Travel restrictions around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic breathes fresh life into the ecosystem of Thailand's Phi Phi Islands, which was earlier on the verge of collapse due to rapid tourism.

COVID-19 pandemic breathes fresh life into the ecosystem of Thailand's Phi Phi Islands

In a shocking incident, Africa's Nigeria witnessed a huge wastage of the COVID-19 vaccine. Around one million doses of vaccine expired after not being utilized.

Around one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine wasted in Africa's Nigeria

As the Hanukkah holiday comes to an end and students in Israel head back to their classes. Young children are required to get tested for the COVID-19 before being allowed back to their school. WION's Jodie Cohen, brings you the details.

Israeli children return to schools after Hanukkah holidays

South Africa was the first country to detect the Omicron variant, since then it has dealt with a massive surge in coronavirus cases. But in the last few days the trend gave the impression that the situation was improving. For many this is a massive improvement in the country's COVID-19 battle. But the problem is South Africa's testing rates have also gone down.

South Africa: Daily cases reduce as COVID-19 testing goes down

Employers in New York City must require COVID-19 vaccinations for their workers under new rules announced by Mayor Bill de Blasio. This is the first-of-its-kind mandate for private-sector employees.

New York City introduces COVID-19 vaccine mandate for private sector employers

The coronavirus pandemic which has already killed more than 5 million people around the world is far from over, and the next outbreak could be even worse, says a vaccine inventor.

As worries grow over the highly mutated Omicron variant, which has already been detected in more than 30 countries, Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, the creator of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, warned that this pandemic is not done with us.

In a report published Sunday night, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported 86 additional Omicron cases, bringing the total number of cases to 246.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-scare-in-the-united-kingdom-new-cases-increase-by-50-in-a-single-day-434428" hreflang="en">Omicron scare: In the United Kingdom, new cases increase by 50% in a single day</a>

Earlier this week, scientific advisers to ministers in the UK told them that the new variant was spreading rapidly in the country. They also said that the travel rules that start on Tuesday would not be enough to prevent a potential wave of infections.

In a lecture that will be broadcast on the BBC, Gilbert said that the next pandemic might be even more deadly, despite the destructive nature of the two-year pandemic which had already infected more than 265 million people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-omicron-threat-as-big-as-the-hype-read-what-who-experts-say-434393">Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say</a>

The virus will not be the last one to threaten our lives and livelihoods, she said. The truth is, the next one could be more disastrous. According to her, the next one may be more contagious or lethal, or both.

Gilbert noted that scientific advances made and knowledge gained from research fighting against coronavirus should not be lost.

In the face of all we have gone through, we cannot allow ourselves to be in such a situation that no funds are available for pandemic preparedness, in spite of the great economic losses we have sustained, she warned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-heres-what-the-pandemic-will-look-like-in-2022-434239">Gravitas Plus: Here's what the pandemic will look like in 2022</a>

To defend against pandemics, she said, we must invest in people, research, manufacturing and institutions just as we invest in armed forces, intelligence, and diplomacy to defend against war.

Beginning on Tuesday, all passengers arriving in the UK will have to show proof of a negative PCR or lateral flow test carried out no earlier than 48 hours before departure. Additionally, the UK will add Nigeria to its travel red list on Monday.

The coronavirus pandemic which has already killed more than 5 million people around the world is far from over, and the next outbreak could be even worse, says a vaccine inventor.

The coronavirus pandemic which has already killed more than 5 million people around the world is far from over, and the next outbreak could be even worse, says a vaccine inventor. As worries grow over the highly mutated Omicron variant, which has already been detected in more than 30 countries, Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, the creator of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, warned that this pandemic is not done with us. In a report published Sunday night, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported 86 additional Omicron cases, bringing the total number of cases to 246. Also read | Omicron scare: In the United Kingdom, new cases increase by 50% in a single day Earlier this week, scientific advisers to ministers in the UK told them that the new variant was spreading rapidly in the country. They also said that the travel rules that start on Tuesday would not be enough to prevent a potential wave of infections. In a lecture that will be broadcast on the BBC, Gilbert said that the next pandemic might be even more deadly, despite the destructive nature of the two-year pandemic which had already infected more than 265 million people. Also read | Is Omicron threat as big as the hype? Read what WHO experts say The virus will not be the last one to threaten our lives and livelihoods, she said. The truth is, the next one could be more disastrous. According to her, the next one may be more contagious or lethal, or both. Gilbert noted that scientific advances made and knowledge gained from research fighting against coronavirus should not be lost. In the face of all we have gone through, we cannot allow ourselves to be in such a situation that no funds are available for pandemic preparedness, in spite of the great economic losses we have sustained, she warned. Also read | Gravitas Plus: Here's what the pandemic will look like in 2022 To defend against pandemics, she said, we must invest in people, research, manufacturing and institutions just as we invest in armed forces, intelligence, and diplomacy to defend against war. Beginning on Tuesday, all passengers arriving in the UK will have to show proof of a negative PCR or lateral flow test carried out no earlier than 48 hours before departure. Additionally, the UK will add Nigeria to its travel red list on Monday.

Next outbreak could be worse, warns Oxford vaccine maker

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

EU states had agreed to &nbsp;impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants

Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-spreads-in-south-africa-as-president-ramaphosa-urges-vaccination-434673">Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination</a>

The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction."

Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-resulted-in-alarming-increase-in-malaria-deaths-who-434686">Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO</a>

Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted.

South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday.

The European Union is not expected to ease Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries, Reuters said citing three sources. EU health ministers will discuss coronavirus pandemic and spread of Omicron variant on Tuesday. EU states had agreed to impose travel curbs on travellers coming from seven southern African countries. This was done after these countries reported Omicron variant which is considered more infectious than previous variants Bloomberg News, citing one diplomat familiar with the matter, reported on Monday that EU health ministers at a meeting on Tuesday may agree on the need for a PCR test for vaccinated third-country nationals from that region, which could allow some travel bans to be eased or lifted within a week. Also Read | Omicron spreads in South Africa as President Ramaphosa urges vaccination The travel ban "was meant always as a time-limited measure", one senior EU official told Reuters, adding however that there was no plan at the moment to lift it. "We are not yet working in that direction." Another two EU sources familiar with the work of health ministers said no decision on travel bans was expected at Tuesday's meeting. Also Read | Coronavirus pandemic resulted in alarming increase in malaria deaths: WHO Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are the southern African countries that have been targeted. South Africa has criticised the travel ban which it said penalised the country for having the expertise to first identify the variant. The United States, Britain and many other countries imposed bans similar to those of the EU. (With inputs from agencies)

EU unlikely to lift Omicron travel curbs on southern African countries

India has achieved another milestone in the vaccination campaign against coronavirus with over half of the country's adult population, which means 50 percent of the people over the age of 18 years have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

India achieves new COVID-19 vaccine milestone, 50% of adults fully vaccinated

According to a report, Africa has little chance of overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic unless 70% of its population is vaccinated by end-2022, yet “extreme vaccine discrimination” is leaving the continent behind.

Africa has little chance of overcoming COVID-19, says report

After 18 months of covid-19 restrictions, Budapest is slowly limping its way back to normal life. People preparing for the Christmas festivities. But not everyone can get into the Christmas market though. Only those who are double vaccinated and have no covid symptoms are allowed in.

So how is Budapest gearing up for the festive season?

In the wake of growing concerns over the Omicron variant of the Coronavirus and some reluctance to comply with company-mandated vaccinations, Alphabet Inc's Google said on Thursday it will delay its January return-to-work plan indefinitely.

Google had announced in August that it would expect its workers to come into the office approximately three days a week as of Jan. 10 at the earliest, ending its voluntary work-from-home policy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/with-omicron-reinfection-is-three-times-more-likely-south-african-health-body-433684" hreflang="en">With Omicron, reinfection is three times more likely: South African health body</a>

On Thursday, Google executives told employees that the company would put off the deadline beyond that date.

Company officials said the update was consistent with its earlier guidance that a return to work would not take place earlier than January&nbsp;10 and will be determined by local conditions.

According to Google, nearly 40 per cent of US&nbsp;employees came into an office in recent weeks, while other regions had higher percentages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-scare-new-york-records-5-cases-bringing-number-of-new-variant-cases-in-us-to-eight-433665" hreflang="en">Omicron scare: New York records 5 cases, bringing number of new variant cases in US to eight</a>

However, CNBC reported last week that hundreds of employees protested the vaccination mandate for employees working on US&nbsp;government contracts.

In the midst of the pandemic, Google employees were one of the first to work from home. The company has 85 offices in over 60 countries.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron Scare: Biden administration announces winter campaign against COVID-19

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-scare-biden-administration-announces-winter-campaign-against-covid-19-433682/embed" width="560"></iframe>

As of Thursday, 79 cases of the Omicron variant have been reported in Europe, the EU's public health agency said. Recently, New York (USA), Karnataka (India), have also reported cases of the variant.&nbsp;

A few countries, like Germany, have also started imposing restrictions to prevent the spread of this newly identified variant. The disease was first discovered in southern Africa last month.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the wake of growing concerns over the Omicron variant of the Coronavirus and some reluctance to comply with company-mandated vaccinations, Alphabet Inc's Google said on Thursday it will delay its January return-to-work plan indefinitely.

In the wake of growing concerns over the Omicron variant of the Coronavirus and some reluctance to comply with company-mandated vaccinations, Alphabet Inc's Google said on Thursday it will delay its January return-to-work plan indefinitely. Google had announced in August that it would expect its workers to come into the office approximately three days a week as of Jan. 10 at the earliest, ending its voluntary work-from-home policy. Also read | With Omicron, reinfection is three times more likely: South African health body On Thursday, Google executives told employees that the company would put off the deadline beyond that date. Company officials said the update was consistent with its earlier guidance that a return to work would not take place earlier than January 10 and will be determined by local conditions. According to Google, nearly 40 per cent of US employees came into an office in recent weeks, while other regions had higher percentages. Also read | Omicron scare: New York records 5 cases, bringing number of new variant cases in US to eight However, CNBC reported last week that hundreds of employees protested the vaccination mandate for employees working on US government contracts. In the midst of the pandemic, Google employees were one of the first to work from home. The company has 85 offices in over 60 countries. Watch | Omicron Scare: Biden administration announces winter campaign against COVID-19 As of Thursday, 79 cases of the Omicron variant have been reported in Europe, the EU's public health agency said. Recently, New York (USA), Karnataka (India), have also reported cases of the variant. A few countries, like Germany, have also started imposing restrictions to prevent the spread of this newly identified variant. The disease was first discovered in southern Africa last month. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid Omicron scare, Google delays mandatory return to office beyond Jan 10

Germany has decided to tighten restrictions for those unvaccinated against COVID-19. Unvaccinated people in the country will be barred from access to all but the most essential businesses, such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

Germany introduces COVID-19 restrictions on unvaccinated people

The new Omicron variant of the coronavirus carries a threefold higher risk of reinfection than the currently dominant Delta or Beta variant, a South Africa group of health organisations said on Thursday.

According to the South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), based on the data collected by the health system, the results provide the first epidemiological evidence about the ability of Omicron to evade immunity following prior infection.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-scare-new-york-records-5-cases-bringing-number-of-new-variant-cases-in-us-to-eight-433665" hreflang="en">Omicron scare: New York records 5 cases, bringing number of new variant cases in US to eight</a>

They released the statement after a group of South African health organisations published a paper on medrxiv.org as a pre-print, which means it had not yet been peer-reviewed.

Microbiologist Anne von Gottberg of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases echoed this, during an online news conference hosted by the World Health Organization earlier that day, she said South Africa was seeing a rise in COVID-19 reinfections caused by Omicron.

Daily reports of Coronavirus infections have suddenly risen in South Africa, with the government reporting 11,535 new infections on Thursday, up from 312 ten days ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regardless-of-variant-complete-vaccination-key-to-protect-against-death-covid-disease-who-433636">Regardless of variant, complete vaccination key to protect against death, Covid disease: WHO</a>

NICD, one of a wider network of health organisations that do genome sequencing on samples, said on Wednesday that the Omicron variant is getting around immunity and fast becoming the dominant variant in the country.

The NICD said in a statement on Thursday that the "reinfection risk profile of Omicron is substantially higher than that associated with the Beta and Delta variants during the second and third waves."&nbsp;

The study used routine surveillance data from March 2020 to November 27. It is based on a sample of 2,796,982 individuals with positive results at least 90 days prior to November 27, of which 35,670 were suspected reinfections.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron Scare: Biden administration announces winter campaign against COVID-19

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If the newly emerged variant is causing more reinfections than new infections, it indicates it has developed the ability to evade natural immunity from previous infections.

According to Juliet Pulliam, director of SACEMA and author of the pre-print paper, Omicron's pattern will likely be established by early to mid-December in all provinces of South Africa.

"Recent reinfections have occurred in individuals whose primary infections occurred across all three waves, with the most having their primary infection in the Delta wave," she tweeted.

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Recent reinfections have occurred in individuals whose primary infections occurred across all three waves, with the most having their primary infection in the Delta wave. <a href="https://t.co/wghncCKDtJ">pic.twitter.com/wghncCKDtJ</a>
— Juliet Pulliam, PhD (@SACEMAdirector) <a href="https://twitter.com/SACEMAdirector/status/1466459347580555266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pulliam cautioned, however, that since the authors did not have information about the individuals' vaccination status, they were unable to assess whether Omicron evades vaccination-induced immunity, or to what extent. Further research will be undertaken into this question.

(With inputs from agencies)

The new Omicron variant of the coronavirus carries a threefold higher risk of reinfection than the currently dominant Delta or Beta variant, a South Africa group of health organisations said on Thursday.

The new Omicron variant of the coronavirus carries a threefold higher risk of reinfection than the currently dominant Delta or Beta variant, a South Africa group of health organisations said on Thursday. According to the South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), based on the data collected by the health system, the results provide the first epidemiological evidence about the ability of Omicron to evade immunity following prior infection. Also read | Omicron scare: New York records 5 cases, bringing number of new variant cases in US to eight They released the statement after a group of South African health organisations published a paper on medrxiv.org as a pre-print, which means it had not yet been peer-reviewed. Microbiologist Anne von Gottberg of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases echoed this, during an online news conference hosted by the World Health Organization earlier that day, she said South Africa was seeing a rise in COVID-19 reinfections caused by Omicron. Daily reports of Coronavirus infections have suddenly risen in South Africa, with the government reporting 11,535 new infections on Thursday, up from 312 ten days ago. Also read | Regardless of variant, complete vaccination key to protect against death, Covid disease: WHO NICD, one of a wider network of health organisations that do genome sequencing on samples, said on Wednesday that the Omicron variant is getting around immunity and fast becoming the dominant variant in the country. The NICD said in a statement on Thursday that the "reinfection risk profile of Omicron is substantially higher than that associated with the Beta and Delta variants during the second and third waves." The study used routine surveillance data from March 2020 to November 27. It is based on a sample of 2,796,982 individuals with positive results at least 90 days prior to November 27, of which 35,670 were suspected reinfections. Watch | Omicron Scare: Biden administration announces winter campaign against COVID-19 If the newly emerged variant is causing more reinfections than new infections, it indicates it has developed the ability to evade natural immunity from previous infections. According to Juliet Pulliam, director of SACEMA and author of the pre-print paper, Omicron's pattern will likely be established by early to mid-December in all provinces of South Africa. "Recent reinfections have occurred in individuals whose primary infections occurred across all three waves, with the most having their primary infection in the Delta wave," she tweeted. Recent reinfections have occurred in individuals whose primary infections occurred across all three waves, with the most having their primary infection in the Delta wave. pic.twitter.com/wghncCKDtJ — Juliet Pulliam, PhD (@SACEMAdirector) December 2, 2021 × Pulliam cautioned, however, that since the authors did not have information about the individuals' vaccination status, they were unable to assess whether Omicron evades vaccination-induced immunity, or to what extent. Further research will be undertaken into this question. (With inputs from agencies)

With Omicron, reinfection is three times more likely: South African health body

Amid growing concerns over the new Omicron COVID-19 variant, the Biden administration is supporting efforts by the World Health Organization (WHO) to establish a new international agreement on future pandemic preparedness and response— the so-called pandemic treaty. But as VOA’s White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara reports, public health experts are pessimistic of the outcome.

WION-VOA Co-Production: US to support WHO's new accord on future pandemic

Five new cases of the coronavirus variant Omicron have been detected in New York state, according to Governor Kathy Hochul. This brings the number of detections in the United States to eight.

With the discovery of these cases, NY&nbsp;has now become the fourth US state with Omicron cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/regardless-of-variant-complete-vaccination-key-to-protect-against-death-covid-disease-who-433636">Regardless of variant, complete vaccination key to protect against death, Covid disease: WHO</a>

<ul>
</ul>

Other US states where Omicron has been found are California, Colorado, and Minnesota, each with one case. In all three cases, the patients were fully vaccinated and displayed only mild symptoms.

"New York State has confirmed five cases of the omicron variant," Hochul said in a Twitter post aimed at reassuring residents of the nation's fourth most populous state that the detections were not unexpected.

"Let me be clear: This is not cause for alarm. We knew this variant was coming and we have the tools to stop the spread," she said.

"Get your vaccine. Get your booster. Wear your mask."

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New York State has confirmed five cases of the omicron variant. 
 
Let me be clear: This is not cause for alarm. We knew this variant was coming and we have the tools to stop the spread. 
 
Get your vaccine. Get your booster. Wear your mask.
— Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovKathyHochul/status/1466546717185163269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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There was no immediate word on whether the new cases were near New York City - the country's most populous metropolitan area - and whether they were detected in individuals returning from overseas travel.

In the United States, at least eight cases have been confirmed, with one, in Minnesota, involving a person without recent international travel history. Such a case suggests the strain is already present and circulating inside the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron poses global risk, exposes great divide

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Hochul's figures follow President Biden's announcement that his administration is beefing up its campaign against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> as winter takes hold.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-winter-covid-plan-is-aimed-at-keeping-the-us-economy-open-433655">Biden’s winter Covid plan is aimed at keeping the US economy open</a>

As part of the new measures, international travellers are required to undergo testing at least one day before flying, and mask mandates on public transportation will remain in effect through mid-March.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five new cases of the coronavirus variant Omicron have been detected in New York state, according to Governor Kathy Hochul. This brings the number of detections in the United States to eight.

Five new cases of the coronavirus variant Omicron have been detected in New York state, according to Governor Kathy Hochul. This brings the number of detections in the United States to eight. With the discovery of these cases, NY has now become the fourth US state with Omicron cases. Also read | Regardless of variant, complete vaccination key to protect against death, Covid disease: WHO Other US states where Omicron has been found are California, Colorado, and Minnesota, each with one case. In all three cases, the patients were fully vaccinated and displayed only mild symptoms. "New York State has confirmed five cases of the omicron variant," Hochul said in a Twitter post aimed at reassuring residents of the nation's fourth most populous state that the detections were not unexpected. "Let me be clear: This is not cause for alarm. We knew this variant was coming and we have the tools to stop the spread," she said. "Get your vaccine. Get your booster. Wear your mask." New York State has confirmed five cases of the omicron variant. Let me be clear: This is not cause for alarm. We knew this variant was coming and we have the tools to stop the spread. Get your vaccine. Get your booster. Wear your mask. — Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) December 2, 2021 × There was no immediate word on whether the new cases were near New York City - the country's most populous metropolitan area - and whether they were detected in individuals returning from overseas travel. In the United States, at least eight cases have been confirmed, with one, in Minnesota, involving a person without recent international travel history. Such a case suggests the strain is already present and circulating inside the United States. Watch | Omicron poses global risk, exposes great divide Hochul's figures follow President Biden's announcement that his administration is beefing up its campaign against COVID-19 as winter takes hold. Also read | Biden’s winter Covid plan is aimed at keeping the US economy open As part of the new measures, international travellers are required to undergo testing at least one day before flying, and mask mandates on public transportation will remain in effect through mid-March. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron scare: New York records 5 cases, bringing number of new variant cases in US to eight

Meta, the guardian organisation of Facebook and Instagram has taken down a Chinese language misinformation community that tried to unfold claims about COVID-19 utilising a faux Swiss biologist.

Facebook takes down Chinese network behind fake Swiss biologist COVID claims

Germany has decided to tighten restrictions for those unvaccinated against COVID-19. Outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel has announced that people without the jab will soon be excluded from non-essential shops, restaurants, places of culture, or leisure.

Germany cracks down on unvaccinated to tackle COVID-19 surge

A survey by India's Ministry of Health has found that Indians have become more obese, hypertensive and prone to diabetes. Is this due to lockdowns and restrictions during the pandemic? Watch this report by Palki Sharma to find out.

Gravitas: Covid Impact? Indians have become more obese and hypertensive

Several COVID-19 vaccines have now been granted emergency use authorisation, having demonstrated that they are both safe and effective. But the question remains: How long will vaccine immunity last?

How long will the vaccine immunity last?

2021 may be coming to an end but the pandemic isn't. The 'deadliest' variant of the Wuhan Virus has just been discovered. Scientists are describing it as 'horrific'. There are fears this variant may even escape vaccine-induced immunity. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: New Variant of Wuhan Virus discovered

Scientists in South Africa have detected a new COVID-19 variant with multiple mutations, blaming it for a surge in infection numbers.

Scientists in South Africa detect new variant of COVID-19

The European Union's drug regulator has approved the use of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. The approval comes as Europe is again the epicenter of the pandemic.

EU regulator gives go-ahead to first COVID-19 shot or 5-11-year-olds

Singer-rapper Lisa, part of K-pop girl band BLACKPINK has tested positive for COVID-19. The news was confirmed by record label YG Entertainment.&nbsp; 
 
News broke on Wednesday about the singer being diagnosed with coronavirus.&nbsp; 
 
The label has stated that fellow bandmates Jennie, Jisoo and Rose were not classified as 'close contacts', but were still following precautionary measures.&nbsp; 
 
Lisa has isolated herself and her other band members have undergone COVID-19 tests. Their results are awaited.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-army-upset-with-grammys-for-nominating-boy-band-in-just-one-category-431647">BTS ARMY upset with Grammys for nominating boy band in just one category</a> 
 
In a statement shared with media, the label said, "We shared this information quickly and accurately with representatives and staff, and we took strong preemptive measures beyond the guidelines of health authorities. We'll continue to provide full support with the health of our artists and related staff members as our top priority. If there are any changes in the future, we'll once again notify you quickly." 
 
Fans of the band, who call themselves BLINKs, started a social media hashtag #GetWellSoonLisa soon after the news of her illness was made public.&nbsp;

Fans also shared good wishes for the other three BLACKPINK stars, asking them to stay safe.

Singer-rapper Lisa, part of K-pop girl band BLACKPINK has tested positive for COVID-19. The news was confirmed by record label YG Entertainment. News broke on Wednesday about the singer being diagnosed with coronavirus.

Singer-rapper Lisa, part of K-pop girl band BLACKPINK has tested positive for COVID-19. The news was confirmed by record label YG Entertainment. News broke on Wednesday about the singer being diagnosed with coronavirus. The label has stated that fellow bandmates Jennie, Jisoo and Rose were not classified as 'close contacts', but were still following precautionary measures. Lisa has isolated herself and her other band members have undergone COVID-19 tests. Their results are awaited. Also read: BTS ARMY upset with Grammys for nominating boy band in just one category In a statement shared with media, the label said, "We shared this information quickly and accurately with representatives and staff, and we took strong preemptive measures beyond the guidelines of health authorities. We'll continue to provide full support with the health of our artists and related staff members as our top priority. If there are any changes in the future, we'll once again notify you quickly." Fans of the band, who call themselves BLINKs, started a social media hashtag #GetWellSoonLisa soon after the news of her illness was made public. Fans also shared good wishes for the other three BLACKPINK stars, asking them to stay safe.

BLACKPINK star Lisa tests positive for coronavirus

Europe remains in the firm grip of the deadly covid-19 pandemic, several countries in the region continue to report worrying trends. The World Health Organization has warned that the death toll in Europe can top 2.2 million this winter if the current trends continue.

Slovakia, Netherlands, Hungary post record covid cases

In a bid to reassure Americans angry about inflation and goods shortages as they prepare for Thanksgiving -- and to lift his poll ratings -- President Joe Biden&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;tapped the US strategic oil reserves.

Biden announced this coordinated plan to release 50 million barrels of crude from the country's oil reserves onto the market, hoping to ease the growing discontent about inflation and fuel costs.

The White House said that following weeks of negotiations, "this release will be taken in parallel with other major energy consuming nations, including China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea and the United Kingdom."

India plans to release 5 million barrels of oil from its caverns.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-asks-india-china-others-to-consider-tapping-oil-reserves-430236">US asks India, China, others to consider tapping oil reserves</a>

"It will take time but before long you should see the price of gas drop," Biden said in a speech at the White House.

According to a senior administration official, it is anticipated that the releases will begin in mid-to-late December, and&nbsp;"responding to a once-in-a-century pandemic," further interventions may be necessary to stabilise the market.

"The president stands ready to take additional action if needed and is prepared to use his full authorities, working in coordination with the rest of the world, to maintain adequate supply as we exit the pandemic."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crunch-at-ports-may-mean-crisis-for-american-farms-429345">Crunch at ports may mean crisis for American farms</a>

Even as the US economy bounces back from the COVID-19 lockdowns, supply chain disruptions and inflation are stirring fears as the holiday season begins with Thanksgiving on Thursday.

"Moms and dads are worried asking will there be enough food we can afford to buy for the holidays? Will we be able to get Christmas presents to the kids on time?" Biden said, acknowledging that for many the price rises are "painful."

Critics, however, accuse him of failing to grasp the challenge.

The president pushed back on critics by noting that the two biggest trading ports, both located in southern California, were now working 24/7, as opposed to just 40 hours a week.

In the last few years, gasoline prices have fallen by about 10 per cent on the wholesale market, but at the pump, they remain the same.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/history-says-dont-panic-about-inflation-428730">History says don’t panic about inflation</a>

"In other words, gas supply companies are paying less and making a lot more," he said, accusing companies of "pocketing the difference" between wholesale and retail prices.

Nevertheless, Biden's reassurances on tapping the oil reserve failed to impress Republican opponents.&nbsp;

"Joe Biden's failed leadership caused skyrocketing prices, and now American families are paying more for gas, groceries, and everything this Thanksgiving," Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;India, Japan working on oil-stock release

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-japan-working-on-oil-stock-release-431344/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Due to an increase in production, oil prices have already dropped nearly 10 per cent in the last few weeks. Officials echoed Joe Biden's concern that gasoline prices for drivers have risen despite the decline in crude prices.

A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the government was looking into "anti-competitive practices" and will "examine whether illegal conduct is costing families at the pump."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to reassure Americans angry about inflation and goods shortages as they prepare for Thanksgiving -- and to lift his poll ratings -- President Joe Biden on Tuesday tapped the US strategic oil reserves.

In a bid to reassure Americans angry about inflation and goods shortages as they prepare for Thanksgiving -- and to lift his poll ratings -- President Joe Biden on Tuesday tapped the US strategic oil reserves. Biden announced this coordinated plan to release 50 million barrels of crude from the country's oil reserves onto the market, hoping to ease the growing discontent about inflation and fuel costs. The White House said that following weeks of negotiations, "this release will be taken in parallel with other major energy consuming nations, including China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea and the United Kingdom." India plans to release 5 million barrels of oil from its caverns. Also read | US asks India, China, others to consider tapping oil reserves "It will take time but before long you should see the price of gas drop," Biden said in a speech at the White House. According to a senior administration official, it is anticipated that the releases will begin in mid-to-late December, and "responding to a once-in-a-century pandemic," further interventions may be necessary to stabilise the market. "The president stands ready to take additional action if needed and is prepared to use his full authorities, working in coordination with the rest of the world, to maintain adequate supply as we exit the pandemic." Also read | Crunch at ports may mean crisis for American farms Even as the US economy bounces back from the COVID-19 lockdowns, supply chain disruptions and inflation are stirring fears as the holiday season begins with Thanksgiving on Thursday. "Moms and dads are worried asking will there be enough food we can afford to buy for the holidays? Will we be able to get Christmas presents to the kids on time?" Biden said, acknowledging that for many the price rises are "painful." Critics, however, accuse him of failing to grasp the challenge. The president pushed back on critics by noting that the two biggest trading ports, both located in southern California, were now working 24/7, as opposed to just 40 hours a week. In the last few years, gasoline prices have fallen by about 10 per cent on the wholesale market, but at the pump, they remain the same. Also read | History says don’t panic about inflation "In other words, gas supply companies are paying less and making a lot more," he said, accusing companies of "pocketing the difference" between wholesale and retail prices. Nevertheless, Biden's reassurances on tapping the oil reserve failed to impress Republican opponents. "Joe Biden's failed leadership caused skyrocketing prices, and now American families are paying more for gas, groceries, and everything this Thanksgiving," Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement. Watch | India, Japan working on oil-stock release Due to an increase in production, oil prices have already dropped nearly 10 per cent in the last few weeks. Officials echoed Joe Biden's concern that gasoline prices for drivers have risen despite the decline in crude prices. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the government was looking into "anti-competitive practices" and will "examine whether illegal conduct is costing families at the pump." (With inputs from agencies)

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