirus vaccine directly from BioNTech and has blamed China for nixing a deal the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory, has denied the accusations. After facing public pressure over the slow pace of inoculation programme last month, the Taiwan government agreed to allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Foxconn, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) to negotiate on its behalf for the vaccines, which would finally be donated to the country's government for distribution. In a brief emailed statement, without elaborating, TSMC said, "There are multiple parties. We are in the middle of the contract signing process. We will make announcements once the process is completed." Gou's spokesperson, BioNTech and Fosun did not respond to requests for comment. While speaking to reporters later on Sunday, Premier Su Tseng-chang said that talks for the vaccine were ongoing. "Once there is an definite outcome, we'll naturally report it to everyone." A source briefed on the matter told Reuters that contract talks were 'not yet 100% complete', while another source said an announcement was expected this week. (With inputs from agencies)

TSMC is in the process of signing deal to buy COVID-19 vaccines from BioNTech

Adding to the fear of another possible outbreak, Australia announced its first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus-related</a> death in Sydney.

This death has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The woman was in her 90s and took his last breath a few hours after she tested positive for coronavirus. She became the first victim to die from a locally acquired infection in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-90-year-old-belgian-woman-died-with-double-variant-infection-397418">WATCH |</a>

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Local authorities have warned people to stay indoors, practice social distancing and wear face mask at all times when stepping outdoors.

"Tomorrow and the&nbsp;few days afterwards will be worse,&nbsp;much worse than we've seen today," New South Wales state premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-israel-set-to-offer-booster-shot-of-pfizer-vaccine-against-delta-variant-397393" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Israel set to offer booster shot of Pfizer vaccine against Delta variant</a>

The death has come as Sydney enters its third week of lockdown, even though cases have been alarming increasing.

"Given where we're at and&nbsp;given the lockdown was supposed to&nbsp;be lifted on Friday, everybody can&nbsp;tell it's highly unlikely at this&nbsp;stage, given where the numbers are," Berejiklian said.

To warn citizens against a possible deadly outbreak, the government of Australia has launched a new advertising campaign that urges people to stay vigilant and arm themselves against coronavirus by getting vaccinated and staying at home.

Adding to the fear of another possible outbreak, Australia announced its first coronavirus-related death in Sydney. This death has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Adding to the fear of another possible outbreak, Australia announced its first coronavirus-related death in Sydney. This death has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO). The woman was in her 90s and took his last breath a few hours after she tested positive for coronavirus. She became the first victim to die from a locally acquired infection in the country. WATCH | × Local authorities have warned people to stay indoors, practice social distancing and wear face mask at all times when stepping outdoors. "Tomorrow and the few days afterwards will be worse, much worse than we've seen today," New South Wales state premier Gladys Berejiklian said. Also read | COVID-19: Israel set to offer booster shot of Pfizer vaccine against Delta variant The death has come as Sydney enters its third week of lockdown, even though cases have been alarming increasing. "Given where we're at and given the lockdown was supposed to be lifted on Friday, everybody can tell it's highly unlikely at this stage, given where the numbers are," Berejiklian said. To warn citizens against a possible deadly outbreak, the government of Australia has launched a new advertising campaign that urges people to stay vigilant and arm themselves against coronavirus by getting vaccinated and staying at home.

Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia

As the country faces another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims.

Last year, Myanmar locals started providing free taxi services for those who were infected by the deadly coronavirus. These volunteers were readily taking victims to hospitals and quarantine centres. However, locals were hesitant about taking help from them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-rebel-group-suspends-key-leader-in-massacre-investigation-397219" hreflang="en">Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation</a>

Things seemed to have changed now as locals are turning towards these volunteers for help as Myanmar has observed an alarming increase in coronavirus cases.

"Before... people were scared to see emergency teams wearing PPE," a volunteer in Hle Guu township north of Yangon told new agency, AFP. "But now, they are looking for us. The situation is upside down."

Last week, Tun Khine (a businessman who spoke under a pseudonym) took seven dead bodies to a crematorium ground. Of these seven dead bodies, one was a confirmed case who died in the hospital and the other six were suspected to have been infected from the virus and had never been taken to the hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/stay-at-home-orders-in-myanmars-yangon-as-covid-cases-spike-396593" hreflang="en">Stay-at-home orders in Myanmar's Yangon as Covid cases spike</a>

While the world was fighting coronavirus last year, Myanmar was battling a military coup. Since the Myanmar military ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and took control of the country, thousands of health workers went on strike to protest the rising violence in the country.

Since the coup, all medical workers have been scared of getting attacked by the forces. Khine’s team, too, has voiced this concern. "Of course we are afraid," he said. "But our bigger fear is our people being infected and risking their lives."

At the end of every shift, the team members spray each other with disinfectants to protect themselves and their family members from the deadly coronavirus. However, they have vowed to continue helping fellow citizens in this battle against COVID-19. "More people are going to die if we stop working because we are afraid,"&nbsp;Khine said.

As the country faces another coronavirus outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims.

As the country faces another coronavirus outbreak, locals have started looking for volunteers clad in white PPE kits to perform the last rites of the Covid victims. Last year, Myanmar locals started providing free taxi services for those who were infected by the deadly coronavirus. These volunteers were readily taking victims to hospitals and quarantine centres. However, locals were hesitant about taking help from them. Also read | Myanmar rebel group suspends key leader in massacre investigation Things seemed to have changed now as locals are turning towards these volunteers for help as Myanmar has observed an alarming increase in coronavirus cases. "Before... people were scared to see emergency teams wearing PPE," a volunteer in Hle Guu township north of Yangon told new agency, AFP. "But now, they are looking for us. The situation is upside down." Last week, Tun Khine (a businessman who spoke under a pseudonym) took seven dead bodies to a crematorium ground. Of these seven dead bodies, one was a confirmed case who died in the hospital and the other six were suspected to have been infected from the virus and had never been taken to the hospital. Also read | Stay-at-home orders in Myanmar's Yangon as Covid cases spike While the world was fighting coronavirus last year, Myanmar was battling a military coup. Since the Myanmar military ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and took control of the country, thousands of health workers went on strike to protest the rising violence in the country. Since the coup, all medical workers have been scared of getting attacked by the forces. Khine’s team, too, has voiced this concern. "Of course we are afraid," he said. "But our bigger fear is our people being infected and risking their lives." At the end of every shift, the team members spray each other with disinfectants to protect themselves and their family members from the deadly coronavirus. However, they have vowed to continue helping fellow citizens in this battle against COVID-19. "More people are going to die if we stop working because we are afraid," Khine said.

Health volunteers provide hope to Covid-infected Myanmar amid another outbreak

India's Hetero Labs said on Friday it sought an emergency use nod from the local regulator for Merck's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> drug&nbsp;molnupiravir, after interim data from a late-stage trial showed it helped reduce hospitalisations and speed up recovery in mild cases.

Molnupiravir&nbsp;is an antiviral drug being developed by Merck &amp; Co and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics for the treatment of non-hospitalised COVID-19 patients.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-procure-17-million-courses-of-molnupiravir-coronavirus-pills-390444">US to procure 1.7 million courses of molnupiravir coronavirus pills</a>

Merck tapped several Indian generic drugmakers between March and April, including Cipla and Dr Reddy's Laboratories, to expand the drug's production and conduct trials, hastening its availability in India to address the second wave of infections.

The partnerships gave these companies licence to make and supply&nbsp;molnupiravir&nbsp;to India and more than 100 low- and middle-income countries after approvals or emergency authorisations by local regulatory agencies, Merck said in late April.

Hetero said the late-stage trial of&nbsp;molnupiravir, conducted at COVID-19 dedicated hospital sites across India, looked at the drug's efficacy and safety in patients with mild COVID-19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/molnupiravir-new-antiviral-oral-drug-shown-to-stop-covid-19-spread-in-24-hours-348580">Molnupiravir: New antiviral oral drug shown to stop COVID-19 spread in 24 hours</a>

The data showed the antiviral drug resulted in statistically significant fewer hospital admissions, faster recovery time and early negative SARS-CoV-2 RT PCR results.

Coronavirus cases in India have declined from a devastating peak in April and May. However, health experts have said the country should brace for a third wave by October.

Molnupiravir&nbsp;is currently being tested in a global late-stage study by Merck and partner Ridgeback, with the trial data expected in the fall of 2021.

India's Hetero Labs said on Friday it sought an emergency use nod from the local regulator for Merck's COVID-19 drug molnupiravir, after interim data from a late-stage trial showed it helped reduce hospitalisations and speed up recovery in mild cases.

India's Hetero Labs said on Friday it sought an emergency use nod from the local regulator for Merck's COVID-19 drug molnupiravir, after interim data from a late-stage trial showed it helped reduce hospitalisations and speed up recovery in mild cases. Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug being developed by Merck & Co and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics for the treatment of non-hospitalised COVID-19 patients. Also read | US to procure 1.7 million courses of molnupiravir coronavirus pills Merck tapped several Indian generic drugmakers between March and April, including Cipla and Dr Reddy's Laboratories, to expand the drug's production and conduct trials, hastening its availability in India to address the second wave of infections. The partnerships gave these companies licence to make and supply molnupiravir to India and more than 100 low- and middle-income countries after approvals or emergency authorisations by local regulatory agencies, Merck said in late April. Hetero said the late-stage trial of molnupiravir, conducted at COVID-19 dedicated hospital sites across India, looked at the drug's efficacy and safety in patients with mild COVID-19. Also read | Molnupiravir: New antiviral oral drug shown to stop COVID-19 spread in 24 hours The data showed the antiviral drug resulted in statistically significant fewer hospital admissions, faster recovery time and early negative SARS-CoV-2 RT PCR results. Coronavirus cases in India have declined from a devastating peak in April and May. However, health experts have said the country should brace for a third wave by October. Molnupiravir is currently being tested in a global late-stage study by Merck and partner Ridgeback, with the trial data expected in the fall of 2021.

India's Hetero seeks emergency use nod for Merck's COVID-19 drug

The Delta variant of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> will have a greater effect on the young people of Australia, epidemiologists have warned after recent research.

This warning has come after the country reported an increase in hospitalisations of people under the age of 55 during Sydney’s current outbreak. Currently, there are 37 people admitted to hospitals due to Covid. Out of these 37, 14 patients are under the age of 55, of which eight have not even yet turned 35, New South Wales chief health officer, Dr Kerry Chant reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-at-a-perilous-point-covid-19-death-toll-crosses-4-million-worldwide-396576" hreflang="en">'World at a perilous point': COVID-19 death toll crosses 4 million worldwide</a>

Labelling this as a 'wake-up call', Chant said young people should now "dispel the myth this is something that only impacts on the elderly".

She also urged people to not take the Delta variant lightly and explained that "the Delta strain is not a mild disease. It can be mild in some but, for many, it can lead to hospitalisation and death."

Another expert, Prof Cassandra Berry, a researcher of viral immunology at Murdoch University, said that considering the Delta mutations are more transmissible, there is a huge chance that the younger population will be more at risk now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJjbDFqdHxAhUpyjgGHaN5B2kQFjAAegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nC3vt3LUEYagYy1ituNHV" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" target="_blank">COVID-19: All you need to know about&nbsp;Delta Plus&nbsp;variant</a>

Berry explained that some of the biological defences that protected the young people from the deadly coronavirus till now, might be becoming less effective now in the newer strains of the variants.

The older variants were being blocked by young people's immune systems. However, the newer mutations of the variants are able to evade the early responses as it binds better to younger people's cell receptors.

"This form of virus also has a counterattack measure, it is using stealth to hide away and can block our very early innate responses. These are rapid immune responses that normally kick in within 15 minutes and are more effective in young people, but this mutation appears to be evading that early response," Berry explained. "It's able to replicate at a higher level earlier on in young people."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cdc-says-delta-variant-dominant-in-us-makes-up-more-than-half-of-covid-19-cases-396567" hreflang="en">CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases</a>

Medical experts have raised this problem with the aim of explaining to the government and locals that it is high time the younger population of the country is also vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus. Till now, approximately 70 per cent of the population of people over the age of 70 has been vaccinated.

"This is a sign that it’s time to progress the discussion in Australia around vaccinating younger Australians and children," Berry said. "It's the younger people in Australia that are now proportionately unprotected."

The Delta variant of coronavirus will have a greater effect on the young people of Australia, epidemiologists have warned after recent research. This warning has come after the country reported an increase in hospitalisations of people under the age of 55 during Sydney’s current outbreak.

The Delta variant of coronavirus will have a greater effect on the young people of Australia, epidemiologists have warned after recent research. This warning has come after the country reported an increase in hospitalisations of people under the age of 55 during Sydney’s current outbreak. Currently, there are 37 people admitted to hospitals due to Covid. Out of these 37, 14 patients are under the age of 55, of which eight have not even yet turned 35, New South Wales chief health officer, Dr Kerry Chant reported. Also read | 'World at a perilous point': COVID-19 death toll crosses 4 million worldwide Labelling this as a 'wake-up call', Chant said young people should now "dispel the myth this is something that only impacts on the elderly". She also urged people to not take the Delta variant lightly and explained that "the Delta strain is not a mild disease. It can be mild in some but, for many, it can lead to hospitalisation and death." Another expert, Prof Cassandra Berry, a researcher of viral immunology at Murdoch University, said that considering the Delta mutations are more transmissible, there is a huge chance that the younger population will be more at risk now. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant Berry explained that some of the biological defences that protected the young people from the deadly coronavirus till now, might be becoming less effective now in the newer strains of the variants. The older variants were being blocked by young people's immune systems. However, the newer mutations of the variants are able to evade the early responses as it binds better to younger people's cell receptors. "This form of virus also has a counterattack measure, it is using stealth to hide away and can block our very early innate responses. These are rapid immune responses that normally kick in within 15 minutes and are more effective in young people, but this mutation appears to be evading that early response," Berry explained. "It's able to replicate at a higher level earlier on in young people." Also read | CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases Medical experts have raised this problem with the aim of explaining to the government and locals that it is high time the younger population of the country is also vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus. Till now, approximately 70 per cent of the population of people over the age of 70 has been vaccinated. "This is a sign that it’s time to progress the discussion in Australia around vaccinating younger Australians and children," Berry said. "It's the younger people in Australia that are now proportionately unprotected."

Young people more vulnerable to Delta mutations of Covid, experts warn

Adding to the list of grim milestones, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Coronavirus deaths</a> have crossed four million on Friday, World Health Organization (WHO) said. "The world is at a perilous point in this pandemic," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The grim milestone was crossed as several western countries are inching towards unlocking their economies completely. Meanwhile, several Asian countries are facing a Covid crisis.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-will-not-follow-uks-live-with-covid-policy-jacinda-ardern-396563" hreflang="en">New Zealand will not follow UK's 'live with Covid' policy: Jacinda Ardern</a>

WHO chief took a dig at rich nations unlocking countries after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinating</a> a certain percentage of the population. He said some countries who have high vaccination coverage are "relaxing as though the pandemic is already over".

"Some countries with high vaccination coverage are now planning to rollout booster shots in the coming months and are dropping public health social measures and relaxing as though the #COVID19 pandemic is already over," Tedros said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cdc-says-delta-variant-dominant-in-us-makes-up-more-than-half-of-covid-19-cases-396567" hreflang="en">CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases</a>

He also stressed the contrast between the rich and the poor nations. While the rich nations are unlocking after procuring and inoculating coronavirus vaccines, other countries are struggling to control the widespread of the Delta variant as they are unable to procure vaccines.

"Variants are currently winning the race against vaccines because of inequitable vaccine production &amp; distribution, which also threatens the global economic recovery. It didn’t have to be this way &amp; it doesn’t have to be this way going forward," Tedros said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-china-records-highest-daily-covid-cases-indonesia-reports-highest-deaths-396547" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: China records highest daily Covid cases, Indonesia reports highest deaths</a>

As per a Reuters analysis, it took nearly a year to record two million Covid deaths. However, the next two million deaths were recorded within 166 days. The US, Brazil, India, Russia and Mexico have recorded 50 per cent of total deaths in the world. Peru, Bosnia, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Gibraltar have the highest death rates according to the population.

This grim milestone has come as Indonesia has reported the worst-ever Covid crisis in the country as locals struggle to get access to oxygen cylinders for their family members.

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"The world is at a perilous point in this pandemic. 
 
We have just passed the tragic milestone of 4 million recorded <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> deaths, which likely underestimates the overall toll"-<a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a>
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1412763048071344128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the UK has announced plans to lift all Covid-related restrictions by July 19 – a plan which has gained criticism from all around the world. The WHO, however, has urged 'extreme caution' in lifting Covid restrictions.

Tedros also urged countries to drop 'vaccine nationalism' and help the poorer nations by donating vaccines to them through the Covax programme. "Vaccine nationalism, where a handful of nations have taken the lion’s share, is morally indefensible &amp; an ineffective public health strategy against a respiratory virus that is mutating quickly &amp; becoming increasingly effective at moving from human-to-human," he said. "At this stage in the #COVID19 pandemic, the fact that millions of health and care workers have still not been vaccinated is abhorrent."

"From a moral, epidemiological or economic point view, now is the time for the world to come together to tackle this pandemic collectively," he said.

Adding to the list of grim milestones, Coronavirus deaths have crossed four million on Friday, World Health Organization (WHO) said. "The world is at a perilous point in this pandemic," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Adding to the list of grim milestones, Coronavirus deaths have crossed four million on Friday, World Health Organization (WHO) said. "The world is at a perilous point in this pandemic," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The grim milestone was crossed as several western countries are inching towards unlocking their economies completely. Meanwhile, several Asian countries are facing a Covid crisis. Also read | New Zealand will not follow UK's 'live with Covid' policy: Jacinda Ardern WHO chief took a dig at rich nations unlocking countries after vaccinating a certain percentage of the population. He said some countries who have high vaccination coverage are "relaxing as though the pandemic is already over". "Some countries with high vaccination coverage are now planning to rollout booster shots in the coming months and are dropping public health social measures and relaxing as though the #COVID19 pandemic is already over," Tedros said. Also read | CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases He also stressed the contrast between the rich and the poor nations. While the rich nations are unlocking after procuring and inoculating coronavirus vaccines, other countries are struggling to control the widespread of the Delta variant as they are unable to procure vaccines. "Variants are currently winning the race against vaccines because of inequitable vaccine production & distribution, which also threatens the global economic recovery. It didn’t have to be this way & it doesn’t have to be this way going forward," Tedros said. Also read | Coronavirus: China records highest daily Covid cases, Indonesia reports highest deaths As per a Reuters analysis, it took nearly a year to record two million Covid deaths. However, the next two million deaths were recorded within 166 days. The US, Brazil, India, Russia and Mexico have recorded 50 per cent of total deaths in the world. Peru, Bosnia, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Gibraltar have the highest death rates according to the population. This grim milestone has come as Indonesia has reported the worst-ever Covid crisis in the country as locals struggle to get access to oxygen cylinders for their family members. "The world is at a perilous point in this pandemic. We have just passed the tragic milestone of 4 million recorded #COVID19 deaths, which likely underestimates the overall toll"-@DrTedros — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) July 7, 2021 × Meanwhile, the UK has announced plans to lift all Covid-related restrictions by July 19 – a plan which has gained criticism from all around the world. The WHO, however, has urged 'extreme caution' in lifting Covid restrictions. Tedros also urged countries to drop 'vaccine nationalism' and help the poorer nations by donating vaccines to them through the Covax programme. "Vaccine nationalism, where a handful of nations have taken the lion’s share, is morally indefensible & an ineffective public health strategy against a respiratory virus that is mutating quickly & becoming increasingly effective at moving from human-to-human," he said. "At this stage in the #COVID19 pandemic, the fact that millions of health and care workers have still not been vaccinated is abhorrent." "From a moral, epidemiological or economic point view, now is the time for the world to come together to tackle this pandemic collectively," he said.

'World at a perilous point': COVID-19 death toll crosses 4 million worldwide

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan.

After Johnson’s announcement, Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand has no plans of adopting the same plan as the UK and it would be completely "unacceptable".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/customers-tired-of-hearing-due-to-covid-as-an-excuse-study-396536" hreflang="en">Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study</a>

The government also added that the UK would be added to the ‘no-fly’ list if cases increased after all Covid restrictions are lifted in the European country.

"If they do get an increase in cases, we will be keeping a close eye on what that means for the risk of people travelling from the UK and that will inform our decisions here," Director-general of health, Ashley Bloomfield said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-is-far-from-over-pm-johnson-unveils-plan-to-ease-virus-curbs-in-england-396057" hreflang="en">'Pandemic is far from over': PM Johnson unveils plan to ease virus curbs in England</a>

New Zealand's opposition towards UK's plan has come after Boris Johnson, on Monday, announced new plans to scrap rules of wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing from July 19. Johnson told citizens to "learn to live with" the coronavirus. "We must reconcile ourselves, sadly, to more deaths from Covid," Johnson said.

"That's not something that we have been willing to accept in New Zealand," COVID-19 response minister, Chris Hipkins, said at a press conference alongside Ardern. "One of the things the UK government have been very clear about [is] that there will be a spike in cases, potentially thousands of cases a day. There will be more people dying."

"We are likely to see more incremental change than dramatic change where we wake up one morning and say: 'We just go back to the way things were before COVID-19," he added.

In the same conference, Ardern was asked if, like Johnson, she would also request locals to accept Covid deaths. "Different countries are taking different choices," she said in response. "The priority for me is how do we continue to preserve what New Zealand has managed to gain and give ourselves options, because this virus is not done with the world yet."

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" coronavirus, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan.

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" coronavirus, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan. After Johnson’s announcement, Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand has no plans of adopting the same plan as the UK and it would be completely "unacceptable". Also read | Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study The government also added that the UK would be added to the ‘no-fly’ list if cases increased after all Covid restrictions are lifted in the European country. "If they do get an increase in cases, we will be keeping a close eye on what that means for the risk of people travelling from the UK and that will inform our decisions here," Director-general of health, Ashley Bloomfield said. Also read | 'Pandemic is far from over': PM Johnson unveils plan to ease virus curbs in England New Zealand's opposition towards UK's plan has come after Boris Johnson, on Monday, announced new plans to scrap rules of wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing from July 19. Johnson told citizens to "learn to live with" the coronavirus. "We must reconcile ourselves, sadly, to more deaths from Covid," Johnson said. "That's not something that we have been willing to accept in New Zealand," COVID-19 response minister, Chris Hipkins, said at a press conference alongside Ardern. "One of the things the UK government have been very clear about [is] that there will be a spike in cases, potentially thousands of cases a day. There will be more people dying." "We are likely to see more incremental change than dramatic change where we wake up one morning and say: 'We just go back to the way things were before COVID-19," he added. In the same conference, Ardern was asked if, like Johnson, she would also request locals to accept Covid deaths. "Different countries are taking different choices," she said in response. "The priority for me is how do we continue to preserve what New Zealand has managed to gain and give ourselves options, because this virus is not done with the world yet."

New Zealand will not follow UK's 'live with Covid' policy: Jacinda Ardern

Raising fear of another possible wave in the country, China reported 57 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases in the mainland on July 07.

The number of cases has increased from 23 a day before. This is the highest daily tally of COVID-19 infections since January 30.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/customers-tired-of-hearing-due-to-covid-as-an-excuse-study-396536" hreflang="en">Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study</a>

China's National health Commission said 15 new cases were local infections were located in the Yunnan province, in the city of Ruili, which is near the border of Myanmar.

The record increase in fresh Covid infections has taken the tally of coronavirus cases in mainland China to 91,949.

In addition to the standard protocols, China has halted all flights from and to Southern China after an alarming increase of Covid cases was observed in Guangdong&nbsp;province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-set-to-relax-more-covid-19-restrictions-396484" hreflang="en">Singapore set to relax more COVID-19 restrictions</a>

Indonesia

Meanwhile, adding to an already tense situation in Indonesia, the country reported new daily records for both deaths and cases on July 07.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-amid-rising-infections-boris-johnson-wants-to-scrap-mask-mandate-396334">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-amid-rising-infections-boris-johnson-wants-to-scrap-mask-mandate-396334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per the official data, 34,379 new coronavirus infections and 1,040 new deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours in Indonesia.

Keeping in mind the record number of deaths, Indonesia government has decided to extend all Covid restrictions till July 20. The restrictions will now apply to dozens of cities and extend from Sumatra island in the west to easternmost Papua.

"Cases are also rising in other regions and we need to pay attention to the availability of hospitals," said senior minister Airlangga Hartarto.

The decision has been taken as the country is struggling to attend to all Covid patients and relatives of victims are desperately looking for oxygen cylinders.

Raising fear of another possible wave in the country, China reported 57 new coronavirus cases in the mainland on July 07. The number of cases has increased from 23 a day before.

Raising fear of another possible wave in the country, China reported 57 new coronavirus cases in the mainland on July 07. The number of cases has increased from 23 a day before. This is the highest daily tally of COVID-19 infections since January 30. Also read | Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study China's National health Commission said 15 new cases were local infections were located in the Yunnan province, in the city of Ruili, which is near the border of Myanmar. The record increase in fresh Covid infections has taken the tally of coronavirus cases in mainland China to 91,949. In addition to the standard protocols, China has halted all flights from and to Southern China after an alarming increase of Covid cases was observed in Guangdong province. Also read | Singapore set to relax more COVID-19 restrictions Indonesia Meanwhile, adding to an already tense situation in Indonesia, the country reported new daily records for both deaths and cases on July 07. WATCH | As per the official data, 34,379 new coronavirus infections and 1,040 new deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours in Indonesia. Keeping in mind the record number of deaths, Indonesia government has decided to extend all Covid restrictions till July 20. The restrictions will now apply to dozens of cities and extend from Sumatra island in the west to easternmost Papua. "Cases are also rising in other regions and we need to pay attention to the availability of hospitals," said senior minister Airlangga Hartarto. The decision has been taken as the country is struggling to attend to all Covid patients and relatives of victims are desperately looking for oxygen cylinders.

Coronavirus: China records highest daily Covid cases, Indonesia reports highest deaths

Recent research has revealed that customers are now fed up with getting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> as an excuse for bad service at shops and businesses.

The UK Institute of Customer Service said customers were considerate of the Covid excuse at first when the pandemic had sent the world into a lockdown. However, now, as the world is learning to live with the deadly coronavirus, customers feel eateries and other businesses are using Covid as an excuse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fiji-police-deliver-groceries-toilet-paper-amid-covid-19-spike-396398" hreflang="en">Fiji police deliver groceries, toilet paper amid COVID-19 spike</a>

Customers, who were a part of this study, said they were tolerant of delay at the beginning as they understood the businesses were struggling to adjust to the new normal. Things, however, should change now and Covid should not be used as a blanket excuse, a study revealed.

This study has come after an increase in complaints was recorded in the last two years. The number of complaints regarding bad service in the last six months has been the highest since 2009, a survey revealed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wheres-your-mask-small-kid-urges-people-to-follow-covid-protocol-in-india-396275" hreflang="en">'Where's your mask?': Small kid urges people to follow Covid protocol in India</a>

Leading sectors in poor service with Covid as a blanket excuse are transport, local public services and telecommunications.

"Saying 'because of Covid' is not a good phrase," said Jo Causon, the institute's chief executive. "Organisations must not hide behind this blanket statement."

The researchers advised businesses and retailers to be honest with their customers with regard to delays in deliveries. This request has also come after several businesses saw a delay in delivery owing to the Evergreen ship getting stuck at the Suez Canal.

Recent research has revealed that customers are now fed up with getting Covid as an excuse for bad service at shops and businesses. The UK Institute of Customer Service said customers were considerate of the Covid excuse at first when the pandemic had sent the world into a lockdown.

Recent research has revealed that customers are now fed up with getting Covid as an excuse for bad service at shops and businesses. The UK Institute of Customer Service said customers were considerate of the Covid excuse at first when the pandemic had sent the world into a lockdown. However, now, as the world is learning to live with the deadly coronavirus, customers feel eateries and other businesses are using Covid as an excuse. Also read | Fiji police deliver groceries, toilet paper amid COVID-19 spike Customers, who were a part of this study, said they were tolerant of delay at the beginning as they understood the businesses were struggling to adjust to the new normal. Things, however, should change now and Covid should not be used as a blanket excuse, a study revealed. This study has come after an increase in complaints was recorded in the last two years. The number of complaints regarding bad service in the last six months has been the highest since 2009, a survey revealed. Also read | 'Where's your mask?': Small kid urges people to follow Covid protocol in India Leading sectors in poor service with Covid as a blanket excuse are transport, local public services and telecommunications. "Saying 'because of Covid' is not a good phrase," said Jo Causon, the institute's chief executive. "Organisations must not hide behind this blanket statement." The researchers advised businesses and retailers to be honest with their customers with regard to delays in deliveries. This request has also come after several businesses saw a delay in delivery owing to the Evergreen ship getting stuck at the Suez Canal.

Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study

As the countries are reopening their economies after repeated and extended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid lockdowns</a>, a World Health Organization (WHO) official has warned it to be a 'premature rush' back to normality.

This warning has come as the UK, the US and a few other European countries have decided to reopen shops, eateries and have eased social distancing and mask rules.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australians-chasing-covid-19-vaccines-like-hunger-games-health-minister-amid-low-supply-396111" hreflang="en">Australians chasing COVID-19 vaccines like Hunger Games: Health minister amid low supply</a>

The WHO's head of emergencies programme, Mike Ryan, has warned authorities that if the same trend continues, a new wave of infections of coronavirus might not be very far.

"All of the countries of the Americas, we still have nearly 1 million cases a week. 1 million. A week. You know it's not, it isn't over. And the same in Europe. In the European region with half a million cases a week. It's not like this thing has gone away," Ryan warned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnsons-plan-to-ease-covid-restrictions-is-reckless-labour-party-396232">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnsons-plan-to-ease-covid-restrictions-is-reckless-labour-party-396232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His warning has also come at a time when countries all over the world are reporting an increase in cases mainly due to the new Delta variant. This new variant is believed to be more transmissible which has resulted in a higher infection rate.

The Delta variant has now been reported in nearly 100 countries and WHO officials believe it could be the next dominant variant of COVID-19 now. An increase in Delta variant caused cases have been reported in areas where the population has not yet been vaccinated.

As the countries are reopening their economies after repeated and extended Covid lockdowns, a World Health Organization (WHO) official has warned it to be a 'premature rush' back to normality.

As the countries are reopening their economies after repeated and extended Covid lockdowns, a World Health Organization (WHO) official has warned it to be a 'premature rush' back to normality. This warning has come as the UK, the US and a few other European countries have decided to reopen shops, eateries and have eased social distancing and mask rules. Also read | Australians chasing COVID-19 vaccines like Hunger Games: Health minister amid low supply The WHO's head of emergencies programme, Mike Ryan, has warned authorities that if the same trend continues, a new wave of infections of coronavirus might not be very far. "All of the countries of the Americas, we still have nearly 1 million cases a week. 1 million. A week. You know it's not, it isn't over. And the same in Europe. In the European region with half a million cases a week. It's not like this thing has gone away," Ryan warned. WATCH | His warning has also come at a time when countries all over the world are reporting an increase in cases mainly due to the new Delta variant. This new variant is believed to be more transmissible which has resulted in a higher infection rate. The Delta variant has now been reported in nearly 100 countries and WHO officials believe it could be the next dominant variant of COVID-19 now. An increase in Delta variant caused cases have been reported in areas where the population has not yet been vaccinated.

Countries reopening economy is a 'premature rush' back to normality: WHO

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-seven-members-of-england-squad-test-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-of-pak-series-ecb-396200" hreflang="en">Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series :ECB</a>

Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side.&nbsp;

The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats.

"Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB.

Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions."

He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned.&nbsp;

"Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic."

<h2>England squad:&nbsp;</h2>

Ben Stokes (Captain), Jake Ball, Danny Briggs, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Lewis Gregory, Tom Helm, Will Jacks, Daniel Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Matt Parkinson, David Payne, Phil Salt, John Simpson, James Vince

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus.

The England and Wales Board (ECB) have announced their revised squad for the ODI series with Pakistan after seven members, three cricketers and four management staff members, had tested positive for coronavirus. ALSO READ: Cricket- Seven members of England squad test positive for COVID-19 ahead of Pak series :ECB Nine uncapped players have been added to the revised squad and Ben Stokes has been named the captain of the side. The uncapped contingent consists of Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Lewis Gregory, Will Jacks, Tom Helm, Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Phil Salt and John Simpson, although Crawley, Gregory and Lawrence have represented England in other formats. "Ben Stokes will return to England duties and captain the squad – which will be named in the next few hours. Incoming squad and support team members will follow PCR tests and bridging protocols to ensure safe entry to camp," said ECB. Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We have been mindful that the emergence of the Delta variant, along with our move away from the stringent enforcement of bio secure environments, could increase the chances of an outbreak. We made a strategic choice to try to adapt protocols, in order to support the overall wellbeing of our players and management staff who have spent much of the last 14 months living in very restricted conditions." He also added that the board worked overnight to revise the squad in order to go ahead with the series as planned. "Overnight we have worked swiftly to identify a new squad, and we are grateful to Ben Stokes who will return to England duties to Captain. We also recognise the impact this news will have on our First Class Counties and their Men’s playing squads and thank them, along with our partners Sky and Royal London, for their ongoing support in dealing with this pandemic." England squad: Ben Stokes (Captain), Jake Ball, Danny Briggs, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Lewis Gregory, Tom Helm, Will Jacks, Daniel Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Matt Parkinson, David Payne, Phil Salt, John Simpson, James Vince

Cricket: England revise squad overnight after Covid-19 cases emerge; nine uncapped players added

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Sunday that the COVAX system will be given an ultimatum this week to provide the country's portion of coronavirus vaccines, even though all outstanding payments to the global vaccine-sharing plan have been made. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-freezes-venezuela-presidents-page-over-covid-misinformation-373606">Also read | Facebook freezes Venezuela president's page over Covid misinformation</a> 
 
Venezuelan officials had been directed to "give the COVAX system an ultimatum: they give us the vaccines or they give us the money back, period," Maduro said in a live interview on state television.

"The COVAX system has failed Venezuela," the president said. "They don't answer us."

COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) is a worldwide initiative aimed at equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines directed by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (formerly the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization), the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/almost-2000-venezuelan-refugees-murdered-in-colombia-in-five-years-ngo-says-393564">Also read | Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says</a> 
 
In June, COVAX informed Venezuela that UBS had blocked the previous four payments. He stated that the payments for the $120 million fees had already been made.

In February, Venezuela launched its first vaccination campaign, focusing on the health, law enforcement, and education sectors.

In late May, it broadened the effort to include anybody aged 60 and up.

At least 380,000 doses of the Russian Sputnik V vaccination have arrived in Venezuela since February 13, accounting for 3.8 per cent of the 10 million doses committed upon in December.

In March, the Chinese state-owned Sinopharm provided a batch of 500,000 doses of the Vero Cell vaccine to Venezuela.

Maduro announced the arrival of 1.3 million vaccines from China two months later without providing details.

According to official data, there have been more than 277,635 cases of the new coronavirus in Venezuela, with 3,190 deaths.

Due to a lack of testing and transparency, some experts believe the genuine numbers are greater.

(With inputs from agencies)

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Sunday that the COVAX system will be given an ultimatum this week to provide the country's portion of coronavirus vaccines, even though all outstanding payments to the global vaccine-sharing plan have been made.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Sunday that the COVAX system will be given an ultimatum this week to provide the country's portion of coronavirus vaccines, even though all outstanding payments to the global vaccine-sharing plan have been made. Also read | Facebook freezes Venezuela president's page over Covid misinformation Venezuelan officials had been directed to "give the COVAX system an ultimatum: they give us the vaccines or they give us the money back, period," Maduro said in a live interview on state television. "The COVAX system has failed Venezuela," the president said. "They don't answer us." COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) is a worldwide initiative aimed at equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines directed by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance (formerly the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization), the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Also read | Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says In June, COVAX informed Venezuela that UBS had blocked the previous four payments. He stated that the payments for the $120 million fees had already been made. In February, Venezuela launched its first vaccination campaign, focusing on the health, law enforcement, and education sectors. In late May, it broadened the effort to include anybody aged 60 and up. At least 380,000 doses of the Russian Sputnik V vaccination have arrived in Venezuela since February 13, accounting for 3.8 per cent of the 10 million doses committed upon in December. In March, the Chinese state-owned Sinopharm provided a batch of 500,000 doses of the Vero Cell vaccine to Venezuela. Maduro announced the arrival of 1.3 million vaccines from China two months later without providing details. According to official data, there have been more than 277,635 cases of the new coronavirus in Venezuela, with 3,190 deaths. Due to a lack of testing and transparency, some experts believe the genuine numbers are greater. (With inputs from agencies)

'Either send us the vaccines or give us our money back': Venezuela to COVAX

India saw a single-day rise of 43,071 COVID-19 infections, which took the tally of cases to 30,545,433, while active cases have declined to 485,350, according to Union health ministry data updated on Sunday. The death toll has climbed to 402,005 with 955 more fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The active cases have further declined to 485,350 and comprise 1.59 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 97.09 per cent, the ministry said. It said active cases have declined by 10,183 in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-any-vaccine-is-better-than-no-vaccine-says-estonia-envoy-395254" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Any vaccine is better than no vaccine, says Estonia Envoy</a>

The data stated that 18,38,490 tests were conducted on Saturday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 418,254,953. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.34 per cent. It has been less than five per cent for 27 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding that the weekly positivity rate has declined to 2.44 per cent.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 52 consecutive days. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has increased to 29,658,078, while the case fatality rate has risen to 1.32 per cent, the data stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/pubg-battlegrounds-mobile-india-officially-launched-for-android-395353" hreflang="en">Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India officially launched for Android</a>

Cumulative vaccine doses administered so far has reached nearly 351,200,000 under the nationwide Covid vaccination drive.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,000,000 mark on August 7, 3,000,000 lakh on August 23, 4,000,000 lakh on September 5 and 5,000,000&nbsp;lakh on September 16. It went past 6,000,000 lakh on September 28, 7,000,000 lakh on October 11, crossed 8,000,000 lakh on October 29, 9,000,000 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the 10,000,000 mark on December 19. India crossed 20,000,000 cases on May 4 and 30,000,000 on June 23.

India saw a single-day rise of 43,071 COVID-19 infections, which took the tally of cases to 30,545,433, while active cases have declined to 485,350, according to Union health ministry data updated on Sunday.

India saw a single-day rise of 43,071 COVID-19 infections, which took the tally of cases to 30,545,433, while active cases have declined to 485,350, according to Union health ministry data updated on Sunday. The death toll has climbed to 402,005 with 955 more fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. The active cases have further declined to 485,350 and comprise 1.59 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 97.09 per cent, the ministry said. It said active cases have declined by 10,183 in a span of 24 hours. Also read | Exclusive: Any vaccine is better than no vaccine, says Estonia Envoy The data stated that 18,38,490 tests were conducted on Saturday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 418,254,953. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 2.34 per cent. It has been less than five per cent for 27 consecutive days, the ministry said, adding that the weekly positivity rate has declined to 2.44 per cent. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 52 consecutive days. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease has increased to 29,658,078, while the case fatality rate has risen to 1.32 per cent, the data stated. Also read | Pubg Battlegrounds Mobile India officially launched for Android Cumulative vaccine doses administered so far has reached nearly 351,200,000 under the nationwide Covid vaccination drive. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,000,000 mark on August 7, 3,000,000 lakh on August 23, 4,000,000 lakh on September 5 and 5,000,000 lakh on September 16. It went past 6,000,000 lakh on September 28, 7,000,000 lakh on October 11, crossed 8,000,000 lakh on October 29, 9,000,000 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the 10,000,000 mark on December 19. India crossed 20,000,000 cases on May 4 and 30,000,000 on June 23.

COVID-19: India's active cases decline by more than 10,000; positivity rate at 2.34%

India recently battled the second wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> which took thousands of lives, and experts are urging people to follow the covid precautions to make sure the third wave is not as deadly as the previous one.

As per several scientific and media reports, India can expect a third wave of COVID-19 between October-November, but experts believe that would happen only if people do not follow the set rules and regulations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL1fyHlsnxAhX2zTgGHRGHAPkQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ksqtZkVOMfuFDVgQZ2hLk" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" target="_blank">COVID-19: All you need to know about&nbsp;Delta Plus&nbsp;variant</a>

Professor Manindra Agarwal is a scientist who is a part of the government panel that is tasked with modelling of coronavirus cases. Agarwal has predicted that the third wave will see half the number of daily cases than the second wave.

However, he has also warned that the situation can get very bad, very quickly if a new strain of the virus emerges, just like the Delta variant alarmingly increased coronavirus cases all around the world and especially in India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-active-cases-decline-by-more-than-10000-positivity-rate-at-234-395661" hreflang="en">COVID-19: India's active cases decline by more than 10,000; positivity rate at 2.34%</a>

"We have created three scenarios. One is optimistic one. In this, we assume that life goes back to normal by August, and there is no new mutant. Second is intermediate one. In this we assume that vaccination is 20% less effective in addition to optimistic scenario assumptions," he explained in a tweet. "Third is pessimistic one. This has one assumption different from intermediate one: a new, 25% more infectious mutant spreads in August (it is not delta+, which is not more infectious than delta)."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
&lt;SUTRA's analysis of third wave&gt; <a href="https://twitter.com/stellensatz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stellensatz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashutos61?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ashutos61</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Sandeep_1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sandeep_1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/shekhar_mande?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shekhar_mande</a> It took us a while to do the analysis for three reasons. First, loss of immunity in recovered population. Second, vaccination induced immunity. Each of these two need to be estimated for future.
— Manindra Agrawal (@agrawalmanindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/agrawalmanindra/status/1410912794531155970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He also explained that India is in a better position than the UK, which has been seeing a surge in Delta variant cases, as the second wave in the Asian country was caused majorly by the Delta variant, meaning "a lot of people are now immune against delta unlike UK".

India recently battled the second wave of coronavirus which took thousands of lives, and experts are urging people to follow the covid precautions to make sure the third wave is not as deadly as the previous one.

India recently battled the second wave of coronavirus which took thousands of lives, and experts are urging people to follow the covid precautions to make sure the third wave is not as deadly as the previous one. As per several scientific and media reports, India can expect a third wave of COVID-19 between October-November, but experts believe that would happen only if people do not follow the set rules and regulations. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant Professor Manindra Agarwal is a scientist who is a part of the government panel that is tasked with modelling of coronavirus cases. Agarwal has predicted that the third wave will see half the number of daily cases than the second wave. However, he has also warned that the situation can get very bad, very quickly if a new strain of the virus emerges, just like the Delta variant alarmingly increased coronavirus cases all around the world and especially in India. Also read | COVID-19: India's active cases decline by more than 10,000; positivity rate at 2.34% "We have created three scenarios. One is optimistic one. In this, we assume that life goes back to normal by August, and there is no new mutant. Second is intermediate one. In this we assume that vaccination is 20% less effective in addition to optimistic scenario assumptions," he explained in a tweet. "Third is pessimistic one. This has one assumption different from intermediate one: a new, 25% more infectious mutant spreads in August (it is not delta+, which is not more infectious than delta)." <SUTRA's analysis of third wave> @stellensatz @Ashutos61 @Sandeep_1966 @shekhar_mande It took us a while to do the analysis for three reasons. First, loss of immunity in recovered population. Second, vaccination induced immunity. Each of these two need to be estimated for future. — Manindra Agrawal (@agrawalmanindra) July 2, 2021 × He also explained that India is in a better position than the UK, which has been seeing a surge in Delta variant cases, as the second wave in the Asian country was caused majorly by the Delta variant, meaning "a lot of people are now immune against delta unlike UK".

Will the third wave of coronavirus in India be deadlier than second? Scientist explains

Johnson &amp; Johnson will not be undertaking local trials for its single-shot COVID-19 vaccine in India and is looking at ways to accelerate its availability in the country, the Economic Times reported on Tuesday, citing a company spokesperson. 
 
J&amp;J said in April it was in talks with India's government to begin a bridging clinical study of its Janssen COVID-19 vaccine candidate in the country. 
 
In late May, India said it would scrap local trials altogether for 'well-established' vaccines manufactured in other countries. 
 
The US-based drugmaker is exploring how to accelerate the availability of its vaccine in India, the Economic Times report said.&nbsp; 
 
Over 41 million COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered across India last week, with pandemic-induced restrictions being eased further. 
 
Experts have said widespread vaccination remains one of the best tools to avoid the kind of devastation India saw during its second wave of the pandemic. 
 
J&amp;J did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Johnson & Johnson will not be undertaking local trials for its single-shot COVID-19 vaccine in India and is looking at ways to accelerate its availability in the country, the Economic Times reported on Tuesday, citing a company spokesperson.

Johnson & Johnson will not be undertaking local trials for its single-shot COVID-19 vaccine in India and is looking at ways to accelerate its availability in the country, the Economic Times reported on Tuesday, citing a company spokesperson. J&J said in April it was in talks with India's government to begin a bridging clinical study of its Janssen COVID-19 vaccine candidate in the country. In late May, India said it would scrap local trials altogether for 'well-established' vaccines manufactured in other countries. The US-based drugmaker is exploring how to accelerate the availability of its vaccine in India, the Economic Times report said. Over 41 million COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered across India last week, with pandemic-induced restrictions being eased further. Experts have said widespread vaccination remains one of the best tools to avoid the kind of devastation India saw during its second wave of the pandemic. J&J did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (With inputs from agencies)

J&J scraps India Covid vaccine trial, aims to accelerate availability: Report

Myanmar&nbsp;authorities torched&nbsp;over&nbsp;half a billion&nbsp;dollars&nbsp;worth of narcotics across the country Saturday, sending&nbsp;opium,&nbsp;heroin&nbsp;and methamphetamine up in smoke as experts warn smugglers have adapted to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> travel restrictions and are back in business.

Sacks of green-brown cannabis were stacked high at a compound in the commercial capital Yangon, alongside bin-liner-sized bags of red-pink pills, marking one of&nbsp;Myanmar's offerings for the annual World Drug Day burning.

Slabs of&nbsp;heroin, bags of ketamine and tramadol and ice were also laid out on the pyre.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/myanmar-drug-surge-worry-for-neighbours-including-india-381602">Myanmar drug surge worry for neighbours including India</a>

Stashes were also burned at ceremonies held in Mandalay and Taunggyi in Shan State,&nbsp;Myanmar's anti-drugs&nbsp;police department said.&nbsp;

A total of just under $668 million&nbsp;dollars&nbsp;of narcotics, including 224 million meth tablets, were torched in the three cities.

As a woman barked a command&nbsp;over&nbsp;a loudspeaker in Yangon, four men in military uniform pressed buttons on tables in front of them, and the&nbsp;stash&nbsp;went up, flames licking the early morning sky.

Firefighters stood ready and well back from the noxious smoke.

Despite COVID-19 travel restrictions, there has been an "overall sustained expansion of the methamphetamine market in East and Southeast Asia" the UN said earlier this month.&nbsp;

Myanmar's troubled Shan State remains the main source of the drug, it added, which is often smuggled on to wealthier overseas markets such as Australia and Japan in its more potent crystallised form.

The body has warned of an even bigger deluge as&nbsp;Myanmar's legal economy tanks, following weeks of nationwide unrest and strike action following the military takeover.

The Golden Triangle, traversing the&nbsp;Myanmar, Laos and Thailand frontiers, has for decades been the hub of Southeast Asia's lucrative drug trade.

Myanmar's poppy-covered hills provide an ideal location for illicit labs, with a largely unchecked supply of precursor chemicals flooding in from China.

Myanmar authorities torched over half a billion dollars worth of narcotics across the country Saturday, sending opium, heroin and methamphetamine up in smoke as experts warn smugglers have adapted to COVID-19 travel restrictions and are back in business.

Myanmar authorities torched over half a billion dollars worth of narcotics across the country Saturday, sending opium, heroin and methamphetamine up in smoke as experts warn smugglers have adapted to COVID-19 travel restrictions and are back in business. Sacks of green-brown cannabis were stacked high at a compound in the commercial capital Yangon, alongside bin-liner-sized bags of red-pink pills, marking one of Myanmar's offerings for the annual World Drug Day burning. Slabs of heroin, bags of ketamine and tramadol and ice were also laid out on the pyre. Also read | Myanmar drug surge worry for neighbours including India Stashes were also burned at ceremonies held in Mandalay and Taunggyi in Shan State, Myanmar's anti-drugs police department said. A total of just under $668 million dollars of narcotics, including 224 million meth tablets, were torched in the three cities. As a woman barked a command over a loudspeaker in Yangon, four men in military uniform pressed buttons on tables in front of them, and the stash went up, flames licking the early morning sky. Firefighters stood ready and well back from the noxious smoke. Despite COVID-19 travel restrictions, there has been an "overall sustained expansion of the methamphetamine market in East and Southeast Asia" the UN said earlier this month. Myanmar's troubled Shan State remains the main source of the drug, it added, which is often smuggled on to wealthier overseas markets such as Australia and Japan in its more potent crystallised form. The body has warned of an even bigger deluge as Myanmar's legal economy tanks, following weeks of nationwide unrest and strike action following the military takeover. The Golden Triangle, traversing the Myanmar, Laos and Thailand frontiers, has for decades been the hub of Southeast Asia's lucrative drug trade. Myanmar's poppy-covered hills provide an ideal location for illicit labs, with a largely unchecked supply of precursor chemicals flooding in from China.

Myanmar torches drugs stash worth over half a billion dollars

India's daily COVID-19 infections rose by 50,040 on Sunday, official data showed, as concerns grew about the detection of the highly infectious Delta variant of the coronavirus in some states. 
 
The COVID-19 death toll in the country rose by 1,258, including 511 deaths reported from the state of Maharashtra, the health ministry data showed. 
 
New variants are a particular concern in India, where more than half the population has not been vaccinated. Less than 6% of India's adult population of 950 million has received two doses. 
 
At least 20 cases have been found linked to the Delta variant, which India last week designated a variant of concern, according to the health ministry. 
 
India's official death count is now 395,751. Of the 35.51 million people infected, 29.25 million have recovered. 
 
State governments eased lockdown restrictions earlier this month after a fall in cases, but scientists fear that the presence of the Delta variant, which was first detected in India, and the slow pace of vaccination could trigger another wave of infections.

India's daily COVID-19 infections rose by 50,040 on Sunday, official data showed, as concerns grew about the detection of the highly infectious Delta variant of the coronavirus in some states.

India's daily COVID-19 infections rose by 50,040 on Sunday, official data showed, as concerns grew about the detection of the highly infectious Delta variant of the coronavirus in some states. The COVID-19 death toll in the country rose by 1,258, including 511 deaths reported from the state of Maharashtra, the health ministry data showed. New variants are a particular concern in India, where more than half the population has not been vaccinated. Less than 6% of India's adult population of 950 million has received two doses. At least 20 cases have been found linked to the Delta variant, which India last week designated a variant of concern, according to the health ministry. India's official death count is now 395,751. Of the 35.51 million people infected, 29.25 million have recovered. State governments eased lockdown restrictions earlier this month after a fall in cases, but scientists fear that the presence of the Delta variant, which was first detected in India, and the slow pace of vaccination could trigger another wave of infections.

India COVID-19 cases rise by 50,040 amid concern about Delta variant

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