Preparing for a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic which is expected to hit kids, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Maharashtra government are gearing up by setting up Pediatric Covid Care Wards in the city and elsewhere, officials said here on Tuesday. 
 
Taking an early initiative, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray last week directed all district collectors and municipal commissioners in the state to be ready for the Covid third onslaught which may also hit children in a big way. 
 
Tourism Minister Aditya Thackeray who is Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburban District has held discussions with BMC Mayor Kishori Pednekar, Additional Municipal Commissioner Sanjeev Jaiswal and other top officials in this regard. 
 
Among other things, he suggested to the BMC to create separate Pediatric Covid Care Wards anticipating the next wave and the demographics it may target. 
 
"Since last year, our jumbo covid care centres also have units of Covid +ve dialysis and maternity care as well. As the virus mutates and targets different age groups, our response to it must actively mutate as well," said Aditya Thackeray. 
 
As per the latest health data of the Public Health Department, nearly two-thirds of the state`s infections reported now are in age groups below 50, with the highest new cases reported in the 31-40 age (22.09 per cent), 41-50 years (18.15 per cent), 21-30 age (17.51 per cent). 
 
Children in the 0-10 years account for 3.04 percent, and older children-and teens in the 10-20 years are more than double at 6.80 percent, of the state`s new cases, giving rise to huge concerns as the situation is vastly different from the 2020 first Covid-19 hit. 
 
The Pediatric Covid Care Ward is slated to come up at the NESCO Jumbo Covid Care Centre in Goregaon east suburb of Mumbai - and 700 beds are expected to be added. 
 
This would include 300 for a dedicated Pediatric Covid Care Ward comprising Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with a capacity of 25 beds each to cater to the infants who maybe hit. 
 
Apart from that, the BMC is planning to build four oxygen plants and maintain of adequate stock of medicines like Remdesivir and Tocilizumab injections, masks, PPE kits, etc. 
 
"In the 2020 first wave, mostly the adult and senior citizens were affected. In the current second wave (from February 2021) young men/women and children are also getting affected. We have to be alert for the third wave Also we have to account for the fact that the vaccination drive has not yet been opened for the under-18 age groups," a senior BMC official expressed his concerns, requesting anonymity. 
 
Besides, wide-ranging consultations shall be held with the Covid-19 Task Force, medical experts and other stakeholders, on the strategies that need to be adopted for the third wave, likely to slam the state around July, as warned by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently.

Preparing for a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic which is expected to hit kids, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Maharashtra government are gearing up by setting up Pediatric Covid Care Wards in the city and elsewhere, officials said here on Tuesday.

Preparing for a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic which is expected to hit kids, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Maharashtra government are gearing up by setting up Pediatric Covid Care Wards in the city and elsewhere, officials said here on Tuesday. Taking an early initiative, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray last week directed all district collectors and municipal commissioners in the state to be ready for the Covid third onslaught which may also hit children in a big way. Tourism Minister Aditya Thackeray who is Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburban District has held discussions with BMC Mayor Kishori Pednekar, Additional Municipal Commissioner Sanjeev Jaiswal and other top officials in this regard. Among other things, he suggested to the BMC to create separate Pediatric Covid Care Wards anticipating the next wave and the demographics it may target. "Since last year, our jumbo covid care centres also have units of Covid +ve dialysis and maternity care as well. As the virus mutates and targets different age groups, our response to it must actively mutate as well," said Aditya Thackeray. As per the latest health data of the Public Health Department, nearly two-thirds of the state`s infections reported now are in age groups below 50, with the highest new cases reported in the 31-40 age (22.09 per cent), 41-50 years (18.15 per cent), 21-30 age (17.51 per cent). Children in the 0-10 years account for 3.04 percent, and older children-and teens in the 10-20 years are more than double at 6.80 percent, of the state`s new cases, giving rise to huge concerns as the situation is vastly different from the 2020 first Covid-19 hit. The Pediatric Covid Care Ward is slated to come up at the NESCO Jumbo Covid Care Centre in Goregaon east suburb of Mumbai - and 700 beds are expected to be added. This would include 300 for a dedicated Pediatric Covid Care Ward comprising Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with a capacity of 25 beds each to cater to the infants who maybe hit. Apart from that, the BMC is planning to build four oxygen plants and maintain of adequate stock of medicines like Remdesivir and Tocilizumab injections, masks, PPE kits, etc. "In the 2020 first wave, mostly the adult and senior citizens were affected. In the current second wave (from February 2021) young men/women and children are also getting affected. We have to be alert for the third wave Also we have to account for the fact that the vaccination drive has not yet been opened for the under-18 age groups," a senior BMC official expressed his concerns, requesting anonymity. Besides, wide-ranging consultations shall be held with the Covid-19 Task Force, medical experts and other stakeholders, on the strategies that need to be adopted for the third wave, likely to slam the state around July, as warned by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently.

Covid in India: 3rd wave may hit kids, Mumbai prepares pediatric wards

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833.&nbsp;

Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Delhi are among 10 states that account for 71.71 per cent of the 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases in the country. India's daily positivity rate now stands at 21.47 per cent.

The ministry said that Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 48,621. It is followed by Karnataka with 44,438 while Uttar Pradesh reported 29,052 new cases.

Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are among the other states in the list of 10.

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Bihar and Haryana cumulatively account for 81.41 per cent of India's total active cases, the ministry said.

India's Covid-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to May 3 with 16,63,742 samples being tested on Monday.

Only the US, with more than 3.3 crore cases so far, has recorded a higher count. Brazil is in the third spot with fewer than 1.5 crore cases.&nbsp;

The Indian government has, to date, provided nearly 16.69 crore vaccine doses to states/UTs free of cost. Over 75 lakh vaccine doses are still available with states/UTs for use.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833. Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833. Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. Maharashtra, Karnataka and Delhi are among 10 states that account for 71.71 per cent of the 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases in the country. India's daily positivity rate now stands at 21.47 per cent. The ministry said that Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 48,621. It is followed by Karnataka with 44,438 while Uttar Pradesh reported 29,052 new cases. Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are among the other states in the list of 10. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Bihar and Haryana cumulatively account for 81.41 per cent of India's total active cases, the ministry said. India's Covid-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to May 3 with 16,63,742 samples being tested on Monday. Only the US, with more than 3.3 crore cases so far, has recorded a higher count. Brazil is in the third spot with fewer than 1.5 crore cases. The Indian government has, to date, provided nearly 16.69 crore vaccine doses to states/UTs free of cost. Over 75 lakh vaccine doses are still available with states/UTs for use. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 in India: 10 states account for 71% of total cases

The worldwide coronavirus caseload has topped 152.4 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.19 million, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Amid repeated setbacks in the worldwide vaccination campaign and a deepening crisis in places such as Brazil, India and France, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 152,475,547 and 3,198,397, respectively.

The US continues to be the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 32,420,918 and 577,041, respectively, according to the CSSE.

In terms of infections, India follows in second place with 19,557,457 cases.

The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (14,754,910), France (5,713,393), Turkey (4,875,388), Russia (4,768,476), the UK (4,435,831), Italy (4,044,762), Spain (3,524,077), Germany (3,425,865), Argentina (3,005,259), Colombia (2,893,655), Poland (2,803,233), Iran (2,534,855), Mexico (2,348,873) and Ukraine (2,137,959), the CSSE figures showed.

In terms of deaths, Brazil comes second with 407,639 fatalities.

Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are Mexico (217,233), India (215,542), the UK (127,796), Italy (121,177), Russia (109,011), France (104,980), Germany (83,215), Spain (78,216), Colombia (74,428), Iran (72,484), Poland (68,068), Argentina (64,252), Peru (61,789) and South Africa (54,417).

(With inputs from agencies)

The worldwide coronavirus caseload has topped 152.4 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.19 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. Amid repeated setbacks in the worldwide vaccination campaign and a deepening crisis in places such as Brazil, India and France, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 152,475,547 and 3,198,397, respectively.

The worldwide coronavirus caseload has topped 152.4 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.19 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. Amid repeated setbacks in the worldwide vaccination campaign and a deepening crisis in places such as Brazil, India and France, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 152,475,547 and 3,198,397, respectively. The US continues to be the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 32,420,918 and 577,041, respectively, according to the CSSE. In terms of infections, India follows in second place with 19,557,457 cases. The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (14,754,910), France (5,713,393), Turkey (4,875,388), Russia (4,768,476), the UK (4,435,831), Italy (4,044,762), Spain (3,524,077), Germany (3,425,865), Argentina (3,005,259), Colombia (2,893,655), Poland (2,803,233), Iran (2,534,855), Mexico (2,348,873) and Ukraine (2,137,959), the CSSE figures showed. In terms of deaths, Brazil comes second with 407,639 fatalities. Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are Mexico (217,233), India (215,542), the UK (127,796), Italy (121,177), Russia (109,011), France (104,980), Germany (83,215), Spain (78,216), Colombia (74,428), Iran (72,484), Poland (68,068), Argentina (64,252), Peru (61,789) and South Africa (54,417). (With inputs from agencies)

Worldwide COVID-19 situation continues to deteriorate; caseload tops 152.4 million

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital.

"Lt Governor has sought further advise from concerned departments and agencies concerning the availability of key medicines, beds, medical oxygen and augmentation of capacities at crematoriums and graveyards, to address the ongoing problems being faced by people," LG office said in a tweet from its official handle.

The LG has also asked the departments and agencies of the Delhi government to submit a quantifiable action plan that could be monitored while addressing the problems due to shortages.

"LG has also suggested that the possibility of reemploying recently retired Doctors and other paramedical staff, where ever required, be looked into to address shortages," he added.

A massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital has resulted in shortages of hospital beds, medical oxygen and medicines for patients.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi`s new COVID-19 cases slightly dipped on Sunday to 20,394 but the city saw 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day when Delhi saw more than 400 deaths.

The total count of cases in the city has gone up to 11,94,946 including 92,290 active cases and 10,85,690 recoveries. The death toll has gone up to 16,966.

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital.

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital. "Lt Governor has sought further advise from concerned departments and agencies concerning the availability of key medicines, beds, medical oxygen and augmentation of capacities at crematoriums and graveyards, to address the ongoing problems being faced by people," LG office said in a tweet from its official handle. The LG has also asked the departments and agencies of the Delhi government to submit a quantifiable action plan that could be monitored while addressing the problems due to shortages. "LG has also suggested that the possibility of reemploying recently retired Doctors and other paramedical staff, where ever required, be looked into to address shortages," he added. A massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital has resulted in shortages of hospital beds, medical oxygen and medicines for patients. Meanwhile, Delhi`s new COVID-19 cases slightly dipped on Sunday to 20,394 but the city saw 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day when Delhi saw more than 400 deaths. The total count of cases in the city has gone up to 11,94,946 including 92,290 active cases and 10,85,690 recoveries. The death toll has gone up to 16,966.

COVID-19: Delhi Lt Governor seeks action plan to address shortage of hospital beds, oxygen

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate.&nbsp;

In a set of new guidelines to curb the spread of the virus, the state government further said that all non-essential shops would be closed till May 15.&nbsp;

"Nobody to enter the state whether by air, rail or road without either a COVID negative report or vaccination certificate. In addition, all non-essential shops will continue to remain closed till May 15," the order said.&nbsp;

It added, "The daily night curfew from 6 pm to 5 am and a weekend curfew from 6 pm on Friday till 5 am on Monday will continue. RT-PCR testing of road and streetwise vendors to be carried out."&nbsp;

In the last 24 hours, Punjab reported 7,327 fresh COVID-19 cases, 5,244 discharges, and 157 deaths, the state health department informed. There are currently 60,108 active cases. The total number of discharges stands at 3,15,845 while the death toll is at 9,317.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate. In a set of new guidelines to curb the spread of the virus, the state government further said that all non-essential shops would be closed till May 15. "Nobody to enter the state whether by air, rail or road without either a COVID negative report or vaccination certificate. In addition, all non-essential shops will continue to remain closed till May 15," the order said. It added, "The daily night curfew from 6 pm to 5 am and a weekend curfew from 6 pm on Friday till 5 am on Monday will continue. RT-PCR testing of road and streetwise vendors to be carried out." In the last 24 hours, Punjab reported 7,327 fresh COVID-19 cases, 5,244 discharges, and 157 deaths, the state health department informed. There are currently 60,108 active cases. The total number of discharges stands at 3,15,845 while the death toll is at 9,317.

No entry in Punjab without negative COVID-19 test or vaccination certificate

The Communist Party of China (CPC) mocked India over the deadly coronavirus, which began in Wuhan last year, wreaking havoc in the country.&nbsp;

An account on Chinese microblogging site Weibo, which was linked to the Chinese Communist Party, posted a now-deleted photo over the weekend of China launching a rocket, alongside an image of bodies being cremated in India.&nbsp; 
 
The account on Weibo, China’s Twitter-equivalent, shared two images side-by-side of a rocket launch in China and a cremation ground in India, adding a message: “China lighting a fire, India lighting a fire”. 
 
Several social media users expressed shock and anger at the insensitivity of the post.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Someone apparently thought it was a good idea to make fun of the latest Covid-19 outbreak in India? An acct affiliated with CCP Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission posted this on Weibo. Caption: When China sets things on fire vs when India does it. <a href="https://t.co/cJTXT9Lbws">pic.twitter.com/cJTXT9Lbws</a>
— Mengyu Dong (@dong_mengyu) <a href="https://twitter.com/dong_mengyu/status/1388486756052480006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“We hope everyone gives attention to the Chinese government and mainstream public opinion supporting India's fight against the epidemic,” China's foreign ministry said in response to a request for comment.&nbsp;

The novel coronavirus outbreak, which originated in Wuhan, China, has expanded to touch every corner of the globe. Millions of people around the world have been sickened and hundreds of thousands of others have died.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Communist Party of China (CPC) mocked India over the deadly coronavirus, which began in Wuhan last year, wreaking havoc in the country. An account on Chinese microblogging site Weibo, which was linked to the Chinese Communist Party, posted a now-deleted photo over the weekend of China launching a rocket, alongside an image of bodies being cremated in India.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) mocked India over the deadly coronavirus, which began in Wuhan last year, wreaking havoc in the country. An account on Chinese microblogging site Weibo, which was linked to the Chinese Communist Party, posted a now-deleted photo over the weekend of China launching a rocket, alongside an image of bodies being cremated in India. The account on Weibo, China’s Twitter-equivalent, shared two images side-by-side of a rocket launch in China and a cremation ground in India, adding a message: “China lighting a fire, India lighting a fire”. Several social media users expressed shock and anger at the insensitivity of the post. Someone apparently thought it was a good idea to make fun of the latest Covid-19 outbreak in India? An acct affiliated with CCP Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission posted this on Weibo. Caption: When China sets things on fire vs when India does it. pic.twitter.com/cJTXT9Lbws — Mengyu Dong (@dong_mengyu) May 1, 2021 × “We hope everyone gives attention to the Chinese government and mainstream public opinion supporting India's fight against the epidemic,” China's foreign ministry said in response to a request for comment. The novel coronavirus outbreak, which originated in Wuhan, China, has expanded to touch every corner of the globe. Millions of people around the world have been sickened and hundreds of thousands of others have died. (With inputs from agencies)

China mocks India’s COVID-19 crisis, deletes post after backlash

Demand for private jets has boomed as Indians who could afford them scrambled to escape a Covid surge after the UAE banned travel from India for 10 days starting from April 24 due to the worsening COVID-19 situation in the country.

All flights from the UAE to India - one of the world's busiest air corridors are suspended as coronavirus cases in the South Asian nation reach record levels and overwhelm hospitals.

UAE citizens, diplomatic passport holders and official delegations are exempted from the above conditions.

The UAE is home to roughly 3.3 million Indians who make up a third of the population - most of them in Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the federation.

The latest suspension in flights that came into force Sunday has shut down some 300 commercial flights that operated weekly on one of the world's busiest air corridors.

Apart from low-paid labourers on short-term contracts, the sudden move has stranded members of long-settled wealthy families who travelled to India for holidays, work or medical emergencies.

Many are now in a panic as cases in India skyrocket, with 18 million infections and more than 201,000 people dead, and the daily fatality toll rising above 3,000 for the first time on Wednesday.

After the UAE shut its airspace to curb the spread of coronavirus in March last year, some residents raised the funds for seats on shared chartered planes that were permitted to fly to Dubai.

Dozens of charter flights zipped passengers from India to Dubai in the days before the new ban, after all, commercial seats were snapped up, and charter companies say demand has since surged.

A 13-seat jet flying from Mumbai to Dubai costs between $35,000 and $38,000, around 35 times the price of a regular ticket. Prices from other cities are even higher.

But as demand soars, operators have been scrambling to clarify rules around private planes landing in the UAE.

"Chartered flights need to get approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority and the foreign ministry to operate. But we do not know who is exempted to travel," said Tapish Khivensra, CEO of Enthral Aviation Private Jet Charter.

Civil aviation has said UAE nationals, diplomats, official delegations and "businessmens' planes" are excluded from the ban, provided passengers observe measures including a 10-day quarantine.

Long-term Dubai resident Purushothaman Nair said he was prepared to "spend a fortune" to return to the UAE.

"My wife and I came to India for just 10 days. We have to fly back to Dubai at any cost," he told AFP.

"There are many people who are willing to pay up. How can people with business interests and big responsibilities in the UAE afford to stay away for a longer period?" said Nair, who works in the government sector.

"The fear of contracting the virus is a bigger worry."

The less well-off are weighing the high cost against the risk of losing their livelihoods.

"If I cannot make it in a few weeks, my job is on the line. My employer is already putting pressure on me and asking me to travel to the UAE via other countries," Jameel Mohammed told AFP.

Mohammed had not seen his young son for two years when he was granted leave in March.

He was thrilled at the prospect of a reunion but is now stranded in the southern state of Kerala.

"I can't afford that kind of money. But if the choice is between losing my job and borrowing money, I will do the latter and fly back."

(With inputs from agencies)

Demand for private jets has boomed as Indians who could afford them scrambled to escape a Covid surge after the UAE banned travel from India for 10 days starting from April 24 due to the worsening COVID-19 situation in the country.

Demand for private jets has boomed as Indians who could afford them scrambled to escape a Covid surge after the UAE banned travel from India for 10 days starting from April 24 due to the worsening COVID-19 situation in the country. All flights from the UAE to India - one of the world's busiest air corridors are suspended as coronavirus cases in the South Asian nation reach record levels and overwhelm hospitals. UAE citizens, diplomatic passport holders and official delegations are exempted from the above conditions. The UAE is home to roughly 3.3 million Indians who make up a third of the population - most of them in Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the federation. The latest suspension in flights that came into force Sunday has shut down some 300 commercial flights that operated weekly on one of the world's busiest air corridors. Apart from low-paid labourers on short-term contracts, the sudden move has stranded members of long-settled wealthy families who travelled to India for holidays, work or medical emergencies. Many are now in a panic as cases in India skyrocket, with 18 million infections and more than 201,000 people dead, and the daily fatality toll rising above 3,000 for the first time on Wednesday. After the UAE shut its airspace to curb the spread of coronavirus in March last year, some residents raised the funds for seats on shared chartered planes that were permitted to fly to Dubai. Dozens of charter flights zipped passengers from India to Dubai in the days before the new ban, after all, commercial seats were snapped up, and charter companies say demand has since surged. A 13-seat jet flying from Mumbai to Dubai costs between $35,000 and $38,000, around 35 times the price of a regular ticket. Prices from other cities are even higher. But as demand soars, operators have been scrambling to clarify rules around private planes landing in the UAE. "Chartered flights need to get approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority and the foreign ministry to operate. But we do not know who is exempted to travel," said Tapish Khivensra, CEO of Enthral Aviation Private Jet Charter. Civil aviation has said UAE nationals, diplomats, official delegations and "businessmens' planes" are excluded from the ban, provided passengers observe measures including a 10-day quarantine. Long-term Dubai resident Purushothaman Nair said he was prepared to "spend a fortune" to return to the UAE. "My wife and I came to India for just 10 days. We have to fly back to Dubai at any cost," he told AFP. "There are many people who are willing to pay up. How can people with business interests and big responsibilities in the UAE afford to stay away for a longer period?" said Nair, who works in the government sector. "The fear of contracting the virus is a bigger worry." The less well-off are weighing the high cost against the risk of losing their livelihoods. "If I cannot make it in a few weeks, my job is on the line. My employer is already putting pressure on me and asking me to travel to the UAE via other countries," Jameel Mohammed told AFP. Mohammed had not seen his young son for two years when he was granted leave in March. He was thrilled at the prospect of a reunion but is now stranded in the southern state of Kerala. "I can't afford that kind of money. But if the choice is between losing my job and borrowing money, I will do the latter and fly back." (With inputs from agencies)

Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW.&nbsp;

Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark. India is now the 4th-worst-hit country in terms of active cases.&nbsp;

India also witnessed a grim record of most fatalities due to covid-19 in a single day in 2021, which stood at 802. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 167,694.&nbsp;

Maharashtra added 56,286 new cases to its tally and the total number of cases has now reached 3,229,547, according to the health department. Delhi on Thursday logged 7,437 coronavirus cases in its highest single-day spike this year.

The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (3,229,547), Kerala (1,144,594), Karnataka (1,033,560), Andhra Pradesh (913,274), and Tamil Nadu (911,110).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said states should observe a 'vaccine festival' between April 11-14 to inoculate the maximum number of eligible beneficiaries against Covid-19.

Over 133 million people have been affected by the coronavirus disease so far, as per the John Hopkins University Covid-19 trackers.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW. Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark.

India has recorded a massive surge of 131,968 Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours. With this, India's tally now stands at 13,060,542, according to MoHFW. Active cases are nearing the 1-million mark. India is now the 4th-worst-hit country in terms of active cases. India also witnessed a grim record of most fatalities due to covid-19 in a single day in 2021, which stood at 802. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 167,694. Maharashtra added 56,286 new cases to its tally and the total number of cases has now reached 3,229,547, according to the health department. Delhi on Thursday logged 7,437 coronavirus cases in its highest single-day spike this year. The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (3,229,547), Kerala (1,144,594), Karnataka (1,033,560), Andhra Pradesh (913,274), and Tamil Nadu (911,110). Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said states should observe a 'vaccine festival' between April 11-14 to inoculate the maximum number of eligible beneficiaries against Covid-19. Over 133 million people have been affected by the coronavirus disease so far, as per the John Hopkins University Covid-19 trackers. (With inputs from agencies)

With 131,968 fresh cases, India's Covid-19 caseload tops 13 million

A surge in coronavirus infections following the year-end holidays has left a growing number of Mexicans struggling with feelings of guilt or resentment over deaths that could have been avoided.

A retired teacher is among those grieving after her sister caught the virus at a small New Year's party.

Family members believe that she was infected by someone who took a gamble and joined the celebration while awaiting the result of a test for a suspected coronavirus infection.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-rolls-out-hotel-quarantine-for-high-risk-country-returnees-363693" hreflang="en">UK rolls out hotel quarantine for 'high risk' country returnees</a>

"The person didn't want to be alone so didn't say anything and infected everyone," said the woman, who asked not to be named.

As is often the case, recriminations quickly flew over who was responsible.

"I tell my niece to forget about grudges. Nothing will bring her mother back," the woman said.

Mexico has paid a heavy human price for social gatherings over Christmas and the New Year, despite pleas from the authorities to avoid going to parties and stay at home.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-spreading-rapidly-among-under-40s-in-israel-government-data-363687" hreflang="en">Coronavirus spreading rapidly among under 40s in Israel: Government data</a>

January was the country's deadliest month of the pandemic yet, largely due to the year-end celebrations, government officials say.

Mexico has one of the world's highest Covid-19 death tolls, at nearly 174,000, along with close to two million known cases.

Heavy burden

Infections and deaths have prompted questions, recriminations and a search for who is responsible, said psychotherapist Francesca Caregnato.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-didnt-occur-uk-pm-boris-johnson-was-sure-he-would-survive-coronavirus-363657" hreflang="en">'That didn’t occur': UK PM Boris Johnson was sure he would survive coronavirus</a>

"When there's a loss it's difficult for the family not to point the finger at others, or themselves," Caregnato said.

"The guilt is very heavy, but it doesn't help in the grieving process," she said.

On December 28, Mexican singer-songwriter Armando Manzanero died after catching the virus at his 86th birthday party. His age and diabetes were both risk factors.

"I see the photo of 30 people with no face masks and say, 'What an irresponsible thing,'" his son Juan Pablo Manzanero told the Reforma newspaper. "Everyone there got Covid."

Caregnato recommends not losing perspective in cases where the virus is only a "trigger" for deaths from old age or chronic illnesses.

'It made me mad'

A domestic worker was left wracked with guilt after she infected five members of the family that employed her.

She caught the virus while visiting her sick father over the New Year holidays.

"I know it wasn't intentional, that sometimes you don't even know how you get it, but yes, it made me mad. I talked about Covid a lot with her," said her employer, 36-year-old lawyer Penelope Gutierrez.

"I paid her extra not to use public transport. I told her if she or any of her relatives felt ill not to come and I would keep paying her," said Gutierrez, who was hospitalized with her mother for a week.

Another family is still asking itself whether it did the right thing taking a relative to an overcrowded public hospital where she spent a month intubated until her heart gave up.

"It was made worse by a hospital infection. My brother wonders, 'What if she had gone to her usual doctor?'" said a family member.

Talking about the loss with friends, family or a therapist helps to ease the sense of guilt, Caregnato said.

"It's an outlet," she said. "It allows us to connect with the emotions and the actions that have been taken. And in therapy, by asking them questions, the idea is that the person can find answers."&nbsp;

A surge in coronavirus infections following the year-end holidays has left a growing number of Mexicans struggling with feelings of guilt or resentment over deaths that could have been avoided.

A surge in coronavirus infections following the year-end holidays has left a growing number of Mexicans struggling with feelings of guilt or resentment over deaths that could have been avoided. A retired teacher is among those grieving after her sister caught the virus at a small New Year's party. Family members believe that she was infected by someone who took a gamble and joined the celebration while awaiting the result of a test for a suspected coronavirus infection. Also read| UK rolls out hotel quarantine for 'high risk' country returnees "The person didn't want to be alone so didn't say anything and infected everyone," said the woman, who asked not to be named. As is often the case, recriminations quickly flew over who was responsible. "I tell my niece to forget about grudges. Nothing will bring her mother back," the woman said. Mexico has paid a heavy human price for social gatherings over Christmas and the New Year, despite pleas from the authorities to avoid going to parties and stay at home. Also read| Coronavirus spreading rapidly among under 40s in Israel: Government data January was the country's deadliest month of the pandemic yet, largely due to the year-end celebrations, government officials say. Mexico has one of the world's highest Covid-19 death tolls, at nearly 174,000, along with close to two million known cases. Heavy burden Infections and deaths have prompted questions, recriminations and a search for who is responsible, said psychotherapist Francesca Caregnato. Also read| 'That didn’t occur': UK PM Boris Johnson was sure he would survive coronavirus "When there's a loss it's difficult for the family not to point the finger at others, or themselves," Caregnato said. "The guilt is very heavy, but it doesn't help in the grieving process," she said. On December 28, Mexican singer-songwriter Armando Manzanero died after catching the virus at his 86th birthday party. His age and diabetes were both risk factors. "I see the photo of 30 people with no face masks and say, 'What an irresponsible thing,'" his son Juan Pablo Manzanero told the Reforma newspaper. "Everyone there got Covid." Caregnato recommends not losing perspective in cases where the virus is only a "trigger" for deaths from old age or chronic illnesses. 'It made me mad' A domestic worker was left wracked with guilt after she infected five members of the family that employed her. She caught the virus while visiting her sick father over the New Year holidays. "I know it wasn't intentional, that sometimes you don't even know how you get it, but yes, it made me mad. I talked about Covid a lot with her," said her employer, 36-year-old lawyer Penelope Gutierrez. "I paid her extra not to use public transport. I told her if she or any of her relatives felt ill not to come and I would keep paying her," said Gutierrez, who was hospitalized with her mother for a week. Another family is still asking itself whether it did the right thing taking a relative to an overcrowded public hospital where she spent a month intubated until her heart gave up. "It was made worse by a hospital infection. My brother wonders, 'What if she had gone to her usual doctor?'" said a family member. Talking about the loss with friends, family or a therapist helps to ease the sense of guilt, Caregnato said. "It's an outlet," she said. "It allows us to connect with the emotions and the actions that have been taken. And in therapy, by asking them questions, the idea is that the person can find answers."

Mexico's post-holiday Covid surge brings remorse, recriminations

The number of deadly coronavirus cases in India fell below 19,000 for the fifth time this month, taking the country's caseload to 1,04,13,417, while the recoveries have surged to 1,00,37,398, according to data updated by the Union health ministry on Friday.

A total of 18,139 new infections were reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 1,50,570 as 234 more people succumbed to the disease during the same period, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,00,37,398, pushing the national recovery rate to 96.39 per cent, while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stood at 1.45 per cent.

The active COVID-19 caseload remained below three lakh for the 18th consecutive day.

There are 2,25,449 active coronavirus infections in the country, which account for 2.16 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16.

It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and the one-crore mark on December 19.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 17,93,36,364 samples have been tested for COVID-19 till January 7, including 9,35,369 on Thursday.

The 234 new fatalities include 72 from Maharashtra, 25 from Kerala, 19 from Delhi and 18 from West Bengal.

Of the total 1,50,570 COVID-19 deaths reported in the country so far, Maharashtra accounted for 49,897, followed by Tamil Nadu (12,200), Karnataka (12,131), Delhi (10,644), West Bengal (9,881), Uttar Pradesh (8,452), Andhra Pradesh (7,126) and Punjab (5,422).

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to co-morbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of the figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

The number of deadly coronavirus cases in India fell below 19,000 for the fifth time this month, taking the country's caseload to 1,04,13,417, while the recoveries have surged to 1,00,37,398, according to data updated by the Union health ministry on Friday.

The number of deadly coronavirus cases in India fell below 19,000 for the fifth time this month, taking the country's caseload to 1,04,13,417, while the recoveries have surged to 1,00,37,398, according to data updated by the Union health ministry on Friday. A total of 18,139 new infections were reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 1,50,570 as 234 more people succumbed to the disease during the same period, the data updated at 8 am showed. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,00,37,398, pushing the national recovery rate to 96.39 per cent, while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stood at 1.45 per cent. The active COVID-19 caseload remained below three lakh for the 18th consecutive day. There are 2,25,449 active coronavirus infections in the country, which account for 2.16 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and the one-crore mark on December 19. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 17,93,36,364 samples have been tested for COVID-19 till January 7, including 9,35,369 on Thursday. The 234 new fatalities include 72 from Maharashtra, 25 from Kerala, 19 from Delhi and 18 from West Bengal. Of the total 1,50,570 COVID-19 deaths reported in the country so far, Maharashtra accounted for 49,897, followed by Tamil Nadu (12,200), Karnataka (12,131), Delhi (10,644), West Bengal (9,881), Uttar Pradesh (8,452), Andhra Pradesh (7,126) and Punjab (5,422). The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to co-morbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of the figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

18,139 new Covid-19 cases push India’s tally to 1,04,13,417

To pay respects to the ones who lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic, the city of Los Angeles in the United States decided to run a Twitter campaign titled&nbsp;#Every10Minutes on the official Twitter account of&nbsp;LA Public Health.

"#Every10Minutes someone dies of COVID-19 in LA County. People who were loved and will be missed. Until we slow the spread, the next person to tragically pass away could be someone you know.," the officials tweeted as soon as the clock stuck 12.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> someone dies of COVID-19 in LA County. People who were loved and will be missed. Until we slow the spread, the next person to tragically pass away could be someone you know.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344553883062972419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The campaign was also used to spread awareness and urge locals to stay home rather than stepping out on New Year's eve. The officials requested people to stay indoors and help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus and lower the death toll of the city.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-fireworks-australia-new-zealand-welcome-2021-353638">With fireworks, India, other nations welcome 2021 as celebrations turn low-key</a>

"This is a 24 hour campaign that began at midnight last night and will end at midnight tonight," the department officials said. "We want to highlight the devastating impact of COVID-19 on our community; more than 10,000 people passing away this year, and all were loved by and loved others."

The first post read "someone's mother", which was followed by several other descriptions of people who lost their lives to the deadly virus, such as 'a cancer survivor', 'someone who loved the rain', 'abuelita', and more.

All posts read a message at the end reminding people to "Please physically distance. Slow the spread. Save a life."

Here are some of the tweets:

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A friend who always put smiles on people's faces. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please wear a face covering when outside. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344591629299150849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The energetic grandma who was dancing well into her 80s. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344594145138995204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The server at your favorite restaurant that knew your order. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344601694961807362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The best singer in the church choir. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please physically distance. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344596661817884673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A sister who beat breast cancer. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344611761253724160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Baba. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344621827545391106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The friend who always fixed your resume. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Every10Minutes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Every10Minutes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LACounty?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LACounty</a> 
 
Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life.
— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/lapublichealth/status/1344629378978820099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The LA Mayor Eric Garcetti had also asked the local police to patrol the streets and stop any ongoing parties that were not following the COVID-19 guidelines set by&nbsp;the health experts.

Los Angeles has been one of the worst-hit areas in the US with more than&nbsp;750,000 cases and 10,000 deaths.

To pay respects to the ones who lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic, the city of Los Angeles in the United States decided to run a Twitter campaign titled #Every10Minutes on the official Twitter account of LA Public Health.

To pay respects to the ones who lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic, the city of Los Angeles in the United States decided to run a Twitter campaign titled #Every10Minutes on the official Twitter account of LA Public Health. "#Every10Minutes someone dies of COVID-19 in LA County. People who were loved and will be missed. Until we slow the spread, the next person to tragically pass away could be someone you know.," the officials tweeted as soon as the clock stuck 12. #Every10Minutes someone dies of COVID-19 in LA County. People who were loved and will be missed. Until we slow the spread, the next person to tragically pass away could be someone you know. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The campaign was also used to spread awareness and urge locals to stay home rather than stepping out on New Year's eve. The officials requested people to stay indoors and help contain the spread of the novel coronavirus and lower the death toll of the city. Also read| With fireworks, India, other nations welcome 2021 as celebrations turn low-key "This is a 24 hour campaign that began at midnight last night and will end at midnight tonight," the department officials said. "We want to highlight the devastating impact of COVID-19 on our community; more than 10,000 people passing away this year, and all were loved by and loved others." The first post read "someone's mother", which was followed by several other descriptions of people who lost their lives to the deadly virus, such as 'a cancer survivor', 'someone who loved the rain', 'abuelita', and more. All posts read a message at the end reminding people to "Please physically distance. Slow the spread. Save a life." Here are some of the tweets: A friend who always put smiles on people's faces. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please wear a face covering when outside. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The energetic grandma who was dancing well into her 80s. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The server at your favorite restaurant that knew your order. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The best singer in the church choir. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please physically distance. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × A sister who beat breast cancer. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × Baba. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The friend who always fixed your resume. #Every10Minutes #LACounty Please stay home tonight. Slow the spread. Save a life. — LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 31, 2020 × The LA Mayor Eric Garcetti had also asked the local police to patrol the streets and stop any ongoing parties that were not following the COVID-19 guidelines set by the health experts. Los Angeles has been one of the worst-hit areas in the US with more than 750,000 cases and 10,000 deaths.

Los Angeles officials tweet names of COVID warriors #Every10Minutes to spread awareness

The largest football stadium in the Netherlands’ is being used to understand how COVID-19 spreads. As sport venues try to keep up with the ongoing pandemic, scientists attempted to understand how a group of cheering crowd might contribute to the spread of COVID-19.

By modelling fine droplets on aerosols that spread COVID-19, scientists focused on how these droplets spread in an open environment.

<h6><img alt="A researcher checks aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the stadium of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020. Picture taken December 7, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2445b269-2906-4bd9-8082-c2895854a804" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_24.jpg" />A researcher checks aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the&nbsp;stadium&nbsp;of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020. Picture taken December 7, 2020 | Reuters</h6>

The fine droplets that resembled saliva were sprayed over the empty stands. By understanding how aerosols and airborne particles spread COVID-19, the scientists intend to remove such particles from the air in a bid to bring people back to stadiums and halls.

"There is almost no information in scientific literature about the behaviour of aerosols in this kind of environment", lead researcher Bert Blocken said in conversation with Reuters.

Currently, tests are underway at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, which is home to Ajax Amsterdam.

"We want to get a fundamental insight in the behaviour of aerosols in a stadium filled with football supporters. By air cleaning technologies you can drastically reduce concentrations and make stadiums safe in terms of aerosol transmission of the virus," he added in conversation with Reuters.

<h6><img alt="An aerosol generator is seen as Dutch scientists investigate whether football fans can safely return to matches in the experiment which uses hundreds of sensors and aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the stadium of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cdda1b90-7a5b-478c-842d-ca79a93738d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_27.jpg" />An aerosol generator is seen as Dutch scientists investigate whether football fans can safely return to matches in the experiment which uses hundreds of sensors and aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the&nbsp;stadium&nbsp;of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020 | Reuters</h6>

Majority of the scientists believe that transmission of COVID-19 through aerosol particles is the primary contributor to the spread of the virus. But it is still unclear to what extent this holds true.

Blocken further said that the researcher will help them understand how to minimise aerosol particles in the air, and how to limit the risk of spreading the virus in open environments packed with people.

Based on the data gathered during weeks of testing, a computer model will look at the effects of COVID-19 on a crowd of 55,000. Soon, researchers hope to receive permission for experimenting with a real crowd of 730 football fans who would be seated close to each other.

The goal, Blocken says, is to bring back people to stadiums - which have largely remained deserted over the last year. In addition, they intend to use mass testing, face masks, and ventilation for the same.

The largest football stadium in the Netherlands’ is being used to understand how COVID-19 spreads. As sport venues try to keep up with the ongoing pandemic, scientists attempted to understand how a group of cheering crowd might contribute to the spread of COVID-19.

The largest football stadium in the Netherlands’ is being used to understand how COVID-19 spreads. As sport venues try to keep up with the ongoing pandemic, scientists attempted to understand how a group of cheering crowd might contribute to the spread of COVID-19. By modelling fine droplets on aerosols that spread COVID-19, scientists focused on how these droplets spread in an open environment. A researcher checks aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the stadium of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020. Picture taken December 7, 2020 | Reuters The fine droplets that resembled saliva were sprayed over the empty stands. By understanding how aerosols and airborne particles spread COVID-19, the scientists intend to remove such particles from the air in a bid to bring people back to stadiums and halls. "There is almost no information in scientific literature about the behaviour of aerosols in this kind of environment", lead researcher Bert Blocken said in conversation with Reuters. Currently, tests are underway at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, which is home to Ajax Amsterdam. "We want to get a fundamental insight in the behaviour of aerosols in a stadium filled with football supporters. By air cleaning technologies you can drastically reduce concentrations and make stadiums safe in terms of aerosol transmission of the virus," he added in conversation with Reuters. An aerosol generator is seen as Dutch scientists investigate whether football fans can safely return to matches in the experiment which uses hundreds of sensors and aerosols at Johan Cruijff Arena, the stadium of Ajax Amsterdam, in Amsterdam, Netherlands December 7, 2020 | Reuters Majority of the scientists believe that transmission of COVID-19 through aerosol particles is the primary contributor to the spread of the virus. But it is still unclear to what extent this holds true. Blocken further said that the researcher will help them understand how to minimise aerosol particles in the air, and how to limit the risk of spreading the virus in open environments packed with people. Based on the data gathered during weeks of testing, a computer model will look at the effects of COVID-19 on a crowd of 55,000. Soon, researchers hope to receive permission for experimenting with a real crowd of 730 football fans who would be seated close to each other. The goal, Blocken says, is to bring back people to stadiums - which have largely remained deserted over the last year. In addition, they intend to use mass testing, face masks, and ventilation for the same.

'Spray' experiment in Netherlands' biggest football stadium could bring back crowds

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said.

Thirty other coronavirus patients undergoing treatment at the hospital were rescued, he said.

The fire broke out in the ICU of Uday Shivanand Hospital in Mavdi area, where 33 patients were admitted, around 1 am.

Seven of the patients were admitted to the ICU, fire brigade official J B Theva said.

"We rushed to the spot and rescued 30 patients after a call informing about the fire was received. Three patients died inside the ICU," he said.

The fire is under control.

The cause of the fire has not been ascertained yet, he said.

The rescued patients have been shifted to other COVID-19 hospitals, he added.

In August, eight COVID-19 patients were killed after a fire broke out on the top floor of a four-storey private hospital in Ahmedabad.

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said.

Three coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out in the ICU of a designated COVID-19 hospital in Gujarat's Rajkot in the early hours of Friday, a fire brigade official said. Thirty other coronavirus patients undergoing treatment at the hospital were rescued, he said. The fire broke out in the ICU of Uday Shivanand Hospital in Mavdi area, where 33 patients were admitted, around 1 am. Seven of the patients were admitted to the ICU, fire brigade official J B Theva said. "We rushed to the spot and rescued 30 patients after a call informing about the fire was received. Three patients died inside the ICU," he said. The fire is under control. The cause of the fire has not been ascertained yet, he said. The rescued patients have been shifted to other COVID-19 hospitals, he added. In August, eight COVID-19 patients were killed after a fire broke out on the top floor of a four-storey private hospital in Ahmedabad.

Three COVID-19 patients killed as fire breaks out at Rajkot hospital

Coronavirus cases have been on a rise for the past one week in India's national capital city, New Delhi. On Thursday, the capital recorded the highest daily COVID-19 deaths.

The city government reported 131 deaths due to the novel coronavirus and&nbsp;7,486 fresh cases in the capital in the last 24 hours. The city has recorded more than 500,000 total coronavirus cases till now.

Following the rise in cases, the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided to impose a fine of Rs. 2,000 for the people who will be spotted without a face mask even in their personal cars.

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Met Hon’ble LG. Briefed him about the corona situation in Delhi. We agreed that to create effective deterrent so that people don’t omit wearing masks, we need to increase fine from the present Rs 500 to Rs 2000.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1329347052577296386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Various experts believe the sudden surge in cases can also be due to an increase in air pollution and a decrease in the air quality in the capital, following the Diwali weekend.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-in-five-indians-to-be-vaccinated-against-covid-19-by-july-2021-343970" hreflang="en">One in five Indians to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by July 2021</a>

With the surge in cases, New Delhi has become the worst affected city in the country, with Mumbai following the list with nearly 270,000 total cases. The financial capital, Mumbai, however, has more COVID-19 deaths (10,615) as compared to Delhi's total COVID deaths&nbsp;(7,943).

The rise in cases has also negatively affected the city's healthcare infrastructure, which has resulted in shortage of beds in the hospitals, leaving many patients stranded for proper treatment.

As per officials figures being provided in the Delhi Corona App, more than 90 per cent ICU beds with ventilators and 87 per cent ICU beds without ventilators are already occupied.

Meanwhile, India recorded&nbsp;38,617 coronavirus cases on Thursday morning, and the country's recovery rate has improved to&nbsp;93.52 per cent.

Coronavirus cases have been on a rise for the past one week in India's national capital city, New Delhi. On Thursday, the capital recorded the highest daily COVID-19 deaths.

Coronavirus cases have been on a rise for the past one week in India's national capital city, New Delhi. On Thursday, the capital recorded the highest daily COVID-19 deaths. The city government reported 131 deaths due to the novel coronavirus and 7,486 fresh cases in the capital in the last 24 hours. The city has recorded more than 500,000 total coronavirus cases till now. Following the rise in cases, the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided to impose a fine of Rs. 2,000 for the people who will be spotted without a face mask even in their personal cars. Met Hon’ble LG. Briefed him about the corona situation in Delhi. We agreed that to create effective deterrent so that people don’t omit wearing masks, we need to increase fine from the present Rs 500 to Rs 2000. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 19, 2020 × Various experts believe the sudden surge in cases can also be due to an increase in air pollution and a decrease in the air quality in the capital, following the Diwali weekend. Also read| One in five Indians to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by July 2021 With the surge in cases, New Delhi has become the worst affected city in the country, with Mumbai following the list with nearly 270,000 total cases. The financial capital, Mumbai, however, has more COVID-19 deaths (10,615) as compared to Delhi's total COVID deaths (7,943). The rise in cases has also negatively affected the city's healthcare infrastructure, which has resulted in shortage of beds in the hospitals, leaving many patients stranded for proper treatment. As per officials figures being provided in the Delhi Corona App, more than 90 per cent ICU beds with ventilators and 87 per cent ICU beds without ventilators are already occupied. Meanwhile, India recorded 38,617 coronavirus cases on Thursday morning, and the country's recovery rate has improved to 93.52 per cent.

Delhi: Fine of 2,000 for not wearing mask in cars; 131 COVID-19 deaths recorded

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide has risen by 657,312 within the past 24 hours marking the largest daily increase since the outbreak of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation said on Saturday.

As of 19:30 GMT, the global tally of COVID-19 infections amounts to 53,927,158.

Most of those new cases were registered in Europe (over 285,000) and the Americas (over 269,000).

Meanwhile, the death toll worldwide has reached 1,311,192, with 9,797 fatalities being recorded over the past day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide has risen by 657,312 within the past 24 hours marking the largest daily increase since the outbreak of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation said on Saturday. As of 19:30 GMT, the global tally of COVID-19 infections amounts to 53,927,158. Most of those new cases were registered in Europe (over 285,000) and the Americas (over 269,000). Meanwhile, the death toll worldwide has reached 1,311,192, with 9,797 fatalities being recorded over the past day. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO confirms record 657,312 coronavirus cases worldwide in a single day

Ten Covid-19 patients were killed and a few were in critical condition after fire broke out in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in the town of Piatra Neamtin in northeast Romania on Saturday.

The fire occurred in the early evening in the ICU. It was under control an hour later by the emergency services.

"Ten people have been declared dead and seven people are in critical condition," including a doctor, said hospital spokeswoman Irina Popa.

It was the deadliest fire in Romania since October 2015, when a pyrotechnics display caused a blaze at a Bucharest nightclub which left 64 people dead.

Eight of the victims died in the flames and two others were pronounced dead following their evacuation.

The doctor on duty, who tried to help the victims, suffered second and third degree burns to 80 percent of his body.

The cause of the blaze was unclear and the prosecutor general opened an enquiry into the tragedy.

Romania recently seen weekly mounting numbers of cases and hospitalisations.&nbsp;On Saturday it reported 129 new virus fatalities, bringing total deaths to 8,813 since the start of the pandemic.

The country of 19 million residents is one of the poorest in the European Union and ill-equipped to deal with a spike in hospital cases.

Ten Covid-19 patients were killed and a few were in critical condition after fire broke out in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in the town of Piatra Neamtin in northeast Romania on Saturday.

Ten Covid-19 patients were killed and a few were in critical condition after fire broke out in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital in the town of Piatra Neamtin in northeast Romania on Saturday. The fire occurred in the early evening in the ICU. It was under control an hour later by the emergency services. "Ten people have been declared dead and seven people are in critical condition," including a doctor, said hospital spokeswoman Irina Popa. It was the deadliest fire in Romania since October 2015, when a pyrotechnics display caused a blaze at a Bucharest nightclub which left 64 people dead. Eight of the victims died in the flames and two others were pronounced dead following their evacuation. The doctor on duty, who tried to help the victims, suffered second and third degree burns to 80 percent of his body. The cause of the blaze was unclear and the prosecutor general opened an enquiry into the tragedy. Romania recently seen weekly mounting numbers of cases and hospitalisations. On Saturday it reported 129 new virus fatalities, bringing total deaths to 8,813 since the start of the pandemic. The country of 19 million residents is one of the poorest in the European Union and ill-equipped to deal with a spike in hospital cases.

Fire kills ten Covid patients in Romania hospital

The United States on Saturday recorded the world's highest daily COVID-19 cases with over 1 lakh new cases recorded in the country.&nbsp;

The exact cases count in the United States stood at 9,158,275 as of Sunday. The number of confirmed virus-related death reached 230,732, according to data provided by John Hopkins University.

The global count of confirmed coronavirus cases has surpassed 46 million on Sunday, according to data provided by the University.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India, and Brazil.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Saturday recorded the world's highest daily COVID-19 cases with over 1 lakh new cases recorded in the country. The exact cases count in the United States stood at 9,158,275 as of Sunday.

The United States on Saturday recorded the world's highest daily COVID-19 cases with over 1 lakh new cases recorded in the country. The exact cases count in the United States stood at 9,158,275 as of Sunday. The number of confirmed virus-related death reached 230,732, according to data provided by John Hopkins University. The global count of confirmed coronavirus cases has surpassed 46 million on Sunday, according to data provided by the University. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India, and Brazil. (With inputs from agencies)

US records world's highest daily COVID-19 cases

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 46 million people, with 12 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 46,312,467 confirmed coronavirus cases.

The death count has also surged to 1,198,000.

The US, the worst-hit country, has 9,158,275 cases. It is followed by India, which has 8,184,082.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 46 million people, with 12 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 46 million people, with 12 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. According to Johns Hopkins University, the world has witnessed a total of 46,312,467 confirmed coronavirus cases. The death count has also surged to 1,198,000. The US, the worst-hit country, has 9,158,275 cases. It is followed by India, which has 8,184,082. The World Health Organization (WHO) had declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Global coronavirus cases exceed 46 million; death toll at 1,198,000

The number of single-day coronavirus cases in Pakistan has topped the 1,000 mark for the first since July, while active cases have also doubled in one and a half months, according to health authorities.

In a statement on Saturday, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) said that 1,078 were reported from across the country on October 29, reports Dawn news.

While the number of new patients dropped to 807 the following day, the health authorities and medical experts expressed concern over the situation and advised the masses to ensure strict compliance to the health guidelines issued by the government.

The NCOC data showed that as many as 1,114 people contracted the virus in the country on July 30.

Since then the number of daily cases remained less than 1,000, with 330 cases reported on August 3 and 213 on August 30.

However, the number of new cases again rose to 330 a week later, after which there has been a constant increase in positive cases.

On October 3, 632 new cases were reported.

The number of daily cases jumped to 755 on October 14, 847 on October 23 and 1,078 on October 29.

Similarly, the number of active cases has more than doubled during the past one and a half months, as there were only 5,936 active cases reported on September 15, but the figure jumped to 12,121 on Saturday, Dawn news reported citing the NCOC data as saying.

In view of the deteriorating situation, the NCOC on Covid-19 held a special meeting on Saturday and discussed measures to stem further spread of the virus.

As of Sunday, Pakistan has reported a total of 333,970 cases with 6,823 deaths.

The number of single-day coronavirus cases in Pakistan has topped the 1,000 mark for the first since July, while active cases have also doubled in one and a half months, according to health authorities.

The number of single-day coronavirus cases in Pakistan has topped the 1,000 mark for the first since July, while active cases have also doubled in one and a half months, according to health authorities. In a statement on Saturday, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) said that 1,078 were reported from across the country on October 29, reports Dawn news. While the number of new patients dropped to 807 the following day, the health authorities and medical experts expressed concern over the situation and advised the masses to ensure strict compliance to the health guidelines issued by the government. The NCOC data showed that as many as 1,114 people contracted the virus in the country on July 30. Since then the number of daily cases remained less than 1,000, with 330 cases reported on August 3 and 213 on August 30. However, the number of new cases again rose to 330 a week later, after which there has been a constant increase in positive cases. On October 3, 632 new cases were reported. The number of daily cases jumped to 755 on October 14, 847 on October 23 and 1,078 on October 29. Similarly, the number of active cases has more than doubled during the past one and a half months, as there were only 5,936 active cases reported on September 15, but the figure jumped to 12,121 on Saturday, Dawn news reported citing the NCOC data as saying. In view of the deteriorating situation, the NCOC on Covid-19 held a special meeting on Saturday and discussed measures to stem further spread of the virus. As of Sunday, Pakistan has reported a total of 333,970 cases with 6,823 deaths.

Pakistan’s daily Covid-19 cases top 1,000 since July 

A team of doctors from the Delhi-based All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) under the AYUSH Ministry has found that Ayurveda interventions like Ayush kwatha and Fifatrol tablets can be effective in treatment of mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 infection in a "very short period" with "complete regression of symptoms".

Use of four Ayurveda interventions-- Ayush kwatha, Sanshamanivati, Fifatrol tablets and Laxmivilasa rasa not only improved the condition of COVID-19 patient but also turned the rapid antigen test negative within six days of treatment, according to a case report published in the journal of AIIA -- ''Ayurved Case Report'' in October.

Presently, there is no specific cure for the disease that has infected over 44.7 million people and claimed 1.17 million lives world over.

Citing the case of a 30-year-old male health worker infected with coronavirus, the report said his infection was managed with Samshamana therapy that included oral administration of Ayush kwatha, Sanshamani vati, Fifatrol tablets, and Laxmivilasa rasa.

The patient, a resident of Delhi, after testing positive for COVID-19 was advised home quarantine.He reported with predominantly moderate symptoms of the infection, and the management approach was personalised and holistic in nature incorporating diet, lifestyle, and Samshamana aushadha (pacifying treatment) along with Satvavajaya chikitsa (psychotherapy).

"The mentioned treatment plan was effective in the symptomatic relief (fever, dyspnea, anorexia, fatigue, anosmia, and dysgeusia) as well as in the resolution of viral load, as the patient tested negative in the RAD for COVID-19 within six days of intervention and RT-PCR test was also done on day 16, which was reported negative," the study said.

Herbal drug Fifatrol developed by AIMIL Pharmaceutical helps fight infection, flu and cold. It has immunity strengthening herbs like guduchi, sanjeevini ghanvati, daruharidra, apamarga, chirayata, karanja, kutaki, tulsi, godanti (bhasam), mrityunjaya rasa, tribhuvana kriti rasa and sanjivani vati.

Ayush Kwatha is a combination of four medicinal herbs commonly used in every Indian kitchen - basil leaves (tulsi), cinnamon bark (dalchini), Zingiber officinale (sunthi), and krishna marich (Piper nigrum).

Sanshamani Vati (also called guduchi ghana vati) is an ayurvedic herbal formulation used for all types of fevers.

Laxmivilas Ras is a traditional herbomineral medicine that mainly contains Abhrak Bhasma and cures cough, cold and rhinitis. It soothes the throat and sinuses.

The report has been authored by Dr Sisir Kumar Mandal, Dr Meenakshi Sharma, Dr Charu Sharma, Dr Shalini Rai and Dr Anand More from the AIIA.

"The present case study proved the efficacy of Ayurveda interventions in mild-to-moderate case of COVID-19 infection in a very short period with complete regression of symptoms," the report said.

“The treatment was personalised, holistic, and purely based on Ayurvedic principles, and no conventional medicines were used. With this case study, it can be inferred that Ayurveda has vast potential to address COVID-19 and such other pandemics; a large sample-sized, multi-center randomized and controlled clinical studies are the need of the hour," the report added.

A team of doctors from the Delhi-based All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) under the AYUSH Ministry has found that Ayurveda interventions like Ayush kwatha and Fifatrol tablets can be effective in treatment of mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 infection in a "very short period" with "complete regression of symptoms".

A team of doctors from the Delhi-based All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) under the AYUSH Ministry has found that Ayurveda interventions like Ayush kwatha and Fifatrol tablets can be effective in treatment of mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 infection in a "very short period" with "complete regression of symptoms". Use of four Ayurveda interventions-- Ayush kwatha, Sanshamanivati, Fifatrol tablets and Laxmivilasa rasa not only improved the condition of COVID-19 patient but also turned the rapid antigen test negative within six days of treatment, according to a case report published in the journal of AIIA -- ''Ayurved Case Report'' in October. Presently, there is no specific cure for the disease that has infected over 44.7 million people and claimed 1.17 million lives world over. Citing the case of a 30-year-old male health worker infected with coronavirus, the report said his infection was managed with Samshamana therapy that included oral administration of Ayush kwatha, Sanshamani vati, Fifatrol tablets, and Laxmivilasa rasa. The patient, a resident of Delhi, after testing positive for COVID-19 was advised home quarantine.He reported with predominantly moderate symptoms of the infection, and the management approach was personalised and holistic in nature incorporating diet, lifestyle, and Samshamana aushadha (pacifying treatment) along with Satvavajaya chikitsa (psychotherapy). "The mentioned treatment plan was effective in the symptomatic relief (fever, dyspnea, anorexia, fatigue, anosmia, and dysgeusia) as well as in the resolution of viral load, as the patient tested negative in the RAD for COVID-19 within six days of intervention and RT-PCR test was also done on day 16, which was reported negative," the study said. Herbal drug Fifatrol developed by AIMIL Pharmaceutical helps fight infection, flu and cold. It has immunity strengthening herbs like guduchi, sanjeevini ghanvati, daruharidra, apamarga, chirayata, karanja, kutaki, tulsi, godanti (bhasam), mrityunjaya rasa, tribhuvana kriti rasa and sanjivani vati. Ayush Kwatha is a combination of four medicinal herbs commonly used in every Indian kitchen - basil leaves (tulsi), cinnamon bark (dalchini), Zingiber officinale (sunthi), and krishna marich (Piper nigrum). Sanshamani Vati (also called guduchi ghana vati) is an ayurvedic herbal formulation used for all types of fevers. Laxmivilas Ras is a traditional herbomineral medicine that mainly contains Abhrak Bhasma and cures cough, cold and rhinitis. It soothes the throat and sinuses. The report has been authored by Dr Sisir Kumar Mandal, Dr Meenakshi Sharma, Dr Charu Sharma, Dr Shalini Rai and Dr Anand More from the AIIA. "The present case study proved the efficacy of Ayurveda interventions in mild-to-moderate case of COVID-19 infection in a very short period with complete regression of symptoms," the report said. “The treatment was personalised, holistic, and purely based on Ayurvedic principles, and no conventional medicines were used. With this case study, it can be inferred that Ayurveda has vast potential to address COVID-19 and such other pandemics; a large sample-sized, multi-center randomized and controlled clinical studies are the need of the hour," the report added.

Ayurveda interventions can be effective in treatment of mild to moderate cases of COVID-19: AIIA

With a fresh spike of 48,268 coronavirus infections and 551 deaths in 24 hours, India`s tally on Saturday rose to 8,137,119. The national capital, too, witnessed a rise in the number of infections with around 5,000 cases being recorded daily for the past three days.

Out of the total COVID-19 cases, 582,649 are currently active, 7,432,829 have been discharged, while 121,641 lost the battle against the pandemic.

While the recovery rate stands at 91.34 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.49 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare showed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-registers-94000-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-tally-passes-9m-339148?UTM_SRC=breakingnews">Also read|&nbsp;US registers 94,000 coronavirus cases in 24 hours; tally passes 9M</a>

Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit with a total of 1,672,858 cases, including 43,837 deaths; followed by Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.

Meanwhile, the national capital recorded 5,891 fresh COVID-19 cases on Friday, the highest single-day spike till date, taking the total caseload to over 3.81 lakh with 47 new fatalities pushing the death count in the national capital to 6,470.

This is the highest single-day figure Delhi reported since pandemic struck the country. The national capital, which is battling the third wave of infections, has been logging over 5,000 cases daily for the past three days.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 1,067,976 sample tests in a single day on Friday, taking the total number of samples tested so far to 108,796,094.

With a fresh spike of 48,268 coronavirus infections and 551 deaths in 24 hours, India`s tally on Saturday rose to 8,137,119. The national capital, too, witnessed a rise in the number of infections with around 5,000 cases being recorded daily for the past three days.

With a fresh spike of 48,268 coronavirus infections and 551 deaths in 24 hours, India`s tally on Saturday rose to 8,137,119. The national capital, too, witnessed a rise in the number of infections with around 5,000 cases being recorded daily for the past three days. Out of the total COVID-19 cases, 582,649 are currently active, 7,432,829 have been discharged, while 121,641 lost the battle against the pandemic. While the recovery rate stands at 91.34 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.49 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare showed. Also read| US registers 94,000 coronavirus cases in 24 hours; tally passes 9M Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit with a total of 1,672,858 cases, including 43,837 deaths; followed by Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Meanwhile, the national capital recorded 5,891 fresh COVID-19 cases on Friday, the highest single-day spike till date, taking the total caseload to over 3.81 lakh with 47 new fatalities pushing the death count in the national capital to 6,470. This is the highest single-day figure Delhi reported since pandemic struck the country. The national capital, which is battling the third wave of infections, has been logging over 5,000 cases daily for the past three days. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted 1,067,976 sample tests in a single day on Friday, taking the total number of samples tested so far to 108,796,094.

India's COVID-19 tally surges past 8.1 million; recovery rate stands at 91.34%

A recent study has revealed that the Yemen government may be under-reporting the death toll of the country caused by the novel coronavirus, as the satellite images reveal more fresh graves.

In a&nbsp;first-of-its-kind study, scientists used satellite images to count the fresh graves and analyse the burial activity in Yemen. The study has been launched by&nbsp;researchers at the London School of Hygiene &amp; Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). These researchers are analysing burial activities at all identifiable cemeteries in Yemen’s Aden region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-not-enough-covid-vaccines-for-all-in-europe-until-2022-338401" hreflang="en">EU warns not enough COVID vaccines for all in Europe until 2022</a>

As per the recent observations, the team of researchers calculated&nbsp;an estimated 2,100 “excess deaths” during the COVID-19 outbreak between April and September.&nbsp;“This total is best interpreted as the net sum of deaths due to COVID-19 infection and deaths indirectly attributable to the pandemic,” they said.
<img alt="Yemen COVID-19 graves" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4dc381d-5f13-4362-be96-ff3c941ef3db" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Yemen%20COVID-19%20graves.jpg" />
The data provided by the Yemen government reported its first case on April 10 and has since recorded only 2,064 infections with 600 deaths from the disease till October 25. The experts, however, had predicted Yemen to be severely hit by the pandemic due to the country's ongoing five-year conflict which has led to the crisis, overcrowding in cramped spaces, lack of health services and&nbsp;shrinking humanitarian aid.

Francesco Checchi, who co-led the study, noted that having an accurate picture of COVID-19’s impact “is vital for effective government and humanitarian responses”.

“By estimating excess mortality, we aimed to develop a more accurate estimate of the toll of COVID-19 in Yemen,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-seeks-accelerated-who-registration-for-virus-vaccine-338380">Also read|&nbsp;Russia seeks accelerated WHO registration for virus vaccine</a>

The researchers have also cited previous studies and reports on the increase in the number of fresh graves in the country,&nbsp;adding that various videos posted on social media and observations sent by reporters on ground have hinted towards the same inequality in the number of deaths caused due to COID-19.&nbsp;“The use of mechanical excavators in place of human gravediggers suggested that demand exceeded routine capacity,"&nbsp;they said.

Several media reports have also claimed that a accute shortage of&nbsp;personal protective equipment and funds has forced several hospitals in the region to shut down. The global medical charity Médecins sans Frontières also&nbsp;reported a peak in hospital admissions, with a very high case-fatality ratio, during the same time period.

The research, funded by aid from the UK government, was led by LSHTM and the technology company Satellite Applications Catapult, which specialises in geospatial analysis.

“Though our method cannot distinguish direct from indirect virus deaths, estimating excess mortality attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic in a humanitarian setting captures the whole system impact,” said Emilie Koum Besson, who co-led the work.

The study has to be peer-reviewed, and has not yet attracted any comments from the Yemen government. A similar study will be conducted&nbsp;in Mogadishu, Somalia by the same team of researchers.

A recent study has revealed that the Yemen government may be under-reporting the death toll of the country caused by the novel coronavirus, as the satellite images reveal more fresh graves.

A recent study has revealed that the Yemen government may be under-reporting the death toll of the country caused by the novel coronavirus, as the satellite images reveal more fresh graves. In a first-of-its-kind study, scientists used satellite images to count the fresh graves and analyse the burial activity in Yemen. The study has been launched by researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). These researchers are analysing burial activities at all identifiable cemeteries in Yemen’s Aden region. EU warns not enough COVID vaccines for all in Europe until 2022 As per the recent observations, the team of researchers calculated an estimated 2,100 “excess deaths” during the COVID-19 outbreak between April and September. “This total is best interpreted as the net sum of deaths due to COVID-19 infection and deaths indirectly attributable to the pandemic,” they said. The data provided by the Yemen government reported its first case on April 10 and has since recorded only 2,064 infections with 600 deaths from the disease till October 25. The experts, however, had predicted Yemen to be severely hit by the pandemic due to the country's ongoing five-year conflict which has led to the crisis, overcrowding in cramped spaces, lack of health services and shrinking humanitarian aid. Francesco Checchi, who co-led the study, noted that having an accurate picture of COVID-19’s impact “is vital for effective government and humanitarian responses”. “By estimating excess mortality, we aimed to develop a more accurate estimate of the toll of COVID-19 in Yemen,” he said. Also read| Russia seeks accelerated WHO registration for virus vaccine The researchers have also cited previous studies and reports on the increase in the number of fresh graves in the country, adding that various videos posted on social media and observations sent by reporters on ground have hinted towards the same inequality in the number of deaths caused due to COID-19. “The use of mechanical excavators in place of human gravediggers suggested that demand exceeded routine capacity," they said. Several media reports have also claimed that a accute shortage of personal protective equipment and funds has forced several hospitals in the region to shut down. The global medical charity Médecins sans Frontières also reported a peak in hospital admissions, with a very high case-fatality ratio, during the same time period. The research, funded by aid from the UK government, was led by LSHTM and the technology company Satellite Applications Catapult, which specialises in geospatial analysis. “Though our method cannot distinguish direct from indirect virus deaths, estimating excess mortality attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic in a humanitarian setting captures the whole system impact,” said Emilie Koum Besson, who co-led the work. The study has to be peer-reviewed, and has not yet attracted any comments from the Yemen government. A similar study will be conducted in Mogadishu, Somalia by the same team of researchers.

Satellite images reveal real COVID-19 death toll in Yemen

The United States of America (USA) is facing a continued COVID-19 public health challenge through the winter and half million Americans could die from COVID-19 by the end of February next year, according to a study by University of Washington. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-joe-biden-pledges-free-covid-vaccine-for-everyone-in-the-us-if-elected-337576">Also read | US election 2020: Joe Biden pledges free Covid vaccine for ‘everyone’ in the US if elected</a>

According to estimates from a modelling study by researchers at the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation with few effective COVID-19 treatment options and no vaccines yet available the Covid situation going to be dangerous in coming months.

"We are heading into a very substantial fall/winter surge," said IHME director Chris Murray, who co-led the research.

He said the projections, as well as the real-life current evidence of rising infection rates and deaths, showed there is no basis to "the idea that the pandemic is going away," adding: "We do not believe that is true."

US President Donald Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 221,000 Americans so far, has become the top election issue for him and Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Polls have shown that Americans trust Biden more than Trump to handle the crisis.

The IHME study forecast that large, populous states such as California, Texas and Florida will likely face particularly high levels of illness, deaths and demands on hospital resources.

"We expect the surge to steadily grow across different states and at the national level, and to continue to increase as we head towards high levels of daily deaths in late December and in January," Murray said.

The modelling study, which mapped out various scenarios and their projected impact on the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic in the United States, found that universal mask-wearing could have a major impact on deaths rates, potentially saving 130,000 lives.

Current mask use in the United States varies widely. While some states, like New York, set strict rules on when to wear masks, others have no requirements. The issue has become political, in which some supporters have taken their cues from Trump, who is often seen without a mask and has repeatedly questioned their usefulness.

"Expanding mask use is one of the easy wins for the United States ... and can save many lives," Murray said.

Meanwhile, the worldwide number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has surpassed 42 million, Johns Hopkins University says.

The exact number of the coronavirus cases stood at 42,020,333 as of 21:40 GMT on Friday. More than 1.14 million people have died of the disease, the university added.

&nbsp;The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India and Brazil.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States of America (USA) is facing a continued COVID-19 public health challenge through the winter and half million Americans could die from COVID-19 by the end of February next year, according to a study by University of Washington.

The United States of America (USA) is facing a continued COVID-19 public health challenge through the winter and half million Americans could die from COVID-19 by the end of February next year, according to a study by University of Washington. Also read | US election 2020: Joe Biden pledges free Covid vaccine for ‘everyone’ in the US if elected According to estimates from a modelling study by researchers at the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation with few effective COVID-19 treatment options and no vaccines yet available the Covid situation going to be dangerous in coming months. "We are heading into a very substantial fall/winter surge," said IHME director Chris Murray, who co-led the research. He said the projections, as well as the real-life current evidence of rising infection rates and deaths, showed there is no basis to "the idea that the pandemic is going away," adding: "We do not believe that is true." US President Donald Trump's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 221,000 Americans so far, has become the top election issue for him and Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Polls have shown that Americans trust Biden more than Trump to handle the crisis. The IHME study forecast that large, populous states such as California, Texas and Florida will likely face particularly high levels of illness, deaths and demands on hospital resources. "We expect the surge to steadily grow across different states and at the national level, and to continue to increase as we head towards high levels of daily deaths in late December and in January," Murray said. The modelling study, which mapped out various scenarios and their projected impact on the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic in the United States, found that universal mask-wearing could have a major impact on deaths rates, potentially saving 130,000 lives. Current mask use in the United States varies widely. While some states, like New York, set strict rules on when to wear masks, others have no requirements. The issue has become political, in which some supporters have taken their cues from Trump, who is often seen without a mask and has repeatedly questioned their usefulness. "Expanding mask use is one of the easy wins for the United States ... and can save many lives," Murray said. Meanwhile, the worldwide number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has surpassed 42 million, Johns Hopkins University says. The exact number of the coronavirus cases stood at 42,020,333 as of 21:40 GMT on Friday. More than 1.14 million people have died of the disease, the university added. The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11. The biggest number of cases so far have been registered in the United States, India and Brazil. (With inputs from agencies)

More than half a million people in the US may die of coronavirus by February: Study 

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.84%, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

The count of covid-19 cases stands at 65,49,374 of which, there are a total of 9,37,625 active cases while 55,09,967 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union health ministry said.

The death toll due to coronavirus in the country rose to 1,01,782 after 940 deaths deaths due to covid-19 were reported in the last 24 hours.

Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit state with 14,16,513 cases, including 37,480 deaths, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, India tested 11,42,131 samples in a day on Saturday, taking the total tests so far to 7,89,92,534.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.

The death toll due to deadly coronavirus in India reached 1,01,782 and the infection tally climbed to 65,49,374, while the number of people who have recuperated from the disease crossed 55 lakh pushing the recovery rate to 83.84%, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The count of covid-19 cases stands at 65,49,374 of which, there are a total of 9,37,625 active cases while 55,09,967 patients have been cured/discharged/migrated, the Union health ministry said. The death toll due to coronavirus in the country rose to 1,01,782 after 940 deaths deaths due to covid-19 were reported in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit state with 14,16,513 cases, including 37,480 deaths, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, India tested 11,42,131 samples in a day on Saturday, taking the total tests so far to 7,89,92,534. (With inputs from agencies)

With 75,829 new cases, India’s tally crosses 65-lakh mark

Mattia Maestri, whose coronavirus case confirmed one of the world’s deadliest outbreaks was underway is now participating in a relay race.

He is taking part in a 180-kilometer (112-mile) relay race as a sign of hope after he himself recovered from weeks in intensive care.

Maestri, a 38-year-old Unilever manager, was tested positive on February 21.

Wearing a dark face mask, Maestri said the race was a “beautiful initiative” uniting the two virus-ravaged towns and the hard-hit swath of territory between them. He said he was thrilled to even be alive to participate.

“I feel very lucky,” he said at the starting line.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Globally, the coronavirus, which first originated in China’s Wuhan city in December last year, has claimed around 10 lakh lives and infected nearly 33 million people, with the US being the worst affected country, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mattia Maestri, whose coronavirus case confirmed one of the world’s deadliest outbreaks was underway is now participating in a relay race. He is taking part in a 180-kilometer (112-mile) relay race as a sign of hope after he himself recovered from weeks in intensive care.

Mattia Maestri, whose coronavirus case confirmed one of the world’s deadliest outbreaks was underway is now participating in a relay race. He is taking part in a 180-kilometer (112-mile) relay race as a sign of hope after he himself recovered from weeks in intensive care. Maestri, a 38-year-old Unilever manager, was tested positive on February 21. Wearing a dark face mask, Maestri said the race was a “beautiful initiative” uniting the two virus-ravaged towns and the hard-hit swath of territory between them. He said he was thrilled to even be alive to participate. “I feel very lucky,” he said at the starting line. Meanwhile, Globally, the coronavirus, which first originated in China’s Wuhan city in December last year, has claimed around 10 lakh lives and infected nearly 33 million people, with the US being the worst affected country, according to Johns Hopkins University data. (With inputs from agencies)

First coronavirus patient of Italy joins relay race as sign of hope 

Russian cosmonauts set to blast off for the International Space Station said on Thursday it was too early to get a coronavirus vaccine touted by President Vladimir Putin.

“I’d personally say that I would not get vaccinated because I tread very carefully on this issue,” said Sergei Ryzhikov, the 46-year-old leader of the next expedition to the ISS in October.&nbsp;

The space mission of the next crew to the International Space Station (ISS), which will leave for the ISS aboard the Soyuz MS-17 spacecraft from the Baikonur cosmodrome in October, will last 177 days, Russian Cosmonaut Sergey Ryzhikov, the head of the crew, said on Thursday, though Roscosmos has said that the mission will last 186 days.

"According to the current plan, the duration of our expedition is 177 days. We are expected to return back [on Earth] on April 9 next year if nothing changes," Ryzhikov said at a press conference.

Meanwhile, More than 60 percent of Russian citizens are not ready to be vaccinated against the novel coronavirus to be able to go abroad if vaccination becomes a mandatory condition for travel, according to the results of a recent poll by the travel service website, Tutu.ru.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian cosmonauts set to blast off for the International Space Station said on Thursday it was too early to get a coronavirus vaccine touted by President Vladimir Putin.

Russian cosmonauts set to blast off for the International Space Station said on Thursday it was too early to get a coronavirus vaccine touted by President Vladimir Putin. “I’d personally say that I would not get vaccinated because I tread very carefully on this issue,” said Sergei Ryzhikov, the 46-year-old leader of the next expedition to the ISS in October. The space mission of the next crew to the International Space Station (ISS), which will leave for the ISS aboard the Soyuz MS-17 spacecraft from the Baikonur cosmodrome in October, will last 177 days, Russian Cosmonaut Sergey Ryzhikov, the head of the crew, said on Thursday, though Roscosmos has said that the mission will last 186 days. "According to the current plan, the duration of our expedition is 177 days. We are expected to return back [on Earth] on April 9 next year if nothing changes," Ryzhikov said at a press conference. Meanwhile, More than 60 percent of Russian citizens are not ready to be vaccinated against the novel coronavirus to be able to go abroad if vaccination becomes a mandatory condition for travel, according to the results of a recent poll by the travel service website, Tutu.ru. (With inputs from agencies)

Cosmonauts say not ready to try Russia’s virus vaccine

India on Thursday recorded 95,735 new cases of the coronavirus disease which pushed the overall tally to 44,65,863, according to Union health ministry data.

The number of active cases stand at 9,19,018, while the number of patients discharged from the hospital has reached 34,71,783.

The disease also claimed 1,172 lives in the last 24 hours, which pushed the overall death toll to 75,062, the health ministry data showed.

Meanwhile, a grim global milestone was also reported today as the worldwide toll due to the virus crossed the 9 lakh mark, according to Johns Hopkins tally.

The death toll now stands at 901,050 with 27.7 million total cases and 18.6 million recoveries.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Thursday recorded 95,735 new cases of the coronavirus disease which pushed the overall tally to 44,65,863, according to Union health ministry data. The number of active cases stand at 9,19,018, while the number of patients discharged from the hospital has reached 34,71,783.

India on Thursday recorded 95,735 new cases of the coronavirus disease which pushed the overall tally to 44,65,863, according to Union health ministry data. The number of active cases stand at 9,19,018, while the number of patients discharged from the hospital has reached 34,71,783. The disease also claimed 1,172 lives in the last 24 hours, which pushed the overall death toll to 75,062, the health ministry data showed. Meanwhile, a grim global milestone was also reported today as the worldwide toll due to the virus crossed the 9 lakh mark, according to Johns Hopkins tally. The death toll now stands at 901,050 with 27.7 million total cases and 18.6 million recoveries. (With inputs from agencies)

With 95,735 fresh cases, India records highest ever daily spike; tally breaches 44.6 lakh

Twenty-six scientists, most of them working at universities in Italy, have signed an open letter questioning the reliability of the data presented in the early-stage trial results of the Russian COVID-19 vaccine, named "Sputnik-V".

Addressing the editor of The Lancet, the international peer-reviewed medical journal in which Moscow's Gamaleya Institute published its early-stage trial results, the scientists said they saw patterns in the data that looked "highly unlikely".

The letter, published on the personal blog page of one of the signatories, said the Phase I/II trial results data showed multiple participants reporting identical antibody levels.

"On the ground of simple probabilistic evaluations the fact of observing so many data points preserved among different experiments is highly unlikely," the open letter said.

However, the scientists said they were basing their conclusions on summaries of the Russian trial result data, published in the journal, rather than the original data itself.

"In lack of the original numerical data, no conclusions can be definitively drawn on the reliability of the data presented, especially regarding the apparent duplications detected," the letter said.

The Gamaleya Institute, which developed the vaccine, rejected the critique.

"The published results are authentic and accurate and were examined by five reviewers at The Lancet," Denis Logunov, a deputy director at the institute, said in a statement.

He said his institute submitted the entire body of raw data on the trial results to The Lancet.

"We presented specifically the data that was produced (by the trial), not the data that is supposed to please Italian experts," Logunov said.

Naor Bar-Zeev, deputy director at John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, who peer reviewed the Russian data, defended his analysis of the research.

"Science must maintain a balance between incredulity, skepticism and trust. That trust is borne out through plausibility, repeatability and falsifiability."

"The results are plausible, and not very different to those seen with other AdV vectored products," he said.

The researchers had provided more detail than was needed for the review and responded to his questions "intelligently and in a matter-of-fact and confident but understated manner".

"Bottom line, I saw no reason to doubt the legitimacy of these results over others I have read and reviewed. But of course one can never know," he said in an email.

A spokeswoman for the Lancet said the journal had invited the study's authors to respond to the questions raised in the open letter. It was following the situation closely, she said.

Russia published results on Friday of its Phase I/II trial, which included 76 participants and was conducted in June-July this year. Participants developed a positive immune response and no serious side effects, the study's authors said.

A Phase III trial, involving 40,000 participants, was launched on Aug. 26. Around 31,000 people have already subscribed to take part, Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said.

Twenty-six scientists, most of them working at universities in Italy, have signed an open letter questioning the reliability of the data presented in the early-stage trial results of the Russian COVID-19 vaccine, named "Sputnik-V".

Twenty-six scientists, most of them working at universities in Italy, have signed an open letter questioning the reliability of the data presented in the early-stage trial results of the Russian COVID-19 vaccine, named "Sputnik-V". Addressing the editor of The Lancet, the international peer-reviewed medical journal in which Moscow's Gamaleya Institute published its early-stage trial results, the scientists said they saw patterns in the data that looked "highly unlikely". The letter, published on the personal blog page of one of the signatories, said the Phase I/II trial results data showed multiple participants reporting identical antibody levels. "On the ground of simple probabilistic evaluations the fact of observing so many data points preserved among different experiments is highly unlikely," the open letter said. However, the scientists said they were basing their conclusions on summaries of the Russian trial result data, published in the journal, rather than the original data itself. "In lack of the original numerical data, no conclusions can be definitively drawn on the reliability of the data presented, especially regarding the apparent duplications detected," the letter said. The Gamaleya Institute, which developed the vaccine, rejected the critique. "The published results are authentic and accurate and were examined by five reviewers at The Lancet," Denis Logunov, a deputy director at the institute, said in a statement. He said his institute submitted the entire body of raw data on the trial results to The Lancet. "We presented specifically the data that was produced (by the trial), not the data that is supposed to please Italian experts," Logunov said. Naor Bar-Zeev, deputy director at John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, who peer reviewed the Russian data, defended his analysis of the research. "Science must maintain a balance between incredulity, skepticism and trust. That trust is borne out through plausibility, repeatability and falsifiability." "The results are plausible, and not very different to those seen with other AdV vectored products," he said. The researchers had provided more detail than was needed for the review and responded to his questions "intelligently and in a matter-of-fact and confident but understated manner". "Bottom line, I saw no reason to doubt the legitimacy of these results over others I have read and reviewed. But of course one can never know," he said in an email. A spokeswoman for the Lancet said the journal had invited the study's authors to respond to the questions raised in the open letter. It was following the situation closely, she said. Russia published results on Friday of its Phase I/II trial, which included 76 participants and was conducted in June-July this year. Participants developed a positive immune response and no serious side effects, the study's authors said. A Phase III trial, involving 40,000 participants, was launched on Aug. 26. Around 31,000 people have already subscribed to take part, Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said.

‘Unlikely patterns in Russia vaccine data’: 26 scientists warn in open letter

The government of Britain is banning gatherings of more than six people in England from September 14, as officials try to keep a lid on daily new coronavirus infections after a sharp spike across the UK. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca-voluntarily-pauses-clinical-trials-after-unexplained-illness-326112">Also read | COVID-19 vaccine: AstraZeneca 'voluntarily pauses' clinical trials after unexplained illness</a> 
 
The sharp increase in the number of cases has been largely blamed on party-going young adults disregarding social distancing rules. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-handled-covid-19-openly-and-transparently-xi-jinping-325898" hreflang="en">China handled COVID-19 openly and transparently: Xi Jinping</a>

First offenders will be fined £100, which will double on each further repeat offence up to £3,200.

The new rule does not apply to households or bubbles of more than six, or gatherings for work or education. Weddings, funerals, and organised team sports carried out in a COVID secure way are also exempted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-releases-first-batch-of-covid-19-vaccine-sputnik-v-into-public-325883" hreflang="en">Russia releases first batch of Covid-19 vaccine Sputnik V into public</a>

The full list of exemptions will be revealed by the government before the law changes on Monday.

The number of cases in the United Kingdom has begun to rise sharply again in recent days.

There were 2,460 new infections reported on Tuesday, 2,948 on Monday and 2,988 on Sunday - a sharp rise from levels of around 1,000 per day in August and attributed to high levels of transmission among young people.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which together make up the United Kingdom, set their own lockdown policies.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of Britain is banning gatherings of more than six people in England from September 14, as officials try to keep a lid on daily new coronavirus infections after a sharp spike across the UK.

The government of Britain is banning gatherings of more than six people in England from September 14, as officials try to keep a lid on daily new coronavirus infections after a sharp spike across the UK. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine: AstraZeneca 'voluntarily pauses' clinical trials after unexplained illness The sharp increase in the number of cases has been largely blamed on party-going young adults disregarding social distancing rules. Also read: China handled COVID-19 openly and transparently: Xi Jinping First offenders will be fined £100, which will double on each further repeat offence up to £3,200. The new rule does not apply to households or bubbles of more than six, or gatherings for work or education. Weddings, funerals, and organised team sports carried out in a COVID secure way are also exempted. Also read: Russia releases first batch of Covid-19 vaccine Sputnik V into public The full list of exemptions will be revealed by the government before the law changes on Monday. The number of cases in the United Kingdom has begun to rise sharply again in recent days. There were 2,460 new infections reported on Tuesday, 2,948 on Monday and 2,988 on Sunday - a sharp rise from levels of around 1,000 per day in August and attributed to high levels of transmission among young people. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which together make up the United Kingdom, set their own lockdown policies. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: Social gatherings of more than 6 people banned in England from September 14

The coronavirus pandemic may have driven as many as 47 million women and girls into extreme poverty by 2021 in South Asia.

The report, "From Insights to Action: Gender Equality in the wake of COVID-19", said that the gender poverty gap will worsen further still in South Asia.

According to new data released by the UN, the female poverty rate in South Asia will increase in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more women than men in the 25-34 age group will be poorer in the next decade.

"The expected rise of poverty in South Asia as a result of the economic fallout of the pandemic showcases the vulnerability of women and girls living in households that have only recently been able to escape poverty, the report released on Wednesday said.

The pre-pandemic female poverty rate in South Asia was projected to be 10 per cent in 2021 but is now expected to reach 13 per cent.

"Moreover, before the pandemic, projections for the region suggested that by 2030 only 15.8 per cent of the world's poor women and girls would be living in South Asia.

In the 25-34 age group, there will be 118 poor women for every 100 poor men in South Asia, and that ratio will increase to 129 women for every 100 men by 2030.

Meanwhile, the Washington-based development lender previously estimated that 60 million people would fall into extreme poverty due to COVID-19, but the new estimate puts the deterioration at 70 to 100 million, and he said "that number could go higher" if the pandemic worsens or drags on.

The situation makes it "imperative" that creditors reduce the amount of debt held by poor countries at risk, going beyond the commitment to suspend debt payments, Malpass said in an interview with AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus pandemic may have driven as many as 47 million women and girls into extreme poverty by 2021 in South Asia. The report, "From Insights to Action: Gender Equality in the wake of COVID-19", said that the gender poverty gap will worsen further still in South Asia.

The coronavirus pandemic may have driven as many as 47 million women and girls into extreme poverty by 2021 in South Asia. The report, "From Insights to Action: Gender Equality in the wake of COVID-19", said that the gender poverty gap will worsen further still in South Asia. According to new data released by the UN, the female poverty rate in South Asia will increase in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and more women than men in the 25-34 age group will be poorer in the next decade. "The expected rise of poverty in South Asia as a result of the economic fallout of the pandemic showcases the vulnerability of women and girls living in households that have only recently been able to escape poverty, the report released on Wednesday said. The pre-pandemic female poverty rate in South Asia was projected to be 10 per cent in 2021 but is now expected to reach 13 per cent. "Moreover, before the pandemic, projections for the region suggested that by 2030 only 15.8 per cent of the world's poor women and girls would be living in South Asia. In the 25-34 age group, there will be 118 poor women for every 100 poor men in South Asia, and that ratio will increase to 129 women for every 100 men by 2030. Meanwhile, the Washington-based development lender previously estimated that 60 million people would fall into extreme poverty due to COVID-19, but the new estimate puts the deterioration at 70 to 100 million, and he said "that number could go higher" if the pandemic worsens or drags on. The situation makes it "imperative" that creditors reduce the amount of debt held by poor countries at risk, going beyond the commitment to suspend debt payments, Malpass said in an interview with AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Female poverty rate in South Asia projected to rise due to covid-19: UN 

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday.

The World Economic Forum-Ipsos survey of nearly 20,000 adults from 27 countries also put Indians as the third most optimistic population -- after China and Saudi Arabia -- about a COVID-19 vaccine being available in 2020 itself.

Globally, 74 per cent respondents said they would get a vaccine for COVID-19 if it is available, but more than half (59 per cent) do not expect that one will be available before the end of this year.

Arnaud Bernaert, Head of Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare at the WEF, said, "the 26 per cent shortfall in vaccine confidence is significant enough to compromise the effectiveness of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine.

It is therefore critical that governments and the private sector come together to build confidence and ensure that manufacturing capacity meets the global supply of a COVID-19 vaccination programme.

This will require cooperation between researchers and manufacturers and public funding arrangements that remove restrictions to vaccine access".

The countries where the COVID-19 vaccination intent was found to be the highest are China (97 per cent), Brazil (88 per cent), Australia (88 per cent), and India (87 per cent).

Those where it is lowest are Russia (54 per cent), Poland (56 per cent), Hungary (56 per cent), and France (59 per cent).

However, in most countries, those who agree outnumber those who disagree by a significant margin, the WEF said while announcing the survey results.

Across all 27 countries, 59 per cent respondents disagreed that "a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available to me before the end of 2020".

China stood out for its optimism with 87 per cent of those surveyed expecting a vaccine to be ready this year, followed by Saudi Arabia (75 per cent) and India (74 per cent).

By contrast, skepticism prevails in Germany, Belgium, Japan and Poland where fewer than one in four adults anticipate that a vaccine will be available at some point in the next four months, the WEF said.

The most frequently mentioned reason for not taking a vaccine among those who would not get one is worry about side effects, followed by the perception of effectiveness.

There are also several countries that feel they are not sufficiently at risk and a proportion who are against vaccines in general, the survey results showed.

Geneva-based WEF, which describes itself as an international organisation for public-private cooperation, said the survey was conducted between July 24 and August 7 by Ipsos, the world's third-largest market research firm, on its global advisor online survey platform.

The surveyed countries also included the US, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, South Korea, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy.

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday.

One in four adults globally do not want to get vaccinated against COVID-19, largely due to their apprehensions about side-effects and effectiveness of the vaccine, but the proportion of such people is much less at about 13 per cent in India, a new survey showed on Tuesday. The World Economic Forum-Ipsos survey of nearly 20,000 adults from 27 countries also put Indians as the third most optimistic population -- after China and Saudi Arabia -- about a COVID-19 vaccine being available in 2020 itself. Globally, 74 per cent respondents said they would get a vaccine for COVID-19 if it is available, but more than half (59 per cent) do not expect that one will be available before the end of this year. Arnaud Bernaert, Head of Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare at the WEF, said, "the 26 per cent shortfall in vaccine confidence is significant enough to compromise the effectiveness of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine. It is therefore critical that governments and the private sector come together to build confidence and ensure that manufacturing capacity meets the global supply of a COVID-19 vaccination programme. This will require cooperation between researchers and manufacturers and public funding arrangements that remove restrictions to vaccine access". The countries where the COVID-19 vaccination intent was found to be the highest are China (97 per cent), Brazil (88 per cent), Australia (88 per cent), and India (87 per cent). Those where it is lowest are Russia (54 per cent), Poland (56 per cent), Hungary (56 per cent), and France (59 per cent). However, in most countries, those who agree outnumber those who disagree by a significant margin, the WEF said while announcing the survey results. Across all 27 countries, 59 per cent respondents disagreed that "a vaccine for COVID-19 will be available to me before the end of 2020". China stood out for its optimism with 87 per cent of those surveyed expecting a vaccine to be ready this year, followed by Saudi Arabia (75 per cent) and India (74 per cent). By contrast, skepticism prevails in Germany, Belgium, Japan and Poland where fewer than one in four adults anticipate that a vaccine will be available at some point in the next four months, the WEF said. The most frequently mentioned reason for not taking a vaccine among those who would not get one is worry about side effects, followed by the perception of effectiveness. There are also several countries that feel they are not sufficiently at risk and a proportion who are against vaccines in general, the survey results showed. Geneva-based WEF, which describes itself as an international organisation for public-private cooperation, said the survey was conducted between July 24 and August 7 by Ipsos, the world's third-largest market research firm, on its global advisor online survey platform. The surveyed countries also included the US, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, Turkey, South Korea, Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy.

One in four adults globally do not want COVID-19 vaccination: Survey