Tamil superstar Suriya has tested positive for COVID-19 and is undergoing treatment.&nbsp; 
 
The 45-year-old actor took to Twitter late Sunday evening to share his diagnosis and urged his fans to be cautious amid the pandemic. 
 
"I am undergoing treatment for COVID-19 and I am better now. Let us all realise that life hasn't returned to normalcy yet. We also cannot be filled with fear and let life come to a standstill. We still need to be careful and safe. 
 
"Lots of love and gratitude to the dedicated doctors and medical staff standing by my side," Suriya wrote. 
 
Filmmaker Rajsekar Pandian, a close associate of the actor, gave the star's fans on Twitter,the actor's health update on Monday.&nbsp; 
 
"Dear brothers and sisters Anna's fine and nothing to worry," he wrote. 
 
The actor was recently seen in 'Soorarai Pottru', which released on Amazon Prime Video. 
 
Directed by Sudha Kongara and backed by Suriya, the film was a biographical drama on the life of Captain GR Gopinath, a retired Army officer, who founded the low-cost airline Air Deccan.&nbsp;

Tamil superstar Suriya has tested positive for COVID-19 and is undergoing treatment. The 45-year-old actor took to Twitter late Sunday evening to share his diagnosis and urged his fans to be cautious amid the pandemic.

Tamil superstar Suriya has tested positive for COVID-19 and is undergoing treatment. The 45-year-old actor took to Twitter late Sunday evening to share his diagnosis and urged his fans to be cautious amid the pandemic. "I am undergoing treatment for COVID-19 and I am better now. Let us all realise that life hasn't returned to normalcy yet. We also cannot be filled with fear and let life come to a standstill. We still need to be careful and safe. "Lots of love and gratitude to the dedicated doctors and medical staff standing by my side," Suriya wrote. Filmmaker Rajsekar Pandian, a close associate of the actor, gave the star's fans on Twitter,the actor's health update on Monday. "Dear brothers and sisters Anna's fine and nothing to worry," he wrote. The actor was recently seen in 'Soorarai Pottru', which released on Amazon Prime Video. Directed by Sudha Kongara and backed by Suriya, the film was a biographical drama on the life of Captain GR Gopinath, a retired Army officer, who founded the low-cost airline Air Deccan.

Tamil superstar Suriya tests positive for COVID-19

The mutating viruses making it difficult for the health experts to contain the raging COVID-19 pandemic. Now, a study has revealed that the first strain of the virus, identified in the UK is doubling its reach approximately every 10 days.

Mutating COVID-19 viruses make it difficult to contain the raging pandemic

A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge have revealed that climate change could have played a direct role in the occurrence of the SARS-CoV-2 which has caused the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

The study, which was published in the Science of the Total Environment journal has pointed out large-scale changes in the type of vegetation in southern Chinese province called Yunnan, and also in areas of Myanmar and Laos.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-on-next-gen-coronavirus-vaccines-with-focus-on-mutations-underway-361092" hreflang="en">Work on next gen coronavirus vaccines with focus on mutations underway</a>

Climate changes such as an increase in temperature, sunlight and atmospheric carbon dioxide have led to depletion in the growth of plants and trees and have also changed natural habitats from tropical shrubland to tropical savannah and deciduous woodland.

This, as per the researchers, led to a suitable environment for many species of bats that were found in the forests. The research has also claimed that the number of coronaviruses is also linked to the number of bat species present in the area.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-shows-variant-spreading-in-britain-could-become-resistant-to-vaccines-360831" hreflang="en">Study shows variant spreading in Britain could become resistant to vaccines</a>

"Climate change over the last century has made the habitat in the southern Chinese Yunnan province suitable for more bat species," said Robert Beyer, a researcher in the University of Cambridge and first author of the study. "Understanding how the global distribution of bat species has shifted as a result of climate change may be an important step in reconstructing the origin of the Covid-19 outbreak."

With a change in the habitats, some species travelled from one place to another and carried their viruses with them and may have also initiated alterations of the existing viruses, leading to more dangerous viruses, such as coronavirus.&nbsp;

"As climate change altered habitats, species left some areas and moved into others -- taking their viruses with them. This not only altered the regions where viruses are present but most likely allowed for new interactions between animals and viruses, causing more harmful viruses to be transmitted or evolve," Beyer said.

A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge have revealed that climate change could have played a direct role in the occurrence of the SARS-CoV-2 which has caused the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

A team of researchers at the University of Cambridge have revealed that climate change could have played a direct role in the occurrence of the SARS-CoV-2 which has caused the deadly coronavirus pandemic. The study, which was published in the Science of the Total Environment journal has pointed out large-scale changes in the type of vegetation in southern Chinese province called Yunnan, and also in areas of Myanmar and Laos. Also read| Work on next gen coronavirus vaccines with focus on mutations underway Climate changes such as an increase in temperature, sunlight and atmospheric carbon dioxide have led to depletion in the growth of plants and trees and have also changed natural habitats from tropical shrubland to tropical savannah and deciduous woodland. This, as per the researchers, led to a suitable environment for many species of bats that were found in the forests. The research has also claimed that the number of coronaviruses is also linked to the number of bat species present in the area. Also read| Study shows variant spreading in Britain could become resistant to vaccines "Climate change over the last century has made the habitat in the southern Chinese Yunnan province suitable for more bat species," said Robert Beyer, a researcher in the University of Cambridge and first author of the study. "Understanding how the global distribution of bat species has shifted as a result of climate change may be an important step in reconstructing the origin of the Covid-19 outbreak." With a change in the habitats, some species travelled from one place to another and carried their viruses with them and may have also initiated alterations of the existing viruses, leading to more dangerous viruses, such as coronavirus. "As climate change altered habitats, species left some areas and moved into others -- taking their viruses with them. This not only altered the regions where viruses are present but most likely allowed for new interactions between animals and viruses, causing more harmful viruses to be transmitted or evolve," Beyer said.

Climate change may have contributed to emergence of coronavirus in China: Study

Stella Martin may not realise it now, but she has already become a celebrity after her successful battle with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">novel coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

In a video posted by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences on Twitter, healthcare staff was seen giving a celebratory send-off to the four-year-old child as she was leaving the hospital.

Watch |&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
After a severe bout with COVID-19, 4-year-old Stella Martin is leaving UNM Hospital. ❤️ 
 
Stella came into the hospital in April after contracting COVID-19. She spent over 5 months in the Pediatric ICU and arrived in the CTH Acute Service in October. <a href="https://t.co/8yfIUHonsl">pic.twitter.com/8yfIUHonsl</a>
— UNM HSC (@UNMHSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNMHSC/status/1354493390050615303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The hospital said that Stella spent more than five months in ICU after she contracted Covid-19.&nbsp;

"After a severe bout with COVID-19, 4-year-old Stella Martin is leaving UNM Hospital," the post said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-puts-maximum-age-limit-for-receiving-astrazeneca-vaccine-361744">Spain puts maximum age limit for receiving Astrazeneca vaccine</a>

"Stella came into the hospital in April after contracting COVID-19. She spent over 5 months in the Pediatric ICU and arrived in the CTH Acute Service in October."

Stella's mother said that her child was hospitalised for nine months because of coronavirus and her asthma condition meant that her condition faced high risk, reports Good Morning America.&nbsp;

The hospital also thanked people who donated their iPads so that the child could able to communicate with her family and also acknowledged the "hard work" and "dedication" of the medical personnel.&nbsp;

"We would like to say a special thanks to our community for donating IPads. Thanks to you, Stella was able to stay connected with her family. We celebrate her recovery and the hard work and dedication of our health care team who work tirelessly to help patients like her," the post said.&nbsp;

Stella Martin may not realise it now, but she has already become a celebrity after her successful battle with the novel coronavirus. In a video posted by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences on Twitter, healthcare staff was seen giving a celebratory send-off to the four-year-old child as she was leaving the hospital.

Stella Martin may not realise it now, but she has already become a celebrity after her successful battle with the novel coronavirus. In a video posted by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences on Twitter, healthcare staff was seen giving a celebratory send-off to the four-year-old child as she was leaving the hospital. Watch | After a severe bout with COVID-19, 4-year-old Stella Martin is leaving UNM Hospital. ❤️ Stella came into the hospital in April after contracting COVID-19. She spent over 5 months in the Pediatric ICU and arrived in the CTH Acute Service in October. pic.twitter.com/8yfIUHonsl — UNM HSC (@UNMHSC) January 27, 2021 × The hospital said that Stella spent more than five months in ICU after she contracted Covid-19. "After a severe bout with COVID-19, 4-year-old Stella Martin is leaving UNM Hospital," the post said. Also read | Spain puts maximum age limit for receiving Astrazeneca vaccine "Stella came into the hospital in April after contracting COVID-19. She spent over 5 months in the Pediatric ICU and arrived in the CTH Acute Service in October." Stella's mother said that her child was hospitalised for nine months because of coronavirus and her asthma condition meant that her condition faced high risk, reports Good Morning America. The hospital also thanked people who donated their iPads so that the child could able to communicate with her family and also acknowledged the "hard work" and "dedication" of the medical personnel. "We would like to say a special thanks to our community for donating IPads. Thanks to you, Stella was able to stay connected with her family. We celebrate her recovery and the hard work and dedication of our health care team who work tirelessly to help patients like her," the post said.

Four-year-old gets celebratory departure after she conquered hard battle against Covid-19

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">novel coronavirus </a>has led to the creative use of various things and brought out resourcefulness that was not previously considered.

Who would have thought earlier that sniffer dogs that are used to find criminals and pieces of evidence will be used to detect Covid-19 too?

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-decode-how-coronavirus-damages-lung-cells-within-hours-360434">Scientists decode how coronavirus damages lung cells within hours</a>

In a first, a veterinary clinic in Germany has trained sniffer dogs to detect the deadly virus from human saliva samples, claiming 94 per cent accuracy.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-finds-more-coronavirus-cases-with-concerning-mutation-361033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The dogs are conditioned to identify the "corona odour" that appears from cells in people infected with coronavirus, said Esther Schalke, a vet at Germany's armed forces school for service dogs.

"We did a study where we had dogs sniffing samples from Covid-positive patients and we can say that they have a 94 per cent probability in our study ... that they can sniff them out," Holger Volk, head of the veterinary clinic, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. &nbsp;

He added that these dogs can sniff out coronavirus cases of both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients.&nbsp;

Filou, three-year-old Belgian Shepherd, and Joe Cocker, one-year-old Cocker Spaniel, are two dogs that are being trained for this purpose at the Hanover's University of Veterinary Medicine.

Stephan Weil, premier of Lower Saxony, said he was impressed with the research and called for feasibility tests before these dogs can be used to detect Covid-19.

Last September, Finland started training dogs to detect the virus at Finland's Helsinki-Vantaa airport for the passengers.&nbsp;

Santiago international airport in Chile is also using canine detectors. 
&nbsp;

The novel coronavirus has led to the creative use of various things and brought out resourcefulness that was not previously considered. Who would have thought earlier that sniffer dogs that are used to find criminals and pieces of evidence will be used to detect Covid-19 too?

The novel coronavirus has led to the creative use of various things and brought out resourcefulness that was not previously considered. Who would have thought earlier that sniffer dogs that are used to find criminals and pieces of evidence will be used to detect Covid-19 too? Also read | Scientists decode how coronavirus damages lung cells within hours In a first, a veterinary clinic in Germany has trained sniffer dogs to detect the deadly virus from human saliva samples, claiming 94 per cent accuracy. Watch | The dogs are conditioned to identify the "corona odour" that appears from cells in people infected with coronavirus, said Esther Schalke, a vet at Germany's armed forces school for service dogs. "We did a study where we had dogs sniffing samples from Covid-positive patients and we can say that they have a 94 per cent probability in our study ... that they can sniff them out," Holger Volk, head of the veterinary clinic, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. He added that these dogs can sniff out coronavirus cases of both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. Filou, three-year-old Belgian Shepherd, and Joe Cocker, one-year-old Cocker Spaniel, are two dogs that are being trained for this purpose at the Hanover's University of Veterinary Medicine. Stephan Weil, premier of Lower Saxony, said he was impressed with the research and called for feasibility tests before these dogs can be used to detect Covid-19. Last September, Finland started training dogs to detect the virus at Finland's Helsinki-Vantaa airport for the passengers. Santiago international airport in Chile is also using canine detectors.

Sniffer dogs detect coronavirus in Germany, study claims efficacy is of 94%

The UK variant of the deadly Coronavirus has now mutated yet again. Public health officials in the UK are currently investigating the cases of the Coronavirus with some worrying genetic changes.

Your Story: UK COVID-19 variant mutates again, 11 cases of new mutation reported

Japan's services sector shrank at the fastest pace in five months, as a heavy blow to demand from a resurgence in coronavirus infections and a state of emergency in parts of the country greatly hurt new business orders.

World Business Watch: Japan's service sector slump deepens as COVID-19 emergency hits business

Captain Tom Moore, the British World War Two veteran who raised millions of pounds for health service workers on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19, has died aged 100, his family said on Tuesday.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore," his daughters said in a statement.

Moore died on Tuesday morning at Bedford Hospital. He had tested positive for COVID-19 on Jan. 22 and was fighting pneumonia.

Over the last five years, Moore had been receiving treatment for prostate and skin cancer, his family said.

He had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 due to the other medication he was taking.

Moore struck a chord with locked-down Britain by walking around his garden with the help of a walking frame to raise 38.9 million pounds ($53 million) for the National Health Service.

His endeavor spread joy amid the grim news of the coronavirus outbreak.

"The last year of our father`s life was nothing short of remarkable. He was rejuvenated and experienced things he`d only ever dreamed of," his daughters said.

"Whilst he`d been in so many hearts for just a short time, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and he will stay alive in our hearts forever."

Raised in Yorkshire, northern England, Moore served in India, Burma and Sumatra during World War Two.

"I`m so sorry to hear that Captain Tom has passed away in hospital," British health minister Matt Hancock said on Twitter. "He was a great British hero that showed the best of our country."

Captain Tom Moore, the British World War Two veteran who raised millions of pounds for health service workers on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19, has died aged 100, his family said on Tuesday.

Captain Tom Moore, the British World War Two veteran who raised millions of pounds for health service workers on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19, has died aged 100, his family said on Tuesday. "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore," his daughters said in a statement. Moore died on Tuesday morning at Bedford Hospital. He had tested positive for COVID-19 on Jan. 22 and was fighting pneumonia. Over the last five years, Moore had been receiving treatment for prostate and skin cancer, his family said. He had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 due to the other medication he was taking. Moore struck a chord with locked-down Britain by walking around his garden with the help of a walking frame to raise 38.9 million pounds ($53 million) for the National Health Service. His endeavor spread joy amid the grim news of the coronavirus outbreak. "The last year of our father`s life was nothing short of remarkable. He was rejuvenated and experienced things he`d only ever dreamed of," his daughters said. "Whilst he`d been in so many hearts for just a short time, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and he will stay alive in our hearts forever." Raised in Yorkshire, northern England, Moore served in India, Burma and Sumatra during World War Two. "I`m so sorry to hear that Captain Tom has passed away in hospital," British health minister Matt Hancock said on Twitter. "He was a great British hero that showed the best of our country."

Capt. Tom Moore, British World War Two veteran, dies at 100

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday.

The GGD confirmed a media report that data had been stolen and apologised for what it said were two separate leaks. It said in a statement it did not know how many people were affected by the data theft, but they could number in the thousands.

Confirmation of the leaks follows violent protests over a government decision to impose a night-time curfew in addition to a months-long lockdown to try to control the pandemic.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte is also under fire because the Netherlands was the last among European Union countries to begin COVID-19 vaccinations.

The GGD said the data leaks were from its core track-and-trace system, and not related to a tracking smartphone app that had been closely scrutinised for potential privacy weaknesses.

In one instance, GGD employees targeted the personal information of a small number of prominent individuals. In the other, an entire data set was leaked and offered for sale online though it was not clear whether anyone bought the data.

"If people who mean ill intentionally take data out of a system, that`s almost impossible to stop," the GGD said.

The GGD acknowledged people may now be reluctant to participate in its track-and-trace programme, but said it would do its best to restore public confidence.

"We are working closely with the police, justice and data and cybercrime specialists," it said.

"People who have crossed the line will be fired, simply, and weak spots in our security will be identified and strengthened."

Broadcaster RTL first reported news of the leak. The GGD confirmed the leaks included names, addresses, social security numbers, telephone numbers, and test results.

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday.

Personal information of a large number of people who participated in the Netherlands` coronavirus track-and-trace programme has been leaked, the Dutch health authorities (GGD) said on Friday. The GGD confirmed a media report that data had been stolen and apologised for what it said were two separate leaks. It said in a statement it did not know how many people were affected by the data theft, but they could number in the thousands. Confirmation of the leaks follows violent protests over a government decision to impose a night-time curfew in addition to a months-long lockdown to try to control the pandemic. Prime Minister Mark Rutte is also under fire because the Netherlands was the last among European Union countries to begin COVID-19 vaccinations. The GGD said the data leaks were from its core track-and-trace system, and not related to a tracking smartphone app that had been closely scrutinised for potential privacy weaknesses. In one instance, GGD employees targeted the personal information of a small number of prominent individuals. In the other, an entire data set was leaked and offered for sale online though it was not clear whether anyone bought the data. "If people who mean ill intentionally take data out of a system, that`s almost impossible to stop," the GGD said. The GGD acknowledged people may now be reluctant to participate in its track-and-trace programme, but said it would do its best to restore public confidence. "We are working closely with the police, justice and data and cybercrime specialists," it said. "People who have crossed the line will be fired, simply, and weak spots in our security will be identified and strengthened." Broadcaster RTL first reported news of the leak. The GGD confirmed the leaks included names, addresses, social security numbers, telephone numbers, and test results.

Personal data stolen from Dutch coronavirus track-and-trace programme

The world has now recorded more than 100 million Wuhan virus cases. Countries around the world are struggling with new variants and vaccine shortages. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Wuhan virus pandemic: European Countries mandate medical-grade masks

A study has put New Zealand at the top of the list that arranged countries on the basis of how effective their response to coronavirus was. The top 10 countries have some surprises just as bad position assumed by developed nations in the list.

The study was carried out by Lowy Institute, a think tank in Australia. The page having interactive representation of the study says that the study was carried out "with publicly available and comparable data on the virus have managed the pandemic to date following their hundredth confirmed case of COVID-19"

"Countries have been sorted into broad categories — by regions, political systems, population size, and economic development — to determine whether significant variations exist between different types of states in the handling of the pandemic." says the Lowy Institute website.

The rankings feature 98 countries from all corners of the world.

It's probably not a surprise that New Zealand bagged the top spot. The country was coronavirus-free when the world was in the thick of the pandemic. At a time when hard lockdowns were imposed across the world, New Zealand was able to resume public activities as the pandemic was brought under control. New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern was praised for the country's response to the pandemic.

Some countries have made surprise appearance in the top 10. Africa is often seen as the most 'backward' continent. But Rwanda managed to bag the sixth position.

It was not a surprise that the USA received poor marks. The most powerful nation in the world was placed at 94th position among 98 countries in the list. The UK was at 66th position. The first European country to feature on the list is Cyprus at number 5.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-must-be-allowed-to-work-free-from-political-interference-china-on-virus-probe-359878">WHO must be allowed to work free from political interference: China on virus probe</a>

Here are the top-10 countries in the list

1. New Zealand

2. Vietnam

3. Taiwan

4. Thailand

5. Cyprus

6. Rwanda

7. Iceland

8. Australia

9. Latvia

10. Sri Lanka

A study has put New Zealand at the top of the list that arranged countries on the basis of how effective their response to coronavirus was. The top 10 countries have some surprises just as bad position assumed by developed nations in the list.

A study has put New Zealand at the top of the list that arranged countries on the basis of how effective their response to coronavirus was. The top 10 countries have some surprises just as bad position assumed by developed nations in the list. The study was carried out by Lowy Institute, a think tank in Australia. The page having interactive representation of the study says that the study was carried out "with publicly available and comparable data on the virus have managed the pandemic to date following their hundredth confirmed case of COVID-19" "Countries have been sorted into broad categories — by regions, political systems, population size, and economic development — to determine whether significant variations exist between different types of states in the handling of the pandemic." says the Lowy Institute website. The rankings feature 98 countries from all corners of the world. It's probably not a surprise that New Zealand bagged the top spot. The country was coronavirus-free when the world was in the thick of the pandemic. At a time when hard lockdowns were imposed across the world, New Zealand was able to resume public activities as the pandemic was brought under control. New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern was praised for the country's response to the pandemic. Some countries have made surprise appearance in the top 10. Africa is often seen as the most 'backward' continent. But Rwanda managed to bag the sixth position. It was not a surprise that the USA received poor marks. The most powerful nation in the world was placed at 94th position among 98 countries in the list. The UK was at 66th position. The first European country to feature on the list is Cyprus at number 5. Also Read | WHO must be allowed to work free from political interference: China on virus probe Here are the top-10 countries in the list 1. New Zealand 2. Vietnam 3. Taiwan 4. Thailand 5. Cyprus 6. Rwanda 7. Iceland 8. Australia 9. Latvia 10. Sri Lanka

Here are top 10 countries that battled COVID pandemic the best

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe.&nbsp;

India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday. That’s lower than the 14,301 patients who recovered from the virus in the same time period, taking active cases below 1.74 lakh. India had over 10 lakh live infections in mid-September. 
&nbsp; 
India's fatality rate continues to be the lowest in the world at almost 1.44 per cent and 1,03,73,606 people have recovered from the virus, taking the recovery rate to nearly 97 per cent.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) yesterday allowed cinema halls and theatres to operate with more people while swimming pools have been permitted for use by all in fresh Covid-19 reopening guidelines.

According to these new guidelines, to be effective for February 1, there shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of people and goods including those for cross land-border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries.

The total number of global coronavirus cases has topped 100.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.17 million.

The current global caseload and death toll stood at 100,755,075 and 2,170,608, respectively.

(With inputs from agencies)

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe. India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday.

India added less than 12,000 fresh Covid-19 cases in a day at a time the government is struggling to convince people that the vaccines are safe. India reported 11,666 new cases in the last 24 hours, according to the health ministry’s data as of 8 am on Thursday. That’s lower than the 14,301 patients who recovered from the virus in the same time period, taking active cases below 1.74 lakh. India had over 10 lakh live infections in mid-September. India's fatality rate continues to be the lowest in the world at almost 1.44 per cent and 1,03,73,606 people have recovered from the virus, taking the recovery rate to nearly 97 per cent. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) yesterday allowed cinema halls and theatres to operate with more people while swimming pools have been permitted for use by all in fresh Covid-19 reopening guidelines. According to these new guidelines, to be effective for February 1, there shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of people and goods including those for cross land-border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries. The total number of global coronavirus cases has topped 100.7 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.17 million. The current global caseload and death toll stood at 100,755,075 and 2,170,608, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

India reports 11,666 new cases; recovery rate at 96.94%

The Wuhan virus has now infected more than 100 million people worldwide with over 2 million deaths. The arrival of vaccines did give the world some hope but the struggle to contain the spread continues. A number of European countries are now making medical-grade masks mandatory in order to confront new more transmissible variants of the virus.

The French government wants citizens to wear surgical masks. Germany has made surgical or N95 mask mandatory in stores and on public transit. Austria has come up with a similar mandate. The UK has become the first country in Europe to record more than 100 thousand deaths. The UK has the fifth highest toll globally. And despite being one of the first countries to approve a vaccine, the fight against the virus is getting tougher. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now promised to tighten the border restrictions.

"I mourn every death in this pandemic and we share the grief of all those who have been bereaved, Mr Speaker. And let the house be in no doubt that our government take full responsibility for all the actions I have taken, we have taken, during this pandemic to fight this disease," said Johnson in the House of Commons.

In the Netherlands, the lockdown was met with a violent response this week. For three straight nights protesters clashed with riot police personnel in a brazen attempt to defy curfew orders. More than 180 people were arrested across 10 cities. In America President Joe Biden has made a vow to purchase another 200 million doses of the vaccines.

But even with that, President Biden can't promise a swift end to the pandemic in America.

The vaccines ignited hope for a swift end to this pandemic. But the rollout delays have slowed things down. With the most developed regions of the world struggling to keep pace with a mutating virus. It seems like the battle against the pandemic will be a long drawn one.

The Wuhan virus has now infected more than 100 million people worldwide with over 2 million deaths. The arrival of vaccines did give the world some hope but the struggle to contain the spread continues.

The Wuhan virus has now infected more than 100 million people worldwide with over 2 million deaths. The arrival of vaccines did give the world some hope but the struggle to contain the spread continues. A number of European countries are now making medical-grade masks mandatory in order to confront new more transmissible variants of the virus. The French government wants citizens to wear surgical masks. Germany has made surgical or N95 mask mandatory in stores and on public transit. Austria has come up with a similar mandate. The UK has become the first country in Europe to record more than 100 thousand deaths. The UK has the fifth highest toll globally. And despite being one of the first countries to approve a vaccine, the fight against the virus is getting tougher. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now promised to tighten the border restrictions. "I mourn every death in this pandemic and we share the grief of all those who have been bereaved, Mr Speaker. And let the house be in no doubt that our government take full responsibility for all the actions I have taken, we have taken, during this pandemic to fight this disease," said Johnson in the House of Commons. In the Netherlands, the lockdown was met with a violent response this week. For three straight nights protesters clashed with riot police personnel in a brazen attempt to defy curfew orders. More than 180 people were arrested across 10 cities. In America President Joe Biden has made a vow to purchase another 200 million doses of the vaccines. But even with that, President Biden can't promise a swift end to the pandemic in America. The vaccines ignited hope for a swift end to this pandemic. But the rollout delays have slowed things down. With the most developed regions of the world struggling to keep pace with a mutating virus. It seems like the battle against the pandemic will be a long drawn one.

Battle with COVID may be a long one even with vaccines

China is spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories to challenge the real story of the origins of the Wuhan Virus. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how Beijing has ramped up its disinformation efforts.

Gravitas: Inside China's campaign to change the origins of the Wuhan virus

The South African government has postponed the reopening of schools across the country as it battles the second wave of Coronavirus infection.

South Africa's education department postpones reopening of schools

Japan has said that reports of Tokyo Olympics being cancelled is untrue. But experts say the games can only be conducted safely if Japan vaccinates its entire population. Japan is home to 127 people, and the country is yet to start its vaccination program. Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the details

Gravitas: Will Tokyo Olympics be cancelled?

The Hong Kong government has announced its first-ever COVID-19 lockdown. Thousand of people residing in at Yau Ma Tei and Jordan areas have been ordered to stay in their homes for the weekend.

Hong Kong authorities impose first-ever COVID-19 lockdown

Silence descended on Chinese city Wuhan on January 23 last year, exactly one year back. Wuhan shocked the world by confining its 11 million anxious citizens to their homes, beginning a traumatic 76-day lockdown.WION brings you a report. Wuhan marked one year since it announced a severe lockdown.

Wuhan marked one year since it announced a severe lockdown

We say 'UK Strain', 'Brazil Variant', 'South Africa Variant' - why then do we not say 'Wuhan Virus'? Most pandemics and epidemics have been named after its epicentre. Why should the Wuhan Virus be an exception? WION's Palki Sharma makes a case.

Gravitas: How the W.H.O. is shielding China

The Australian Open is already mired in a series of controversies. More than 70 players are in hard quarantine. More players have tested positive. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Controversy hits Australian Open

China is recording its worst outbreak since March 2020 ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday. Mainland China has recorded 103 new Coronavirus infections while most of the new cases are near the capital.

China's most severe outbreak ahead of the Lunar New Year

The United States wants WHO investigators to look at the records of the Wuhan Lab. It believes that several researchers inside the lab became sick in the autumn of 2019 - before the 1st case of the Wuhan virus. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why is China blocking access to the Wuhan Lab?

The United Kingdon government is grappling to control the third wave of Coronavirus and in an important announcement, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said that the vaccine will be offered to the entire adult population.

UK: All adult population to get vaccinated by end of September

The pandemic response probe said on Monday that WHO, China could have acted quicker&nbsp;to contain the spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">novel coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR) in its second report also called the outbreak "largely hidden", adding that this caused the global spread.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-inoculation-drive-in-poor-nations-hinges-on-vaccine-supplies-356181/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The evaluation of the "chronology of the early phase of the outbreak suggests that there was potential for early signs to have been acted on more rapidly", the report said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-tedros-slams-rich-countries-and-vaccine-producers-for-ignoring-poor-nations-357505">WHO chief Tedros slams 'rich' countries and vaccine producers for ignoring 'poor' nations</a>

The novel coronavirus was first found in the Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019 before spreading across the world to wreak havoc, killing over 2 million people and damaging economies.&nbsp;

The independent panel also said that it was "clear" that "public health measures could have been applied more forcefully by local and national health authorities in China in January."

It also slammed the global health agency for its slow response, underscoring that WHO had not held its emergency committee until January 22, 2020 and failed to issue the highest alert level by not calling the outbreak an emergency at the right time.&nbsp;

"It is not clear why the committee did not meet until the third week of January, nor is it clear why it was unable to agree on the (PHEIC) declaration... when it was first convened," it said.&nbsp;

The WHO has faced severe criticism since the beginning of the pandemic, particularly from the US President Donald Trump who describes the organisation as a "puppet of China".&nbsp;

The pandemic response probe said on Monday that WHO, China could have acted quicker to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR) in its second report also called the outbreak "largely hidden", adding that this caused the global spread.

The pandemic response probe said on Monday that WHO, China could have acted quicker to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR) in its second report also called the outbreak "largely hidden", adding that this caused the global spread. Watch | The evaluation of the "chronology of the early phase of the outbreak suggests that there was potential for early signs to have been acted on more rapidly", the report said. Also read | WHO chief Tedros slams 'rich' countries and vaccine producers for ignoring 'poor' nations The novel coronavirus was first found in the Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019 before spreading across the world to wreak havoc, killing over 2 million people and damaging economies. The independent panel also said that it was "clear" that "public health measures could have been applied more forcefully by local and national health authorities in China in January." It also slammed the global health agency for its slow response, underscoring that WHO had not held its emergency committee until January 22, 2020 and failed to issue the highest alert level by not calling the outbreak an emergency at the right time. "It is not clear why the committee did not meet until the third week of January, nor is it clear why it was unable to agree on the (PHEIC) declaration... when it was first convened," it said. The WHO has faced severe criticism since the beginning of the pandemic, particularly from the US President Donald Trump who describes the organisation as a "puppet of China".

WHO, China could have acted quicker; outbreak 'largely hidden': Covid-19 probe team

The COVID-19 crisis has bought along with multiple challenges in many parts of the world. Food insecurity has been a major problem. In Australia's Tasmania, the crisis has led to a resurgence in community gardeners.

WION Dispatch: Community gardeners in Tasmania are tackling food insecurity amid COVID

Amid claims by Chian that it has brought the Coronavirus under control and have achieved victory over the virus, mainland China has in the past week seen the number of daily cases jump to an over 10 months high and the country continues to battle a surge in local infections.

China continues to battle a surge in local infections

A consent form for Covaxin, the coronavirus vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech is promising compensation to the receiver in case of "severe adverse event". Although the vaccine has demonstrated ability to produce antibodies the "clinical efficacy is yet to be established and it is still being studied in phase 3 clinical trial" said the form. Health workers got there firsts shot of Covaxin on Saturday.

The form said that it was important to continue taking COVID-related precautions even after receiving the medicine. Authorities said that if a recipient needs medical care after taking the vaccine it will surely be given to him in government-designated hospitals

Authorities said in case of any adverse event, the affected person will be provided medically-recognised standard of care in the government-designated hospitals. 
"The compensation for a serious adverse event will be paid by sponsor (Bharat Biotech) if the SAE is proven to be causally related to the vaccine," the form read.

The recipients were also given a factsheet and a form to report adverse effects within seven days.

Those who received the first jabs of Covaxin after signing the form at AIIMs included Director Randeep Guleria and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul, who is also head of an empowered group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle the coronavirus outbreak.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/116-people-infected-with-uk-coronavirus-variant-in-india-357121">116 people infected with UK coronavirus variant in India&nbsp;</a> 
 
Indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech was approved by India's drug regulator for restricted use in emergency situations in public interest, in clinical trial mode, especially in case of infection by mutant strains.

ICMR Director General Dr Balram Bhargava had earlier said that the clinical mode means that all those who would be administered Covaxin would give consent for the vaccine, there would be no placebo and there would be a closer follow up.

In the national capital, the COVID-19 vaccination exercise began at 81 centres with healthcare workers who have been in the forefront of the fight against the pandemic getting the shots first.

The 81 sites include six central government facilities -- AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, RML Hospital, Kalawati Saran Children Hospital and two ESI hospitals.

The rest 75 centres, spanning all 11 districts of Delhi, include Delhi government-run facilities such as LNJP Hospital, GTB Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital, DDU Hospital, BSA Hospital, Delhi State Cancer Institute, ILBS Hospital, and private facilities such as Max Hospital, Fortis Hospital, Apollo Hospital and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is being administered at 75 centres, while Covaxin is being given at the remaining six facilities.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

A consent form for Covaxin, the coronavirus vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech is promising compensation to the receiver in case of "severe adverse event". Although the vaccine has demonstrated ability to produce antibodies the "clinical efficacy is yet to be established and it is still being studied in phase 3 clinical trial" said the form.

A consent form for Covaxin, the coronavirus vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech is promising compensation to the receiver in case of "severe adverse event". Although the vaccine has demonstrated ability to produce antibodies the "clinical efficacy is yet to be established and it is still being studied in phase 3 clinical trial" said the form. Health workers got there firsts shot of Covaxin on Saturday. The form said that it was important to continue taking COVID-related precautions even after receiving the medicine. Authorities said that if a recipient needs medical care after taking the vaccine it will surely be given to him in government-designated hospitals Authorities said in case of any adverse event, the affected person will be provided medically-recognised standard of care in the government-designated hospitals. "The compensation for a serious adverse event will be paid by sponsor (Bharat Biotech) if the SAE is proven to be causally related to the vaccine," the form read. The recipients were also given a factsheet and a form to report adverse effects within seven days. Those who received the first jabs of Covaxin after signing the form at AIIMs included Director Randeep Guleria and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul, who is also head of an empowered group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. Also Read: 116 people infected with UK coronavirus variant in India Indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech was approved by India's drug regulator for restricted use in emergency situations in public interest, in clinical trial mode, especially in case of infection by mutant strains. ICMR Director General Dr Balram Bhargava had earlier said that the clinical mode means that all those who would be administered Covaxin would give consent for the vaccine, there would be no placebo and there would be a closer follow up. In the national capital, the COVID-19 vaccination exercise began at 81 centres with healthcare workers who have been in the forefront of the fight against the pandemic getting the shots first. The 81 sites include six central government facilities -- AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, RML Hospital, Kalawati Saran Children Hospital and two ESI hospitals. The rest 75 centres, spanning all 11 districts of Delhi, include Delhi government-run facilities such as LNJP Hospital, GTB Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital, DDU Hospital, BSA Hospital, Delhi State Cancer Institute, ILBS Hospital, and private facilities such as Max Hospital, Fortis Hospital, Apollo Hospital and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield is being administered at 75 centres, while Covaxin is being given at the remaining six facilities. (With PTI inputs)

Covaxin consent form assures compensation in case of adverse effects

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).Of the new cases, 364 were domestic infections while 10 others were those who had returned from abroad and tested positive in this country, said CCSA spokesman Taweesin Visanuyothin.

Some 311 of the domestic cases were detected in Samut Sakhon, where the latest outbreak was first reported in mid-December, including 193 Myanmar migrants and 118 Thai nationals, according to the CCSA spokesman.This came after Samut Sakhon`s provincial public health units had conducted active testing for the coronavirus among factory workers and other residents. This has brought Thailand`s total caseloads to 12,054, with more than 7,000 of these infections reported since mid-December. The death toll remained at 70, according to the CCSA.

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).Of the new cases, 364 were domestic infections while 10 others were those who had returned from abroad and tested positive in this country, said CCSA spokesman Taweesin Visanuyothin. Some 311 of the domestic cases were detected in Samut Sakhon, where the latest outbreak was first reported in mid-December, including 193 Myanmar migrants and 118 Thai nationals, according to the CCSA spokesman.This came after Samut Sakhon`s provincial public health units had conducted active testing for the coronavirus among factory workers and other residents. This has brought Thailand`s total caseloads to 12,054, with more than 7,000 of these infections reported since mid-December. The death toll remained at 70, according to the CCSA.

Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases

Britain is set to ban travel from the whole of South America and Portugal amid concerns over a new variant of the coronavirus in Brazil.

British Transport Secretary Grant Shapps Friday said arrivals from more than a dozen countries, including Argentina, Chile and Peru, will be halted “following evidence of a new variant in Brazil.”

The Cape Verde islands off the west coast of Africa and Panama in Central America have also been slapped with travel bans.

The restrictions also apply to the Portuguese archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores.

The ban does not apply to British and Irish nationals and third country nationals with residence rights in the UK. However, anyone returning from the banned destinations must quarantine themselves for 10 days with their households.

The announcement comes just a few weeks after many countries banned travel from the UK following the discovery of another variant of the virus around London and southeastern England, which has been blamed for a sharp rise in new coronavirus infections and deaths related to COVID-19.

Brazil has also temporarily suspended flights from or via the UK as of December 25 over concerns over that variant, which is believed to be around 50 per cent more contagious.

Britain is set to ban travel from the whole of South America and Portugal amid concerns over a new variant of the coronavirus in Brazil. British Transport Secretary Grant Shapps Friday said arrivals from more than a dozen countries, including Argentina, Chile and Peru, will be halted “following evidence of a new variant in Brazil.

Britain is set to ban travel from the whole of South America and Portugal amid concerns over a new variant of the coronavirus in Brazil. British Transport Secretary Grant Shapps Friday said arrivals from more than a dozen countries, including Argentina, Chile and Peru, will be halted “following evidence of a new variant in Brazil.” The Cape Verde islands off the west coast of Africa and Panama in Central America have also been slapped with travel bans. The restrictions also apply to the Portuguese archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores. The ban does not apply to British and Irish nationals and third country nationals with residence rights in the UK. However, anyone returning from the banned destinations must quarantine themselves for 10 days with their households. The announcement comes just a few weeks after many countries banned travel from the UK following the discovery of another variant of the virus around London and southeastern England, which has been blamed for a sharp rise in new coronavirus infections and deaths related to COVID-19. Brazil has also temporarily suspended flights from or via the UK as of December 25 over concerns over that variant, which is believed to be around 50 per cent more contagious.

UK bans travel from South America over fears of Brazil coronavirus variant

The number of people who have tested positive for the new UK variant of SARS-CoV-2 in the country has climbed to 116, the Union Health Ministry said on Saturday.

"The total number of persons found infected with the new UK variant genome is 116," the ministry said.

All these persons have been kept in single-room isolation in designated healthcare facilities by respective state governments, the ministry earlier had said.

Their close contacts have also been put under quarantine. Comprehensive contact tracing has been initiated for co-travellers, family contacts and others. Genome sequencing on other specimens is going on, the ministry said.

The situation is under careful watch and regular advice is being provided to the states for enhanced surveillance, containment, testing and dispatch of samples to INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium) labs.

The presence of the new UK variant has already been reported by several countries including Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, Italy, Sweden, France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, Japan, Lebanon and Singapore.

The number of people who have tested positive for the new UK variant of SARS-CoV-2 in the country has climbed to 116, the Union Health Ministry said on Saturday.

The number of people who have tested positive for the new UK variant of SARS-CoV-2 in the country has climbed to 116, the Union Health Ministry said on Saturday. "The total number of persons found infected with the new UK variant genome is 116," the ministry said. All these persons have been kept in single-room isolation in designated healthcare facilities by respective state governments, the ministry earlier had said. Their close contacts have also been put under quarantine. Comprehensive contact tracing has been initiated for co-travellers, family contacts and others. Genome sequencing on other specimens is going on, the ministry said. The situation is under careful watch and regular advice is being provided to the states for enhanced surveillance, containment, testing and dispatch of samples to INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium) labs. The presence of the new UK variant has already been reported by several countries including Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, Italy, Sweden, France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, Japan, Lebanon and Singapore.

116 people infected with UK coronavirus variant in India 

More than 20,000 rural residents in China's latest epicentre of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">novel coronavirus </a>have been put under quarantine in state-run facilities as the nation fights the worst outbreak since March 2020.&nbsp;

The National Health Commission on Friday reported 144 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, the highest number of cases since March last year and most of the infections are confirmed in Hebei province, where over 22 million people are already in lockdown.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-tries-to-rebrand-wuhan-356771/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Over 20,000 people from villages around Shijiazhuang have been sent to state-run quarantine facilities on Wednesday, state broadcaster CCTV confirmed.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-allows-entry-to-who-covid-19-probe-official-after-negative-test-356895">China allows entry to WHO COVID-19 probe official after negative test</a>

The state broadcaster also said that the villagers are shifted into hotels with family members accommodated in different rooms.&nbsp;

A big new "centralised medical observation centre" is also been in works with more than 3,000 makeshift beds to isolate those people who are vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp;

The virus transmission could rise at an even rapid pace as several migrant workers are expected to return to these villages for the national Lunar New Year holiday beginning next month.&nbsp;

On Thursday, China also confirmed the first death from Covid-19 in eight months on a day when a team of the World Health Organization (WHO) arrived in Wuhan to find the virus's origins.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

More than 20,000 rural residents in China's latest epicentre of the novel coronavirus have been put under quarantine in state-run facilities as the nation fights the worst outbreak since March 2020.

More than 20,000 rural residents in China's latest epicentre of the novel coronavirus have been put under quarantine in state-run facilities as the nation fights the worst outbreak since March 2020. The National Health Commission on Friday reported 144 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, the highest number of cases since March last year and most of the infections are confirmed in Hebei province, where over 22 million people are already in lockdown. Watch | Over 20,000 people from villages around Shijiazhuang have been sent to state-run quarantine facilities on Wednesday, state broadcaster CCTV confirmed. Also read | China allows entry to WHO COVID-19 probe official after negative test The state broadcaster also said that the villagers are shifted into hotels with family members accommodated in different rooms. A big new "centralised medical observation centre" is also been in works with more than 3,000 makeshift beds to isolate those people who are vulnerable to the virus. The virus transmission could rise at an even rapid pace as several migrant workers are expected to return to these villages for the national Lunar New Year holiday beginning next month. On Thursday, China also confirmed the first death from Covid-19 in eight months on a day when a team of the World Health Organization (WHO) arrived in Wuhan to find the virus's origins.

China: Over 20,000 villagers put under quarantine as Covid-19 transmission rises sharply

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