<p>One in two Germans have received at least one dose of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, health authorities said Friday, warning against complacency as the Delta variant is expected to become the dominant strain.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> variant first identified in India, now spreading fast in Britain and elsewhere, has doubled to just over 6 per cent of all new infections in&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;during the week ending June 6 from the previous seven days.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-dancing-like-theres-no-corona-first-german-nightclub-reopens-391252">Dancing like there's no corona: First German nightclub reopens</a></strong></p>

<p>"By the autumn, it will be the dominant strain," said Lothar Wieler, who heads the disease control agency RKI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was "biologically logical" for the strain to become dominant simply because it was more infectious, he said.</p>

<p>Data from Britain, which has one of the fastest vaccination campaigns in the world, show that inoculation helps prevent serious disease.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-demands-replacement-of-60-million-contaminated-jj-vaccine-doses-391456">Germany demands replacement of 60 million contaminated J&amp;J vaccine doses</a></strong></p>

<p>Nevertheless, "that is valid only for fully vaccinated people," said Wieler, noting that those who have received only one jab could still catch the variant and spread it.</p>

<p>Around 29 percent of Germans are fully vaccinated.</p>

<p>Germany&nbsp;has eased most restrictions, reopening restaurants, shops, pools and museums in the last weeks as new infections dip sharply.</p>

<p>On Friday, it recorded 1,076 new cases, while the the number of new cases over a seven day period continued to drop to 10 per 100,000 people.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-decline-in-covid-cases-germany-prepares-for-concerts-open-air-gigs-386928">With decline in covid cases, Germany prepares for concerts, open-air gigs</a></strong></p>

<p>Wieler said however that it was necessary to keep wearing masks indoors, such as on public transport or at offices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have achieved really good results but the virus is still active and please let us give this virus no chance," he urged.</p>


One in two Germans have received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, health authorities said Friday, warning against complacency as the Delta variant is expected to become the dominant strain.

One in two Germans have received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, health authorities said Friday, warning against complacency as the Delta variant is expected to become the dominant strain. The Covid variant first identified in India, now spreading fast in Britain and elsewhere, has doubled to just over 6 per cent of all new infections in Germany during the week ending June 6 from the previous seven days. Also read | Dancing like there's no corona: First German nightclub reopens "By the autumn, it will be the dominant strain," said Lothar Wieler, who heads the disease control agency RKI. It was "biologically logical" for the strain to become dominant simply because it was more infectious, he said. Data from Britain, which has one of the fastest vaccination campaigns in the world, show that inoculation helps prevent serious disease. Also read | Germany demands replacement of 60 million contaminated J&J vaccine doses Nevertheless, "that is valid only for fully vaccinated people," said Wieler, noting that those who have received only one jab could still catch the variant and spread it. Around 29 percent of Germans are fully vaccinated. Germany has eased most restrictions, reopening restaurants, shops, pools and museums in the last weeks as new infections dip sharply. On Friday, it recorded 1,076 new cases, while the the number of new cases over a seven day period continued to drop to 10 per 100,000 people. Also read | With decline in covid cases, Germany prepares for concerts, open-air gigs Wieler said however that it was necessary to keep wearing masks indoors, such as on public transport or at offices. "We have achieved really good results but the virus is still active and please let us give this virus no chance," he urged.

Half of Germans have first jab but variant fuels fears

<p>Trade unions warn about a "social tsunami", left-wing parties of a "massacre for employment", the imminent end of&nbsp;Italy's coronavirus freeze on layoffs is causing tensions in Mario Draghi's national unity government.</p>

<p>Supporters say the freeze, which is unique in Europe, saved thousands of jobs after the pandemic plunged&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;into a deep recession, but the European Union has been disparaging, and employers are angling for its end.</p>

<p>Companies were first banned from sacking workers under former premier Giuseppe Conte in February 2020, when a wave of COVID-19 sparked Europe's first nationwide lockdown in&nbsp;Italy. The measure was later extended.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-battered-italy-faces-worst-recession-since-wwii-301977">Virus-battered Italy faces worst recession since WWII</a></strong></p>

<p>When Draghi took office in February this year, he said the government "should protect workers... but it would be a mistake to protect all economic activities equally", saying there must be a "choice".</p>

<p>The European Commission entered the fray this month, denouncing the ban on layoffs as "counterproductive" as it protects employees on long-term contracts but not those in more precarious jobs, notably women and young people.</p>

<p>It asserted that in France and Germany, which instead offered financial support for people whose hours were cut by struggling companies, the effects of the pandemic on employment have been less severe than in&nbsp;Italy.</p>

<p>Coronavirus cases are now on the wane and&nbsp;Italy's freeze is due to expire at the end of June for the biggest companies, notably in industry and construction, although small and medium-sized firms, particularly in services, have until the end of October.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-new-government-will-overhaul-renzi-labour-reform-minister-says-141946">Italy's new government will overhaul Renzi labour reform, minister says</a></strong></p>

<p>The members of Draghi's coalition government, who rallied around the former European Central Bank chief after Conte's government collapsed, are divided on the subject.</p>

<p>The biggest party in parliament, the Five Star Movement, has echoed trade unions in calling for a further extension of the layoff ban for everyone, while far-right League leader Matteo Salvini wants companies to take back the "freedom to hire".</p>

<p>Labour Minister Andrea Orlando, from the centre-left Democratic Party (PD), last month raised the prospect of an extension under certain conditions until August, before back-tracking under pressure from employers.</p>

<p><strong>'A million more unemployed'&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The minister for economic development, Giancarlo Giorgetti, a member of the League, has instead proposed extending the freeze for the hardest-hit sectors, such as textiles.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-covid-caused-such-suffering-in-italys-wealthiest-region-344552">Why COVID caused such suffering in Italy's wealthiest region</a></strong></p>

<p>The fear is that&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;could face a wave of redundancies when the ban ends.</p>

<p>"The most realistic estimates point to 70,000 to 100,000 layoffs, which is certainly not negligible, but is not enormous," Francesco Seghezzi, head of the Adapt Foundation, which specialises in research on employment, told AFP.</p>

<p>Trade unions fear the numbers could be much higher, warning of "a million more unemployed", while the Bank of&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;estimates 440,000 jobs were saved in 2020 thanks to the rule.</p>

<p>Despite the ban, there were 550,000 layoffs in&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;in 2020, as those related to disciplinary issues or the closure of companies were exempt.</p>

<p>There are also hundreds of thousands of workers in more precarious jobs whose contracts were not renewed.&nbsp;In total, almost a million jobs were lost last year in&nbsp;Italy.</p>

<p>The unemployment rate reached 10.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2021, the highest since the beginning of 2019. Among the 15-24 age group, it rose to 39.2 per cent for women and 32.7 per cent for men.</p>

<p>But the economy is picking up steam once again and some sectors such as manufacturing and construction are struggling to find staff owing to a lack of skilled recruits.</p>

<p>Almost 1.3 million jobs, most of them temporary, need to be filled between June and August, according to the Union of Chamber of Commerce (Unioncamere).</p>

<p>Confindustria,&nbsp;Italy's main employers' organisation, has forecast economic growth of around five per cent in 2021, a prediction shared by the Bank of&nbsp;Italy.</p>

<p>Confindustria president Carlo Bonomi believes the conditions are ripe for a "little economic miracle".</p>

<p>"The signs of economic recovery are so encouraging that the lifting of the ban on layoffs could have a less dramatic impact than initially feared," David Benassi, professor of sociology at the University of Milano-Bicocca, told AFP.</p>


Trade unions warn about a "social tsunami", left-wing parties of a "massacre for employment", the imminent end of Italy's coronavirus freeze on layoffs is causing tensions in Mario Draghi's national unity government.

Trade unions warn about a "social tsunami", left-wing parties of a "massacre for employment", the imminent end of Italy's coronavirus freeze on layoffs is causing tensions in Mario Draghi's national unity government. Supporters say the freeze, which is unique in Europe, saved thousands of jobs after the pandemic plunged Italy into a deep recession, but the European Union has been disparaging, and employers are angling for its end. Companies were first banned from sacking workers under former premier Giuseppe Conte in February 2020, when a wave of COVID-19 sparked Europe's first nationwide lockdown in Italy. The measure was later extended. Also read | Virus-battered Italy faces worst recession since WWII When Draghi took office in February this year, he said the government "should protect workers... but it would be a mistake to protect all economic activities equally", saying there must be a "choice". The European Commission entered the fray this month, denouncing the ban on layoffs as "counterproductive" as it protects employees on long-term contracts but not those in more precarious jobs, notably women and young people. It asserted that in France and Germany, which instead offered financial support for people whose hours were cut by struggling companies, the effects of the pandemic on employment have been less severe than in Italy. Coronavirus cases are now on the wane and Italy's freeze is due to expire at the end of June for the biggest companies, notably in industry and construction, although small and medium-sized firms, particularly in services, have until the end of October. Also read | Italy's new government will overhaul Renzi labour reform, minister says The members of Draghi's coalition government, who rallied around the former European Central Bank chief after Conte's government collapsed, are divided on the subject. The biggest party in parliament, the Five Star Movement, has echoed trade unions in calling for a further extension of the layoff ban for everyone, while far-right League leader Matteo Salvini wants companies to take back the "freedom to hire". Labour Minister Andrea Orlando, from the centre-left Democratic Party (PD), last month raised the prospect of an extension under certain conditions until August, before back-tracking under pressure from employers. 'A million more unemployed' The minister for economic development, Giancarlo Giorgetti, a member of the League, has instead proposed extending the freeze for the hardest-hit sectors, such as textiles. Also read | Why COVID caused such suffering in Italy's wealthiest region The fear is that Italy could face a wave of redundancies when the ban ends. "The most realistic estimates point to 70,000 to 100,000 layoffs, which is certainly not negligible, but is not enormous," Francesco Seghezzi, head of the Adapt Foundation, which specialises in research on employment, told AFP. Trade unions fear the numbers could be much higher, warning of "a million more unemployed", while the Bank of Italy estimates 440,000 jobs were saved in 2020 thanks to the rule. Despite the ban, there were 550,000 layoffs in Italy in 2020, as those related to disciplinary issues or the closure of companies were exempt. There are also hundreds of thousands of workers in more precarious jobs whose contracts were not renewed. In total, almost a million jobs were lost last year in Italy. The unemployment rate reached 10.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2021, the highest since the beginning of 2019. Among the 15-24 age group, it rose to 39.2 per cent for women and 32.7 per cent for men. But the economy is picking up steam once again and some sectors such as manufacturing and construction are struggling to find staff owing to a lack of skilled recruits. Almost 1.3 million jobs, most of them temporary, need to be filled between June and August, according to the Union of Chamber of Commerce (Unioncamere). Confindustria, Italy's main employers' organisation, has forecast economic growth of around five per cent in 2021, a prediction shared by the Bank of Italy. Confindustria president Carlo Bonomi believes the conditions are ripe for a "little economic miracle". "The signs of economic recovery are so encouraging that the lifting of the ban on layoffs could have a less dramatic impact than initially feared," David Benassi, professor of sociology at the University of Milano-Bicocca, told AFP.

'Massacre of unemployment' feared as Italy eyes end to Covid ban on layoffs

<p>Europe's drug regulator on Friday identified another very rare blood condition as a potential side effect of AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> and said it was looking into cases of heart inflammation after inoculation with all coronavirus shots.</p>

<p>The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) safety committee said that capillary leak syndrome (CLS) must be added as a new side effect to labelling on AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> vaccine, known as Vaxzevria.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trust-in-astrazeneca-vaccine-is-shaken-in-europe-371386">Trust in AstraZeneca vaccine is shaken in Europe</a></strong></p>

<p>People who had previously sustained the condition, where fluids leak from the smallest blood vessels causing swelling and a drop in blood pressure, should not receive the shot, the EMA added.</p>

<p>The regulator first began looking into these cases in April and the recommendation adds to AstraZeneca's woes after its vaccine was associated with very rare and potentially lethal cases of blood clotting that come with a low platelet count.</p>

<p>Last month, the EMA had advised against giving a second AstraZeneca shot to people with that clotting condition, known as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/after-admitting-mistake-astrazeneca-faces-difficult-questions-about-its-vaccine-345516">After admitting mistake, AstraZeneca faces difficult questions about its vaccine</a></strong></p>

<p>The committee reviewed six validated cases of CLS in people, mostly women, who had received Vaxzevria, including one death. Three had a history of the condition.</p>

<p>More than 78 million Vaxzevria doses have been administered in the European Union, Liechtenstein, Iceland &amp; Norway and Britain.</p>

<p>In a statement, AstraZeneca pointed to the extreme rarity of CLS cases, at less than 1 in 10 million vaccinated individuals.</p>

<p>"We are working actively, in collaboration with regulatory authorities, on risk minimization measures... that includes information to those being vaccinated...information to drive early diagnosis and intervention, and appropriate treatment," the company said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-is-no-longer-wests-favourite-jab-384178">AstraZeneca Covid vaccine is no longer West's favourite jab</a></strong></p>

<p>Britain’s regulator, the MHRA said it was considering precautionary advice for people with a history of CLS but does not see a causal link with the vaccine.</p>

<p>Two of eight reports of capillary leak syndrome following AstraZeneca vaccination in the UK were in people with a history of the condition, and 40 million doses of the vaccine had been given, it said.</p>

<p>Separately, the EMA said it was continuing its probe into cases of heart inflammation known as myocarditis and pericarditis, primarily following inoculation with the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA shots, but also after the J&amp;J and AstraZeneca vaccines.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-probes-blood-clot-cases-after-astrazeneca-vaccine-suspension-370309">Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension</a></strong></p>

<p>US&nbsp;health officials said on Thursday they had registered a higher-than-expected number of heart inflammation cases in young men who received a second dose of the mRNA shots, though a causal relationship could not be established.</p>

<p>Israel’s Health Ministry said this month it had found a likely link to the condition in young men who received the Pfizer/BioNTech shot.</p>

<p>Both Pfizer and Moderna have acknowledged the observations but said a causal association with their vaccines has not been established.</p>

<p>BioNTech said adverse events, including myocarditis and pericarditis, are being regularly and thoroughly reviewed by the companies and regulatory authorities.</p>

<p>"More than 300 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> vaccine have been administered globally and the benefit risk profile of our vaccine remains positive."</p>

<p>The United States and Israel have been months ahead of the EU in vaccinating men below 30, who are particularly prone to heart inflammation, giving them potentially more cases to analyse.</p>


Europe's drug regulator on Friday identified another very rare blood condition as a potential side effect of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine and said it was looking into cases of heart inflammation after inoculation with all coronavirus shots.

Europe's drug regulator on Friday identified another very rare blood condition as a potential side effect of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine and said it was looking into cases of heart inflammation after inoculation with all coronavirus shots. The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) safety committee said that capillary leak syndrome (CLS) must be added as a new side effect to labelling on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, known as Vaxzevria. Also read | Trust in AstraZeneca vaccine is shaken in Europe People who had previously sustained the condition, where fluids leak from the smallest blood vessels causing swelling and a drop in blood pressure, should not receive the shot, the EMA added. The regulator first began looking into these cases in April and the recommendation adds to AstraZeneca's woes after its vaccine was associated with very rare and potentially lethal cases of blood clotting that come with a low platelet count. Last month, the EMA had advised against giving a second AstraZeneca shot to people with that clotting condition, known as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS). Also read | After admitting mistake, AstraZeneca faces difficult questions about its vaccine The committee reviewed six validated cases of CLS in people, mostly women, who had received Vaxzevria, including one death. Three had a history of the condition. More than 78 million Vaxzevria doses have been administered in the European Union, Liechtenstein, Iceland & Norway and Britain. In a statement, AstraZeneca pointed to the extreme rarity of CLS cases, at less than 1 in 10 million vaccinated individuals. "We are working actively, in collaboration with regulatory authorities, on risk minimization measures... that includes information to those being vaccinated...information to drive early diagnosis and intervention, and appropriate treatment," the company said. Also read | AstraZeneca Covid vaccine is no longer West's favourite jab Britain’s regulator, the MHRA said it was considering precautionary advice for people with a history of CLS but does not see a causal link with the vaccine. Two of eight reports of capillary leak syndrome following AstraZeneca vaccination in the UK were in people with a history of the condition, and 40 million doses of the vaccine had been given, it said. Separately, the EMA said it was continuing its probe into cases of heart inflammation known as myocarditis and pericarditis, primarily following inoculation with the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA shots, but also after the J&J and AstraZeneca vaccines. Also read | Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension US health officials said on Thursday they had registered a higher-than-expected number of heart inflammation cases in young men who received a second dose of the mRNA shots, though a causal relationship could not be established. Israel’s Health Ministry said this month it had found a likely link to the condition in young men who received the Pfizer/BioNTech shot. Both Pfizer and Moderna have acknowledged the observations but said a causal association with their vaccines has not been established. BioNTech said adverse events, including myocarditis and pericarditis, are being regularly and thoroughly reviewed by the companies and regulatory authorities. "More than 300 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine have been administered globally and the benefit risk profile of our vaccine remains positive." The United States and Israel have been months ahead of the EU in vaccinating men below 30, who are particularly prone to heart inflammation, giving them potentially more cases to analyse.

EU adds another rare blood condition as side effect of AstraZeneca shot

<p>United Kingdom’s Health Minister Matt Hancock on Sunday said that it is still too early to say whether the government would lift all Covid restrictions in England on June 21 as planned.</p>

<p>Hancock referred to a “very significant” impact from the delta variant of coronavirus which was first detected in India last month. Officials claim that it is now the dominant strain in England. Hancock said that the number of coronavirus cases in the country have jumped, but stated how hospitalisations and deaths continue to remain “flat”.</p>

<p>"It's too early to make a final decision on that," Hancock told Sky News. "The prime minister and I and the team will be looking at all the data over this week. We've said that we'll give people enough time ahead of the June 21 date… We are not saying 'No' to June 21 at this point," he added.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-reports-zero-covid-19-deaths-for-the-first-time-since-july-2020-388963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Hancock stressed on the importance of getting both the jabs of COVID-19 vaccine, which have been proven to work against the delta variant. He added that the quick vaccine rollout in the country had weakened but not broken the link between the virus, hospitalisation and death.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uks-johnson-calls-on-g7-to-vaccinate-world-by-end-of-2022-389687" hreflang="en">UK's Johnson calls on G7 to vaccinate world by end of 2022</a></p>

<p>United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week that nothing in the data points to potential derailment of the restriction lifting plans in the country, but urged people to exercise caution.</p>

<p>Britain is among the world’s hardest hit countries with a death toll of 127,836 - the sixth-highest in the world, according to the Johns Hopkins University.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-approves-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-for-12-to-15-year-olds-389483" hreflang="en">UK approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for 12 to 15-year-olds</a></p>


United Kingdom’s Health Minister Matt Hancock on Sunday said that it is still too early to say whether the government would lift all Covid restrictions in England on June 21 as planned.

United Kingdom’s Health Minister Matt Hancock on Sunday said that it is still too early to say whether the government would lift all Covid restrictions in England on June 21 as planned. Hancock referred to a “very significant” impact from the delta variant of coronavirus which was first detected in India last month. Officials claim that it is now the dominant strain in England. Hancock said that the number of coronavirus cases in the country have jumped, but stated how hospitalisations and deaths continue to remain “flat”. "It's too early to make a final decision on that," Hancock told Sky News. "The prime minister and I and the team will be looking at all the data over this week. We've said that we'll give people enough time ahead of the June 21 date… We are not saying 'No' to June 21 at this point," he added. Hancock stressed on the importance of getting both the jabs of COVID-19 vaccine, which have been proven to work against the delta variant. He added that the quick vaccine rollout in the country had weakened but not broken the link between the virus, hospitalisation and death. Also read: UK's Johnson calls on G7 to vaccinate world by end of 2022 United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week that nothing in the data points to potential derailment of the restriction lifting plans in the country, but urged people to exercise caution. Britain is among the world’s hardest hit countries with a death toll of 127,836 - the sixth-highest in the world, according to the Johns Hopkins University. Also read: UK approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for 12 to 15-year-olds

Too soon to say if lockdown in England will end as planned, says Health Minister Hancock

<p>A new report launched by UNESCO highlights the need for policy measures to reach gender parity in the cultural and creative industries, despite recent progress in promoting gender equality.<br />
<br />
The report titled 'Gender &amp; Creativity: Progress on the Precipice' explores existing, and at times widening, gender gaps in the field, notably in the context of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, and calls for a new commitment and transformative actions to promote gender equality.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-hungary-push-against-gender-equality-at-eu-social-summit-383530">Poland, Hungary push against 'gender equality' at EU social summit</a></strong><br />
<br />
The digital divide remains a pressing concern, with women disproportionately facing obstacles to access digital tools for artistic creation and distribution, including digital music platforms, online tutorials, and sound-mixing software. For example, it is estimated that worldwide, 250 million fewer women than men use the Internet, and women still represent only 21 per cent of performers in electronic music festivals in Europe and North America, said UNESCO in a statement.<br />
<br />
"From the technological perspective, the digital gender divide is leaving women and girls behind in all areas of political, economic, cultural and social life, resulting in isolation and limited access to tools and reliable information. Achieving gender equality will mean overcoming these vulnerabilities, and this is especially so for women working in the cultural and creative sectors," says UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-tokyo-2020-chief-needs-deep-understanding-of-gender-equality-organisers-364037">New Tokyo 2020 chief needs deep understanding of gender equality: Organisers</a></strong><br />
<br />
The report also highlights innovative gender policies, measures and programmes from around the world that can serve as a model for policymakers.<br />
<br />
According to UNESCO, gender equality is fundamental to ensuring a genuine diversity of cultural expressions and equal opportunities in artistic work and cultural employment.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/towards-a-gender-equal-world-a-mission-for-all-345415">Towards a gender-equal world: A mission for all</a></strong><br />
<br />
Qualitative and quantitative data, however, reveals that women and gender diverse artists and creators continue to face numerous barriers, including unequal access to decent work, fair remuneration, and leadership positions.<br />
<br />
In Uruguay, for example, it is estimated that women occupy 25 per cent of managerial positions in public and private cultural organisations, 24 per cent in Montenegro and only 3 per cent in Mali.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-equality-swiss-army-to-start-issuing-female-underwear-for-women-recruits-374452">Gender equality: Swiss Army to start issuing female underwear for women recruits</a></strong><br />
<br />
In Indonesia, a recent study shows that while female professionals are advancing in the film industry as a whole, they are still largely underrepresented in creative decision-making roles, representing only 20 per cent of scriptwriters, 19 per cent of producers and 7 per cent of directors. In France, where women direct 34 per cent of visual and performing arts organisations subsidized by the Ministry of Culture and 43 per cent of museums, only 9 per cent of directors of the 100 largest cultural enterprises are women.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-have-to-wait-1356-years-to-be-on-equal-footing-with-men-world-economic-forum-374431">Women have to wait 135.6 years to be on equal footing with men: World Economic Forum</a></strong><br />
<br />
The report also examines the safety and well-being of people of all genders in the workplace. Women and gender-diverse artists and creative professionals continue to be the targets of harassment, bullying and abuse. In recent years, the digital environment has become the new frontier in the fight for gender equality and artistic freedom.<br />
<br />
According to Lisabona Rahman, founder of the Sinematik Gak Harus Toxic (Cinema does not Need to be Toxic) campaign in Indonesia, "The prevailing demeaning attitude towards women is the source of harassment and abuse and as long as men continue to dominate powerful positions in the industry and perpetuate heteronormativity, it will not end."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ranks-153rd-out-of-156-countries-on-gender-inequality-374608">Pakistan ranks 153rd out of 156 countries on gender inequality</a></strong>&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The overwhelmingly negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender equality is well-documented, from the rise in gender-based violence, the disproportionate absence of girl children from online classes, to female professionals` limited eligibility for social and economic assistance. Although women have played a key role in responding to the crisis, gender inequalities have widened across the board, says UNESCO.<br />
<br />
According to the report, without the systematic application of a gender perspective to policy responses, COVID-19 could have a long-lasting regressive effect on gender equality in the cultural and creative industries, as women are disproportionately represented in culture and other sectors most affected by the pandemic.</p>


A new report launched by UNESCO highlights the need for policy measures to reach gender parity in the cultural and creative industries, despite recent progress in promoting gender equality.

A new report launched by UNESCO highlights the need for policy measures to reach gender parity in the cultural and creative industries, despite recent progress in promoting gender equality. The report titled 'Gender & Creativity: Progress on the Precipice' explores existing, and at times widening, gender gaps in the field, notably in the context of COVID-19, and calls for a new commitment and transformative actions to promote gender equality. Also Read | Poland, Hungary push against 'gender equality' at EU social summit The digital divide remains a pressing concern, with women disproportionately facing obstacles to access digital tools for artistic creation and distribution, including digital music platforms, online tutorials, and sound-mixing software. For example, it is estimated that worldwide, 250 million fewer women than men use the Internet, and women still represent only 21 per cent of performers in electronic music festivals in Europe and North America, said UNESCO in a statement. "From the technological perspective, the digital gender divide is leaving women and girls behind in all areas of political, economic, cultural and social life, resulting in isolation and limited access to tools and reliable information. Achieving gender equality will mean overcoming these vulnerabilities, and this is especially so for women working in the cultural and creative sectors," says UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. Also Read | New Tokyo 2020 chief needs deep understanding of gender equality: Organisers The report also highlights innovative gender policies, measures and programmes from around the world that can serve as a model for policymakers. According to UNESCO, gender equality is fundamental to ensuring a genuine diversity of cultural expressions and equal opportunities in artistic work and cultural employment. Also Read | Towards a gender-equal world: A mission for all Qualitative and quantitative data, however, reveals that women and gender diverse artists and creators continue to face numerous barriers, including unequal access to decent work, fair remuneration, and leadership positions. In Uruguay, for example, it is estimated that women occupy 25 per cent of managerial positions in public and private cultural organisations, 24 per cent in Montenegro and only 3 per cent in Mali. Also Read | Gender equality: Swiss Army to start issuing female underwear for women recruits In Indonesia, a recent study shows that while female professionals are advancing in the film industry as a whole, they are still largely underrepresented in creative decision-making roles, representing only 20 per cent of scriptwriters, 19 per cent of producers and 7 per cent of directors. In France, where women direct 34 per cent of visual and performing arts organisations subsidized by the Ministry of Culture and 43 per cent of museums, only 9 per cent of directors of the 100 largest cultural enterprises are women. Also Read | Women have to wait 135.6 years to be on equal footing with men: World Economic Forum The report also examines the safety and well-being of people of all genders in the workplace. Women and gender-diverse artists and creative professionals continue to be the targets of harassment, bullying and abuse. In recent years, the digital environment has become the new frontier in the fight for gender equality and artistic freedom. According to Lisabona Rahman, founder of the Sinematik Gak Harus Toxic (Cinema does not Need to be Toxic) campaign in Indonesia, "The prevailing demeaning attitude towards women is the source of harassment and abuse and as long as men continue to dominate powerful positions in the industry and perpetuate heteronormativity, it will not end." Also Read | Pakistan ranks 153rd out of 156 countries on gender inequality The overwhelmingly negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender equality is well-documented, from the rise in gender-based violence, the disproportionate absence of girl children from online classes, to female professionals` limited eligibility for social and economic assistance. Although women have played a key role in responding to the crisis, gender inequalities have widened across the board, says UNESCO. According to the report, without the systematic application of a gender perspective to policy responses, COVID-19 could have a long-lasting regressive effect on gender equality in the cultural and creative industries, as women are disproportionately represented in culture and other sectors most affected by the pandemic.

UNESCO reports persistent gender bias in cultural, creative industries

<p>The Delta variant of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, or the B1.617.2 highly transmissible <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kappa-delta-who-releases-greek-nomenclature-for-covid-variants-including-ones-found-in-india-388657">variant of concern (VOC)</a> first identified in India, has now become the dominant VOC in the UK as infections rose by 5,472 in a week to hit a total of 12,431, health officials in Britain said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Public Health England (PHE), which monitors all COVID variants in the country, said that experts now believe that Delta has now overtaken Alpha;&nbsp;the VOC first detected in the Kent region of England.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-agrees-to-add-japan-to-safe-travel-list-holds-off-on-britain-over-concerns-of-delta-variant-389198">EU agrees to add Japan to safe travel list, holds off on Britain over concerns of Delta variant</a></p>

<p>PHE also said that early evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of hospitalisation with Delta compared to Alpha, although more data is needed to have a more definitive view on that.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-kingdom-pm-boris-johnson-cautious-about-lifting-lockdown-389211/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"With this variant now dominant across the UK, it remains vital that we all continue to exercise as much caution as possible," said Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive, UK Health Security Agency.</p>

<p>"The way to tackle variants is to tackle the transmission of COVID-19 as a whole. Work from home where you can, and practice 'hands, face, space, fresh air' at all times. If you are eligible and have not already done so, please come forward to be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a> and make sure you get your second jab. It will save lives," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signs-of-an-early-wave-uk-grapples-with-unlock-measures-amid-third-wave-fears-388604">'Signs of an early wave': UK grapples with unlock measures amid third wave fears</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the breakdown of official figures, this week 278 people with the Delta variant attended hospital in an emergency.&nbsp;Last week, 201 people attended the hospital.</p>

<p>"Once again, the majority of these had not been vaccinated," PHE said.</p>

<p>The areas most affected by the Delta variant remain in the northwest of England with Bolton, where cases have risen by 795 to 2149, and Blackburn with Darwen which has seen 368 new cases, bringing it to 724 in total.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-seeks-extra-astrazeneca-shots-to-combat-beta-covid-19-variant-389061">Britain seeks extra AstraZeneca shots to combat Beta COVID-19 variant</a></strong></p>

<p>PHE said there are 'encouraging signs' that the transmission rate in Bolton has begun to fall and that the actions taken by residents and local authority teams have been successful in reducing spread.</p>

<p>Experts continue to urge people to, remain cautious,&nbsp;as the country approaches the next stage of the roadmap, with June 21 scheduled as a date for an end of all lockdown restrictions.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-coronavirus-variants-are-coming-warn-scientists-behind-modernas-covid-vaccine-388394">'New coronavirus variants are coming', warn scientists behind Moderna's Covid vaccine</a></strong></p>

<p>"Variant cases are on the increase in several areas and it is absolutely crucial that everyone plays their part in preventing their spread," PHE said.</p>

<p>In Bolton, local teams have gone door to door in targeted areas on consecutive weekends to distribute test kits, share vital safety messages and encourage people to get the vaccine at a local drop-in centre.</p>

<p>Take up of both testing and the vaccine was described as "positive".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-vaccine-passport-plans-to-be-scrapped-the-telegraph-388486">UK vaccine passport plans to be scrapped: The Telegraph</a></strong></p>

<p>Blackburn with Darwen has also seen local teams making door-to-door visits, and over 10,000 additional PCR tests have been given out.</p>

<p>Mobile testing units have been deployed to the area and wastewater sampling continues, in order to track the spread of the variant.</p>

<p>PHE said its health protection teams continue to work with local authorities and schools to carry out surveillance of COVID-19 cases in schools to understand and reduce transmission in these settings.&nbsp;</p>


The Delta variant of COVID-19, or the B1.617.2 highly transmissible variant of concern (VOC) first identified in India, has now become the dominant VOC in the UK as infections rose by 5,472 in a week to hit a total of 12,431, health officials in Britain said on Thursday.

The Delta variant of COVID-19, or the B1.617.2 highly transmissible variant of concern (VOC) first identified in India, has now become the dominant VOC in the UK as infections rose by 5,472 in a week to hit a total of 12,431, health officials in Britain said on Thursday. Public Health England (PHE), which monitors all COVID variants in the country, said that experts now believe that Delta has now overtaken Alpha; the VOC first detected in the Kent region of England. Also Read | EU agrees to add Japan to safe travel list, holds off on Britain over concerns of Delta variant PHE also said that early evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of hospitalisation with Delta compared to Alpha, although more data is needed to have a more definitive view on that. "With this variant now dominant across the UK, it remains vital that we all continue to exercise as much caution as possible," said Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive, UK Health Security Agency. "The way to tackle variants is to tackle the transmission of COVID-19 as a whole. Work from home where you can, and practice 'hands, face, space, fresh air' at all times. If you are eligible and have not already done so, please come forward to be vaccinated and make sure you get your second jab. It will save lives," she said. Also Read | 'Signs of an early wave': UK grapples with unlock measures amid third wave fears According to the breakdown of official figures, this week 278 people with the Delta variant attended hospital in an emergency. Last week, 201 people attended the hospital. "Once again, the majority of these had not been vaccinated," PHE said. The areas most affected by the Delta variant remain in the northwest of England with Bolton, where cases have risen by 795 to 2149, and Blackburn with Darwen which has seen 368 new cases, bringing it to 724 in total. Also Read | Britain seeks extra AstraZeneca shots to combat Beta COVID-19 variant PHE said there are 'encouraging signs' that the transmission rate in Bolton has begun to fall and that the actions taken by residents and local authority teams have been successful in reducing spread. Experts continue to urge people to, remain cautious, as the country approaches the next stage of the roadmap, with June 21 scheduled as a date for an end of all lockdown restrictions. Also Read | 'New coronavirus variants are coming', warn scientists behind Moderna's Covid vaccine "Variant cases are on the increase in several areas and it is absolutely crucial that everyone plays their part in preventing their spread," PHE said. In Bolton, local teams have gone door to door in targeted areas on consecutive weekends to distribute test kits, share vital safety messages and encourage people to get the vaccine at a local drop-in centre. Take up of both testing and the vaccine was described as "positive". Also Read | UK vaccine passport plans to be scrapped: The Telegraph Blackburn with Darwen has also seen local teams making door-to-door visits, and over 10,000 additional PCR tests have been given out. Mobile testing units have been deployed to the area and wastewater sampling continues, in order to track the spread of the variant. PHE said its health protection teams continue to work with local authorities and schools to carry out surveillance of COVID-19 cases in schools to understand and reduce transmission in these settings.

Covid-19 Delta variant now dominant in UK as cases rise by 5,472 in a week

<p>Australia's&nbsp;Victoria&nbsp;state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp;virus&nbsp;variant&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;in the&nbsp;latest&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in&nbsp;cases.</p>

<p>"That&nbsp;variant&nbsp;is the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant, it is now infamous in India and increasingly found in the United Kingdom. It is a&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of significant concern,"&nbsp;Victoria&nbsp;state Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told reporters in Melbourne.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-one-of-three-strains-of-b1617-variant-now-a-variant-of-concern-who-388917">Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO</a></strong></p>

<p>Sutton said the new&nbsp;variant&nbsp;had not been linked to any sequenced&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;infection&nbsp;cases&nbsp;across Australia from hotel quarantine or elsewhere.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-says-only-one-strain-of-delta-variant-is-now-of-concern-388961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In Canberra, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that he had agreed with the&nbsp;Victorian government to develop a new quarantine facility in Melbourne, and wanted to see mandatory <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> for aged care workers across the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-victoria-state-lockdown-end-date-in-doubt-after-new-covid-19-cases-388785">Australia: Victoria state lockdown end date in doubt after new COVID-19 cases</a></strong></p>

<p>Four new locally acquired&nbsp;cases&nbsp;were reported on Friday, versus three a day earlier.</p>


Australia's Victoria state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious Delta COVID-19 virus variant for the first time in the latest outbreak in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in cases.

Australia's Victoria state authorities said on Friday they had detected the highly infectious Delta COVID-19 virus variant for the first time in the latest outbreak in Melbourne, stoking concerns of a major spike in cases. "That variant is the Delta variant, it is now infamous in India and increasingly found in the United Kingdom. It is a variant of significant concern," Victoria state Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told reporters in Melbourne. Also Read | Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO Sutton said the new variant had not been linked to any sequenced COVID-19 infection cases across Australia from hotel quarantine or elsewhere. In Canberra, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that he had agreed with the Victorian government to develop a new quarantine facility in Melbourne, and wanted to see mandatory vaccination for aged care workers across the country. Also Read | Australia: Victoria state lockdown end date in doubt after new COVID-19 cases Four new locally acquired cases were reported on Friday, versus three a day earlier.

Australia's Victoria detects two cases of Delta Covid-19 variant for first time in latest outbreak

<p>The EU, Britain and Japan continued to voice doubts at the WTO on Monday about a proposed intellectual property waiver on Covid-19 products such as vaccines, a Geneva trade official said.</p>

<p>Proposals to initiate text-based discussions on an IP waiver, rather than more general talks, gained traction at an informal meeting of the World Trade Organization's Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of IP Rights (TRIPS) council, the official said.</p>

<p>The United States, China, Ukraine and New Zealand have thrown their weight behind the bid to waive certain TRIPS provisions relating to the medical prevention, containment or treatment tools needed to battle Covid-19, said the official.</p>

<p>However, some members "continued to express doubts about the convenience of starting negotiations and asked for more time" to analyse the proposal, the official said.</p>

<p>They included the European Union, Australia, Brazil, Britain, Japan, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan.</p>

<p>Agreements at the WTO require the consensus backing of all 164 member states.</p>

<p>India and South Africa came forward with the original idea in October. They have submitted a revised proposal, which currently has the express support of 63 WTO members.</p>

<p>The new text which they and other backers have circulated says the waiver should apply not only to vaccines, but to treatments, diagnostics, medical devices and protective equipment, along with the material and components needed to produce them.</p>

<p>It also says the waiver should last for "at least three years" from the date it takes effect, following which the WTO's General Council should determine whether it should be prolonged.</p>

<p><strong>Differences in IP importance</strong></p>

<p>The trade official said differences continued on the question of whether, and to what extent, IP protection was holding up the goal of beating the pandemic, and about the use and potential improvement of existing flexibilities within the TRIPS terms.</p>

<p>Questions were also raised on the duration and termination of the proposed waiver, the official said.</p>

<p>The United States said it was open to text-based talks on any proposal that could address the immediate need for increased vaccine production and distribution, the official said.</p>

<p>China said that as the initial proposal had been laid down in October, it was time to move to the next stage, the official added.</p>

<p>Pakistan, Argentina, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia and Kenya were among the countries that expressed the need to start negotiations, said the official.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the EU said the immediate goal should be ramping up production alongside measures such as lifting export restrictions for vaccine ingredients.</p>

<p>Switzerland, also home to major pharmaceutical firms, said WTO members should explore ways to use the flexibilities within TRIPS rather than waiving them all together, the trade official said.</p>

<p>The TRIPS Council will hold a formal meeting on June 8-9.</p>

<p>More than 1.9 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been injected in at least 213 territories around the world, according to an AFP count.</p>

<p>Just 0.3 per cent have been administered in the 29 lowest-income countries, home to nine per cent of the world's population.</p>

<p>Proponents argue the temporary removal of IP rights will boost production in developing countries and address the dramatic inequity in access.</p>

<p>That notion has long met with fierce opposition from pharmaceutical giants and their host countries, which insisted patents were not the main roadblocks to scaling up production and warned the move could hamper innovation.</p>

<p>The positions appeared to shift earlier this month, when Washington came out in support of a global patent waiver for vaccines, with other long-time opponents voicing openness to discuss the matter.</p>


The EU, Britain and Japan continued to voice doubts at the WTO on Monday about a proposed intellectual property waiver on Covid-19 products such as vaccines, a Geneva trade official said.

The EU, Britain and Japan continued to voice doubts at the WTO on Monday about a proposed intellectual property waiver on Covid-19 products such as vaccines, a Geneva trade official said. Proposals to initiate text-based discussions on an IP waiver, rather than more general talks, gained traction at an informal meeting of the World Trade Organization's Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of IP Rights (TRIPS) council, the official said. The United States, China, Ukraine and New Zealand have thrown their weight behind the bid to waive certain TRIPS provisions relating to the medical prevention, containment or treatment tools needed to battle Covid-19, said the official. However, some members "continued to express doubts about the convenience of starting negotiations and asked for more time" to analyse the proposal, the official said. They included the European Union, Australia, Brazil, Britain, Japan, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan. Agreements at the WTO require the consensus backing of all 164 member states. India and South Africa came forward with the original idea in October. They have submitted a revised proposal, which currently has the express support of 63 WTO members. The new text which they and other backers have circulated says the waiver should apply not only to vaccines, but to treatments, diagnostics, medical devices and protective equipment, along with the material and components needed to produce them. It also says the waiver should last for "at least three years" from the date it takes effect, following which the WTO's General Council should determine whether it should be prolonged. Differences in IP importance The trade official said differences continued on the question of whether, and to what extent, IP protection was holding up the goal of beating the pandemic, and about the use and potential improvement of existing flexibilities within the TRIPS terms. Questions were also raised on the duration and termination of the proposed waiver, the official said. The United States said it was open to text-based talks on any proposal that could address the immediate need for increased vaccine production and distribution, the official said. China said that as the initial proposal had been laid down in October, it was time to move to the next stage, the official added. Pakistan, Argentina, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia and Kenya were among the countries that expressed the need to start negotiations, said the official. Meanwhile, the EU said the immediate goal should be ramping up production alongside measures such as lifting export restrictions for vaccine ingredients. Switzerland, also home to major pharmaceutical firms, said WTO members should explore ways to use the flexibilities within TRIPS rather than waiving them all together, the trade official said. The TRIPS Council will hold a formal meeting on June 8-9. More than 1.9 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been injected in at least 213 territories around the world, according to an AFP count. Just 0.3 per cent have been administered in the 29 lowest-income countries, home to nine per cent of the world's population. Proponents argue the temporary removal of IP rights will boost production in developing countries and address the dramatic inequity in access. That notion has long met with fierce opposition from pharmaceutical giants and their host countries, which insisted patents were not the main roadblocks to scaling up production and warned the move could hamper innovation. The positions appeared to shift earlier this month, when Washington came out in support of a global patent waiver for vaccines, with other long-time opponents voicing openness to discuss the matter.

European Union and UK raise doubts about COVID-19 vaccine patent waiver 

<p>Myanmar on Sunday extended the suspension period of international commercial flights to the end of June due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>.</p>

<p>The Ministry of Transport and Communications also announced the extension of the effective period for temporary measures to prevent the importation of COVID-19 to the country through air travel which will end on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/millions-face-hunger-in-myanmar-as-food-shortage-deepens-387966">Millions face hunger in Myanmar as food shortage deepens</a></strong></p>

<p>Myanmar has so far reported 143,571 COVID-19 cases and 3,216 deaths in the country.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/economic-slump-in-myanmar-after-the-coup-366729/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Myanmar`s military junta today also announced the extension of its "non-operation period" against ethnic armed groups to the end of June.</p>

<p>All military operations will be suspended across the country except for the period when security and administrative machinery of the government in addition to state defence and administrative measures are encroached on, the military said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-economy-to-shrink-by-10-this-year-as-protests-swell-world-bank-373213">Myanmar's economy to shrink by 10% this year as protests swell: World Bank</a></strong></p>

<p>The extension is meant to facilitate talks with the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) signatory ethnic armed organizations, according to the statement.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmars-coronavirus-crisis-virus-drags-poor-families-to-the-edge-335357/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar due to the February 1 military coup, people are facing a shortage of cash and rising prices of goods and services as they are withdrawing their savings from banks out of concern for the future.</p>

<p>Four months into military rule since the military coup that ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, and with a weakening local currency, the junta has yet to rein in the economic woes precipitated by the power grab, reported Kyodo News.</p>

<p>So far, more than 800 people have died in Myanmar since the military took over the elected government.</p>


Myanmar on Sunday extended the suspension period of international commercial flights to the end of June due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Transport and Communications also announced the extension of the effective period for temporary measures to prevent the importation of COVID-19 to the country through air travel which will end on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Myanmar on Sunday extended the suspension period of international commercial flights to the end of June due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Transport and Communications also announced the extension of the effective period for temporary measures to prevent the importation of COVID-19 to the country through air travel which will end on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported. Also Read | Millions face hunger in Myanmar as food shortage deepens Myanmar has so far reported 143,571 COVID-19 cases and 3,216 deaths in the country. Myanmar`s military junta today also announced the extension of its "non-operation period" against ethnic armed groups to the end of June. All military operations will be suspended across the country except for the period when security and administrative machinery of the government in addition to state defence and administrative measures are encroached on, the military said in a statement. Also Read | Myanmar's economy to shrink by 10% this year as protests swell: World Bank The extension is meant to facilitate talks with the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) signatory ethnic armed organizations, according to the statement. Amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar due to the February 1 military coup, people are facing a shortage of cash and rising prices of goods and services as they are withdrawing their savings from banks out of concern for the future. Four months into military rule since the military coup that ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, and with a weakening local currency, the junta has yet to rein in the economic woes precipitated by the power grab, reported Kyodo News. So far, more than 800 people have died in Myanmar since the military took over the elected government.

Myanmar extends suspension of international flights till June end

<p>Memorial Day weekend is underway in the United States, and things are decidedly different for travellers than they were a year ago.</p>

<p>More than half of all adults in the United States have now been fully vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A federal mandate requires travellers in aeroplanes or on public transportation to wear masks, although most airlines then were asking passengers to wear them. And many, many more people are likely to leave town for the holiday this year than in 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-let-vaccinated-us-tourists-visit-this-summer-380444">EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer</a></strong></p>

<p>Darby LaJoye, the acting administrator at the Transportation Security Administration, said that the number of travellers at US airports has been increasing steadily during the spring, reaching nearly 1.9 million last Sunday, nearly eight times the figure for May 17, the comparable Sunday in 2020.</p>

<p>On Friday, the number of daily travellers topped 1.9 million, a level of travel not seen since March 2020, according to agency data released Saturday. The TSA predicted that airports would probably see 2 million passengers in a day over the holiday weekend, the latest crest in the recent waves of returning travellers. LaJoye said that the increasing number of passengers could lead to longer wait times at security checkpoints.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coming-soon-the-vaccine-passport-362262">Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’</a></strong></p>

<p>AAA, the automobile owners group, predicted earlier this month that, all told, more than 37 million people would travel 50 miles or more from Thursday to Monday, a 60 per cent increase from last year, though still 9 per cent below 2019. A great majority will travel by car.</p>

<p>“We will continue to see a very steady increase as we approach the summer travel season,” LaJoye said. “As vaccinations continue to rise and confidence continues to build, the nation’s planes, trains, buses and roads are going to be heavily traveled.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-it-safe-to-fly-during-the-pandemic-answers-from-the-experts-345896">Is it safe to fly during the pandemic? Answers from the experts</a></strong></p>

<p>To help control the spread of the virus, the TSA has erected acrylic barriers, installed new machines allowing some passengers to scan their own documents and adjusted the rules to allow passengers to have up to 12 ounces of hand sanitiser in their carry-on bags.</p>

<p>A year ago in the United States, there was no authorized coronavirus vaccine, mask requirements were left up to local officials and individual carriers, and air traffic was sparse.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-eases-travel-advisories-for-uk-israel-384211">US State Department eases travel advisories for UK, Israel</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Now, people 12 or older can get vaccinated, and those who choose to travel have a sense of their own safety that even the boldest voyagers last year did not. (Still, travelling, and many other activities, can be complicated for younger children and their families).</p>

<p>“Thanks to vaccines, tens of millions of Americans are able to get back to something closer to normal, visiting friends and family,” Dr Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC, said this past week at a news conference.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccinated-people-can-resume-travel-at-low-risk-us-cdc-says-375133">Vaccinated people can resume travel at 'low risk', US CDC says</a></strong></p>

<p>This year’s holiday falls at a time when parts of the world, like the United States and the European Union, are progressively reopening their borders and allowing tourism to restart. But the virus continues to ravage other areas, notably India, South America and Southeast Asia, where vaccine supplies are scarce and worrisome virus variants have been detected.</p>

<p>As it happens, the average number of new cases being reported in the US is about the same now as it was around Memorial Day last year, about 23,000 a day, although testing was far scarcer as the pandemic initially hit. In each case, the figure had been declining from a peak in mid-April.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/citing-covid-risk-us-warns-against-travel-to-olympic-host-japan-387229">Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan</a></strong></p>

<p>Last year, reports of revellers ignoring mask and social distancing rules over the holiday weekend were legion. Within weeks of some states reopening, virus cases were starting to surge to record levels. Jumps in virus cases have been seen after other holiday weekends, Walensky noted this past week.</p>

<p>Now that many people have been vaccinated, any virus outbreaks in the United States after the holiday will probably look different, according to Dr Wafaa El-Sadr, a public health researcher at Columbia University. She said she was concerned about “micro-epidemics” in vulnerable areas.</p>

<p>“We could potentially see these surges focused in specific communities where there’s low vaccination rates and low masking rates,” El-Sadr said.</p>


Memorial Day weekend is underway in the United States, and things are decidedly different for travellers than they were a year ago. More than half of all adults in the United States have now been fully vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Memorial Day weekend is underway in the United States, and things are decidedly different for travellers than they were a year ago. More than half of all adults in the United States have now been fully vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A federal mandate requires travellers in aeroplanes or on public transportation to wear masks, although most airlines then were asking passengers to wear them. And many, many more people are likely to leave town for the holiday this year than in 2020. Also Read | EU set to let vaccinated US tourists visit this summer Darby LaJoye, the acting administrator at the Transportation Security Administration, said that the number of travellers at US airports has been increasing steadily during the spring, reaching nearly 1.9 million last Sunday, nearly eight times the figure for May 17, the comparable Sunday in 2020. On Friday, the number of daily travellers topped 1.9 million, a level of travel not seen since March 2020, according to agency data released Saturday. The TSA predicted that airports would probably see 2 million passengers in a day over the holiday weekend, the latest crest in the recent waves of returning travellers. LaJoye said that the increasing number of passengers could lead to longer wait times at security checkpoints. Also Read | Coming soon: The ‘Vaccine Passport’ AAA, the automobile owners group, predicted earlier this month that, all told, more than 37 million people would travel 50 miles or more from Thursday to Monday, a 60 per cent increase from last year, though still 9 per cent below 2019. A great majority will travel by car. “We will continue to see a very steady increase as we approach the summer travel season,” LaJoye said. “As vaccinations continue to rise and confidence continues to build, the nation’s planes, trains, buses and roads are going to be heavily traveled.” Also Read | Is it safe to fly during the pandemic? Answers from the experts To help control the spread of the virus, the TSA has erected acrylic barriers, installed new machines allowing some passengers to scan their own documents and adjusted the rules to allow passengers to have up to 12 ounces of hand sanitiser in their carry-on bags. A year ago in the United States, there was no authorized coronavirus vaccine, mask requirements were left up to local officials and individual carriers, and air traffic was sparse. Also Read | US State Department eases travel advisories for UK, Israel Now, people 12 or older can get vaccinated, and those who choose to travel have a sense of their own safety that even the boldest voyagers last year did not. (Still, travelling, and many other activities, can be complicated for younger children and their families). “Thanks to vaccines, tens of millions of Americans are able to get back to something closer to normal, visiting friends and family,” Dr Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC, said this past week at a news conference. Also Read | Vaccinated people can resume travel at 'low risk', US CDC says This year’s holiday falls at a time when parts of the world, like the United States and the European Union, are progressively reopening their borders and allowing tourism to restart. But the virus continues to ravage other areas, notably India, South America and Southeast Asia, where vaccine supplies are scarce and worrisome virus variants have been detected. As it happens, the average number of new cases being reported in the US is about the same now as it was around Memorial Day last year, about 23,000 a day, although testing was far scarcer as the pandemic initially hit. In each case, the figure had been declining from a peak in mid-April. Also Read | Citing Covid risk, US warns against travel to Olympic host Japan Last year, reports of revellers ignoring mask and social distancing rules over the holiday weekend were legion. Within weeks of some states reopening, virus cases were starting to surge to record levels. Jumps in virus cases have been seen after other holiday weekends, Walensky noted this past week. Now that many people have been vaccinated, any virus outbreaks in the United States after the holiday will probably look different, according to Dr Wafaa El-Sadr, a public health researcher at Columbia University. She said she was concerned about “micro-epidemics” in vulnerable areas. “We could potentially see these surges focused in specific communities where there’s low vaccination rates and low masking rates,” El-Sadr said.

Here’s how holiday weekend travel in the US will be different from 2020

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> pandemic is being perpetuated by a "scandalous inequity" in&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;distribution, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-says-global-covid-19-vaccine-inequality-becoming-grotesque-372521/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>WHO director-general&nbsp;Tedros&nbsp;Adhanom Ghebreyesus, addressing its annual ministerial assembly, urged&nbsp;countries&nbsp;to donate&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;doses to the COVAX mechanism to inoculate 10 per cent of populations of all&nbsp;countries&nbsp;by September, and 30 per cent by year-end.</p>

<p>Tedros&nbsp;also called on&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;manufacturers to give COVAX the first right of refusal on new volumes of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> or to commit 50 per cent of their volumes to COVAX this year.</p>


The COVID-19 pandemic is being perpetuated by a "scandalous inequity" in vaccine distribution, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, addressing its annual ministerial assembly, urged countries to donate vaccine doses to the COVAX mechanism to inoculate 10 per cent of populations of all countries by September, and 30 per cent by year-end.

The COVID-19 pandemic is being perpetuated by a "scandalous inequity" in vaccine distribution, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, addressing its annual ministerial assembly, urged countries to donate vaccine doses to the COVAX mechanism to inoculate 10 per cent of populations of all countries by September, and 30 per cent by year-end. Tedros also called on vaccine manufacturers to give COVAX the first right of refusal on new volumes of vaccines or to commit 50 per cent of their volumes to COVAX this year.

WHO's Tedros urges countries and drug makers to get more vaccine to poorer countries

<p>The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Coronavirus</a> patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants.<br />
<br />
The drug <strong>Sotrovimab</strong> has been given an <strong>emergency use authorisation (EUA)</strong> for the treatment of <strong>mild-to-moderate COVID-19</strong> in adults and children 12 years of age and older, weighing at least 40 kg.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seeking-a-pill-to-cure-covid-drugmakers-eye-alternative-to-vaccines-387717">Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines</a></strong><br />
<br />
The drug has shown positive results among patients 65 years of age and older or individuals who have certain medical conditions and are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalisation or death.<br />
<br />
Laboratory tests have shown that Sotrovimab is able to neutralise the current circulating variants of Covid first reported in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/black-fungus-drug-amphotericin-b-to-be-priced-at-rs-1200-for-each-vial-in-india-387750">Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India</a></strong><br />
<br />
"With the authorisation of this monoclonal antibody treatment, we are providing another option to help keep high-risk patients with COVID-19 out of the hospital," Patrizia Cavazzoni, Director of the FDA`s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
"It is important to expand the arsenal of monoclonal antibody therapies that are expected to retain activity against the circulating variants of COVID-19 in the United States," Cavazzoni added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modernas-single-dose-vaccine-in-india-likely-next-year-pfizer-ready-with-50-mn-doses-for-2021-387438">Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021</a></strong><br />
<br />
However, Sotrovimab is not authorised for patients who are hospitalised due to COVID-19 or require oxygen therapy due to the disease, the FDA said.<br />
<br />
This treatment has not shown benefit in patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 and monoclonal antibodies may be associated with worse clinical outcomes when administered to hospitalised patients requiring high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-is-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a></strong><br />
<br />
Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system`s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses. Sotrovimab is a monoclonal antibody that is specifically directed against the spike protein of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">SARS-CoV-2</a> and is designed to block the virus` attachment and entry into human cells.<br />
<br />
The EUA is based on an interim analysis from a Phase 1/2/3 randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in 583 non-hospitalised adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms and a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drug-prevents-coronavirus-infection-in-nursing-homes-maker-claims-358546">Drug prevents coronavirus infection in nursing homes, maker claims</a></strong><br />
<br />
Of these patients, 291 received Sotrovimab and 292 received placebo within five days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms. The primary endpoint was progression of COVID-19 (defined as hospitalisation for greater than 24 hours for acute management of any illness or death from any cause) through day 29.<br />
<br />
Hospitalisation or death occurred in 21 (7 per cent) patients who received placebo compared to 3 (1 per cent) patients treated with Sotrovimab, an 85 per cent reduction.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-regeneron-covid-19-antibodies-344588">US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies</a></strong><br />
<br />
The drug will be distributed and administered as a 500 milligram single dose intravenously by health care providers. Potential side effects of Sotrovimab include anaphylaxis and infusion-related reactions, rash and diarrhoea, the FDA said.</p>


The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against COVID-19, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among Coronavirus patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorised a monoclonal antibody drug against COVID-19, developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir, which claims to reduce hospitalisation and death among Coronavirus patients by 85 per cent and is also effective against the variants. The drug Sotrovimab has been given an emergency use authorisation (EUA) for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and children 12 years of age and older, weighing at least 40 kg. Also Read | Seeking a pill to cure Covid: Drugmakers eye alternative to vaccines The drug has shown positive results among patients 65 years of age and older or individuals who have certain medical conditions and are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalisation or death. Laboratory tests have shown that Sotrovimab is able to neutralise the current circulating variants of Covid first reported in the UK, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India. Also Read | Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India "With the authorisation of this monoclonal antibody treatment, we are providing another option to help keep high-risk patients with COVID-19 out of the hospital," Patrizia Cavazzoni, Director of the FDA`s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement on Wednesday. "It is important to expand the arsenal of monoclonal antibody therapies that are expected to retain activity against the circulating variants of COVID-19 in the United States," Cavazzoni added. Also Read | Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021 However, Sotrovimab is not authorised for patients who are hospitalised due to COVID-19 or require oxygen therapy due to the disease, the FDA said. This treatment has not shown benefit in patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 and monoclonal antibodies may be associated with worse clinical outcomes when administered to hospitalised patients requiring high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation. Also Read | As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system`s ability to fight off harmful antigens such as viruses. Sotrovimab is a monoclonal antibody that is specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and is designed to block the virus` attachment and entry into human cells. The EUA is based on an interim analysis from a Phase 1/2/3 randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in 583 non-hospitalised adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms and a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. Also Read | Drug prevents coronavirus infection in nursing homes, maker claims Of these patients, 291 received Sotrovimab and 292 received placebo within five days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms. The primary endpoint was progression of COVID-19 (defined as hospitalisation for greater than 24 hours for acute management of any illness or death from any cause) through day 29. Hospitalisation or death occurred in 21 (7 per cent) patients who received placebo compared to 3 (1 per cent) patients treated with Sotrovimab, an 85 per cent reduction. Also Read | US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies The drug will be distributed and administered as a 500 milligram single dose intravenously by health care providers. Potential side effects of Sotrovimab include anaphylaxis and infusion-related reactions, rash and diarrhoea, the FDA said.

US FDA authorises GSK-Vir monoclonal antibody drug for Covid

<p>The French city of&nbsp;Bordeaux&nbsp;will fast-track vaccinations for residents in one neighbourhood after nearly&nbsp;50&nbsp;people tested positive for a "very&nbsp;rare"&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, health authorities told AFP on Friday.</p>

<p>All adult residents of the city's northern Bacalan neighbourhood will be granted "unconditional" access to jabs, "this weekend or at worst early next week", said Patrick Dehail, medical advisor to the regional health authority.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-caseload-tops-1676-mn-387421">Global COVID-19 caseload tops 167.6&nbsp;mn</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are working with the (health) ministry to obtain the&nbsp;extra&nbsp;doses required," Dehail said, adding that the boosted local effort will then be expanded to the wider&nbsp;Bordeaux&nbsp;area.</p>

<p>"We are talking about a&nbsp;variant&nbsp;that has already been identified at the national level but which has been&nbsp;very&nbsp;rare&nbsp;until now," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 46 people have been infected with the&nbsp;variant&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Bordeaux&nbsp;neighbourhood, with mass&nbsp;testing&nbsp;launched Friday to track down further&nbsp;cases. None of those infected so far has been hospitalised.</p>

<p>Labelled VOC 20I/484Q, the strain is related to the British&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of COVID-19, but with an additional mutation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-covid-19-virus-variants-respond-to-approved-vaccines-who-386258">All COVID-19 virus variants respond to approved vaccines: WHO</a></strong></p>

<p>This mutation, (E484K), is also carried by the South African and Brazilian variants and is suspected of reducing the immunity acquired by either past infection or by some vaccines.</p>

<p>However, Dehail said there was as yet "no reason" to suggest that the&nbsp;variant&nbsp;is resistant to mRNA vaccines such as those made by Pfizer or Moderna, or that it causes a more serious form of COVID-19.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;variant&nbsp;has been detected in the northern Paris region as well as&nbsp;Bordeaux&nbsp;in southwest&nbsp;France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/for-coffee-paris-cafes-and-restaurants-reopen-after-covid-lockdown-386242">'For coffee!': Paris cafes and restaurants reopen after covid lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>In&nbsp;France&nbsp;as a whole, vaccinations have so far been limited to the&nbsp;over-50s, although people outside this age group can book unused slots advertised at short notice. All adults will be eligible for vaccinations in&nbsp;France&nbsp;from May 31.</p>


The French city of Bordeaux will fast-track vaccinations for residents in one neighbourhood after nearly 50 people tested positive for a "very rare" variant of COVID-19, health authorities told AFP on Friday.

The French city of Bordeaux will fast-track vaccinations for residents in one neighbourhood after nearly 50 people tested positive for a "very rare" variant of COVID-19, health authorities told AFP on Friday. All adult residents of the city's northern Bacalan neighbourhood will be granted "unconditional" access to jabs, "this weekend or at worst early next week", said Patrick Dehail, medical advisor to the regional health authority. Also Read | Global COVID-19 caseload tops 167.6 mn "We are working with the (health) ministry to obtain the extra doses required," Dehail said, adding that the boosted local effort will then be expanded to the wider Bordeaux area. "We are talking about a variant that has already been identified at the national level but which has been very rare until now," he added. At least 46 people have been infected with the variant in the Bordeaux neighbourhood, with mass testing launched Friday to track down further cases. None of those infected so far has been hospitalised. Labelled VOC 20I/484Q, the strain is related to the British variant of COVID-19, but with an additional mutation. Also Read | All COVID-19 virus variants respond to approved vaccines: WHO This mutation, (E484K), is also carried by the South African and Brazilian variants and is suspected of reducing the immunity acquired by either past infection or by some vaccines. However, Dehail said there was as yet "no reason" to suggest that the variant is resistant to mRNA vaccines such as those made by Pfizer or Moderna, or that it causes a more serious form of COVID-19. The variant has been detected in the northern Paris region as well as Bordeaux in southwest France. Also Read | 'For coffee!': Paris cafes and restaurants reopen after covid lockdown In France as a whole, vaccinations have so far been limited to the over-50s, although people outside this age group can book unused slots advertised at short notice. All adults will be eligible for vaccinations in France from May 31.

Covid in France: Race to vaccinate in Bordeaux as rare variant detected

<p>India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a message to Navy personnel, Admiral Singh said the Navy will step up its outreach in extending medical assistance as the pandemic is spreading to rural India and people residing in those areas are in need of help.</p>

<p>"This is an unprecedented situation for us. This is perhaps the biggest humanitarian challenge to the country to date since independence," he said.</p>

<p>"I think, possibly, there is no one among us, who doesn't have someone in the family, or someone very close to us, who has not been COVID positive, or hospitalised, or worse still, succumbed to the disease," the Navy chief said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-wave-in-india-death-toll-rises-as-active-cases-dip-384608">Second wave in India: Death toll rises as active cases dip</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The chief of naval staff said that the force has to contribute back to the nation with its "full might" in these "difficult times".</p>

<p>"No one knows when the pandemic will end. But I can say, with utmost confidence that our courage, our determination, will never end. We will collectively rise as 'Team Navy' in this adversity, and do our best for the nation, for the Navy and for our communities," Admiral Singh said.</p>

<p>"I am proud of what has been achieved in the last few weeks, especially by our healthcare teams and our operational units. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting our country in these difficult times," he said.</p>

<p>The Navy chief said all the Navy teams are putting their shoulder to the wheel to support the national effort.</p>

<p>"At this time, I see two priorities for the Navy; first, to contribute fully to the national effort, and second, to protect our communities, our defence civilians, our ex-servicemen, and all their families in every way," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-crisis-international-assistance-delivered-at-aiims-safdarjung-lady-harding-itbp-drdo-383784">India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO</a></strong></p>

<p>The Navy has been vigorously supporting civilian authorities in several states to deal with the fast-spreading coronavirus cases, including through setting up of dedicated health facilities to treat people with COVID-19.</p>

<p>The Navy has already launched a mega operation to bring liquid medical oxygen from several countries in Persian Gulf and south-east Asia.</p>

<p>"The pandemic is spreading to rural areas and they are in need of help. Our outlying units could adopt a village and render assistance just like INS Chilka has done," he said.</p>


India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the coronavirus pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday.

India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the coronavirus pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday. In a message to Navy personnel, Admiral Singh said the Navy will step up its outreach in extending medical assistance as the pandemic is spreading to rural India and people residing in those areas are in need of help. "This is an unprecedented situation for us. This is perhaps the biggest humanitarian challenge to the country to date since independence," he said. "I think, possibly, there is no one among us, who doesn't have someone in the family, or someone very close to us, who has not been COVID positive, or hospitalised, or worse still, succumbed to the disease," the Navy chief said. Also read | Second wave in India: Death toll rises as active cases dip The chief of naval staff said that the force has to contribute back to the nation with its "full might" in these "difficult times". "No one knows when the pandemic will end. But I can say, with utmost confidence that our courage, our determination, will never end. We will collectively rise as 'Team Navy' in this adversity, and do our best for the nation, for the Navy and for our communities," Admiral Singh said. "I am proud of what has been achieved in the last few weeks, especially by our healthcare teams and our operational units. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting our country in these difficult times," he said. The Navy chief said all the Navy teams are putting their shoulder to the wheel to support the national effort. "At this time, I see two priorities for the Navy; first, to contribute fully to the national effort, and second, to protect our communities, our defence civilians, our ex-servicemen, and all their families in every way," he said. Also read | India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO The Navy has been vigorously supporting civilian authorities in several states to deal with the fast-spreading coronavirus cases, including through setting up of dedicated health facilities to treat people with COVID-19. The Navy has already launched a mega operation to bring liquid medical oxygen from several countries in Persian Gulf and south-east Asia. "The pandemic is spreading to rural areas and they are in need of help. Our outlying units could adopt a village and render assistance just like INS Chilka has done," he said.

Will contribute with 'full might' in difficult times: Navy chief on COVID-19

<p>The&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;on Wednesday banned&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;from across&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;in a bid to contain surging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka and other countries in the region have also imposed travel restrictions as they battle a new wave of the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;that has hit India and its neighbours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bans-travellers-from-india-with-immediate-effect-383172">Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect</a></strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;Maldives, whose economy relies on tourists visiting its pristine atolls, has suffered a more than 15-fold increase in daily infections in the past week.</p>

<p>The Indian Ocean nation, which halted international flights for more than three months last year, saw a record single-day rise of 1,500&nbsp;cases&nbsp;on Tuesday, compared with less than 100 just one month ago.</p>

<p>Authorities said tourist arrivals from the key Indian market and other&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asian countries would stop from Thursday. They have already banned the entry of foreign labourers from around&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;except for health workers.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-influx-of-tourists-lead-to-high-infection-rate-in-maldives-383961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"These restrictions apply to&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;originating from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka,"&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;Immigration said in a statement.</p>

<p>Anyone who has only transited through&nbsp;South&nbsp;Asia&nbsp;would also be included, it added.</p>

<p>Indians have been the largest single group of visitors to the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;this year. Bollywood stars such as Alia Bhatt and her partner Ranbir Kapoor are among celebrities to have been pictured using the country as an escape from the pandemic.</p>

<p>Travellers&nbsp;from other countries are still permitted to travel to the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;with a negative coronavirus test but are not allowed to have contact with the local population.</p>

<p>A curfew from 9 pm to 4 am has been extended to start at 4 pm as part of measures to counter the&nbsp;virus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-imposes-night-curfew-after-steep-jump-in-covid-19-infections-383421">Maldives imposes night curfew after steep jump in COVID-19 infections</a></strong></p>

<p>Neighbouring Sri Lanka has also announced a night curfew until the end of the month and ordered a three-day shutdown from Friday as part of its anti-virus&nbsp;campaign.</p>

<p>People have been banned from travelling outside of their home provinces after medical experts warned Sri Lanka's healthcare system could collapse unless immediate lockdown measures were implemented.</p>

<p>About 60 per cent of the&nbsp;Maldives' resident population of 515,000 has received a shot, one of the world's highest figures, but less than a quarter have had two injections, a top UN official said.</p>

<p>But the UN Resident Coordinator in the&nbsp;Maldives, Catherine Haswell, told AFP that more than half the population aged between 18 and 29 were yet to receive the first jab.</p>

<p>"At least 80 to 90 percent of the population needs to vaccinated with both doses to reach herd immunity," Haswell said.</p>


The Maldives on Wednesday banned travellers from across South Asia in a bid to contain surging COVID-19 infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs.

The Maldives on Wednesday banned travellers from across South Asia in a bid to contain surging COVID-19 infections despite having one of the world's most successful vaccination roll-outs. Sri Lanka and other countries in the region have also imposed travel restrictions as they battle a new wave of the virus that has hit India and its neighbours. Also read | Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect The Maldives, whose economy relies on tourists visiting its pristine atolls, has suffered a more than 15-fold increase in daily infections in the past week. The Indian Ocean nation, which halted international flights for more than three months last year, saw a record single-day rise of 1,500 cases on Tuesday, compared with less than 100 just one month ago. Authorities said tourist arrivals from the key Indian market and other South Asian countries would stop from Thursday. They have already banned the entry of foreign labourers from around South Asia except for health workers. "These restrictions apply to travellers originating from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka," Maldives Immigration said in a statement. Anyone who has only transited through South Asia would also be included, it added. Indians have been the largest single group of visitors to the Maldives this year. Bollywood stars such as Alia Bhatt and her partner Ranbir Kapoor are among celebrities to have been pictured using the country as an escape from the pandemic. Travellers from other countries are still permitted to travel to the Maldives with a negative coronavirus test but are not allowed to have contact with the local population. A curfew from 9 pm to 4 am has been extended to start at 4 pm as part of measures to counter the virus. Also read | Maldives imposes night curfew after steep jump in COVID-19 infections Neighbouring Sri Lanka has also announced a night curfew until the end of the month and ordered a three-day shutdown from Friday as part of its anti-virus campaign. People have been banned from travelling outside of their home provinces after medical experts warned Sri Lanka's healthcare system could collapse unless immediate lockdown measures were implemented. About 60 per cent of the Maldives' resident population of 515,000 has received a shot, one of the world's highest figures, but less than a quarter have had two injections, a top UN official said. But the UN Resident Coordinator in the Maldives, Catherine Haswell, told AFP that more than half the population aged between 18 and 29 were yet to receive the first jab. "At least 80 to 90 percent of the population needs to vaccinated with both doses to reach herd immunity," Haswell said.

Maldives bans South Asia travellers as virus cases soar

<p>Huma Qureshi will next be seen in Hollywood flick ‘Army of the Dead’ with famed director Zack Snyder. She has now joined hands with an organisation for COVID-19 relief work in Delhi and with the help of Zack, contributing towards establishing a “temporary hospital facility” to bring relief to those suffering from the disease.</p>

<p>Huma took to social media to make the announcement. She said, "I’ve joined hands with @savethechildren_india to help Delhi fight the pandemic. They need our help now more than ever. We are working to build a temporary hospital facility in Delhi, that will have 100 beds along with an oxygen plant.”</p>

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<p>She added, “The project also aims to provide medical kits to patients for treatment at home, that will include consultation with a doctor &amp; psychosocial therapist to ensure that the patient make a full recovery. Take the pledge with me, help breath life back into Delhi.”</p>


Huma Qureshi will next be seen in Hollywood flick ‘Army of the Dead’ with famed director Zack Snyder. She has now joined hands with an organisation for COVID-19 relief work in Delhi and with the help of Zack, contributing towards establishing a “temporary hospital facility” to bring relief to those suffering from the disease.

Huma Qureshi will next be seen in Hollywood flick ‘Army of the Dead’ with famed director Zack Snyder. She has now joined hands with an organisation for COVID-19 relief work in Delhi and with the help of Zack, contributing towards establishing a “temporary hospital facility” to bring relief to those suffering from the disease. Huma took to social media to make the announcement. She said, "I’ve joined hands with @savethechildren_india to help Delhi fight the pandemic. They need our help now more than ever. We are working to build a temporary hospital facility in Delhi, that will have 100 beds along with an oxygen plant.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Huma S Qureshi (@iamhumaq) × She added, “The project also aims to provide medical kits to patients for treatment at home, that will include consultation with a doctor & psychosocial therapist to ensure that the patient make a full recovery. Take the pledge with me, help breath life back into Delhi.”

Huma Qureshi, Zack Snyder build temporary hospital facility to fight COVID-19

<p>Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha, on Monday, became the latest Indian celebrity to take the first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine.<br />
<br />
The 33-year-old star took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself getting vaccinated. The snap features Sonakshi wearing a double face mask as she signalled a `victory` sign to the camera."#Vaccine manjhe #Victory!!!," (Vaccine means victory) she wrote in the caption.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oscar-winning-film-minari-to-release-on-amazon-prime-on-this-date-384047" hreflang="en">Oscar-winning film 'Minari' to release on Amazon Prime on this date</a></p>

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<p>Earlier in the day, Bollywood couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh also took the vaccination jab as the drive opened up for those under 45. Sonakshi and the star couple are the latest addition to be vaccinated after Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Hema Malini, Mohanlal, Jeetendra, Kamal Haasan, Nagarjuna, among others.</p>

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<p>The second wave of coronavirus has infected many people, and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood, an array of celebrities like Kangana Ranaut, Arjun Rampal, Manish Malhotra among others got infected within a span of a few weeks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-kangana-ranaut-claims-instagram-post-deleted-as-it-hurt-covid-fan-club-384033" hreflang="en">Kangana Ranaut claims Instagram post deleted as it hurt 'COVID fan club'</a><br />
<br />
India registered a total of 3,66,161 new COVID-19 cases being recorded in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative count of the cases has gone up to 2,26,62,575.<br />
<br />
As many as 3,754 people succumbed to the disease in the country in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative death toll to 2,46,116. At present, there are 37,45,237 active cases of COVID-19 in the country.&nbsp;</p>


Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha, on Monday, became the latest Indian celebrity to take the first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine. The 33-year-old star took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself getting vaccinated.

Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha, on Monday, became the latest Indian celebrity to take the first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine. The 33-year-old star took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself getting vaccinated. The snap features Sonakshi wearing a double face mask as she signalled a `victory` sign to the camera."#Vaccine manjhe #Victory!!!," (Vaccine means victory) she wrote in the caption. Oscar-winning film 'Minari' to release on Amazon Prime on this date View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonakshi Sinha (@aslisona) × Earlier in the day, Bollywood couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh also took the vaccination jab as the drive opened up for those under 45. Sonakshi and the star couple are the latest addition to be vaccinated after Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Hema Malini, Mohanlal, Jeetendra, Kamal Haasan, Nagarjuna, among others. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riteish Deshmukh (@riteishd) × The second wave of coronavirus has infected many people, and the number of COVID-19 positive cases has been rapidly rising. In Bollywood, an array of celebrities like Kangana Ranaut, Arjun Rampal, Manish Malhotra among others got infected within a span of a few weeks. Kangana Ranaut claims Instagram post deleted as it hurt 'COVID fan club' India registered a total of 3,66,161 new COVID-19 cases being recorded in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative count of the cases has gone up to 2,26,62,575. As many as 3,754 people succumbed to the disease in the country in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative death toll to 2,46,116. At present, there are 37,45,237 active cases of COVID-19 in the country.

Sonakshi Sinha receives COVID-19 vaccine shot in Mumbai

<p>The new US position in support of lifting&nbsp;patents&nbsp;on&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken attention away from an equally significant change by Washington, which plans to open up trade in the raw materials used to make them.</p>

<p>After&nbsp;having recently taken heat for blocking such exports, Commerce Secretary Katherine Tai said Wednesday that the US government would "work to increase the raw materials needed to produce those&nbsp;vaccines".</p>

<p>The assertion was hidden at the bottom of the statement unveiling Washington's remarkable reversal of its position&nbsp;on&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;patents, which coincides with a shortage of doses in emerging and developing nations as cases surge in some countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-backs-india-led-fight-to-waive-covid-vaccines-patents-383092">US backs India-led fight to waive Covid vaccines patents</a></strong></p>

<p>Long legal and economic policy debates likely lie ahead about waiving&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;patents, particularly at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the difficulties faced by some laboratories in obtaining components to manufacture&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;look set to stymie the drive to ramp up production.</p>

<p>Two labs have recently spoken out about their difficulties, laying the blame at Washington's door.</p>

<p>Germany's Curevac said it could&nbsp;not secure supplies of certain materials from the United States.</p>

<p>Several days earlier, India's Serum Institute, the world's largest&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;manufacturer, called&nbsp;on&nbsp;US President Joe Biden to step in.</p>

<p>"Respected @POTUS, if we are to truly unite in beating this virus,&nbsp;on&nbsp;behalf of the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;industry outside the US, I humbly request you to lift the embargo of raw material exports out of the US so that&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;production can ramp up," the company's president Adar Poonawalla wrote&nbsp;on&nbsp;Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Respected <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, if we are to truly unite in beating this virus, on behalf of the vaccine industry outside the U.S., I humbly request you to lift the embargo of raw material exports out of the U.S. so that vaccine production can ramp up. Your administration has the details. 🙏🙏</p>
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1382978713302683653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>There is no actual embargo&nbsp;on&nbsp;exporting&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;components. Instead, Biden, like his predecessor Donald Trump, invoked the Defense Production Act,&nbsp;which normally concerns wartime,&nbsp;to confront the pandemic.</p>

<p>While it does not explicitly ban exports, it puts the US government first in line to buy certain products made in the country.</p>

<p>US officials have previously played down the possible effect of the law&nbsp;on&nbsp;global&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;production.</p>

<p>"There's just more global manufacturing happening everywhere in the world than suppliers can currently support,"&nbsp;a US official told a White House briefing late last month&nbsp;on&nbsp;condition of anonymity.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-opposes-us-backed-global-waiver-on-protection-for-covid-19-vaccines-383353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><strong>Dry ice and sorbitol</strong></p>

<p>Over the past two months, a number of public and private actors have noted the shrinking supply of components needed to manufacture&nbsp;vaccines.</p>

<p>At least 50 components, perhaps as many as 100, go into the jabs.</p>

<p>They include items like the glass vials to ship them, as well as certain types of plastics needed for containers used in the manufacturing process.</p>

<p>Then there are the ingredients themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Curevac is particularly concerned about nucleotides, a building block for the messenger RNA&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;like the one it is developing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-germany-rift-on-covid-vaccine-waiver-endangers-fight-against-deadly-virus-383349">US-Germany rift on Covid vaccine waiver endangers fight against deadly virus</a></strong></p>

<p>The shortage of raw materials is hardly surprising as the pharmaceutical industry expects to double production to 10 billion doses this year.</p>

<p>Richard Hatchett, who heads the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which along with the World Health Organization and Gavi co-runs the Covax&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;distribution initiative, spoke already in March of seeing "increasing signs of strain within supply chains".</p>

<p>Companies were "beginning to report spot shortages of critical materials, raw materials, critical consumables, even equipment that is necessary for&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;manufacturing," he said.</p>

<p>He was speaking at a meeting of the principal actors in the sector, including WHO and the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA).</p>

<p>Already the consensus was that the free circulation of&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;components was critical, given that a large number of countries are involved in their production.</p>

<p>OECD data from 2018 show how thoroughly&nbsp;component&nbsp;production is intertwined across the globe.</p>

<p>China dominates production of the glass storage vials, while the United States leads in the manufacturing of syringes.</p>

<p>France is a major producer of certain stabilisers like sorbitol, while Germany is big in the production of&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;preservatives, and Mexico and China both are important manufacturers of additives that enhance the effects of&nbsp;vaccines.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Netherlands is a leader in the production of dry ice used to transport&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;that need to be kept at ultra-low temperatures.</p>


The new US position in support of lifting patents on Covid-19 vaccines has taken attention away from an equally significant change by Washington, which plans to open up trade in the raw materials used to make them.

The new US position in support of lifting patents on Covid-19 vaccines has taken attention away from an equally significant change by Washington, which plans to open up trade in the raw materials used to make them. After having recently taken heat for blocking such exports, Commerce Secretary Katherine Tai said Wednesday that the US government would "work to increase the raw materials needed to produce those vaccines". The assertion was hidden at the bottom of the statement unveiling Washington's remarkable reversal of its position on Covid-19 vaccine patents, which coincides with a shortage of doses in emerging and developing nations as cases surge in some countries. Also read | US backs India-led fight to waive Covid vaccines patents Long legal and economic policy debates likely lie ahead about waiving vaccine patents, particularly at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Meanwhile, the difficulties faced by some laboratories in obtaining components to manufacture vaccines look set to stymie the drive to ramp up production. Two labs have recently spoken out about their difficulties, laying the blame at Washington's door. Germany's Curevac said it could not secure supplies of certain materials from the United States. Several days earlier, India's Serum Institute, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer, called on US President Joe Biden to step in. "Respected @POTUS, if we are to truly unite in beating this virus, on behalf of the vaccine industry outside the US, I humbly request you to lift the embargo of raw material exports out of the US so that vaccine production can ramp up," the company's president Adar Poonawalla wrote on Twitter. Respected @POTUS, if we are to truly unite in beating this virus, on behalf of the vaccine industry outside the U.S., I humbly request you to lift the embargo of raw material exports out of the U.S. so that vaccine production can ramp up. Your administration has the details. 🙏🙏 — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) April 16, 2021 × There is no actual embargo on exporting vaccine components. Instead, Biden, like his predecessor Donald Trump, invoked the Defense Production Act, which normally concerns wartime, to confront the pandemic. While it does not explicitly ban exports, it puts the US government first in line to buy certain products made in the country. US officials have previously played down the possible effect of the law on global vaccine production. "There's just more global manufacturing happening everywhere in the world than suppliers can currently support," a US official told a White House briefing late last month on condition of anonymity. Dry ice and sorbitol Over the past two months, a number of public and private actors have noted the shrinking supply of components needed to manufacture vaccines. At least 50 components, perhaps as many as 100, go into the jabs. They include items like the glass vials to ship them, as well as certain types of plastics needed for containers used in the manufacturing process. Then there are the ingredients themselves. Curevac is particularly concerned about nucleotides, a building block for the messenger RNA vaccines like the one it is developing. Also read | US-Germany rift on Covid vaccine waiver endangers fight against deadly virus The shortage of raw materials is hardly surprising as the pharmaceutical industry expects to double production to 10 billion doses this year. Richard Hatchett, who heads the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), which along with the World Health Organization and Gavi co-runs the Covax vaccine distribution initiative, spoke already in March of seeing "increasing signs of strain within supply chains". Companies were "beginning to report spot shortages of critical materials, raw materials, critical consumables, even equipment that is necessary for vaccine manufacturing," he said. He was speaking at a meeting of the principal actors in the sector, including WHO and the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA). Already the consensus was that the free circulation of vaccine components was critical, given that a large number of countries are involved in their production. OECD data from 2018 show how thoroughly component production is intertwined across the globe. China dominates production of the glass storage vials, while the United States leads in the manufacturing of syringes. France is a major producer of certain stabilisers like sorbitol, while Germany is big in the production of vaccine preservatives, and Mexico and China both are important manufacturers of additives that enhance the effects of vaccines. Meanwhile, the Netherlands is a leader in the production of dry ice used to transport vaccines that need to be kept at ultra-low temperatures.

After shift on vaccine patents, US backs freer flow of components

<p>The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.</p>

<p>The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-tightens-borders-as-covid-19-cases-soar-382597">Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar</a></strong></p>

<p>"The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said.</p>

<p>She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays.</p>

<p>Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hospitals-in-lahore-almost-out-of-oxygen-supply-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-377292">Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases</a></strong></p>

<p>Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK.<br />
Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact.</p>

<p>The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-pakistanis-forced-to-opt-for-expensive-jabs-from-private-markets-amid-slow-govt-vaccination-drive-377310">COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave.</p>

<p>The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added.</p>

<p>So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan">Pakistan</a> since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.</p>


The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday. The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of coronavirus cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported. Also read | Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar "The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said. She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays. Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown. Also read | Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK. Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact. The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said. Also read | COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave. The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added. So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in Pakistan since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.

COVID-19: Several regions in Pakistan announce complete lockdown during Eid holidays

<p>Philippine&nbsp;President&nbsp;Rodrigo&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> infections.</p>

<p>Duterte&nbsp;issued the directive after a meeting with his COVID-19 task force,&nbsp;where everyone except him can be seen wearing the mandatory face covering,&nbsp;an official video released late Wednesday showed.</p>

<p>Thousands of people have been punished for violating COVID-19 rules since the end of March when restrictions were tightened in the capital and surrounding provinces after a spike in cases.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-becomes-latest-nation-to-report-10-lakh-covid-19-cases-380580/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The justice secretary and police chief have urged officers to fine offenders or make them do community service instead of arresting them, following the death of a man forced to do a hundred squats as punishment for breaking curfew.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;said police should get tough on rule-breakers and arrest those not wearing a mask properly, including those who leave their nose exposed.</p>

<p>"My orders to the police are those who are not wearing their masks properly... arrest them and detain them, investigate why they are doing it,"&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>"It's not for me, it's not for us. It's for the interest of the country so you won't infect and you won't be infected."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-lifts-suspension-on-astrazeneca-vaccine-for-under-60s-378678">Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s</a></strong></p>

<p>Duterte&nbsp;last year told security forces to shoot dead anyone causing "trouble" in areas under lockdown, drawing condemnation from rights groups.</p>

<p>Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque confirmed the arrest order on Thursday, saying violators could be held for up to 12 hours without charge.</p>

<p>Rights group Karapatan slammed the latest directive as "brazenly unscientific and ineffective" as well as a "disproportionate use of force".</p>

<p>"Overcongestion and inhumane conditions in the country's detention facilities already pose risks to the health of prisoners,&nbsp;and detaining hundreds of alleged violators in these cramped facilities where physical distancing is impossible to observe would only facilitate the rapid spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>Police and soldiers have played a key role in the country's pandemic response, setting up checkpoints and deploying thousands of personnel to enforce stay-at-home orders.</p>

<p>The Philippines' caseload of more a million infections is the second-highest in Southeast Asia.</p>


Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging coronavirus infections.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging coronavirus infections. Duterte issued the directive after a meeting with his COVID-19 task force, where everyone except him can be seen wearing the mandatory face covering, an official video released late Wednesday showed. Thousands of people have been punished for violating COVID-19 rules since the end of March when restrictions were tightened in the capital and surrounding provinces after a spike in cases. The justice secretary and police chief have urged officers to fine offenders or make them do community service instead of arresting them, following the death of a man forced to do a hundred squats as punishment for breaking curfew. But Duterte said police should get tough on rule-breakers and arrest those not wearing a mask properly, including those who leave their nose exposed. "My orders to the police are those who are not wearing their masks properly... arrest them and detain them, investigate why they are doing it," Duterte said. "It's not for me, it's not for us. It's for the interest of the country so you won't infect and you won't be infected." Also read | Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s Duterte last year told security forces to shoot dead anyone causing "trouble" in areas under lockdown, drawing condemnation from rights groups. Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque confirmed the arrest order on Thursday, saying violators could be held for up to 12 hours without charge. Rights group Karapatan slammed the latest directive as "brazenly unscientific and ineffective" as well as a "disproportionate use of force". "Overcongestion and inhumane conditions in the country's detention facilities already pose risks to the health of prisoners, and detaining hundreds of alleged violators in these cramped facilities where physical distancing is impossible to observe would only facilitate the rapid spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19," it said in a statement. Police and soldiers have played a key role in the country's pandemic response, setting up checkpoints and deploying thousands of personnel to enforce stay-at-home orders. The Philippines' caseload of more a million infections is the second-highest in Southeast Asia.

COVID-19: Philippine President Duterte orders arrest of mask violators

<p>Amid a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.</p>

<p>"The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-in-india-bihar-to-go-into-lockdown-night-curfew-to-continue-in-chandigarh-382759">COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh</a></strong></p>

<p>All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am.</p>

<p>The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday.</p>

<p>The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-immediate-concern-is-to-break-the-chain-of-covid-infection-382627">India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection</a></strong></p>

<p>During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead.</p>

<p>On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.</p>


Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here.

Amid a surge in coronavirus cases, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday decided to increase the duration of the weekend lockdown till 7 am on May 10, an official spokesman said here. "The corona curfew from Friday 8 pm to Tuesday 7 am, which was extended on May 3 for 48 hours and is in force till May 6 till 7 am has been further extended till Monday (May 10) 7 am," an official spokesman said here. Also read | COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh All shops and establishments will now remain closed till Monday 7 am. The official said that further decision to extend the curfew will be taken on Sunday. The decision for extension has been taken for breaking the chain of coronavirus. Also read | India's immediate concern is to break the chain of Covid infection During this period, all essential services will be allowed and vaccination drive will continue, a senior official said, but refused to term it as a "lockdown", preferring "closure" instead. On April 29, the state government had announced that weekend lockdowns will now cover Mondays too and on May 3 it was extended till May 6.

COVID-19: Curfew in Uttar Pradesh extended till May 10

<p>The Supreme Court Wednesday stayed contempt proceedings initiated by the Delhi High Court against central government officials for non-compliance of the direction to supply 700 MT of medical grade oxygen for COVID-19 patients in the national capital.</p>

<p>The stay, however, will not restrain the high court from monitoring the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> management-related issues, a bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah said.</p>

<p>The top court, in an urgent hearing, directed that a meeting be held between officials of the Centre and Delhi government by this evening to discuss various aspects of augmenting the oxygen supply to the national capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-crisis-over-180-cryogenic-oxygen-containers-transported-by-indian-air-force-382829">COVID-19 crisis: Over 180 cryogenic oxygen containers transported by Indian Air Force</a></strong></p>

<p>This is an all-India pandemic situation and we will have to find ways to ensure oxygen supply to the national capital as we are answerable to people of Delhi, it said.</p>

<p>"We are also in Delhi. We are helpless and have been on phone. We can imagine what citizens are going through," Justice Chandrachud said, adding that his office is hearing cries from people including lawyers seeking help.</p>

<p>The top court said it cannot review its order of April 30 and the Centre will have to inch towards the supply of 700 MT of oxygen daily for Delhi and asked the Union government to place before it a plan by Thursday morning as to how it will revamp the supply to 700MT.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-accounts-for-46-per-cent-of-worlds-new-covid-19-cases-quarter-of-deaths-who-382992">India accounts for 46 per cent of world's new COVID-19 cases, quarter of deaths: WHO</a></strong></p>

<p>It suggested that a committee of experts and doctors including those from the private sector may be constituted to ascertain the situation in Delhi and take into account the COVID-19 situation which had been prevailing in Mumbai.</p>

<p>The top court, in a nearly two-hour hearing, said that putting officers in jail is not going to bring oxygen to Delhi and questioned the Centre about the supply it has made to the national capital since May 3.</p>

<p>The bench said, "Let us ensure lives are saved" and by enhancing supply of around 150MT per day the quantity will come up to 700MT and number of lives will be saved.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-patients-die-at-government-hospital-in-chennai-probe-ordered-382886">11 patients die at government hospital in Chennai, probe ordered</a></strong></p>

<p>It was hearing the Centre's appeal against Delhi High Court's Tuesday order of issuing contempt notice and seeking personal appearance of its officials for non-compliance with the directions on supply of oxygen to treat COVID-19 patients.</p>

<p>The bench aid that it had ordered supply of 700 MT oxygen to Delhi daily from May 3 as the "pandemic in Delhi is at a very critical stage".</p>

<p>"Putting officers in jail is not going to bring oxygen to the city, let us ensure lives are saved," said the bench which also comprised justice MR Shah.</p>

<p>"This is not adversarial litigation. Centre, Delhi governments are elected and doing their best to serve COVID-19 patients,"&nbsp;Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said.</p>

<p>"Tell us how much oxygen you have allocated to Delhi in the last three days," the bench said.</p>


The Supreme Court Wednesday stayed contempt proceedings initiated by the Delhi High Court against central government officials for non-compliance of the direction to supply 700 MT of medical grade oxygen for COVID-19 patients in the national capital.

The Supreme Court Wednesday stayed contempt proceedings initiated by the Delhi High Court against central government officials for non-compliance of the direction to supply 700 MT of medical grade oxygen for COVID-19 patients in the national capital. The stay, however, will not restrain the high court from monitoring the COVID-19 management-related issues, a bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah said. The top court, in an urgent hearing, directed that a meeting be held between officials of the Centre and Delhi government by this evening to discuss various aspects of augmenting the oxygen supply to the national capital. Also read | COVID-19 crisis: Over 180 cryogenic oxygen containers transported by Indian Air Force This is an all-India pandemic situation and we will have to find ways to ensure oxygen supply to the national capital as we are answerable to people of Delhi, it said. "We are also in Delhi. We are helpless and have been on phone. We can imagine what citizens are going through," Justice Chandrachud said, adding that his office is hearing cries from people including lawyers seeking help. The top court said it cannot review its order of April 30 and the Centre will have to inch towards the supply of 700 MT of oxygen daily for Delhi and asked the Union government to place before it a plan by Thursday morning as to how it will revamp the supply to 700MT. Also read | India accounts for 46 per cent of world's new COVID-19 cases, quarter of deaths: WHO It suggested that a committee of experts and doctors including those from the private sector may be constituted to ascertain the situation in Delhi and take into account the COVID-19 situation which had been prevailing in Mumbai. The top court, in a nearly two-hour hearing, said that putting officers in jail is not going to bring oxygen to Delhi and questioned the Centre about the supply it has made to the national capital since May 3. The bench said, "Let us ensure lives are saved" and by enhancing supply of around 150MT per day the quantity will come up to 700MT and number of lives will be saved. Also read | 11 patients die at government hospital in Chennai, probe ordered It was hearing the Centre's appeal against Delhi High Court's Tuesday order of issuing contempt notice and seeking personal appearance of its officials for non-compliance with the directions on supply of oxygen to treat COVID-19 patients. The bench aid that it had ordered supply of 700 MT oxygen to Delhi daily from May 3 as the "pandemic in Delhi is at a very critical stage". "Putting officers in jail is not going to bring oxygen to the city, let us ensure lives are saved," said the bench which also comprised justice MR Shah. "This is not adversarial litigation. Centre, Delhi governments are elected and doing their best to serve COVID-19 patients," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said. "Tell us how much oxygen you have allocated to Delhi in the last three days," the bench said.

SC stays Delhi HC order on contempt proceedings against Centre's officials over oxygen supply

<p>India&nbsp;has given emergency use authorization for a&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;antibody-drug&nbsp;cocktail&nbsp;developed by&nbsp;Roche&nbsp;and&nbsp;Regeneron, expanding its arsenal of drugs to battle a massive second wave of infections.</p>

<p>The decision was taken based on data filed with the US&nbsp;regulators and the scientific opinion of a European regulatory panel, Roche's India distribution partner for the drug, Cipla, said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The therapy is a&nbsp;cocktail&nbsp;of two antibodies Casirivimab and Imdevimab, which are synthetically manufactured copies of antibodies that the body produces after an infection.</p>

<p>It has been shown to reduce hospitalizations in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp;patients who are at a high risk of developing severe illness.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-accounts-for-46-per-cent-of-worlds-new-covid-19-cases-quarter-of-deaths-who-382992">India accounts for 46 per cent of world's new COVID-19 cases, quarter of deaths: WHO</a></strong></p>

<p>The drug already has similar authorization in the United States and is used in Europe non-hospitalised patients. Former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump had taken the drug when he contracted the disease.</p>

<p>Cipla said the drug is meant for people with mild-to-moderate infection who are at high risk of developing severe disease. The company did not provide a price or a launch date.</p>

<p>In the last 10 days, more than 33,000&nbsp;Indians have died of&nbsp;COVID-19, with the country facing a severe shortage of&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;medicine including Gilead's remdesivir and&nbsp;Roche's tocilizumab.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/regeneron-to-seek-us-approval-for-covid-19-cocktail-to-be-used-for-prevention-377212">Regeneron to seek US approval for COVID-19 cocktail to be used for prevention</a></strong></p>

<p>Both government and local manufacturers have said they are working to ramp up production. Smaller&nbsp;Indian drugmaker Natco Pharma said on Monday it received emergency use authorization for baricitinib, originally developed by Eli Lilly, to be used with remdesivir to&nbsp;treat&nbsp;COVID-19.</p>

<p>India's official tally of coronavirus infections has crossed 20 million and is second only to the United States. Deaths have reached 226,188, but experts say the real tally could be several times higher.</p>


India has given emergency use authorization for a COVID-19 antibody-drug cocktail developed by Roche and Regeneron, expanding its arsenal of drugs to battle a massive second wave of infections.

India has given emergency use authorization for a COVID-19 antibody-drug cocktail developed by Roche and Regeneron, expanding its arsenal of drugs to battle a massive second wave of infections. The decision was taken based on data filed with the US regulators and the scientific opinion of a European regulatory panel, Roche's India distribution partner for the drug, Cipla, said on Wednesday. The therapy is a cocktail of two antibodies Casirivimab and Imdevimab, which are synthetically manufactured copies of antibodies that the body produces after an infection. It has been shown to reduce hospitalizations in COVID-19 patients who are at a high risk of developing severe illness. Also read | India accounts for 46 per cent of world's new COVID-19 cases, quarter of deaths: WHO The drug already has similar authorization in the United States and is used in Europe non-hospitalised patients. Former US President Donald Trump had taken the drug when he contracted the disease. Cipla said the drug is meant for people with mild-to-moderate infection who are at high risk of developing severe disease. The company did not provide a price or a launch date. In the last 10 days, more than 33,000 Indians have died of COVID-19, with the country facing a severe shortage of COVID-19 medicine including Gilead's remdesivir and Roche's tocilizumab. Also read | Regeneron to seek US approval for COVID-19 cocktail to be used for prevention Both government and local manufacturers have said they are working to ramp up production. Smaller Indian drugmaker Natco Pharma said on Monday it received emergency use authorization for baricitinib, originally developed by Eli Lilly, to be used with remdesivir to treat COVID-19. India's official tally of coronavirus infections has crossed 20 million and is second only to the United States. Deaths have reached 226,188, but experts say the real tally could be several times higher.

India approves Roche/Regeneron antibody cocktail to treat COVID-19

<p>India&nbsp;accounted for 46 per cent&nbsp;of the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases recorded worldwide last week and one in four deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The surge of the coronavirus in&nbsp;India, including of a highly infectious new variant first identified there, has seen hospitals runs out of beds and oxygen, and morgues and crematoriums overflowing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Worldwide, 5.7 million new cases were reported last week and more than 93,000 deaths, the WHO said in its weekly epidemiological report.&nbsp;India&nbsp;reported nearly 2.6 million new cases, a 20 per cent&nbsp;increase on the previous week, and 23,231 deaths.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-cases-cross-20-million-382724">India's&nbsp;COVID-19 cases cross 20 million</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The figures are based on official tallies, so&nbsp;India's proportion could be even larger if, as many experts believe, a large number of cases and deaths are not being recorded there as the system becomes overwhelmed.&nbsp;India&nbsp;accounts for almost 18 per cent&nbsp;of the world's population.</p>

<p>There are signs that&nbsp;India's outbreak is spreading to its neighbours. Nepal recorded a 137 per cent&nbsp;increase in cases to 31,088 last week, while Sri Lanka's COVID-19 outbreak was also growing, the WHO said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-coronavirus-variants-are-proving-to-be-fatal-for-patients-in-india-382809">Why coronavirus variants are proving to be fatal for patients in India</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday&nbsp;India&nbsp;became the second country to record 20 million infections, after the United States.&nbsp;India's coronavirus deaths rose by a record 3,780 during the last 24 hours, with daily infections rising by 382,315 on Wednesday, health ministry data showed.</p>


India accounted for 46 per cent of the new COVID-19 cases recorded worldwide last week and one in four deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.

India accounted for 46 per cent of the new COVID-19 cases recorded worldwide last week and one in four deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. The surge of the coronavirus in India, including of a highly infectious new variant first identified there, has seen hospitals runs out of beds and oxygen, and morgues and crematoriums overflowing. Worldwide, 5.7 million new cases were reported last week and more than 93,000 deaths, the WHO said in its weekly epidemiological report. India reported nearly 2.6 million new cases, a 20 per cent increase on the previous week, and 23,231 deaths. Also read | India's COVID-19 cases cross 20 million The figures are based on official tallies, so India's proportion could be even larger if, as many experts believe, a large number of cases and deaths are not being recorded there as the system becomes overwhelmed. India accounts for almost 18 per cent of the world's population. There are signs that India's outbreak is spreading to its neighbours. Nepal recorded a 137 per cent increase in cases to 31,088 last week, while Sri Lanka's COVID-19 outbreak was also growing, the WHO said. Also read | Why coronavirus variants are proving to be fatal for patients in India On Tuesday India became the second country to record 20 million infections, after the United States. India's coronavirus deaths rose by a record 3,780 during the last 24 hours, with daily infections rising by 382,315 on Wednesday, health ministry data showed.

India accounts for 46 per cent of world's new COVID-19 cases, quarter of deaths: WHO

'Urgent situation', International celebs pledge support for India amid COVID-19 crisis

<p>Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, India on Sunday received several essential medical supplies and equipment from France to help fight the second wave of the coronavirus.</p>

<p>According to sources, the medical supply from France was received on Sunday includes eight oxygen generators, 28 ventilators, 200 electric syringe pumps, 28 AFNOR/BS Flexible tubes, 500 anti-bacterial filters, 500 machine filters and 500 related patient circuits.</p>

<p>The total weight of these materials is more than 28 tonnes.These eight generators are Novair Premium RX 400 Hospital Level Oxygen Generators, with each unit capable of providing year-long oxygen for 250 beds.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad">COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad</a></strong></p>

<p>These world-class generators would make 8 hospitals oxygen autonomous for over 10 years, informed sources.</p>

<p>"A testament to India-France strategic partnership &amp; friendship! 28 tonnes of medical equipment including 8 hospital-level oxygen generators and other medical supplies arrives from France. Deeply appreciate the support from France. Will bolster our oxygen capacities," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. According to a press release, this airfreight is the first phase of France's solidarity mission.</p>

<p>Furthermore, a second delivery of oxygen generators and medical equipment is underway due to the numerous contributions made by French companies in India with the active involvement of the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI).</p>

<p>Moreover, in the following days, French company Air Liquide will begin shipments of several hundred tonnes of oxygen through a dedicated logistical bridge organised by both governments and implemented with the Indian armed forces.</p>

<p>According to the release, the oxygen plants will be delivered to eight Indian hospitals, including six in Delhi, one in Haryana and one in Telangana, based on needs as identified by the Indian authorities.</p>

<p>The 28 ventilators and 200 electric syringe pumps will be distributed to several hospitals based on needs to enhance their ICU capacities.</p>

<p>This special cargo flight has been chartered free of charge by the French shipping and logistics group CMA CGM through its air cargo division.</p>

<p>Alongside CMA CGM, many other French companies present in India have stepped up to pool their contributions and resources with the French government to carry out this exceptional solidarity mission.</p>

<p>This support also falls within the framework of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). "We stand by India in these difficult times, just as India has always stood by France. In Spring 2020, when French hospitals were facing acute shortages, India provided lifesaving help through the export of critical medical drugs. The French people have not forgotten. India has, in fact, been at the forefront of international cooperation against the pandemic, including through sharing its massive vaccine production capacity with the countries most in need," said the Ambassador of France to India, Emmanuel Lenain, on this occasion.</p>

<p>Quoting French President Emmanuel Macron, Lenain said that solidarity is at the heart of the strategic partnership between France and India and that a partnership between sovereign countries that have built an exceptional mutual trust and work together to enhance each other's strategic autonomy.</p>

<p>"We know now that healthcare is also a pillar of sovereignty. And that is the meaning of our contribution: each of these oxygen generator plants will make an Indian hospital fully oxygen aatmanirbhar for more than 10 years.&nbsp;I believe healthcare can be a new field to develop our strategic partnership, building on our respective strengths. Together, we will prevail," he added. On April 27, Macron had conveyed the message of solidarity in Hindi via a social media post.</p>

<p>"No one is untouched by the epidemic we are going through. We know that India is going through a difficult period. France and India have always been united: we are ready to provide our support," he had said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the MEA also announced that India has received a shipment of 9,000 vials of Remdesivir from Belgium. Earlier on Saturday night, India received several medical supplies from countries including Germany, the United States and Uzbekistan.</p>

<p>As India battles a devastating second wave of coronavirus, several countries around the globe including the United Kingdom and Russia have extended support as the country continues to struggle with the increase in its health infrastructure needs caused by the rising infections.</p>

<p>India for the first time reported more than four lakh new COVID-19 cases on Saturday. A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded on Saturday, taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported.</p>


Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, India on Sunday received several essential medical supplies and equipment from France to help fight the second wave of the coronavirus.

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, India on Sunday received several essential medical supplies and equipment from France to help fight the second wave of the coronavirus. According to sources, the medical supply from France was received on Sunday includes eight oxygen generators, 28 ventilators, 200 electric syringe pumps, 28 AFNOR/BS Flexible tubes, 500 anti-bacterial filters, 500 machine filters and 500 related patient circuits. The total weight of these materials is more than 28 tonnes.These eight generators are Novair Premium RX 400 Hospital Level Oxygen Generators, with each unit capable of providing year-long oxygen for 250 beds. Also read: COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad These world-class generators would make 8 hospitals oxygen autonomous for over 10 years, informed sources. "A testament to India-France strategic partnership & friendship! 28 tonnes of medical equipment including 8 hospital-level oxygen generators and other medical supplies arrives from France. Deeply appreciate the support from France. Will bolster our oxygen capacities," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. According to a press release, this airfreight is the first phase of France's solidarity mission. Furthermore, a second delivery of oxygen generators and medical equipment is underway due to the numerous contributions made by French companies in India with the active involvement of the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI). Moreover, in the following days, French company Air Liquide will begin shipments of several hundred tonnes of oxygen through a dedicated logistical bridge organised by both governments and implemented with the Indian armed forces. According to the release, the oxygen plants will be delivered to eight Indian hospitals, including six in Delhi, one in Haryana and one in Telangana, based on needs as identified by the Indian authorities. The 28 ventilators and 200 electric syringe pumps will be distributed to several hospitals based on needs to enhance their ICU capacities. This special cargo flight has been chartered free of charge by the French shipping and logistics group CMA CGM through its air cargo division. Alongside CMA CGM, many other French companies present in India have stepped up to pool their contributions and resources with the French government to carry out this exceptional solidarity mission. This support also falls within the framework of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). "We stand by India in these difficult times, just as India has always stood by France. In Spring 2020, when French hospitals were facing acute shortages, India provided lifesaving help through the export of critical medical drugs. The French people have not forgotten. India has, in fact, been at the forefront of international cooperation against the pandemic, including through sharing its massive vaccine production capacity with the countries most in need," said the Ambassador of France to India, Emmanuel Lenain, on this occasion. Quoting French President Emmanuel Macron, Lenain said that solidarity is at the heart of the strategic partnership between France and India and that a partnership between sovereign countries that have built an exceptional mutual trust and work together to enhance each other's strategic autonomy. "We know now that healthcare is also a pillar of sovereignty. And that is the meaning of our contribution: each of these oxygen generator plants will make an Indian hospital fully oxygen aatmanirbhar for more than 10 years. I believe healthcare can be a new field to develop our strategic partnership, building on our respective strengths. Together, we will prevail," he added. On April 27, Macron had conveyed the message of solidarity in Hindi via a social media post. "No one is untouched by the epidemic we are going through. We know that India is going through a difficult period. France and India have always been united: we are ready to provide our support," he had said. Meanwhile, the MEA also announced that India has received a shipment of 9,000 vials of Remdesivir from Belgium. Earlier on Saturday night, India received several medical supplies from countries including Germany, the United States and Uzbekistan. As India battles a devastating second wave of coronavirus, several countries around the globe including the United Kingdom and Russia have extended support as the country continues to struggle with the increase in its health infrastructure needs caused by the rising infections. India for the first time reported more than four lakh new COVID-19 cases on Saturday. A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded on Saturday, taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported.

India receives essential medical supplies from France to combat COVID-19 surge

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday reviewed the progress of conversion of existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen - a feasibility explored by the Centre considering the requirement of medical oxygen amidst the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus?page=1">Covid-19</a> pandemic.<br />
<br />
The Centre has identified more than two dozen nitrogen generation plants for the production of medical oxygen.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/while-india-fights-oxygen-shortage-another-challenge-lurks-in-the-shadows-381228">While India fights oxygen shortage, another challenge lurks in the shadows</a></strong><br />
<br />
"In order to ramp up oxygen supplies, the government is working on converting nitrogen plants into oxygen plants. Potential industries where current nitrogen plants could be spared, are being identified and converted," the Prime Minister tweeted after the review meeting.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In order to ramp up oxygen supplies, the Government is working on converting nitrogen plants into oxygen plants. Potential industries where current nitrogen plants could be spared, are being identified &amp; converted. <a href="https://t.co/Gl9E6a7sCl">https://t.co/Gl9E6a7sCl</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1388814026793123842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The process of converting the existing Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) nitrogen plants for production of oxygen was discussed in the meeting, said a statement issued by the Prime Minister`s Office.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-highest-ever-401993-new-cases-3523-deaths-381832">COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
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In the nitrogen plants Carbon Molecular Sieve (CMS) is used whereas Zeolite Molecular Sieve (ZMS) is required for producing oxygen. Therefore, by replacing CMS with ZMS and carrying out a few other changes such as oxygen analyzer, control panel system and flow valves, existing nitrogen plants can be modified to produce oxygen.<br />
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"On deliberation with the industries, so far 14 industries have been identified where conversion of plants is under progress. Further 37 nitrogen plants have been also identified with the help of industry associations," said the statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxygen-aid-arrives-in-india-amid-record-break-covid-numbers-382312">Oxygen aid arrives in India amid record-break Covid numbers</a></strong><br />
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A nitrogen plant modified for the production of oxygen can be either shifted to a nearby hospital or, in case it is not feasible to shift the plant, it can be used for on-site production of oxygen, which can be transported to hospital through specialized vessels or cylinders.<br />
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Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Home Secretary, Secretary Road Transport and Highways and other senior officials participated in the meeting.<br />
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Oxygen produced in on-site plants has to be compressed and filled in cylinders or special vessels using a high-pressure compressor for transporting to hospitals.<br />
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Facilitation is being provided to these industries for completion of work at the earliest.<br />
<br />
The Centre had earlier asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which has a comprehensive database of industrial units, to identify the industries having spare nitrogen plants and explore the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen.<br />
<br />
The CPCB with the help of the State Pollution Control Boards has identified such potential industries, wherein existing nitrogen generation plants may be spared for production of oxygen.<br />
<br />
In this regard, consultations have been held with potential industrial units and experts.<br />
<br />
The Centre`s step comes as India has been hit by a devastating wave of Covid infections -- the daily new cases crossed the four-lakh mark on Saturday and 3,92,488 new Covid-19 cases were reported on Sunday morning. The surge in cases has left hospitals overwhelmed, doctors traumatised, and resources like beds, medicines and oxygen in perilously short supply.<br />
<br />
The scale of the crisis has prompted the global community to step in with oxygen concentrators, tankers and other equipment being flown in by the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the European Union and other countries.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday reviewed the progress of conversion of existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen - a feasibility explored by the Centre considering the requirement of medical oxygen amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday reviewed the progress of conversion of existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen - a feasibility explored by the Centre considering the requirement of medical oxygen amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. The Centre has identified more than two dozen nitrogen generation plants for the production of medical oxygen. Also read | While India fights oxygen shortage, another challenge lurks in the shadows "In order to ramp up oxygen supplies, the government is working on converting nitrogen plants into oxygen plants. Potential industries where current nitrogen plants could be spared, are being identified and converted," the Prime Minister tweeted after the review meeting. In order to ramp up oxygen supplies, the Government is working on converting nitrogen plants into oxygen plants. Potential industries where current nitrogen plants could be spared, are being identified & converted. https://t.co/Gl9E6a7sCl — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2021 × The process of converting the existing Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) nitrogen plants for production of oxygen was discussed in the meeting, said a statement issued by the Prime Minister`s Office. Also read | COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths In the nitrogen plants Carbon Molecular Sieve (CMS) is used whereas Zeolite Molecular Sieve (ZMS) is required for producing oxygen. Therefore, by replacing CMS with ZMS and carrying out a few other changes such as oxygen analyzer, control panel system and flow valves, existing nitrogen plants can be modified to produce oxygen. "On deliberation with the industries, so far 14 industries have been identified where conversion of plants is under progress. Further 37 nitrogen plants have been also identified with the help of industry associations," said the statement. Also read | Oxygen aid arrives in India amid record-break Covid numbers A nitrogen plant modified for the production of oxygen can be either shifted to a nearby hospital or, in case it is not feasible to shift the plant, it can be used for on-site production of oxygen, which can be transported to hospital through specialized vessels or cylinders. Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Home Secretary, Secretary Road Transport and Highways and other senior officials participated in the meeting. Oxygen produced in on-site plants has to be compressed and filled in cylinders or special vessels using a high-pressure compressor for transporting to hospitals. Facilitation is being provided to these industries for completion of work at the earliest. The Centre had earlier asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which has a comprehensive database of industrial units, to identify the industries having spare nitrogen plants and explore the feasibility of converting existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen. The CPCB with the help of the State Pollution Control Boards has identified such potential industries, wherein existing nitrogen generation plants may be spared for production of oxygen. In this regard, consultations have been held with potential industrial units and experts. The Centre`s step comes as India has been hit by a devastating wave of Covid infections -- the daily new cases crossed the four-lakh mark on Saturday and 3,92,488 new Covid-19 cases were reported on Sunday morning. The surge in cases has left hospitals overwhelmed, doctors traumatised, and resources like beds, medicines and oxygen in perilously short supply. The scale of the crisis has prompted the global community to step in with oxygen concentrators, tankers and other equipment being flown in by the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the European Union and other countries.

PM reviews progress of converting nitrogen plants to produce oxygen

<p>To break the chain of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday.</p>

<p>State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">3 मई दिन सोमवार से 7 दिन के लिए सारे हरियाणा में पूर्ण लॉक डाउन घोषित ।</p>
— ANIL VIJ MINISTER HARYANA (@anilvijminister) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilvijminister/status/1388786634057871362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, the government had ordered weekend lockdown in nine districts,&nbsp;Panchkula, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonepat, Rohtak, Karnal, Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad, that would end at 5 am on Monday.<br />
<br />
Haryana had reported 13,588 new Covid cases and 125 fatalities on Saturday.</p>


To break the chain of coronavirus transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday. State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet.

To break the chain of coronavirus transmission in the state, the Haryana government on Sunday announced a weeklong lockdown starting Monday. State Home and Health Minister Anil Vij announced the decision to impose "complete lockdown" in a tweet. 3 मई दिन सोमवार से 7 दिन के लिए सारे हरियाणा में पूर्ण लॉक डाउन घोषित । — ANIL VIJ MINISTER HARYANA (@anilvijminister) May 2, 2021 × Earlier, the government had ordered weekend lockdown in nine districts, Panchkula, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonepat, Rohtak, Karnal, Hisar, Sirsa and Fatehabad, that would end at 5 am on Monday. Haryana had reported 13,588 new Covid cases and 125 fatalities on Saturday.

Seven-day lockdown in Haryana from Monday

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held a virtual meeting with experts to review oxygen and medicine availability. He also reviewed the human resource situation, in relation to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 pandemic</a>, and ways to augment it.</p>

<p>According to government sources, the Prime Minister reviewed the matter of augmenting human resources for effective management of COVID-19 in the country today.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-receives-essential-medical-supplies-from-france-to-combat-covid-19-surge-382096">India receives essential medical supplies from France to combat COVID-19 surge</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwans-first-batch-of-covid-19-aid-leaves-for-india-382139">Taiwan's first batch of COVID-19 aid leaves for India</a></strong></p>

<p>During the meeting, several steps to incentivize students and pass-outs of medical and nursing courses to join Covid duty were taken.</p>

<p>The decisions which were taken in the meeting may include delaying the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) examination and incentivizing MBBS pass-outs studying for it to join Covid duty. It might also include utilising services of final year MBBS and nursing students in Covid Duty.</p>

<p>Medical personnel doing Covid duty will be given preference in government recruitment as well as a financial incentive.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwans-first-batch-of-covid-19-aid-leaves-for-india-382139">Taiwan's first batch of COVID-19 aid leaves for India</a></strong></p>

<p>India reported 3,92,488 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, down from yesterday`s high of over 4 lakh cases, taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,95,57,457, the Union Health Ministry said today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, there are 33,49,644 active cases of COVID-19 in the country and the death toll has mounted to 2,15,542. The total doses of the COVID-19 vaccine administered stand at over 15,68,16,031, informed the health ministry.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held a virtual meeting with experts to review oxygen and medicine availability. He also reviewed the human resource situation, in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and ways to augment it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held a virtual meeting with experts to review oxygen and medicine availability. He also reviewed the human resource situation, in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and ways to augment it. According to government sources, the Prime Minister reviewed the matter of augmenting human resources for effective management of COVID-19 in the country today. Also read | India receives essential medical supplies from France to combat COVID-19 surge Taiwan's first batch of COVID-19 aid leaves for India During the meeting, several steps to incentivize students and pass-outs of medical and nursing courses to join Covid duty were taken. The decisions which were taken in the meeting may include delaying the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) examination and incentivizing MBBS pass-outs studying for it to join Covid duty. It might also include utilising services of final year MBBS and nursing students in Covid Duty. Medical personnel doing Covid duty will be given preference in government recruitment as well as a financial incentive. Also read | Taiwan's first batch of COVID-19 aid leaves for India India reported 3,92,488 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, down from yesterday`s high of over 4 lakh cases, taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,95,57,457, the Union Health Ministry said today. Currently, there are 33,49,644 active cases of COVID-19 in the country and the death toll has mounted to 2,15,542. The total doses of the COVID-19 vaccine administered stand at over 15,68,16,031, informed the health ministry.

COVID-19: PM Modi reviews oxygen and medicine availability

<p>Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000&nbsp;vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said.<br />
The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added.</p>

<p>Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-steroids-blood-thinners-crucial-to-save-lives-381546/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease.</p>

<p>HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said.</p>

<p>It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted.<br />
Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-crisis-outpouring-of-solidarity-by-international-community-says-fs-shringla-381427">India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla</a></strong></p>

<p>EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added.</p>

<p>The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country.</p>

<p>As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said.</p>

<p>Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000)&nbsp;vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000&nbsp; vials on April 28, it added.</p>

<p>An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted.</p>

<p>The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said.</p>

<p>India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million&nbsp;mark.</p>

<p>The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.&nbsp;</p>


Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement. The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said. The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added. Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases. The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease. HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said. It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted. Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said. Also read | India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added. The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country. As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said. Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000) vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000 vials on April 28, it added. An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted. The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said. India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million mark. The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.

India to import 450,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir amid spike in COVID-19 cases

<p>Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> relief work in the state.</p>

<p>After attending the meetings convened by Chief Minister B.S. Yedyurappa at his home office, Ashoka said that Yediyurappa has also appealed to all legislators to contribute a month`s salary, but as ministers, they have voluntarily agreed to constitute a year`s salary to this work.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-14-days-of-lockdown-in-karnataka-starting-april-27-night-380509">COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night</a></strong></p>

<p>He also stated that due to overburdening of&nbsp;existing crematoriums, the state government has identified land parcels measuring a total of 230.5 acres and it will be handed over to the Bengaluru civic body.</p>

<p>"Our basic aim is to reduce long queues in front of crematoriums and in any eventualities there should not be any shortage of space to cremate or bury," he said and added that already three crematoriums have developed problems following which three more are coming up at Mavallipura, Giddenahalli and Tavarekere on the city`s outskirts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-lockdown-what-will-be-open-what-will-be-closed-380571"><strong>Bengaluru Lockdown: What will be open, what will be closed</strong></a></p>

<p>Those at Giddenahalli and Tavarekere with a capacity to cremate 70 bodies have become operational while the one at Mavallipura with a capacity to burn 40 will start operations soon.</p>


Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for Covid relief work in the state.

Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for Covid relief work in the state. After attending the meetings convened by Chief Minister B.S. Yedyurappa at his home office, Ashoka said that Yediyurappa has also appealed to all legislators to contribute a month`s salary, but as ministers, they have voluntarily agreed to constitute a year`s salary to this work. Also read | COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night He also stated that due to overburdening of existing crematoriums, the state government has identified land parcels measuring a total of 230.5 acres and it will be handed over to the Bengaluru civic body. "Our basic aim is to reduce long queues in front of crematoriums and in any eventualities there should not be any shortage of space to cremate or bury," he said and added that already three crematoriums have developed problems following which three more are coming up at Mavallipura, Giddenahalli and Tavarekere on the city`s outskirts. Also read | Bengaluru Lockdown: What will be open, what will be closed Those at Giddenahalli and Tavarekere with a capacity to cremate 70 bodies have become operational while the one at Mavallipura with a capacity to burn 40 will start operations soon.

Karnataka ministers to contribute year's salary for Covid relief

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