Sri Lanka is in the grip of an economic crisis triggered by the COVID pandemic that has led to shortages of food and medicine in the country.

Sri Lanka: COVID-19 pandemic & plunging economy leads to food crisis

<p>As the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 has continued to fall in Nepal, the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) has decided to lift prohibitory orders imposed in Kathmandu Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The notice issued by the Kathmandu District Administration said, ‘smart lockdown’, will be enforced, which allows local administrations to impose restrictions in different areas depending upon the severity of the COVID-19 situation.</p>

<p>“Educational institutions cannot resume with the physical presence of the students but however if schools authorities wish to &nbsp;open then proper Covid protocol and smart lockdown provisions needs to be followed,” said the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The district administration said, if school authorities choose to reopen they can do so in coordination with the district COVID-19 crisis management centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the new orders, all businesses and industries will be allowed to operate in strict compliance with the health and safety protocols.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People are still not allowed to attend large gatherings, conference meetings, protests, festivities or parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the National Examination Board (NEB) has decided to conduct Grade XII examination from September 15 to 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur administration offices have announced that some COVID-19 related restrictions will remain until September 16.</p>


As the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 has continued to fall in Nepal, the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) has decided to lift prohibitory orders imposed in Kathmandu Valley.

As the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 has continued to fall in Nepal, the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) has decided to lift prohibitory orders imposed in Kathmandu Valley. The notice issued by the Kathmandu District Administration said, ‘smart lockdown’, will be enforced, which allows local administrations to impose restrictions in different areas depending upon the severity of the COVID-19 situation. “Educational institutions cannot resume with the physical presence of the students but however if schools authorities wish to open then proper Covid protocol and smart lockdown provisions needs to be followed,” said the statement. The district administration said, if school authorities choose to reopen they can do so in coordination with the district COVID-19 crisis management centre. As per the new orders, all businesses and industries will be allowed to operate in strict compliance with the health and safety protocols. People are still not allowed to attend large gatherings, conference meetings, protests, festivities or parties. Meanwhile, the National Examination Board (NEB) has decided to conduct Grade XII examination from September 15 to 24. Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur administration offices have announced that some COVID-19 related restrictions will remain until September 16.

Nepal: Prohibitory orders lifted in Kathmandu Valley as Covid cases drop 

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will be stepping down by the end of this month, setting the stage for a new premier after a one-year tenure marred by an unpopular COVID-19 response and rapidly dwindling public support.

Yoshihide Suga to step down as Japan's prime minister

News Zealanders are out on beaches and are queuing up for takeaway food and stuff as lockdown measures have been enforced to break an outbreak of the Delta variant of the Coronavirus. However, the country's largest city, Auckland still remains under lockdown.

New Zealand eases COVID-19 curbs in most parts, Auckland remains under a lockdown

Brazil's economy has contracted by 0.1 percent in the second quarter. The setback for the country's economy came as a serious second wave of COVID-19 infections triggered restrictions in major cities during April and May.

World Business Watch: Brazil's economy down by 0.1% in second quarter

The global ban and travel ban have dented business in China's gambling hub Macau which is one of its kind recreational centre in Asia as well.

World Business Watch: COVID-19 hits China's gambling hub, business remains muted in casinos

As production contracted for the first time in 12 months and slowed demand due to rising COVID-19 infections, South Korea's factory activity has slowed in August, also impacted by the supply chain disruptions across the region.

World Business Watch: South Korea's factory activity growth slows as output shrinks

<p class="MsoNormal">As the world battles the Delta variant, World Health Organization (WHO) has identified a new coronavirus strain that may be able to bypass vaccines' effect.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">In WHO’s weekly bulletin on the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation talked about the new variant dubbed as Mu, or B.1.621, which was first identified in Colombia in January 2021.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/number-of-organ-transplants-dip-as-covid-19-grips-world-409653" hreflang="en">Number of organ transplants dip as COVID-19 grips world</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Experts explained that this new variant of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> has been mutating. This has led the scientists to believe that the Mu variant might be resistant to the existing vaccines. This has reminded the experts about the situation with the Beta variant. However, the WHO has also cautioned people that more studies are needed to examine this variant and its resistance further.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Since its first identification in Colombia in January 2021, there have been a few sporadic reports of cases of the Mu variant and some larger outbreaks have been reported from other countries in South America and in Europe," the bulletin read.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-the-west-nile-virus-the-infection-russia-has-warned-may-spread-409520">What is the West Nile virus, the infection Russia has warned may spread?</a></strong></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While the totality rate of growth has not been alarming yet, its spread in Colombia and Ecuador is increasing. "Although the global prevalence of the Mu variant among sequenced cases has declined and is currently below 0.1%, the prevalence in Colombia (39%) and Ecuador (13%) has consistently increased," the bulletin explained. "The epidemiology of the Mu variant in South America, particularly with the co-circulation of the Delta variant, will be monitored for changes."<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">As of now, the world is fighting the deadly and wide spread of the Delta variant which was first identified by the scientists of India and has quickly spread across the world. Along with the Delta variant, there are three other variants of concern — Alpha variant, which was first recorded in England; Beta which has spread in 141 countries and Gamma which is now found in over 90 countries.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mu variant is the fifth variant of interest, for now, as per the WHO.<o:p></o:p></p>


As the world battles the Delta variant, World Health Organization (WHO) has identified a new coronavirus strain that may be able to bypass vaccines' effect. In WHO’s weekly bulletin on the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation talked about the new variant dubbed as Mu, or B.

As the world battles the Delta variant, World Health Organization (WHO) has identified a new coronavirus strain that may be able to bypass vaccines' effect. In WHO’s weekly bulletin on the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation talked about the new variant dubbed as Mu, or B.1.621, which was first identified in Colombia in January 2021. Also read | Number of organ transplants dip as COVID-19 grips world Experts explained that this new variant of coronavirus has been mutating. This has led the scientists to believe that the Mu variant might be resistant to the existing vaccines. This has reminded the experts about the situation with the Beta variant. However, the WHO has also cautioned people that more studies are needed to examine this variant and its resistance further. "Since its first identification in Colombia in January 2021, there have been a few sporadic reports of cases of the Mu variant and some larger outbreaks have been reported from other countries in South America and in Europe," the bulletin read. Also read | What is the West Nile virus, the infection Russia has warned may spread? While the totality rate of growth has not been alarming yet, its spread in Colombia and Ecuador is increasing. "Although the global prevalence of the Mu variant among sequenced cases has declined and is currently below 0.1%, the prevalence in Colombia (39%) and Ecuador (13%) has consistently increased," the bulletin explained. "The epidemiology of the Mu variant in South America, particularly with the co-circulation of the Delta variant, will be monitored for changes." As of now, the world is fighting the deadly and wide spread of the Delta variant which was first identified by the scientists of India and has quickly spread across the world. Along with the Delta variant, there are three other variants of concern — Alpha variant, which was first recorded in England; Beta which has spread in 141 countries and Gamma which is now found in over 90 countries. Mu variant is the fifth variant of interest, for now, as per the WHO.

WHO warns against a new Covid variant that may be resistant to vaccines

All eyes are on India's April to June or Q1 GDP data figures that will be out today (August 31). During this period though India was hit by the severe second COVID-19 wave.

World Business Watch: India is set to post record fiscal first-quarter GDP

<p data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="EU drops U.S. from list of COVID-safe countries for travel">As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States&nbsp;from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-propose-travel-restrictions-on-us-visitors-409454"><strong>EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors</strong></a></p>

<p>In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list.</p>

<p>This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies.</p>

<p>However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis.</p>

<p>Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a></strong></p>

<p>According to data from Our World in Data, average&nbsp;US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June.</p>

<p>According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases.</p>

<p>Non-EU visitors who have full <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">immunisations</a> are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-potential-covid-19-variant-of-concern-identified-in-south-africa-409448" hreflang="en">New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa</a></strong></p>

<p>With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17.&nbsp;COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list.</p>

<p>However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a&nbsp;division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers.</p>

<p>According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic. Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines. Also read | EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list. This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies. However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis. Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon According to data from Our World in Data, average US COVID-19 cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June. According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases. Non-EU visitors who have full immunisations are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival. Also read | New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17. COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list. However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers. According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed. (With inputs from agencies)

EU drops US from list of Covid-safe countries for non-essential travel

<p>The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks.</p>

<p>Starting Monday, the officials said, the United States will be removed from a “safe list” of countries whose residents can travel to the 27-nation bloc without additional restrictions, such as quarantine and testing requirements. The suggested restrictions, made by the European Council, will not be mandatory for member countries, and it will remain up to those countries to decide whether to impose them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a></strong></p>

<p>Most European countries reopened their borders to Americans in June, more than a year after imposing a travel ban, hoping that Americans would visit this summer and help an ailing tourism industry bounce back.</p>

<p>In essence, the EU gave the United States a summertime pass to encourage tourism, despite the relatively high infection rates in parts of the country.</p>

<p>The threshold for being on the EU “safe travel” list is having fewer than 75 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases daily per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. The United States has an infection rate well above that threshold, and COVID hospitalisations in the country climbed above 100,000 last week for the first time since January.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-potential-covid-19-variant-of-concern-identified-in-south-africa-409448" hreflang="en">New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa</a></strong></p>

<p>Yet while American tourists were able to travel to Europe this summer, the United States has remained closed to Europeans, drawing anger from Europeans and their leaders, who have expressed frustration at the lack of reciprocity.</p>

<p>Travellers from countries on the safe list can usually visit EU countries without quarantining by showing proof of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> or a negative test, while those from countries not on that list are barred from visiting for nonessential reasons and can be subject to further testing and quarantine requirements.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-and-suffering-in-future-fauci-warns-us-against-covid-surge-402281">'Pain and suffering in future': Fauci warns US against Covid surge</a></strong></p>

<p>Most European countries reopened their economies this summer after vaccination campaigns picked up speed in recent months. Countries such as France and Italy, among others, have required proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test result for people to dine in restaurants, visit museums or attend concerts, making COVID passes a fixture of daily life.</p>

<p>The decision to urge the reimposition of travel restrictions on US travellers was first reported by Reuters. European officials who outlined the plan did so under condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly before an announcement planned for Monday.</p>

<p>Other countries expected to be removed from the “safe list” include Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-americas-covid-crisis-walled-by-the-western-press-408899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The EU overtook the United States in vaccinations last month, with 64 per cent of the bloc’s residents having received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, compared with 60 per cent in the United States, according to Our World in Data.</p>


The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks.

The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks. Starting Monday, the officials said, the United States will be removed from a “safe list” of countries whose residents can travel to the 27-nation bloc without additional restrictions, such as quarantine and testing requirements. The suggested restrictions, made by the European Council, will not be mandatory for member countries, and it will remain up to those countries to decide whether to impose them. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon Most European countries reopened their borders to Americans in June, more than a year after imposing a travel ban, hoping that Americans would visit this summer and help an ailing tourism industry bounce back. In essence, the EU gave the United States a summertime pass to encourage tourism, despite the relatively high infection rates in parts of the country. The threshold for being on the EU “safe travel” list is having fewer than 75 new COVID-19 cases daily per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. The United States has an infection rate well above that threshold, and COVID hospitalisations in the country climbed above 100,000 last week for the first time since January. Also read | New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa Yet while American tourists were able to travel to Europe this summer, the United States has remained closed to Europeans, drawing anger from Europeans and their leaders, who have expressed frustration at the lack of reciprocity. Travellers from countries on the safe list can usually visit EU countries without quarantining by showing proof of vaccination or a negative test, while those from countries not on that list are barred from visiting for nonessential reasons and can be subject to further testing and quarantine requirements. Also read | 'Pain and suffering in future': Fauci warns US against Covid surge Most European countries reopened their economies this summer after vaccination campaigns picked up speed in recent months. Countries such as France and Italy, among others, have required proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test result for people to dine in restaurants, visit museums or attend concerts, making COVID passes a fixture of daily life. The decision to urge the reimposition of travel restrictions on US travellers was first reported by Reuters. European officials who outlined the plan did so under condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly before an announcement planned for Monday. Other countries expected to be removed from the “safe list” include Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia. The EU overtook the United States in vaccinations last month, with 64 per cent of the bloc’s residents having received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, compared with 60 per cent in the United States, according to Our World in Data.

EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors

<p>In South Africa, a new potential COVID-19 variant of interest (VOI) has been identified.</p>

<p>Scientists from the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of South Africa first spotted&nbsp;the strain&nbsp;in May 2021 during the third wave of Covid in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warning-from-wuhans-bat-woman-new-covid-variants-will-continue-to-emerge-says-shi-zhengli-404383">Warning from Wuhan's 'bat woman': New Covid variants will continue to emerge, says Shi Zhengli</a></strong></p>

<p>Since then, the strain which has been assigned to the PANGO lineage C.1.2, has been&nbsp;detected in most of South Africa's provinces as well as in seven other countries across Africa, Europe, Asia and Oceania.</p>

<p>The variant is believed to have evolved from C.1,&nbsp;one of the lineages predominant during the first outbreak of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">SARS-CoV-2</a> in South Africa.</p>

<p>According to the study's abstract C.1.2 is associated with&nbsp;reduced neutralisation sensitivity,&nbsp;as well as having increased transmissibility.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lambda-new-variant-of-covid-19-that-is-affecting-29-countries-392308">Lambda: New variant of COVID-19 that is affecting 29 countries</a></strong></p>

<p>Compared to C.1, the new variant has undergone substantial mutations and is further away from the original virus detected in Wuhan than any other variant of concern (VOC) or VOI detected so far around the world.<br />
<br />
Study results indicate that C.1.2 develops 41.8 mutations per year. This is an approximately 1.7-fold increase over the current global rate and an approximately 1.8-fold increase over the original SARS-CoV-2 evolution estimate.</p>

<p>Alpha, Beta, and Gamma VOCs also emerged after a similarly short period of increased evolution. The researchers suggest that one event, followed by amplification in the number of cases, was responsible for the faster mutation rate.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant</a></strong></p>

<p>Over half or 52 per cent of the spike mutations identified in C.1.2 have already been identified in other VOIs and VOCs.<br />
<br />
Moreover, the study found a consistent rise in the number of C.1.2 genomes each month in South Africa, rising from 0.2 per cent in May to 1.6 per cent in June and 2.0 per cent in July. Researchers noted this is similar to what was observed in Beta and Delta during early detection in South Africa.<br />
<br />
80 sequences matching the C.1.2 lineage are already listed on the open-access database GISAID (Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data) as of August 20, 2021.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unvaccinated-teacher-infects-students-after-contracting-covid-19-409277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
More study is needed "to determine the functional impact of these mutations, which likely include neutralising antibody escape, and to investigate whether it confers advantage over the Delta variant," says&nbsp;Cathrine Scheepers, from NICD.</p>

<p>These findings have been reported in a study that has yet to be peer-reviewed but is available on the medRxiv server.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In South Africa, a new potential COVID-19 variant of interest (VOI) has been identified. Scientists from the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of South Africa first spotted the strain in May 2021 during the third wave of Covid in the country.

In South Africa, a new potential COVID-19 variant of interest (VOI) has been identified. Scientists from the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of South Africa first spotted the strain in May 2021 during the third wave of Covid in the country. Also read | Warning from Wuhan's 'bat woman': New Covid variants will continue to emerge, says Shi Zhengli Since then, the strain which has been assigned to the PANGO lineage C.1.2, has been detected in most of South Africa's provinces as well as in seven other countries across Africa, Europe, Asia and Oceania. The variant is believed to have evolved from C.1, one of the lineages predominant during the first outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in South Africa. According to the study's abstract C.1.2 is associated with reduced neutralisation sensitivity, as well as having increased transmissibility. Also read | Lambda: New variant of COVID-19 that is affecting 29 countries Compared to C.1, the new variant has undergone substantial mutations and is further away from the original virus detected in Wuhan than any other variant of concern (VOC) or VOI detected so far around the world. Study results indicate that C.1.2 develops 41.8 mutations per year. This is an approximately 1.7-fold increase over the current global rate and an approximately 1.8-fold increase over the original SARS-CoV-2 evolution estimate. Alpha, Beta, and Gamma VOCs also emerged after a similarly short period of increased evolution. The researchers suggest that one event, followed by amplification in the number of cases, was responsible for the faster mutation rate. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant Over half or 52 per cent of the spike mutations identified in C.1.2 have already been identified in other VOIs and VOCs. Moreover, the study found a consistent rise in the number of C.1.2 genomes each month in South Africa, rising from 0.2 per cent in May to 1.6 per cent in June and 2.0 per cent in July. Researchers noted this is similar to what was observed in Beta and Delta during early detection in South Africa. 80 sequences matching the C.1.2 lineage are already listed on the open-access database GISAID (Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data) as of August 20, 2021. More study is needed "to determine the functional impact of these mutations, which likely include neutralising antibody escape, and to investigate whether it confers advantage over the Delta variant," says Cathrine Scheepers, from NICD. These findings have been reported in a study that has yet to be peer-reviewed but is available on the medRxiv server. (With inputs from agencies)

New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa

<p>A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time. Offerings made of paper are also made. These resemble the things the deceased may have wanted.</p>

<p>This year, a box set of a syringe and two vaccine vials made of paper are among the fastest-selling items for the festival at Raymond Shieh Siow Leong's religious goods store in the southern Malaysian city of Johor Bahru.</p>

<p>"The COVID-19 situation in our country is quite serious and many people passed away before receiving the vaccine. I hope this product can help the deceased to fulfill their dying wish," Shieh said.</p>

<p>He started making paper vaccine sets in early August. Each set is priced at 22.80 ringgit ($5.45). Shieh says he has sold more than 200 sets so far.</p>

<p><img alt="Covid paper vaccine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72d41ddd-ab36-4c1c-af47-f32fbdef4c09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/paper%20vaccine.JPG" /></p>

<p>"We made this paper vaccine to test the water of the market, but we didn't expect the reaction to be this good. The orders keep coming, and we have to work overtime until late at night to make this product," he said.</p>

<p>Malaysia has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths in Southeast Asia with a total caseload of almost 1.6 million and a death toll of 14,818. About 57% of the population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.</p>

<p>A Muslim-majority country, about 20% of Malaysia's 32 million people practise Buddhism, the second-most prevalent religion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time.

A simple paper craft is fast becoming a way for Malaysians to pay tribute to the departed. The religious festival of Hungry Ghost sees Buddhists across Southeast Asia give offerings of food for the spirits of the deceased they believe return to Earth during this time. Offerings made of paper are also made. These resemble the things the deceased may have wanted. This year, a box set of a syringe and two vaccine vials made of paper are among the fastest-selling items for the festival at Raymond Shieh Siow Leong's religious goods store in the southern Malaysian city of Johor Bahru. "The COVID-19 situation in our country is quite serious and many people passed away before receiving the vaccine. I hope this product can help the deceased to fulfill their dying wish," Shieh said. He started making paper vaccine sets in early August. Each set is priced at 22.80 ringgit ($5.45). Shieh says he has sold more than 200 sets so far. "We made this paper vaccine to test the water of the market, but we didn't expect the reaction to be this good. The orders keep coming, and we have to work overtime until late at night to make this product," he said. Malaysia has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths in Southeast Asia with a total caseload of almost 1.6 million and a death toll of 14,818. About 57% of the population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. A Muslim-majority country, about 20% of Malaysia's 32 million people practise Buddhism, the second-most prevalent religion. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia: Covid vaccine paper mock-ups in demand during religious festival

Snapping a three-day rally on renewed concerns over demand due to rising COVID-19 infections and as Mexico restored some output after a fire disrupted supplies, oil prices settled lower on Thursday.

World Business Watch: Oil rally falters on pandemic surge, renewed Mexico supply

Sri Lanka is battling a new surge of COVID-19 infections driven by the highly contagious Delta Variant of Coronavirus. As the death toll mounts and wooden coffins are becoming unaffordable many are opting for cardboard coffins.

Some Sri Lankans opt for cardboard coffins amid COVID-19 surge

British car output fell to its lowest July level since 1956 as a global shortage of semi-conductor chips and staff having to self-isolate due to COVID-19 hit the sector.

World Business Watch: British car output fell to lowest July level since 1956

The Delta Variant is fueling a surge of COVID-19 cases across the world. Countries are going into lockdown, others are ramping up their vaccination efforts. But in Afghanistan, it looks like the pandemic does not exist.

A forgotten pandemic in Afghanistan

The Delta Variant has been driving a surge in COVID-19 cases across the globe. Countries are grappling with new infections and growing hospitalisations. WION tells you why the Delta variant is more transmissible than other strains?

Explained: Why is Delta variant more transmissible than other COVID-19 strains?

Australia is currently battling its worst COVID-19 outbreak. The government's pandemic modeling adviser has said that the country can proceed with reopening plans when it reaches 70 to 80 percent vaccination levels.

Australia sets targets to reopen after lockdown, PM says COVID-19 lockdowns unsustainable

Iran's COVID-19 death toll has crossed 100,000 as the Delta variant spreads through West Asia's worst-affected nations. The country is struggling to contain the fifth wave of infections.

Iran battles fifth wave of COVID-19 infections, death toll crosses 100,000 mark

Sri Lanka is grappling with the surge in COVID-19 patients. The island nation announced a 10-day lockdown to curb the spread. Daily infections have double in more than a month to an average of over 3,000 cases.

COVID-19 cases and deaths surge in Sri Lanka, hospitals overflowing

Highlighting the increasingly heavy toll a recent wave of COVID-19 infections is taking on Japan's economy. The country's factory activity growth slowed in August, while that of the services sector shrank at the fastest pace since May last year.

World Business Watch: Japan's private-sector activity hit by COVID-19 surge

The Southeast Asian nation of Vietnam is currently witnessing a resurgence of COVID-19 infections fuelled by the Delta variant cases, with over 11,000 new cases and 737 deaths in 24 hours.

Vietnam COVID-19: Over 11,000 cases and 737 deaths in 24 hours

Sri Lanka announced a 10-day lockdown starting from Friday night in an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus cases. This comes as surging infections and deaths overwhelm the island's health system.

Sri Lanka announces nationwide lockdown as COVID-19 cases surge

<p>The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.</p>

<p>The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&amp;J shots until March.</p>

<p>The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.</p>


The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time. The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&J shots until March. The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.

US to begin offering COVID-19 vaccine booster shots in September

<p>An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With help from leading technology companies, the Robin Hood Army has embarked on a nation wide campaign titled <strong>#mission28states🇮🇳</strong> to fight the pandemic's biggest challenges- vaccine hesitancy and hunger.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The campaign which kickstarted a week before Independence Day had volunteers across the country spearheading mass vaccine awareness and drive. The aim was to vaccinate 150,000 people and feed 5 million citizens across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Neel Ghose, the founder of RHA spoke to WION recently and revealed that it is through strategic partnerships with local municipalities and healthcare facilities that the campaign has been able to take shape. RHA is aware that many who are vaccinated will come from homeless families and providing food to such is an important part of the campaign. Not just the homeless but RHA has aimed to include the transgender community, aged destitutes and all those who need help the most.</p>

<p>RHA has also got able support from big tech teams that have come forward to provide the infrastructure for the mission: Uber is providing thousands of rides, WhatsApp has built a dedicated chatbot for the mission, and Google is providing millions of meals.</p>

<p>Interestingly, no money is involved in any of the partnership and it is just the human goodness that took precedence for this noble campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-new-age-robins-this-india-based-civic-body-is-feeding-millions-of-homeless-across-the-globe-321287">Meet new age Robins: This India based civic body is feeding millions of homeless across the globe</a></strong></p>

<p>The RHA is not new to such campaigns. Every year they launch massive food drives across the country to celebrate Independence day. Last year, the organisation had taken up the herculean task of feeding 30 million from mid- July to August. The mission was the largest food relief effort that any civic organization has ever put together.</p>


An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With help from leading technology companies, the Robin Hood Army has embarked on a nation wide campaign titled #mission28states🇮🇳 to fight the pandemic's biggest challenges- vaccine hesitancy and hunger. The campaign which kickstarted a week before Independence Day had volunteers across the country spearheading mass vaccine awareness and drive. The aim was to vaccinate 150,000 people and feed 5 million citizens across the country. Neel Ghose, the founder of RHA spoke to WION recently and revealed that it is through strategic partnerships with local municipalities and healthcare facilities that the campaign has been able to take shape. RHA is aware that many who are vaccinated will come from homeless families and providing food to such is an important part of the campaign. Not just the homeless but RHA has aimed to include the transgender community, aged destitutes and all those who need help the most. RHA has also got able support from big tech teams that have come forward to provide the infrastructure for the mission: Uber is providing thousands of rides, WhatsApp has built a dedicated chatbot for the mission, and Google is providing millions of meals. Interestingly, no money is involved in any of the partnership and it is just the human goodness that took precedence for this noble campaign. Meet new age Robins: This India based civic body is feeding millions of homeless across the globe The RHA is not new to such campaigns. Every year they launch massive food drives across the country to celebrate Independence day. Last year, the organisation had taken up the herculean task of feeding 30 million from mid- July to August. The mission was the largest food relief effort that any civic organization has ever put together.

This Indian charity organisation is aiming to vaccinate 150,000 people on Independence Day

<p>DJ Khaled and his family have fully recovered after contracting the coronavirus, he confirms.<br />
<br />
The popular musician&nbsp;thanked everyone&nbsp;for ‘calls and prayers’ as he revealed he and his family have now recovered from Covid-19.<br />
<br />
Taking to Instagram, Khaled&nbsp;said that he and his family are "all good" after recovering from the deadly virus. ''My family and I have recovered from COVID and we're all good now," the message read.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"God is the greatest! God love us and we love God!". Along with the statement, the artist included a series of photos and videos of himself and his family spending some quality playful time.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Khaled and wife Nicole Tuck shares two children, Asahd, 4, and Aalam, 1.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
In the post's caption, he thanked the doctors and pleaded, “Please be safe out there! Please take care of yourself."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
''Thank you to DOCTORS, thank you Dovi thank you to my Queen thank you Rosa thank you to my WE THE BEST team my management ROC NATION&nbsp;and My partners at EPIC RECORDS for holding me up while Me and my family focused on recovery 🤲🏽 [sic]<br />
<br />
''THANK YOU GOD ! 🤲🏽 GOD LOVE US ! WE LOVE GOD ! 🤲🏽 GOD IS THE GREATEST! 🤲🏽 WE THE BEST! LOVE AND BLESSINGS! 🤲🏽''</p>

<p>The pop star did not disclose when he and his family was diagnosed with COVID-19.</p>


DJ Khaled and his family have fully recovered after contracting the coronavirus, he confirms. The popular musician thanked everyone for ‘calls and prayers’ as he revealed he and his family have now recovered from Covid-19.

DJ Khaled and his family have fully recovered after contracting the coronavirus, he confirms. The popular musician thanked everyone for ‘calls and prayers’ as he revealed he and his family have now recovered from Covid-19. Taking to Instagram, Khaled said that he and his family are "all good" after recovering from the deadly virus. ''My family and I have recovered from COVID and we're all good now," the message read. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJ KHALED (@djkhaled) × "God is the greatest! God love us and we love God!". Along with the statement, the artist included a series of photos and videos of himself and his family spending some quality playful time. Khaled and wife Nicole Tuck shares two children, Asahd, 4, and Aalam, 1. In the post's caption, he thanked the doctors and pleaded, “Please be safe out there! Please take care of yourself." ''Thank you to DOCTORS, thank you Dovi thank you to my Queen thank you Rosa thank you to my WE THE BEST team my management ROC NATION and My partners at EPIC RECORDS for holding me up while Me and my family focused on recovery 🤲🏽 [sic] ''THANK YOU GOD ! 🤲🏽 GOD LOVE US ! WE LOVE GOD ! 🤲🏽 GOD IS THE GREATEST! 🤲🏽 WE THE BEST! LOVE AND BLESSINGS! 🤲🏽'' The pop star did not disclose when he and his family was diagnosed with COVID-19.

DJ Khaled reveals he & his family contracted COVID-19, recovered now

<p>Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts.<br />
<br />
August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation.<br />
<br />
During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said.<br />
<br />
"The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS.<br />
<br />
There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period.<br />
<br />
A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues).<br />
<br />
"Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS.<br />
<br />
"There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added.<br />
<br />
However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild.<br />
<br />
"After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said.<br />
<br />
Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said.<br />
<br />
In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US.<br />
<br />
The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one.<br />
<br />
As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology.<br />
<br />
"Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.</p>


Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts.

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts. August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation. During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said. "The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS. There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period. A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues). "Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS. "There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added. However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild. "After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said. Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said. In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US. The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one. As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology. "Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.

Organ donation dropped significantly due to COVID-19: Experts

<p>Videos of Chinese officials keeping citizens inside their houses have appeared on social media as the Delta variation of COVID-19 spreads.</p>

<p>Multiple videos emerged on Weibo, Twitter, and YouTube showing hazmat workers slamming iron bars over people's doors to prevent them from leaving.</p>

<p>According to a Taiwan News report, if someone is discovered to have opened their door more than three times, the authorities will lock them inside.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwij1KjS5K3yAhUCjuYKHXStCbIQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30iaDUzC7Jzu4ibK9Owl3q" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450" target="_blank">COVID-19: All you need to know about&nbsp;Delta Plus&nbsp;variant</a></strong></p>

<p>As shown in a Twitter photo, people wearing full PPE gear can be seen hammering large metallic bars over a doorway in an X pattern at a house.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Chinese Communist Party is locking people inside their homes again.<br />
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If someone in the building tests positive or has positive contact tracing, the whole building gets sealed for 14 to 21 days, sometimes longer.<br />
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August 2021 <a href="https://t.co/LyArs7DQN6">pic.twitter.com/LyArs7DQN6</a></p>
— Things China Doesn't Want You To Know (@TruthAbtChina) <a href="https://twitter.com/TruthAbtChina/status/1424511477264785411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="zh">大爷出来透一下气。<a href="https://t.co/4cQvpmn9Pt">pic.twitter.com/4cQvpmn9Pt</a></p>
— 习近彭 (@wakeupfrog01) <a href="https://twitter.com/wakeupfrog01/status/1424687889942679552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="zh">小姑娘感谢来封门。<br />
专政铁拳，应用到防疫工作上。<a href="https://t.co/5I1s6LAnig">pic.twitter.com/5I1s6LAnig</a></p>
— 习近彭 (@wakeupfrog01) <a href="https://twitter.com/wakeupfrog01/status/1424669647513612302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Monday, China reported 143 new cases, up from 125 the day before.</p>

<p>According to authorities, the highly transmissible delta form is mostly responsible for China's recent clusters.</p>

<p>The National Health Commission said that 108 of the new confirmed illnesses, the largest number since Jan. 20, were locally transmitted, up from 94 the day before, while the rest were imported.</p>

<p>Most local infections were in the eastern province of Jiangsu and the central province of Henan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Videos of Chinese officials keeping citizens inside their houses have appeared on social media as the Delta variation of COVID-19 spreads. Multiple videos emerged on Weibo, Twitter, and YouTube showing hazmat workers slamming iron bars over people's doors to prevent them from leaving.

Videos of Chinese officials keeping citizens inside their houses have appeared on social media as the Delta variation of COVID-19 spreads. Multiple videos emerged on Weibo, Twitter, and YouTube showing hazmat workers slamming iron bars over people's doors to prevent them from leaving. According to a Taiwan News report, if someone is discovered to have opened their door more than three times, the authorities will lock them inside. Also read | COVID-19: All you need to know about Delta Plus variant As shown in a Twitter photo, people wearing full PPE gear can be seen hammering large metallic bars over a doorway in an X pattern at a house. The Chinese Communist Party is locking people inside their homes again. If someone in the building tests positive or has positive contact tracing, the whole building gets sealed for 14 to 21 days, sometimes longer. August 2021 pic.twitter.com/LyArs7DQN6 — Things China Doesn't Want You To Know (@TruthAbtChina) August 8, 2021 × 大爷出来透一下气。pic.twitter.com/4cQvpmn9Pt — 习近彭 (@wakeupfrog01) August 9, 2021 × 小姑娘感谢来封门。 专政铁拳，应用到防疫工作上。pic.twitter.com/5I1s6LAnig — 习近彭 (@wakeupfrog01) August 9, 2021 × On Monday, China reported 143 new cases, up from 125 the day before. According to authorities, the highly transmissible delta form is mostly responsible for China's recent clusters. The National Health Commission said that 108 of the new confirmed illnesses, the largest number since Jan. 20, were locally transmitted, up from 94 the day before, while the rest were imported. Most local infections were in the eastern province of Jiangsu and the central province of Henan. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | COVID-19: China locks citizens behind iron bars as Delta variant surge

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Gravitas: The developed world is dumping millions of COVID-19 shots in the dustbin

<p>According to a recent study from Shaare Zedek Medical Center, neutralising antibodies begin to fade among kids who catch the virus after only four months.</p>

<p>Researchers at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, led by Prof. Yechiel Schlesinger, recently conducted the first-ever study into the prevalence of coronavirus antibodies in children attending the hospital's pediatric ward in collaboration with the Health Ministry.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/children-at-risk-of-long-covid-symptoms-new-study-finds-381039">Children at risk of long-Covid symptoms, new study finds</a></strong></p>

<p>Approximately 1,138 children under the age of 18, with a mean age of 4.4, were surveyed between October 18, 2020, and January 12, 2021, for the study that appeared in Acta Paediatrica. It was found that nearly one-third (or 29 per cent) of the children with coronavirus positive results were lacking neutralizing antibodies during that time.</p>

<p>Schlesinger explained that one-third of the patients didn't have antibodies when they were tested three weeks after onset of the disease.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the antibodies of the other two-thirds who had developed the disease more than four months ago had waned.</p>

<p>The study found that children reach their peak antibody level three months after diagnosis. The number of antibodies decreased significantly - much more than in adults. It may be indicative of a weaker long-term immune reaction among children.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/british-study-finds-almost-one-in-seven-suffer-long-covid-symptoms-374862" hreflang="en">British study finds almost one in seven suffer long Covid symptoms</a></strong></p>

<p>Schlesinger asserts that the disappearance of antibodies does not suggest these children are not protected. However, the disappearance does make one wonder whether those kids are truly protected.</p>

<p>As antibody levels decline, the likelihood of infection is higher. Separate studies have demonstrated this correlation.</p>

<p>Additionally, the study could have implications for understanding herd immunity, the possibility of a resurgence of an infection wave, and the development of childhood vaccines, he said.</p>

<p>It is also noteworthy that 10&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of children were found to have been infected, even though 41 per cent of those children did not know they were infected.</p>

<p>As a result of subsequent studies conducted in June and July 2021, which have yet to be published and are being written up, Schlesinger said that the percentage of children in Jerusalem with the virus has increased from 10 to 30&nbsp;per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-spread-coronavirus-more-efficiently-than-adults-study-383559">Children spread coronavirus 'more efficiently' than adults: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Lastly, the researchers found no correlation between school openings and infection rates among children, as students who continued to attend schools for various reasons during the closed periods did not develop additional antibodies than students who stayed home.</p>

<p>Additionally, when the country reopened schools slowly, morbidity did not decrease.</p>


According to a recent study from Shaare Zedek Medical Center, neutralising antibodies begin to fade among kids who catch the virus after only four months. Researchers at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, led by Prof.

According to a recent study from Shaare Zedek Medical Center, neutralising antibodies begin to fade among kids who catch the virus after only four months. Researchers at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, led by Prof. Yechiel Schlesinger, recently conducted the first-ever study into the prevalence of coronavirus antibodies in children attending the hospital's pediatric ward in collaboration with the Health Ministry. Also read | Children at risk of long-Covid symptoms, new study finds Approximately 1,138 children under the age of 18, with a mean age of 4.4, were surveyed between October 18, 2020, and January 12, 2021, for the study that appeared in Acta Paediatrica. It was found that nearly one-third (or 29 per cent) of the children with coronavirus positive results were lacking neutralizing antibodies during that time. Schlesinger explained that one-third of the patients didn't have antibodies when they were tested three weeks after onset of the disease. Meanwhile, the antibodies of the other two-thirds who had developed the disease more than four months ago had waned. The study found that children reach their peak antibody level three months after diagnosis. The number of antibodies decreased significantly - much more than in adults. It may be indicative of a weaker long-term immune reaction among children. Also read: British study finds almost one in seven suffer long Covid symptoms Schlesinger asserts that the disappearance of antibodies does not suggest these children are not protected. However, the disappearance does make one wonder whether those kids are truly protected. As antibody levels decline, the likelihood of infection is higher. Separate studies have demonstrated this correlation. Additionally, the study could have implications for understanding herd immunity, the possibility of a resurgence of an infection wave, and the development of childhood vaccines, he said. It is also noteworthy that 10 per cent of children were found to have been infected, even though 41 per cent of those children did not know they were infected. As a result of subsequent studies conducted in June and July 2021, which have yet to be published and are being written up, Schlesinger said that the percentage of children in Jerusalem with the virus has increased from 10 to 30 per cent. Also read | Children spread coronavirus 'more efficiently' than adults: Study Lastly, the researchers found no correlation between school openings and infection rates among children, as students who continued to attend schools for various reasons during the closed periods did not develop additional antibodies than students who stayed home. Additionally, when the country reopened schools slowly, morbidity did not decrease.

Study suggests that Children may have a weaker immune response to Covid

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