New variants of Covid have started to spread across the UK. According to the latest data, a Covid wave driven by a new subvariant, FLiRT,&nbsp;has spread through schools, workplaces and crowds of football fans at the Euros.

The data collected till July 14, indicates a rise in Covid cases and hospitalisations.&nbsp;

The UK Health Security Agency has reported that the average daily cases have nearly doubled since the beginning of June, from 250 a day to 483.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-covid-back-with-summer-wave-as-cases-rise-in-uk-and-us-736910" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/is-covid-back-with-summer-wave-as-cases-rise-in-uk-and-us-736910&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBle_Q8caHAxWSR2wGHbmQCgIQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw02paY8svsp6zCwL7XCZztc&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-covid-back-with-summer-wave-as-cases-rise-in-uk-and-us-736910" target="_blank">Is&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;back with summer wave as cases rise in&nbsp;UK&nbsp;and US?</a>

The hospitalisations have increased significantly this summer. As per the NHS data for the month of June the number was&nbsp;2,947 patients,&nbsp;up from 1,878 on May 30.

“The most recent observation report suggests that the number of hospitalisations as a result of Covid-19 has increased in the past week. While the UK Health Security Agency is closely monitoring the available data,” said Dr Alexander Allen, a consultant epidemiologist at the health agency.

Covid revival due to football crowds

According to reports, the European football championships are also believed to have contributed to the rising Covid numbers due to&nbsp;nationwide gatherings in pubs and living rooms.

However, the complete effect of this is yet to be felt as much of the increased transmission during the semi final – and especially the final – will not yet have fed through into new infections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-not-prepared-for-inevitable-next-pandemic-says-ex-chief-scientific-adviser-725426" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-not-prepared-for-inevitable-next-pandemic-says-ex-chief-scientific-adviser-725426&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBle_Q8caHAxWSR2wGHbmQCgIQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw14teM0FWJl4SvtxrLlBjNM&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-not-prepared-for-inevitable-next-pandemic-says-ex-chief-scientific-adviser-725426" target="_blank">UK&nbsp;not prepared for 'inevitable' next pandemic</a>

It may be mentioned here, in last Euro semi-final in July 2021, transmission rates in England rose by&nbsp;nine times – raising concerns that UK could see a spike in cases followed by the final match against Spain.

"It is obvious that Covid is still spreading, likely due to new, more infectious variants. The KP.3 variant, fading immunity, and crowded events during the Euros are factors that are likely to continue driving more infections,” said Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University.

What are the symptoms of Covid variant FLiRT?

The most common symptoms of the virus are the same as they were back in 2020: 
• A high temperature 
• A continuous cough 
• A loss of sense of smell or taste

(With inputs from agencies)

New variants of Covid have started to spread across the UK. According to the latest data, a Covid wave driven by a new subvariant, FLiRT, has spread through schools, workplaces and crowds of football fans at the Euros.

New variants of Covid have started to spread across the UK. According to the latest data, a Covid wave driven by a new subvariant, FLiRT, has spread through schools, workplaces and crowds of football fans at the Euros. The data collected till July 14, indicates a rise in Covid cases and hospitalisations. The UK Health Security Agency has reported that the average daily cases have nearly doubled since the beginning of June, from 250 a day to 483. Also read: Is Covid back with summer wave as cases rise in UK and US? The hospitalisations have increased significantly this summer. As per the NHS data for the month of June the number was 2,947 patients, up from 1,878 on May 30. “The most recent observation report suggests that the number of hospitalisations as a result of Covid-19 has increased in the past week. While the UK Health Security Agency is closely monitoring the available data,” said Dr Alexander Allen, a consultant epidemiologist at the health agency. Covid revival due to football crowds According to reports, the European football championships are also believed to have contributed to the rising Covid numbers due to nationwide gatherings in pubs and living rooms. However, the complete effect of this is yet to be felt as much of the increased transmission during the semi final – and especially the final – will not yet have fed through into new infections. Also read: UK not prepared for 'inevitable' next pandemic It may be mentioned here, in last Euro semi-final in July 2021, transmission rates in England rose by nine times – raising concerns that UK could see a spike in cases followed by the final match against Spain. "It is obvious that Covid is still spreading, likely due to new, more infectious variants. The KP.3 variant, fading immunity, and crowded events during the Euros are factors that are likely to continue driving more infections,” said Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University. What are the symptoms of Covid variant FLiRT? The most common symptoms of the virus are the same as they were back in 2020: • A high temperature • A continuous cough • A loss of sense of smell or taste (With inputs from agencies)

Is Covid's resurgence in UK linked to football crowds?

Joe Biden tests positive for Covid:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 following his initial event in Las Vegas, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday (July 17).&nbsp;

President Biden, who is vaccinated and also had a booster dose, is experiencing mild symptoms and will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties, according to the White House.

<h2>Joe Biden tests positive for Covid</h2>

Jean-Pierre assured the public that the President remains in good spirits despite experiencing mild symptoms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pass-the-torch-biden-faces-strongest-call-so-far-to-step-aside-from-white-house-race-741841">Biden faces strongest call so far to drop out of White House race</a>

"The White House will provide updates on the President’s health status as he will continue his full duties of the office while being in isolation," she said.

According to a note from the President's doctor, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden exhibited upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, a non-productive cough, and general malaise. Although he initially felt well enough to attend his first event, Biden later underwent point-of-care testing for Covid-19, which came back positive.

The US president has begun treatment with his first dose of Paxlovid and will self-isolate at his home in Rehoboth, Delaware, following CDC guidelines for symptomatic individuals. PCR confirmation testing is pending, the note added.

<h2>Biden Campaign pressure</h2>

The cancellation of the Las Vegas event comes amid increasing pressure from donors and elected Democrats in Washington for Biden to withdraw from the campaign following his disastrous performance in a debate against Donald Trump last month.

<h2>Biden faces strongest call to drop out of race</h2>

Top Democrat leader Adam Schiff on Wednesday (Jul 17) publicly urged United States President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race for another candidate. House Representative Schiff became the most heavyweight Democrat so far to ask Biden to make way for somebody else to face Donald Trump.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-should-be-removed-impeachment-trial-276268" target="_blank">Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff</a>

Schiff stated that he doubts that the 81-year-old incumbent can defeat Trump, whom he described as a threat to "the very foundation of our democracy."

Schiff called Biden "one of the most consequential presidents in our nation's history."

"A&nbsp;second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the president can defeat Donald Trump in November," said&nbsp;Schiff

Biden should "secure his legacy" by stepping aside, he further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden tests positive for Covid: US President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 following his initial event in Las Vegas, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday (July 17).

Joe Biden tests positive for Covid: US President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 following his initial event in Las Vegas, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday (July 17). President Biden, who is vaccinated and also had a booster dose, is experiencing mild symptoms and will return to Delaware to self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his presidential duties, according to the White House. Joe Biden tests positive for Covid Jean-Pierre assured the public that the President remains in good spirits despite experiencing mild symptoms. Also read: Biden faces strongest call so far to drop out of White House race "The White House will provide updates on the President’s health status as he will continue his full duties of the office while being in isolation," she said. According to a note from the President's doctor, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, Biden exhibited upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, a non-productive cough, and general malaise. Although he initially felt well enough to attend his first event, Biden later underwent point-of-care testing for Covid-19, which came back positive. The US president has begun treatment with his first dose of Paxlovid and will self-isolate at his home in Rehoboth, Delaware, following CDC guidelines for symptomatic individuals. PCR confirmation testing is pending, the note added. Biden Campaign pressure The cancellation of the Las Vegas event comes amid increasing pressure from donors and elected Democrats in Washington for Biden to withdraw from the campaign following his disastrous performance in a debate against Donald Trump last month. Biden faces strongest call to drop out of race Top Democrat leader Adam Schiff on Wednesday (Jul 17) publicly urged United States President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race for another candidate. House Representative Schiff became the most heavyweight Democrat so far to ask Biden to make way for somebody else to face Donald Trump. Also read | Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff Schiff stated that he doubts that the 81-year-old incumbent can defeat Trump, whom he described as a threat to "the very foundation of our democracy." Schiff called Biden "one of the most consequential presidents in our nation's history." "A second Trump presidency will undermine the very foundation of our democracy, and I have serious concerns about whether the president can defeat Donald Trump in November," said Schiff Biden should "secure his legacy" by stepping aside, he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden tests positive for Covid, cancels event in Las Vegas

A jury in the US has convicted five Minnesota residents and acquitted two others for their involvement in a scheme to embezzle over $40 million meant for feeding children during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Abdiaziz Shafii Farah, Mohamed Jama Ismail, Abdimajid Mohamed Nur, Mukhtar Mohamed Shariff, and Hayat Mohamed Nur were convicted on Friday (June 7) on the majority of the charges brought against them.

Said Shafii Farah and Abdiwahab Maalim Aftin were acquitted on all counts they faced.

The case got significant attention when an attempt was made to bribe a juror with a bag containing $120,000 in cash.

That juror was discharged before deliberations began, and a second juror who was told about the bribe attempt was also dismissed.&nbsp;

An FBI investigation of the attempted bribe is on, with no arrests announced yet.

The seven defendants are among the initial 70 individuals to face trial in what federal prosecutors have labeled as one of the largest COVID-19-related frauds in the country, exploiting rules that were negligent so that the economy wouldn’t crash during the pandemic.&nbsp;

It is worth mentioning that more than $250 million in federal funds was taken in the Minnesota scheme overall, with only about $50 million of it recovered, authorities said.

The defendants faced multiple counts including conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering and federal programmes bribery.

Defence attorneys argued that the defendants provided real meals to real people.

An Associated Press analysis published last June documented how thieves across the country plundered billions in federal COVID-19 relief dollars.&nbsp;

Fraudsters stole more than $280 billion, while another $123 billion was wasted or misspent. Collectively, the loss represent 10% of the $4.3 trillion the government disbursed by last fall.&nbsp;

Nearly 3,200 defendants have been charged and about $1.4 billion in stolen pandemic aid has been seized, according to the U.S. Justice Department.

The Minnesota case drew attention after the judge and attorneys for both sides learned about the bribe attempt.&nbsp;

According to an FBI agent’s affidavit, a handed the relative of juror a gift bag with a curly ribbon and images of flowers and butterflies and said it was a “present” for the juror.

"The woman told the relative to inform Juror #52 to deliver a verdict of not guilty the following day, promising more of the same the next day," the agent documented.&nbsp;

"Once the woman departed, the relative inspected the gift bag and discovered it held a significant sum of cash."

The juror after learning about the cash, called police right after she got home and gave them the bag, which around $120,000.&nbsp;

The FBI agent noted that the alleged fraud conspiracy at the heart of the trial involved electronic communications, including text messages and emails.

Names of the jurors have not been made public.

Federal charges of bribery of a juror and influencing a juror carry a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison.

The aid money came from the US Department of Agriculture and was administered by the state department of education. Non-profits and other partners under the program were supposed to serve meals to kids.

Two of the groups involved, Feeding Our Future and Partners in Nutrition, were small non-profits before the pandemic, but in 2021 they disbursed about $200m each.

(With inputs from agencies)

A jury in the US has convicted five Minnesota residents and acquitted two others for their involvement in a scheme to embezzle over $40 million meant for feeding children during the coronavirus pandemic.

A jury in the US has convicted five Minnesota residents and acquitted two others for their involvement in a scheme to embezzle over $40 million meant for feeding children during the coronavirus pandemic. Abdiaziz Shafii Farah, Mohamed Jama Ismail, Abdimajid Mohamed Nur, Mukhtar Mohamed Shariff, and Hayat Mohamed Nur were convicted on Friday (June 7) on the majority of the charges brought against them. Said Shafii Farah and Abdiwahab Maalim Aftin were acquitted on all counts they faced. The case got significant attention when an attempt was made to bribe a juror with a bag containing $120,000 in cash. That juror was discharged before deliberations began, and a second juror who was told about the bribe attempt was also dismissed. An FBI investigation of the attempted bribe is on, with no arrests announced yet. The seven defendants are among the initial 70 individuals to face trial in what federal prosecutors have labeled as one of the largest COVID-19-related frauds in the country, exploiting rules that were negligent so that the economy wouldn’t crash during the pandemic. It is worth mentioning that more than $250 million in federal funds was taken in the Minnesota scheme overall, with only about $50 million of it recovered, authorities said. The defendants faced multiple counts including conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering and federal programmes bribery. Defence attorneys argued that the defendants provided real meals to real people. An Associated Press analysis published last June documented how thieves across the country plundered billions in federal COVID-19 relief dollars. Fraudsters stole more than $280 billion, while another $123 billion was wasted or misspent. Collectively, the loss represent 10% of the $4.3 trillion the government disbursed by last fall. Nearly 3,200 defendants have been charged and about $1.4 billion in stolen pandemic aid has been seized, according to the U.S. Justice Department. The Minnesota case drew attention after the judge and attorneys for both sides learned about the bribe attempt. According to an FBI agent’s affidavit, a handed the relative of juror a gift bag with a curly ribbon and images of flowers and butterflies and said it was a “present” for the juror. "The woman told the relative to inform Juror #52 to deliver a verdict of not guilty the following day, promising more of the same the next day," the agent documented. "Once the woman departed, the relative inspected the gift bag and discovered it held a significant sum of cash." The juror after learning about the cash, called police right after she got home and gave them the bag, which around $120,000. The FBI agent noted that the alleged fraud conspiracy at the heart of the trial involved electronic communications, including text messages and emails. Names of the jurors have not been made public. Federal charges of bribery of a juror and influencing a juror carry a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison. The aid money came from the US Department of Agriculture and was administered by the state department of education. Non-profits and other partners under the program were supposed to serve meals to kids. Two of the groups involved, Feeding Our Future and Partners in Nutrition, were small non-profits before the pandemic, but in 2021 they disbursed about $200m each. (With inputs from agencies)

5 convicted in Covid pandemic fraud case following bribe attempt

There's a new covid variant called KP.2 under the name FLiRT that has emerged in the US, UK and India. These new variant mutants are collectively called FLiRT.

FLiRT' COVID cases: KP.2 Covid variant cases in US, UK and India

British pharma giant Oxford-Astrazeneca is withdrawing its Covid-19 vaccines globally. According to a report in the Telegraph, the vaccine can no longer be used in the european union. The company says the decision has been taken for purely commercial reasons.

Astrazeneca's big post-Covid move, company voluntarily withdraws 'marketing authorisation' for EU

In a big move, AstraZeneca has decided to withdraw its Covid vaccines worldwide. Has big pharma opened Covid can of worms?

Gravitas | AstraZeneca to withdraw its Covid vaccines worldwide

Zhang Yongzhen, the first scientist to publish a sequence of the COVID-19 virus in China had been evicted from his lab. Zhang wrote the post on Chinese social media platform Weibo but it was later deleted. Watch in for more details!

Chinese scientist who published first sequence of COVID is evicted from lab

Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS".

TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet&nbsp;serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels.

The revelation can potentially pave the way for&nbsp;AstraZeneca to cough up millions of dollars in legal payout. 
 
Here's all you need to know about the issue.

<h2>Covishield and rare side effects</h2>

British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, in conjunction with Oxford, developed its Covid vaccine that is sold under brand names 'Covishield' and 'Vaxzevria' among others.&nbsp;

The vaccine was initially rolled out in 2021, as hundreds and thousands of deaths from the dangerous virus were being reported from across the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazaneca-admits-in-court-document-its-covid-vaccine-can-in-very-rare-cases-cause-complications-716218">AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’</a>

At the time, the rushed rollout was criticised by many in the scientific community and questions were raised about how safe it is to rush vaccine administration.&nbsp;

Now, three years down the line, the question is back as AstraZeneca faces class action suits over claims that its vaccine caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases.

<h2>A confession?</h2>

In legal documents submitted to the UK High Court in February, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

"It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known," said the company in the document that is making headlines months after it was submitted.

"Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence," it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a>

Previously, lawyers for the pharma giant, in a letter of response sent in May last year, had contended "We do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level".

<h2>Medical claims against the company</h2>

The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine.&nbsp;

Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT).

He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury.

Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million).

Lawyers for the victims argue that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims.

<h2>AstraZeneca vaccine side effects</h2>

As per the World Health Organization, side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine include typically short-term and self-limiting mild-to-moderate symptoms.

The AstraZeneca vaccine has been associated with a range of common side effects, as reported by those who received it.

These side effects include discomfort at the injection site, a general feeling of being unwell, fatigue, fever, headaches, nausea, muscle and joint pain, swelling, redness at the site of injection, dizziness, sleepiness, excessive sweating, abdominal pain, and instances of fainting.

These, however, happen in less than 1 in 100 people.

<h2>Did nobody realise the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine's dangerous side effects earlier?</h2>

Amid reports of adverse effects, including blood clots due to the vaccine, several countries suspended the COVID-19 vaccine's use.

In March 2021, Austria suspended the use of one batch after two people developed blood clots after the vaccine jab and one of them died.

Over time, dozens of nations, many of them in Europe, suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine.

This includes Denmark, Ireland, Thailand, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Congo, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Canada, Sweden, Latvia, Slovenia, Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS". TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels.

Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS". TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels. The revelation can potentially pave the way for AstraZeneca to cough up millions of dollars in legal payout. Here's all you need to know about the issue. Covishield and rare side effects British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, in conjunction with Oxford, developed its Covid vaccine that is sold under brand names 'Covishield' and 'Vaxzevria' among others. The vaccine was initially rolled out in 2021, as hundreds and thousands of deaths from the dangerous virus were being reported from across the world. Also read | AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’ At the time, the rushed rollout was criticised by many in the scientific community and questions were raised about how safe it is to rush vaccine administration. Now, three years down the line, the question is back as AstraZeneca faces class action suits over claims that its vaccine caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases. A confession? In legal documents submitted to the UK High Court in February, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS". "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known," said the company in the document that is making headlines months after it was submitted. "Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence," it added. Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami Previously, lawyers for the pharma giant, in a letter of response sent in May last year, had contended "We do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level". Medical claims against the company The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT). He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury. Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million). Lawyers for the victims argue that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims. AstraZeneca vaccine side effects As per the World Health Organization, side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine include typically short-term and self-limiting mild-to-moderate symptoms. The AstraZeneca vaccine has been associated with a range of common side effects, as reported by those who received it. These side effects include discomfort at the injection site, a general feeling of being unwell, fatigue, fever, headaches, nausea, muscle and joint pain, swelling, redness at the site of injection, dizziness, sleepiness, excessive sweating, abdominal pain, and instances of fainting. These, however, happen in less than 1 in 100 people. Did nobody realise the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine's dangerous side effects earlier? Amid reports of adverse effects, including blood clots due to the vaccine, several countries suspended the COVID-19 vaccine's use. In March 2021, Austria suspended the use of one batch after two people developed blood clots after the vaccine jab and one of them died. Over time, dozens of nations, many of them in Europe, suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine. This includes Denmark, Ireland, Thailand, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Congo, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Canada, Sweden, Latvia, Slovenia, Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Court case, rare side effects, admission of guilt, and more. All you need to know

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count.

The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout.

<h2>Medical claims against company</h2>

AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-50-of-us-voters-dont-like-trump-for-president-but-more-would-prefer-him-over-biden-poll-716147">Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll</a>

The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT).

He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury.

Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million).

Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level".

However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known."

"Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a>

However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims.

Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab."

She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress".

"But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added.

"I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up."

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS". Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count. The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout. Medical claims against company AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases. Also read | Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT). He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury. Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million). Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level". However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known." "Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence." Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims. Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab." She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress". "But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added. "I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up." (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’

In a world where Covid-19 still exists, AI tools play a key role in assisting and analysing lung ultrasound images. However, if not properly trained, these tools might misdiagnose Covid-19 cases.

AI-driven medical diagnostics for Covid in lungs, detects Covid-19 in ultrasound images

Covid-19 may have an impact on people's cognitive and memory abilities that lasts a year or more after infection. A new study reveals small deficits in the performance of cognitive and memory tasks in people who had recovered from Covid-19 compared with those who had not had the virus.

Covid-19 causes lasting damage to cognition and memory, research finds

The Covid pandemic has ended but its effects have not left us. A new study says the Covid-19 infection can cause lasting damage to cognition and memory.

Covid-19 infection associated with cognitive deficits, brain fog not permanent problems

New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid.

<h2>The research</h2>

A team from Trinity College Dublin and FutureNeuro, a research centre, examined serum and plasma samples from 76 individuals hospitalised with COVID-19 in March or April 2020. In addition, they analysed the samples from 25 people before the pandemic.

Their findings, which have been published in Nature Neuroscience, revealed that individuals with long COVID who exhibited blood-brain barrier leaks experienced brain fog. On the other hand, those without the said disruptions did not.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/rising-cases-of-silent-heart-attacks-linked-to-long-covid-wion-decodes-687662">Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? WION decodes</a>

Professor Matthew Campbell, a geneticist and head of genetics at Trinity, who contributed to the study said that "for the first time...we have been able to show that leaky blood vessels in the human brain, in tandem with a hyperactive immune system, may be the key drivers of brain fog associated with long COVID."

"This is critically important, as understanding the underlying cause of these conditions will allow us to develop targeted therapies for patients in the future," he added, as quoted by Sky News.

In their report, the researchers highlighted that "disruption" is apparent during "acute infection and in patients with long COVID with cognitive impairment." Still, they noted that it remains unclear how function is affected in these conditions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-long-covid-shouldnt-undertake-intense-exercise-study-676565">People with long Covid shouldn't undertake intense exercise: Study</a>

Previously, a study from University College London noted that blood vessel leakage into surrounding tissues is common in numerous inflammatory diseases.

Professor Colin Doherty, a neurology expert and head of the school of medicine at Trinity, who was not part of the study, suggests that the study results will "now likely change the landscape of how we understand and treat post-viral neurological conditions".

"It also confirms that the neurological symptoms of long COVID are measurable with real and demonstrable metabolic and vascular changes in the brain," he added.

Watch |&nbsp;Covid study: Indians suffer more lung damage post recovery, worst-hit by Covid after-effects

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<h2>What is long covid?</h2>

Individuals with persistent symptoms such as tiredness, difficulty breathing, memory and cognitive issues, as well as joint and muscle pain lasting more than 12 weeks after infection, can be classified as having long COVID.

According to the Office for National Statistics, as of March last year, an estimated 1.9 million people in the UK living in private households, accounting for 2.9 per cent of the population, were experiencing self-reported long COVID.

(With inputs from agencies)

New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid.

New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid. The research A team from Trinity College Dublin and FutureNeuro, a research centre, examined serum and plasma samples from 76 individuals hospitalised with COVID-19 in March or April 2020. In addition, they analysed the samples from 25 people before the pandemic. Their findings, which have been published in Nature Neuroscience, revealed that individuals with long COVID who exhibited blood-brain barrier leaks experienced brain fog. On the other hand, those without the said disruptions did not. Also read | Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? WION decodes Professor Matthew Campbell, a geneticist and head of genetics at Trinity, who contributed to the study said that "for the first time...we have been able to show that leaky blood vessels in the human brain, in tandem with a hyperactive immune system, may be the key drivers of brain fog associated with long COVID." "This is critically important, as understanding the underlying cause of these conditions will allow us to develop targeted therapies for patients in the future," he added, as quoted by Sky News. In their report, the researchers highlighted that "disruption" is apparent during "acute infection and in patients with long COVID with cognitive impairment." Still, they noted that it remains unclear how function is affected in these conditions. Also read | People with long Covid shouldn't undertake intense exercise: Study Previously, a study from University College London noted that blood vessel leakage into surrounding tissues is common in numerous inflammatory diseases. Professor Colin Doherty, a neurology expert and head of the school of medicine at Trinity, who was not part of the study, suggests that the study results will "now likely change the landscape of how we understand and treat post-viral neurological conditions". "It also confirms that the neurological symptoms of long COVID are measurable with real and demonstrable metabolic and vascular changes in the brain," he added. Watch | Covid study: Indians suffer more lung damage post recovery, worst-hit by Covid after-effects × What is long covid? Individuals with persistent symptoms such as tiredness, difficulty breathing, memory and cognitive issues, as well as joint and muscle pain lasting more than 12 weeks after infection, can be classified as having long COVID. According to the Office for National Statistics, as of March last year, an estimated 1.9 million people in the UK living in private households, accounting for 2.9 per cent of the population, were experiencing self-reported long COVID. (With inputs from agencies)

Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels

Largest-ever covid vaccine study links shot to small increase in heart and brain conditions. Researchers from the global vaccine data network analyzed data from 99 million vaccinated individuals.

New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions

How are Covid vaccines affecting our health?

Recent research from the Christian Medical College, Vellore, uncovers concerning findings about long-term lung damage in Indian Covid survivors. Even after recovery, many patients face lingering symptoms and impaired lung function for months.

Covid study: Indians suffer more lung damage post recovery, worst-hit by Covid after-effects

The latest data released by the World Health Organisation suggests that the real Covid death figures might be three times the reported number. Till now, the official data has reported over 7 million fatalities from the beginning of the pandemic.

Covid19: Global death toll may be triple the reported deaths; countries didn't report toll correctly

Scholars have examined early Covid-19 and contested an established theory of the pandemic's origin. Two statis-ticians from Germany and Hong-Kong declared that the conclusion about the origins of the virus from Wuhan is invalid. Watch to know more!

Wuhan epicentre of Covid?: Researchers debunk early Covid epicentre claim

Health authorities in China warned of a potential resurgence of Covid this month driven by the JN.1 subvariant. According to a report by CGTN, the National Health Commission (NHC) highlighted the increasing presence of JN.1, and said that multiple respiratory diseases were likely to spread this winter and next spring.

China warns of Covid rebound this month driven by JN.1 subvariant

India witnessed a notable spike in Covid cases as the world's most populous nation&nbsp;reported&nbsp;514 new infections in a single day, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry on January 11 (Thursday). The figure takes&nbsp;the&nbsp;nation's active Covid case count to&nbsp;3,422.

The latest update also reported three additional deaths in the past 24 hours, with two fatalities in Maharashtra and one in the southern state of Karnataka. India's cumulative death toll due to Covid has now reached 5,33,409.

<h2>How India's Covid case count is rising</h2>

The shift in the Covid case count began around December 5, 2023, when the daily cases, previously below 100, started to rise.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India Covid: New JN.1 sub-variant causes worry, India reports 841 new cases in 24 hours

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This uptick was attributed to the emergence of a new variant, JN.1, a member of the Omicron family classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

<h2>India's Covid case count and present situation&nbsp;</h2>

As of January 6, there have been 682 cases of the JN.1 sub-variant reported in 12 states.

According to the&nbsp;Health Ministry update at&nbsp; 8 a.m. on Thursday (Indian Standard Time), there has been a rise in active Covid cases across several&nbsp;states, including&nbsp;Maharashtra and Karnataka.

So far in India, more than 44 million (44,483,502 individuals) people have successfully recovered from the virus, with the&nbsp;cumulative national recovery rate standing&nbsp;at 98.81 per cent.&nbsp;

The current fatality rate is at 1.81 per cent.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-advisory-issued-to-states-amid-recent-upsurge-in-covid-19-cases-and-new-variant-concern-671029">India: Advisory issued to states amid recent upsurge in COVID-19 cases, new variant concerns</a>

While authorities advise against panic, individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are urged to wear face masks as a precautionary measure.&nbsp;

According to data available on the website of the Indian health ministry, so far over 2.2 billion doses of Covid vaccine (or 220.67 crore) have been administered across the country.

Vaccination continues to be the most effective mode to combat the spread of the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

India witnessed a notable spike in Covid cases as the world's most populous nation reported 514 new infections in a single day, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry on January 11 (Thursday).

India witnessed a notable spike in Covid cases as the world's most populous nation reported 514 new infections in a single day, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry on January 11 (Thursday). The figure takes the nation's active Covid case count to 3,422. The latest update also reported three additional deaths in the past 24 hours, with two fatalities in Maharashtra and one in the southern state of Karnataka. India's cumulative death toll due to Covid has now reached 5,33,409. How India's Covid case count is rising The shift in the Covid case count began around December 5, 2023, when the daily cases, previously below 100, started to rise. Also watch | India Covid: New JN.1 sub-variant causes worry, India reports 841 new cases in 24 hours × This uptick was attributed to the emergence of a new variant, JN.1, a member of the Omicron family classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization (WHO). India's Covid case count and present situation As of January 6, there have been 682 cases of the JN.1 sub-variant reported in 12 states. According to the Health Ministry update at 8 a.m. on Thursday (Indian Standard Time), there has been a rise in active Covid cases across several states, including Maharashtra and Karnataka. So far in India, more than 44 million (44,483,502 individuals) people have successfully recovered from the virus, with the cumulative national recovery rate standing at 98.81 per cent. The current fatality rate is at 1.81 per cent. Also read | India: Advisory issued to states amid recent upsurge in COVID-19 cases, new variant concerns While authorities advise against panic, individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are urged to wear face masks as a precautionary measure. According to data available on the website of the Indian health ministry, so far over 2.2 billion doses of Covid vaccine (or 220.67 crore) have been administered across the country. Vaccination continues to be the most effective mode to combat the spread of the virus. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Covid kills two in Maharashtra, Karnataka as cases rise due to JN.1 sub-variant

As respiratory viruses, including flu and the dreaded COVID-19 rise in the United States, New York City has reintroduced indoor mask requirements at all public hospitals.

The mandate, as per ABC News, applies to 11 hospitals, 30 health centres and five long-term care facilities run by NYC Health + Hospitals.

<h2>Mask mandate</h2>

Dr Ashwin Vasan, New York City's health commissioner, says the mask mandate is only for the areas where patients are being treated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/monkeys-started-using-stone-tools-when-covid-stopped-tourist-inflow-study-673742">Monkeys on Thai island started using stone tools when Covid stopped tourist inflow: Study</a>

He said that while none of the hospitals are currently overwhelmed&nbsp;and are handling the recent rise in the number of patients well, the mask mandate will help protect the hospital staff from falling sick.

New York's mask guidelines come as hospitals in at least six other US states &nbsp;— California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin — have put in place similar masking mandates.

<h2>Cases in New York and the US</h2>

As per the report citing the New York State Department of Health, during the week ending on Dec 23, hospitalisations in New York rose from 653 to 696.

The same week, across the United States, there were 29,059 new weekly admissions due to COVID-19, reported the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This marks the seventh consecutive week of rising numbers and also the highest figure reported in almost a year — since late January 2023.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/get-rid-of-toxic-air-indoors-if-you-want-to-boost-your-creativity-suggests-study-675008">Get rid of toxic air indoors if you want to boost your creativity, suggests study</a>

Additionally, 14,732 new hospital admissions across America were linked to influenza in the same week. This is almost a 50 per cent jump&nbsp;from the previous week's 9,930 cases, CDC data shows.

Respiratory infections like pertussis or whooping cough are also on the rise, with 108 cases reported in Suffolk County, New York. While there are no known hospitalisations, as per a Suffolk County Department of Health Services press release, this outbreak is mainly among vaccinated children and their parents.

(With inputs from agencies)

As respiratory viruses, including flu and the dreaded COVID-19 rise in the United States, New York City has reintroduced indoor mask requirements at all public hospitals.

As respiratory viruses, including flu and the dreaded COVID-19 rise in the United States, New York City has reintroduced indoor mask requirements at all public hospitals. The mandate, as per ABC News, applies to 11 hospitals, 30 health centres and five long-term care facilities run by NYC Health + Hospitals. Mask mandate Dr Ashwin Vasan, New York City's health commissioner, says the mask mandate is only for the areas where patients are being treated. Also read | Monkeys on Thai island started using stone tools when Covid stopped tourist inflow: Study He said that while none of the hospitals are currently overwhelmed and are handling the recent rise in the number of patients well, the mask mandate will help protect the hospital staff from falling sick. New York's mask guidelines come as hospitals in at least six other US states — California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin — have put in place similar masking mandates. Cases in New York and the US As per the report citing the New York State Department of Health, during the week ending on Dec 23, hospitalisations in New York rose from 653 to 696. The same week, across the United States, there were 29,059 new weekly admissions due to COVID-19, reported the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This marks the seventh consecutive week of rising numbers and also the highest figure reported in almost a year — since late January 2023. Also read | Get rid of toxic air indoors if you want to boost your creativity, suggests study Additionally, 14,732 new hospital admissions across America were linked to influenza in the same week. This is almost a 50 per cent jump from the previous week's 9,930 cases, CDC data shows. Respiratory infections like pertussis or whooping cough are also on the rise, with 108 cases reported in Suffolk County, New York. While there are no known hospitalisations, as per a Suffolk County Department of Health Services press release, this outbreak is mainly among vaccinated children and their parents. (With inputs from agencies)

Mask mandate reinstated in New York City hospitals as COVID-19 cases rise

In the last week of the year 2023, India recorded a 22 per cent rise in COVID-19 cases, with the tally in the past 24 hours nearing the 850 mark for the first time in seven months.

As per a Times of India report, the surge is driven by the JN.1 sub-variant, which is spreading through the nation. In the southern state of Kerala, the infections may already have peaked, as the state logged the highest counts in the current phase.

Overall numbers remain low and the rise as per reports have been very gradual, however, this could be because of scant testing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-slight-decline-in-daily-covid-tally-with-743-new-cases-674964">India sees slight decline in daily Covid tally with 743 new cases</a>

During the week ending on Saturday, India reported 4,652 fresh Covid cases, up from the 3,818 in the previous week. The number of deaths also saw decline at 29&nbsp; as opposed to 17 recorded last week.

As per&nbsp;numbers reported on Sunday, Saturday saw the daily tally rise to 841 — the first time numbers crossed the 800 mark. Additionally, three fatalities were reported. This is the highest since May 18.

<h2>Cases rise across&nbsp;India</h2>

Last week, Kerala logged 3,018 cases, accounting for nearly 80 per cent of India's case load. This week, the numbers witnessed a 24 per cent drop or 2,282 cases. This, as per reports, may indicate that the surge in Kerala may already have peaked.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-delhi-ncr-battles-dense-fog-severe-air-quality-imd-predicts-colder-january-675204">India's Delhi-NCR battles dense fog, 'severe' air quality, IMD predicts 'colder' January</a>

However, that's not true for several other states. In Karnataka in the south and Maharashtra in the west, the cases rose significantly — apart from Kerala, daily cases in only these two states have topped 100.

In Karnataka last week, 922 fresh cases have been reported, a three-fold increase from the 309 in the previous week.

In Maharashtra, cases increased six-fold from 103 to 620.

Overall last week, 20 states and Union Terrotories reported COVID-19 cases, more than double the number on December 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the last week of the year 2023, India recorded a 22 per cent rise in COVID-19 cases, with the tally in the past 24 hours nearing the 850 mark for the first time in seven months.

In the last week of the year 2023, India recorded a 22 per cent rise in COVID-19 cases, with the tally in the past 24 hours nearing the 850 mark for the first time in seven months. As per a Times of India report, the surge is driven by the JN.1 sub-variant, which is spreading through the nation. In the southern state of Kerala, the infections may already have peaked, as the state logged the highest counts in the current phase. Overall numbers remain low and the rise as per reports have been very gradual, however, this could be because of scant testing. Also read | India sees slight decline in daily Covid tally with 743 new cases During the week ending on Saturday, India reported 4,652 fresh Covid cases, up from the 3,818 in the previous week. The number of deaths also saw decline at 29 as opposed to 17 recorded last week. As per numbers reported on Sunday, Saturday saw the daily tally rise to 841 — the first time numbers crossed the 800 mark. Additionally, three fatalities were reported. This is the highest since May 18. Cases rise across India Last week, Kerala logged 3,018 cases, accounting for nearly 80 per cent of India's case load. This week, the numbers witnessed a 24 per cent drop or 2,282 cases. This, as per reports, may indicate that the surge in Kerala may already have peaked. Also read | India's Delhi-NCR battles dense fog, 'severe' air quality, IMD predicts 'colder' January However, that's not true for several other states. In Karnataka in the south and Maharashtra in the west, the cases rose significantly — apart from Kerala, daily cases in only these two states have topped 100. In Karnataka last week, 922 fresh cases have been reported, a three-fold increase from the 309 in the previous week. In Maharashtra, cases increased six-fold from 103 to 620. Overall last week, 20 states and Union Terrotories reported COVID-19 cases, more than double the number on December 15. (With inputs from agencies)

India logs 22% increase in Covid-19 cases

The Covid surge continues to scare India ahead of the New Year holidays as the total number of active cases in the country rises to 4,170.

The updated figure was revealed on Tuesday (Dec 26) after India logged 412 fresh cases in the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, the total number of JN.1 COVID variant cases rose to 69. India's southern state of Karnataka registered the highest number of JN.1 variant cases in the country at 34, followed by Goa at 14, Maharashtra at 9, Kerala at 6, Tamil&nbsp;Nadu at 4 and Telangana at 2.

The JN.1 (BA.2.86.1.1) sub-variant of COVID-19 emerged in August in Luxembourg and is a descendant of the Omicron variant of Covid virus.

<h2>JN.1 variant becoming the dominant strain</h2>

Experts have warned that the new variant is spreading “rapidly” and is becoming a dominant variant as it’s more transmissible.

“It is more transmissible, it is spreading more rapidly, it is gradually becoming a dominant variant….it is causing more infections but the data also suggests that it is not causing severe infections and hospitalisation. Most of the symptoms are predominantly of the upper airways like fever, cough, cold, sore throat, running nose and body aches,” former AIIMS Director and Senior Pulmonologist Dr Randeep Guleria was quoted as saying by ANI.

<h2>Delhi Covid positivity rate</h2>

Delhi’s Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday said the national capital’s Covid positivity rate is around 1 per cent and stressed that people should, instead of panicking, follow precautions during the winter festival season.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-logs-116-new-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-number-of-active-cases-rises-to-4170-673659">Also read:&nbsp;India logs 116 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; number of active cases rises to 4,170</a>

Genome sequencing of samples testing positive for COVID-19 has been ramped up, he said.

<h2>Do we need a new vaccine?</h2>

As per Dr Guleria, a new vaccine is the need of the hour to cover a “broader type of the virus".

Watch:&nbsp;Covid-19 India: WHO says, 'JN.1 poses low risk at present' | The India Story

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“We have had multiple mutations. JN.1 is a sub-lineage of Omicron. So a vaccine which is made against Omicron will be effective against this variant also. We need more data first to show what is the current immunity in the population, and the protection that have based on the previous vaccination that we’ve got, based on that, only can we decide that do we need a new vaccine,” the expert pointed out.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Covid surge continues to scare India ahead of the New Year holidays as the total number of active cases in the country rises to 4,170. The updated figure was revealed on Tuesday (Dec 26) after India logged 412 fresh cases in the past 24 hours.

The Covid surge continues to scare India ahead of the New Year holidays as the total number of active cases in the country rises to 4,170. The updated figure was revealed on Tuesday (Dec 26) after India logged 412 fresh cases in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, the total number of JN.1 COVID variant cases rose to 69. India's southern state of Karnataka registered the highest number of JN.1 variant cases in the country at 34, followed by Goa at 14, Maharashtra at 9, Kerala at 6, Tamil Nadu at 4 and Telangana at 2. The JN.1 (BA.2.86.1.1) sub-variant of COVID-19 emerged in August in Luxembourg and is a descendant of the Omicron variant of Covid virus. JN.1 variant becoming the dominant strain Experts have warned that the new variant is spreading “rapidly” and is becoming a dominant variant as it’s more transmissible. “It is more transmissible, it is spreading more rapidly, it is gradually becoming a dominant variant….it is causing more infections but the data also suggests that it is not causing severe infections and hospitalisation. Most of the symptoms are predominantly of the upper airways like fever, cough, cold, sore throat, running nose and body aches,” former AIIMS Director and Senior Pulmonologist Dr Randeep Guleria was quoted as saying by ANI. Delhi Covid positivity rate Delhi’s Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday said the national capital’s Covid positivity rate is around 1 per cent and stressed that people should, instead of panicking, follow precautions during the winter festival season. Also read: India logs 116 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours; number of active cases rises to 4,170 Genome sequencing of samples testing positive for COVID-19 has been ramped up, he said. Do we need a new vaccine? As per Dr Guleria, a new vaccine is the need of the hour to cover a “broader type of the virus". Watch: Covid-19 India: WHO says, 'JN.1 poses low risk at present' | The India Story × “We have had multiple mutations. JN.1 is a sub-lineage of Omicron. So a vaccine which is made against Omicron will be effective against this variant also. We need more data first to show what is the current immunity in the population, and the protection that have based on the previous vaccination that we’ve got, based on that, only can we decide that do we need a new vaccine,” the expert pointed out. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid surge in India: JN.1 cases rise to 69, national tally crosses 4,000 mark

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- India's daily Covid tally saw a slight decline on Monday with 628 cases having been recorded in just the last 24 hours. According to the Union Health Ministry's update active number of cases in the country has crossed the 4,000 Mark.

COVID-19 in India: Active cases in cross 4,000

The World Health Organization on Tuesday classified the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a "variant of interest" but said it did not pose much threat to public health.

Covid-19 India: Highest single-day increase in 7 months

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- In a concerning development, India witnessed a spike in COVID-19 cases with 640 new infections reported on Friday, pushing the active cases to 2,997.

Covid-19 JN.1 variant: India witnesses surge in Covid-19 cases

In a concerning development, India witnessed a spike in COVID-19 cases with 640 new infections reported on Friday, pushing the active cases to 2,997. The total COVID-19 tally in the country now stands at a staggering 4.50 crore (4,50,07,212), with the death toll reaching 5,33,327.

Covid-19 JN.1 variant: Resident of Indian city of Noida tests positive for Covid

Covid-19 JN.1 variant: Covid death toll rises to 533,327

In India's National Capital Region (NCR) after several months, a case of the dreaded coronavirus has come to light. The COVID-19 case, as per a PTI report citing officials, is in Noida, where a 54-year-old man has tested positive.

This comes amid a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases attributed to the recently discovered Omicron sub-variant JN.1.

<h2>Noida's first case</h2>

The patient is a 54-year-old man who is a resident of Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar. While his identity is yet to be revealed, as per reports, he works at a multinational company in Gurugram.

Gautam Buddha Nagar Chief Medical Officer Dr Sunil Sharma on Thursday said that "his test sample has been sent to Delhi for genome sequencing. The result is awaited".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-jn1-indias-chandigarh-makes-it-mandatory-to-wear-masks-in-public-places-amid-recent-uptick-in-cases-672112">Covid JN.1: India's Chandigarh makes wearing masks mandatory in public places amid recent uptick in cases</a>

As per District Surveillance Officer and public healthcare expert Dr Amit Kumar, earlier this month, the patient travelled to Nepal. He also revealed that after his return from Nepal, the man also went to work at his Gurugram office.

"The patient is asymptomatic and went for the COVID-19 test on his own," said Kumar. He added that, as of now, this is the only confirmed case in Gautam Buddha Nagar.

<h2>Noida on alert</h2>

In Noida, as per CMO Sharma, the testing for the coronavirus has come down this year. However, he noted that people can still get themselves tested for Covid at primary community health centres and the district hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-number-of-active-covid-cases-cross-2000-mark-in-kerala-goa-tops-list-of-jn1-cases-ahead-of-christmas-672009">India: Number of active Covid cases cross 2,000-mark in Kerala; Goa tops list of JN.1 cases ahead of Christmas</a>

After the case was reported, concerns over the infection spreading once again have been raised. The healthcare department has urged residents to follow Covid-appropriate measures: Wash their hands with soap for at least a minute, practice social distancing, use alcohol-based sanitisers, wear a face mask when outdoors, among other measures.

<h2>JN.1 variant</h2>

Recently, India has seen an uptick of cases from the JN.1 variant, with 2,669 active cases, as of Wednesday (Dec 21). The Omicron subvariant has been categorised as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization, and as of now isn't deemed to hold a particular risk. However, former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan has cautioned against underestimating COVID-19 as a common cold.

(With inputs from agencies)

In India's National Capital Region (NCR) after several months, a case of the dreaded coronavirus has come to light. The COVID-19 case, as per a PTI report citing officials, is in Noida, where a 54-year-old man has tested positive.

In India's National Capital Region (NCR) after several months, a case of the dreaded coronavirus has come to light. The COVID-19 case, as per a PTI report citing officials, is in Noida, where a 54-year-old man has tested positive. This comes amid a significant uptick in COVID-19 cases attributed to the recently discovered Omicron sub-variant JN.1. Noida's first case The patient is a 54-year-old man who is a resident of Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar. While his identity is yet to be revealed, as per reports, he works at a multinational company in Gurugram. Gautam Buddha Nagar Chief Medical Officer Dr Sunil Sharma on Thursday said that "his test sample has been sent to Delhi for genome sequencing. The result is awaited". Also read | Covid JN.1: India's Chandigarh makes wearing masks mandatory in public places amid recent uptick in cases As per District Surveillance Officer and public healthcare expert Dr Amit Kumar, earlier this month, the patient travelled to Nepal. He also revealed that after his return from Nepal, the man also went to work at his Gurugram office. "The patient is asymptomatic and went for the COVID-19 test on his own," said Kumar. He added that, as of now, this is the only confirmed case in Gautam Buddha Nagar. Noida on alert In Noida, as per CMO Sharma, the testing for the coronavirus has come down this year. However, he noted that people can still get themselves tested for Covid at primary community health centres and the district hospital. Also read | India: Number of active Covid cases cross 2,000-mark in Kerala; Goa tops list of JN.1 cases ahead of Christmas After the case was reported, concerns over the infection spreading once again have been raised. The healthcare department has urged residents to follow Covid-appropriate measures: Wash their hands with soap for at least a minute, practice social distancing, use alcohol-based sanitisers, wear a face mask when outdoors, among other measures. JN.1 variant Recently, India has seen an uptick of cases from the JN.1 variant, with 2,669 active cases, as of Wednesday (Dec 21). The Omicron subvariant has been categorised as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization, and as of now isn't deemed to hold a particular risk. However, former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan has cautioned against underestimating COVID-19 as a common cold. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Noida in Uttar Pradesh state reports its first Covid case in months

After Kerala, JN.1 variant has now been found in Goa. 21 new cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours which makes it 2,669 active cases. Singapore has become a country of concern, Indonesia is asking travellers to be vigilant. In Malaysia, cases have doubled. This is December Deja Vu.indi

Covid-19 India: Goa reports highest number of 'JN.1' cases

The Wuhan virus is back. The govt of India has issued advisory to states. A new variant has been detected in Kerala, JN.1 is believed to have triggered a jump in cases in Singapore- with at least 24,000 people testing positive in a week.

Covid-19: India on alert, Govt issues advisory as Kerala detects new variant | Gravitas

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