<p>India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of the total, only 2.68 lakh are active cases. Over 98 lakh have recovered from the disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With 252 additional deaths reported on Monday, the death toll now stands at over 1.48 lakh.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Tuesday said 9,83,695 samples have been tested for coronavirus till Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The total number of samples tested so far in India are 16,98,01,749 the top medical body stated.</p>

<p>The coronavirus active caseload remained below 3 lakh for the seventh consecutive day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23.

India reported 16,432 new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours ending 8 am Tuesday, taking the country’s tally to 1,02,24,303. This is the lowest increase in daily cases in six months, since June 23. Of the total, only 2.68 lakh are active cases. Over 98 lakh have recovered from the disease. With 252 additional deaths reported on Monday, the death toll now stands at over 1.48 lakh. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Tuesday said 9,83,695 samples have been tested for coronavirus till Monday. The total number of samples tested so far in India are 16,98,01,749 the top medical body stated. The coronavirus active caseload remained below 3 lakh for the seventh consecutive day. (With inputs from agencies)

India records 16,432 new Covid-19 cases, lowest daily rise in over 6 months

<p>Delta Airlines surprised its employee who fought a long and difficult battle against coronavirus by announcing a first-class trip to anywhere in the world.</p>

<p>Janese Cockfield told CNN that she was on her toes all the time when she realised that her sister was in a coma 600 miles (965 kms) away.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-person-died-every-33-seconds-due-to-covid-19-in-the-us-last-week-351486">A person died every 33 seconds due to COVID-19 in the US last week</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;"I was just thinking about how do we get Janice back home, and that's it," said Janese.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/take-it-there-is-nothing-to-worry-about-biden-receives-vaccine-live-on-television-351481">‘Take it, there is nothing to worry about': Biden receives vaccine live on television</a></strong></p>

<p>In an interview conducted on Wednesday, the sisters shared their long fight with the coronavirus after Janice was taken to an emergency room.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Janice said she was in hospital and rehabilitation centres for about 115 days to recover from coronavirus, including a coma for 57 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the interview, Janice, who is Atlanta-based employee for Delta, received a message from her company's CEO Ed Bastian which added to the happiness of the sisters after successfully enduring a fight against Covid-19.</p>

<p>"Please let Janice know while she was in the coma, we (including myself) were following her progress daily and including her in our prayers. She is a miracle and we are so proud of her strength in this fight," the statement by Bastian said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Also let her know I can't wait to send her and her sister on a first class trip, on me, anywhere in the world we fly when she's able to travel. Merry Christmas!"</p>

<p>The sisters greatly appreciated the gesture and thanked Delta CEO and other people who stood by them during the period of crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To be here having this interview with you now, to me it just makes me realize every morning when I wake up, to say 'Thank you God for another day," said Janice. &nbsp;</p>


Delta Airlines surprised its employee who fought a long and difficult battle against coronavirus by announcing a first-class trip to anywhere in the world. Janese Cockfield told CNN that she was on her toes all the time when she realised that her sister was in a coma 600 miles (965 kms) away.

Delta Airlines surprised its employee who fought a long and difficult battle against coronavirus by announcing a first-class trip to anywhere in the world. Janese Cockfield told CNN that she was on her toes all the time when she realised that her sister was in a coma 600 miles (965 kms) away. Also read | A person died every 33 seconds due to COVID-19 in the US last week "I was just thinking about how do we get Janice back home, and that's it," said Janese. Also read | ‘Take it, there is nothing to worry about': Biden receives vaccine live on television In an interview conducted on Wednesday, the sisters shared their long fight with the coronavirus after Janice was taken to an emergency room. Janice said she was in hospital and rehabilitation centres for about 115 days to recover from coronavirus, including a coma for 57 days. After the interview, Janice, who is Atlanta-based employee for Delta, received a message from her company's CEO Ed Bastian which added to the happiness of the sisters after successfully enduring a fight against Covid-19. "Please let Janice know while she was in the coma, we (including myself) were following her progress daily and including her in our prayers. She is a miracle and we are so proud of her strength in this fight," the statement by Bastian said. "Also let her know I can't wait to send her and her sister on a first class trip, on me, anywhere in the world we fly when she's able to travel. Merry Christmas!" The sisters greatly appreciated the gesture and thanked Delta CEO and other people who stood by them during the period of crisis. "To be here having this interview with you now, to me it just makes me realize every morning when I wake up, to say 'Thank you God for another day," said Janice.

Employee who battled Covid-19 for 115 days gets first-class trip anywhere in the world

<p>Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing. Bhutan is under a 7-day lockdown as a number of coronavirus cases have been detected in the country recently.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-bhutan-establish-formal-diplomatic-ties-349364">Israel-Bhutan establish formal diplomatic ties</a></strong></p>

<p>India's envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "India stands alongside Bhutan. Together, we will fight the COVID-19 pandemic, through a sustainable recovery.”</p>

<p>Since March 2020, New Delhi has sent 9 consignments of essential medicines such as Paracetamol, Cetirizine, Hydroxychloroquine, medical Equipements like PPE kits, N95 masks, RT PCR test kits and x-ray machines. India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting phase 3 clinical trials of the coronavirus vaccine candidates.</p>

<p>Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "The delivery of these RT-PCR test kits will assist Bhutan’s Ministry of Health in carrying out essential testing, given the recent enforcement of a nationwide lockdown in the country".</p>

<p>Bhutan is the first country in South Asia to announce a seconds nationwide lockdown this year to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country. The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing.

Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country. The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing. Bhutan is under a 7-day lockdown as a number of coronavirus cases have been detected in the country recently. Also read | Israel-Bhutan establish formal diplomatic ties India's envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "India stands alongside Bhutan. Together, we will fight the COVID-19 pandemic, through a sustainable recovery.” Since March 2020, New Delhi has sent 9 consignments of essential medicines such as Paracetamol, Cetirizine, Hydroxychloroquine, medical Equipements like PPE kits, N95 masks, RT PCR test kits and x-ray machines. India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting phase 3 clinical trials of the coronavirus vaccine candidates. Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "The delivery of these RT-PCR test kits will assist Bhutan’s Ministry of Health in carrying out essential testing, given the recent enforcement of a nationwide lockdown in the country". Bhutan is the first country in South Asia to announce a seconds nationwide lockdown this year to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amid second nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India hands over 20,000 RT-PCR kits to tackle pandemic

<p>A woman infected with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a>, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>The woman and her son's swap samples were being sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune to determine whether they have contracted the new strain of coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain, a health department official said, reports news agency PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-flights-from-uk-stand-suspended-from-23rd-dec-till-further-orders-here-are-the-guidelines-351702/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>After allegedly fleeing away from a quarantine facility in the national capital, the woman reached her hometown Rajamahendravaram in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-strain-of-coronavirus-not-seen-in-india-so-far-government-351602">New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government</a></strong></p>

<p>She was then held by Railway police and health officials and hospitalised post-Wednesday midnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the officials said that woman told them that she was recommended home quarantine and decided to leave New Delhi as she was asymptomatic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her son, who went to New Delhi to pick her up, was also admitted and both have been given isolated rooms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman, who works as a teacher in the UK, arrived in New Delhi on December 21 and tested positive for coronavirus following which she was kept in a quarantine facility.</p>

<p>However, she, along with her son, escaped from the facility and boarded a train to her hometown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Delhi Police then alerted the railway authorities, who discovered that the woman was travelling in a first-class in AP Express and sent the details to authorities in Rajamahendravaram.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A woman infected with Covid-19, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.

A woman infected with Covid-19, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. The woman and her son's swap samples were being sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune to determine whether they have contracted the new strain of coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain, a health department official said, reports news agency PTI. Watch | After allegedly fleeing away from a quarantine facility in the national capital, the woman reached her hometown Rajamahendravaram in Andhra Pradesh. Also read | New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government She was then held by Railway police and health officials and hospitalised post-Wednesday midnight. However, the officials said that woman told them that she was recommended home quarantine and decided to leave New Delhi as she was asymptomatic. Her son, who went to New Delhi to pick her up, was also admitted and both have been given isolated rooms. The woman, who works as a teacher in the UK, arrived in New Delhi on December 21 and tested positive for coronavirus following which she was kept in a quarantine facility. However, she, along with her son, escaped from the facility and boarded a train to her hometown. The Delhi Police then alerted the railway authorities, who discovered that the woman was travelling in a first-class in AP Express and sent the details to authorities in Rajamahendravaram.

Woman with Covid-19 returns from UK, flees quarantine centre to reach hometown in Andhra Pradesh

<p>As the United Kingdom&nbsp;grappled&nbsp;with the spread of new variant of coronvirus, the official records showed that 36,804 new Covid-19 cases were detected on December 22. It is not yet fully clear as to how many of these were caused by the new variant of coronavirus. 222,199 new coronavirus cases have been detected in the UK in last 7 days.</p>

<p>691 deaths were recorded on December 22. These were among the patients who were found positive in 28 days before that. 3,400 people have lost lives in 7 days leading to December 22.</p>

<p>According to UK scientists, the new coronavirus variant named 'VUI 202012/01' includes mutation in the 'spike' protein that may be the cause of easy spread of the virus among people.</p>

<p>As of 13 December, 1108 cases were caused by the new coronavirus according to Public Health England (PHE).</p>

<p>There is no concrete indication that the new coronavirus targets children as well. However, concerns are being raised.</p>

<p>The UK has found itself in a tough situation just as it becomes due to leave common European market in just about a week. Travel and transport restrictions from UK to other countries, notably those in the European Union (EU) are bound to make the effects of fresh trade barriers for EU-UK trade worse.&nbsp;</p>


As the United Kingdom grappled with the spread of new variant of coronvirus, the official records showed that 36,804 new Covid-19 cases were detected on December 22.

As the United Kingdom grappled with the spread of new variant of coronvirus, the official records showed that 36,804 new Covid-19 cases were detected on December 22. It is not yet fully clear as to how many of these were caused by the new variant of coronavirus. 222,199 new coronavirus cases have been detected in the UK in last 7 days. 691 deaths were recorded on December 22. These were among the patients who were found positive in 28 days before that. 3,400 people have lost lives in 7 days leading to December 22. According to UK scientists, the new coronavirus variant named 'VUI 202012/01' includes mutation in the 'spike' protein that may be the cause of easy spread of the virus among people. As of 13 December, 1108 cases were caused by the new coronavirus according to Public Health England (PHE). There is no concrete indication that the new coronavirus targets children as well. However, concerns are being raised. The UK has found itself in a tough situation just as it becomes due to leave common European market in just about a week. Travel and transport restrictions from UK to other countries, notably those in the European Union (EU) are bound to make the effects of fresh trade barriers for EU-UK trade worse.

UK coronavirus update: More than 30 thousand new cases

<p>As a veteran ICU nurse whose job is to care for the most critically ill patients at her hospital in Long Beach, California, Merlin Pambuan was well aware of the deadly ravages COVID-19 can inflict on the human body.</p>

<p>Last spring in a tragic role reversal, Pambuan became one of those patients - admitted to the intensive care unit of St. Mary Medical Center, her workplace for the past 40 years, where she was rendered unconscious by paralysis-inducing sedation and placed on a ventilator to breathe. A feeding tube was later added.</p>

<p>She came close to death on several occasions, her doctors later revealed. So dire was her condition at one point that end-of-life options were discussed with her family.</p>

<p>By the time she awoke and could breathe on her own again, she was too weak to stand. But she fought back and struggled through weeks of painful therapy to regain her strength and mobility, celebrating her 66th birthday in St. Mary’s acute rehabilitation ward in late October.</p>

<p>On Monday Pambuan beat the odds of her eight-month ordeal by walking out the front door of the hospital, drawing cheers, applause and exhilaration from colleagues lining the lobby to rejoice in her discharge.</p>

<p>“This is my second life,” Pambuan said moments earlier, as she prepared to leave her hospital room, accompanied by her husband, Daniel, 63, and their daughter, Shantell, 33, an aspiring social worker who spent months at her mother’s bedside as her patient advocate and personal cheerleader.</p>

<p>The spectacle of Pambuan striding slowly but confidently through the hospital lobby - she had insisted on making her exit without assistance of a wheelchair or walker, although was still connected to supplementary oxygen - marked a transformative victory for the diminutive but tough ICU nurse.</p>

<p><strong>‘WHAT WE LIVE FOR’</strong></p>

<p>The outpouring of affection she received from colleagues - including many of the physicians, fellow nurses and therapists who took part in her care - also reflected a rare moment of communal triumph for the pandemic-weary hospital staff.</p>

<p>“This is what we live for ... seeing our patients going home alive and in good condition,” said Dr. Maged Tanios, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at St. Mary. He said Pambuan’s recovery was especially rewarding since she is part of the hospital’s extended “family.”</p>

<p>Tanios said he was not aware of other St. Mary medical staff being admitted to the ICU for COVID. However, studies show frontline healthcare workers’ frequent, close contact with coronavirus patients puts them at higher risk of contracting the disease, hence the decision to give them top priority in getting immunized.</p>

<p>Pambuan's discharge, ironically, coincided with the recent rollout of COVID-19 vaccines to medical workers, as well as a crushing surge in coronavirus infections that have overwhelmed hospitals, and ICUs in particular, across California.</p>

<p>Pambuan said she has no recollection of the four months she spent hooked to a breathing machine - from early May to early September - but recalls first waking up from deep sedation unable to move her extremities.</p>

<p>With encouragement from nursing staff and her daughter Pambuan said she grew determined to regain her mobility and her life.</p>

<p>“I said, ‘No, I’m going to fight this COVID,’” she recounted. “I start moving my hand (and) a physical therapist come and say, ‘Oh, you’re moving your hands,’ and I said, ‘Oh, I’m going to fight, I’m going to fight. I’m trying to wiggle my toes. I’m going to fight it.’”</p>

<p>Pambuan spent the last few months of her hospital stay undergoing physical and respiratory rehabilitation and will continue recuperation from home, while making peace, she said, with a change in pace.</p>

<p>“It’s going to be very difficult for me,” she said. “But I have to accept it, that I’m going to be on oxygen for a while and slow down a little bit.”</p>

<p>When or if she will return to work in the ICU remains an open question, she said.</p>

<p>In the meantime, Pambuan said she feels indebted to her co-workers for their “really professional” care, grateful for the support of loved ones and newly convinced of the power of optimism.</p>

<p>Her message to others in her shoes - “Don’t lose hope. Just fight. Fight, because look at me, you know. I’m going home and I’m walking.”</p>


As a veteran ICU nurse whose job is to care for the most critically ill patients at her hospital in Long Beach, California, Merlin Pambuan was well aware of the deadly ravages COVID-19 can inflict on the human body.

As a veteran ICU nurse whose job is to care for the most critically ill patients at her hospital in Long Beach, California, Merlin Pambuan was well aware of the deadly ravages COVID-19 can inflict on the human body. Last spring in a tragic role reversal, Pambuan became one of those patients - admitted to the intensive care unit of St. Mary Medical Center, her workplace for the past 40 years, where she was rendered unconscious by paralysis-inducing sedation and placed on a ventilator to breathe. A feeding tube was later added. She came close to death on several occasions, her doctors later revealed. So dire was her condition at one point that end-of-life options were discussed with her family. By the time she awoke and could breathe on her own again, she was too weak to stand. But she fought back and struggled through weeks of painful therapy to regain her strength and mobility, celebrating her 66th birthday in St. Mary’s acute rehabilitation ward in late October. On Monday Pambuan beat the odds of her eight-month ordeal by walking out the front door of the hospital, drawing cheers, applause and exhilaration from colleagues lining the lobby to rejoice in her discharge. “This is my second life,” Pambuan said moments earlier, as she prepared to leave her hospital room, accompanied by her husband, Daniel, 63, and their daughter, Shantell, 33, an aspiring social worker who spent months at her mother’s bedside as her patient advocate and personal cheerleader. The spectacle of Pambuan striding slowly but confidently through the hospital lobby - she had insisted on making her exit without assistance of a wheelchair or walker, although was still connected to supplementary oxygen - marked a transformative victory for the diminutive but tough ICU nurse. ‘WHAT WE LIVE FOR’ The outpouring of affection she received from colleagues - including many of the physicians, fellow nurses and therapists who took part in her care - also reflected a rare moment of communal triumph for the pandemic-weary hospital staff. “This is what we live for ... seeing our patients going home alive and in good condition,” said Dr. Maged Tanios, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at St. Mary. He said Pambuan’s recovery was especially rewarding since she is part of the hospital’s extended “family.” Tanios said he was not aware of other St. Mary medical staff being admitted to the ICU for COVID. However, studies show frontline healthcare workers’ frequent, close contact with coronavirus patients puts them at higher risk of contracting the disease, hence the decision to give them top priority in getting immunized. Pambuan's discharge, ironically, coincided with the recent rollout of COVID-19 vaccines to medical workers, as well as a crushing surge in coronavirus infections that have overwhelmed hospitals, and ICUs in particular, across California. Pambuan said she has no recollection of the four months she spent hooked to a breathing machine - from early May to early September - but recalls first waking up from deep sedation unable to move her extremities. With encouragement from nursing staff and her daughter Pambuan said she grew determined to regain her mobility and her life. “I said, ‘No, I’m going to fight this COVID,’” she recounted. “I start moving my hand (and) a physical therapist come and say, ‘Oh, you’re moving your hands,’ and I said, ‘Oh, I’m going to fight, I’m going to fight. I’m trying to wiggle my toes. I’m going to fight it.’” Pambuan spent the last few months of her hospital stay undergoing physical and respiratory rehabilitation and will continue recuperation from home, while making peace, she said, with a change in pace. “It’s going to be very difficult for me,” she said. “But I have to accept it, that I’m going to be on oxygen for a while and slow down a little bit.” When or if she will return to work in the ICU remains an open question, she said. In the meantime, Pambuan said she feels indebted to her co-workers for their “really professional” care, grateful for the support of loved ones and newly convinced of the power of optimism. Her message to others in her shoes - “Don’t lose hope. Just fight. Fight, because look at me, you know. I’m going home and I’m walking.”

'My second life': California nurse walks out of hospital after eight-month COVID-19 ordeal

New strain now wreaking havoc across the world. While children have mostly been safe from the virus all this, while this new mutation is more likely to infect them, according to experts.

WION Fineprint: New COVID-19 strain may infect children more easily

The fast spreading strain from the virus from United Kingdom is leaping across the english channel and spreading across the world. This has caused panic and legitimate question for the drug makers to answer, Can the new vaccines take on this mutation?

WION Fineprint: Can new vaccines take on COVID-19 mutation?

The new strain of the Wuhan virus in the United Kingdom has triggered chaos. But, makers of the Pfizer vaccine say they can modify their vaccine within 6 weeks if needed. WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you the latest updates on the new variant of the Wuhan virus.

Gravitas: A weapon to defeat the 'mutant' Wuhan virus?

So many people lost their lives due to COVID-19 in India, but the virus which gripped the entire world this year is probably not as deadly as air pollution. According to report, over 1.67 Million people have died last year due to air pollution.

Today Tonight: Rise in deaths due to pollution in India

In this video of WION Fineprint, get the answers of some frequently asked question related to the mutation of a virus.

WION Fineprint: Some frequently asked question related to the mutation of a virus

<p>Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise has dominated headlines this past week for his alleged tirade on the sets of 'Mission: Impossible 7' after he saw crew members flouting social distancing rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The actor yelled at crew members in two separate incident in the week and the second one prompted several crew members to quit.&nbsp;<br />
Now, recent reports seem to suggest that Cruise is under tremendous pressure to maintain production of the movie during a period where filming could shut down in an instant.<br />
<br />
"It’s hard to (describe) how incredibly intense and focused he is on making every movie the absolute best possible," said a UK-based production source to a daily. "The 'Mission: Impossible' movies are very special to him. They are ‘his’ movies. Tom helped set up the COVID protocol. Of course he takes it personally when the protocol is broken."<br />
<br />
In a leaked audio clip that has now gone viral,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-cruise-loses-cool-and-yells-at-crew-of-mission-impossible-7-while-filming-heres-why-350058"> Cruise can be heard yelling</a> at two crew members for not maintaining social distancing while checking the monitor.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"We are creating thousands of jobs you motherf--kers," he shouted at the time. "I don't ever want to see it again. Ever. And if you don't do it, you're fired, and I see you do it again, you're f--king gone," the actor can be heard saying in the clip.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Production of 'Mission: Impossible 7' has been halted twice since it began. First in the spring at the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak and again in the fall after several crew members tested positive.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile several celebrities have spoken in favour of Cruise including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-george-clooney-understands-why-tom-cruise-yelled-says-hes-not-wrong-at-all-350417">actor-filmmaker George Clooney.&nbsp;</a><br />
<br />
Post this incident, Cruise has reportedly wrapped up work early this year and is spending the holiday season with his son.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise has dominated headlines this past week for his alleged tirade on the sets of 'Mission: Impossible 7' after he saw crew members flouting social distancing rules.

Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise has dominated headlines this past week for his alleged tirade on the sets of 'Mission: Impossible 7' after he saw crew members flouting social distancing rules. The actor yelled at crew members in two separate incident in the week and the second one prompted several crew members to quit. Now, recent reports seem to suggest that Cruise is under tremendous pressure to maintain production of the movie during a period where filming could shut down in an instant. "It’s hard to (describe) how incredibly intense and focused he is on making every movie the absolute best possible," said a UK-based production source to a daily. "The 'Mission: Impossible' movies are very special to him. They are ‘his’ movies. Tom helped set up the COVID protocol. Of course he takes it personally when the protocol is broken." In a leaked audio clip that has now gone viral, Cruise can be heard yelling at two crew members for not maintaining social distancing while checking the monitor. "We are creating thousands of jobs you motherf--kers," he shouted at the time. "I don't ever want to see it again. Ever. And if you don't do it, you're fired, and I see you do it again, you're f--king gone," the actor can be heard saying in the clip. Production of 'Mission: Impossible 7' has been halted twice since it began. First in the spring at the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak and again in the fall after several crew members tested positive. Meanwhile several celebrities have spoken in favour of Cruise including actor-filmmaker George Clooney. Post this incident, Cruise has reportedly wrapped up work early this year and is spending the holiday season with his son.

Tom Cruise is feeling the pressure of pandemic amid filming of 'Mission: Impossible 7' 

The UK government is set to bring in a new higher tier of COVID-19 restrictions and put London and southeast England into those measures. PM Boris Johnson announces relaxation rules for Christmas.

News Alert: England to be under world's most stringent restrictions

World Health Organisation's (WHO) team of international scientists will travel to the Chinese city of Wuhan in the month of January to investigate the origins of the Novel Coronavirus.

WHO's international team to probe Coronavirus origin

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in lockdowns all over the world, and they have come at a considerable cost to mental health. Restrictions have led to significant increase in symptoms of depression & anxiety among students of France. WION brings you a report.

France: Depression rate among youths increased due to COVID-19 lockdowns

Just after 11 days of the second lockdown, third lockdown is on its way in Austria. The country will enter its third coronavirus lockdown between December 26 and January 24, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announced on Friday.

Austria to enter third coronavirus lockdown after Christmas

<p>Several experts have concluded that there is not enough evidence to conclude that vitamin D reduces the risk or prevents <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) said more research is required, especially of high-quality randomised controlled trials to form a conclusion, reports Sky News.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spanish-pm-pedro-sanchez-placed-in-quarantine-after-contact-with-emmanuel-macron-350505">Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez placed in quarantine after contact with Emmanuel Macron</a></strong></p>

<p>UK's health secretary has asked NICE, Public Health England (PHE), and the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) to review the evidence following some studies implying that vitamin D helps in battling Covid-19.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-in-10-spaniards-have-had-coronavirus-antibody-study-shows-350313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"While there is insufficient evidence to recommend vitamin D for the prevention or treatment of Covid-19 at this time, we encourage people to follow government advice on taking the supplement throughout the autumn and winter period," said Dr Paul Chrisp, director of the centre for guidelines at NICE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Professor Ian Young, chairman of the SACN said the evidence review backs the claim that currently there is not enough proof to determine "that there is a causal relationship between vitamin D and Covid-19."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a US study claimed that patients with adequate levels of vitamin D experienced reduced infection and were less likely to face complications and die from coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>


Several experts have concluded that there is not enough evidence to conclude that vitamin D reduces the risk or prevents coronavirus. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) said more research is required, especially of high-quality randomised controlled trials to form a conclusion, reports Sky News.

Several experts have concluded that there is not enough evidence to conclude that vitamin D reduces the risk or prevents coronavirus. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) said more research is required, especially of high-quality randomised controlled trials to form a conclusion, reports Sky News. Also read | Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez placed in quarantine after contact with Emmanuel Macron UK's health secretary has asked NICE, Public Health England (PHE), and the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) to review the evidence following some studies implying that vitamin D helps in battling Covid-19. Watch | "While there is insufficient evidence to recommend vitamin D for the prevention or treatment of Covid-19 at this time, we encourage people to follow government advice on taking the supplement throughout the autumn and winter period," said Dr Paul Chrisp, director of the centre for guidelines at NICE. Professor Ian Young, chairman of the SACN said the evidence review backs the claim that currently there is not enough proof to determine "that there is a causal relationship between vitamin D and Covid-19." Earlier, a US study claimed that patients with adequate levels of vitamin D experienced reduced infection and were less likely to face complications and die from coronavirus.

Experts say 'not enough' evidence to conclude that vitamin D helps fight coronavirus

<p>British actor Ian McKellen, who played the wizard Gandalf in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies, said he was euphoric after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and urged everyone who was offered the jab to accept it.<br />
<br />
The state-run National Health Service (NHS), which is running Britain`s mass COVID vaccination programme, posted several pictures of McKellen, in a blue T-shirt and a rainbow-striped scarf, giving a thumbs-up as he received the shot.<br />
<br />
"It`s a very special day. I feel euphoric," McKellen, 81, was quoted as saying in one NHS post which he retweeted.<br />
"I would have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone. I feel very lucky to have had the vaccination."<br />
<br />
Nearly 140,000 people have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine in Britain since the rollout began on Dec. 8. People aged over 80 are in the highest priority group.<br />
<br />
A star of British stage and screen since the 1960s, McKellen attained a new level of global fame in the 2000s when he appeared as Gandalf in the movies based on J.R.R. Tolkien`s novels and directed by Peter Jackson. He was the latest British celebrity to go public about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, part of a collective effort to reassure members of the public who may be harbouring doubts about the jab`s safety.<br />
<br />
The chef and cookery writer Prue Leith, 80, who presents the high-ratings TV show "The Great British Bake Off", also posted a picture of herself receiving the shot. It is not known whether Queen Elizabeth, 94, and her husband Prince Philip, 99, have had the vaccine yet. The Times reported they may "let it be known" once they have.<br />
<br />
The queen is highly respected in Britain and her backing would be a powerful message to counter anti-vaccination misinformation.</p>


British actor Ian McKellen, who played the wizard Gandalf in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies, said he was euphoric after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and urged everyone who was offered the jab to accept it.

British actor Ian McKellen, who played the wizard Gandalf in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies, said he was euphoric after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and urged everyone who was offered the jab to accept it. The state-run National Health Service (NHS), which is running Britain`s mass COVID vaccination programme, posted several pictures of McKellen, in a blue T-shirt and a rainbow-striped scarf, giving a thumbs-up as he received the shot. "It`s a very special day. I feel euphoric," McKellen, 81, was quoted as saying in one NHS post which he retweeted. "I would have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone. I feel very lucky to have had the vaccination." Nearly 140,000 people have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine in Britain since the rollout began on Dec. 8. People aged over 80 are in the highest priority group. A star of British stage and screen since the 1960s, McKellen attained a new level of global fame in the 2000s when he appeared as Gandalf in the movies based on J.R.R. Tolkien`s novels and directed by Peter Jackson. He was the latest British celebrity to go public about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, part of a collective effort to reassure members of the public who may be harbouring doubts about the jab`s safety. The chef and cookery writer Prue Leith, 80, who presents the high-ratings TV show "The Great British Bake Off", also posted a picture of herself receiving the shot. It is not known whether Queen Elizabeth, 94, and her husband Prince Philip, 99, have had the vaccine yet. The Times reported they may "let it be known" once they have. The queen is highly respected in Britain and her backing would be a powerful message to counter anti-vaccination misinformation.

'Gandalf' actor Ian McKellen euphoric after receiving COVID-19 vaccine

COVID restrictions return around the world as cases continue to rise amid the holiday season. In this video, know where, what kind of restrictions have been imposed.

COVID restrictions return around the world as cases continue to rise

Indian health ministry said that the country is doing relatively well in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic. It also spoke about the way forward for vaccine against the infection.

India: Central govt asks states to be ready for COVID-19 vaccination

Study have found that COVID-19 patients have not out of the woods even after leaving the hospital. The first 10 days after discharge remains critical.

Study: First 10 days of COVID-19 victim after discharge from hospital crucial

Indian govt has released detailed guidelines for India's mass vaccination drive against COVID-19 infection. Vaccination is scheduled to begin as soon as the front-runner vaccine candidate get approval for emergency use.

Indian govt releases detailed guidelines for mass vaccination drive against COVID-19

<p>Adding an arthritis drug called baricitinib to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID </a>treatment regimens that include antiviral drug remdesivir might shave a day or more off recovery times, especially for those who are seriously sick, according to a study published Friday.</p>

<p>The findings of a government-sponsored clinical trial were made public more than three weeks after the Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for the dual treatment. Earlier this month, some experts said they were uncomfortable deploying drugs without the opportunity to vet the underlying data supporting their performance. Last month, the World Health Organization also recommended against remdesivir as a treatment for COVID patients because evidence supporting its use was lacking.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-identified-in-uk-london-in-tier-3-lockdown-349785">New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in Tier 3 lockdown</a></strong></p>

<p>Limited results earlier were announced via news releases, showing that hospitalized COVID patients treated with baricitinib and remdesivir recovered one day faster than those who had received remdesivir alone.</p>

<p>Some questioned adopting the combination treatment given baricitinib’s hefty price tag — which might be about $1,500 per patient — and also cited side effects like blood clots. Several doctors also wondered whether adding baricitinib would be worthwhile because steroids like dexamethasone were cheap and widely available. Both baricitinib and dexamethasone are thought to act by tamping down excessive inflammation, which drives many severe cases of COVID.</p>

<p>The new paper, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, adds some granularity to the findings, showing that certain subgroups of patients benefited from the addition of baricitinib far more than others. The trial enrolled more than 1,000 hospital patients with COVID, all of whom received remdesivir. People who were sick enough to require a high dose of supplemental oxygen or a noninvasive form of ventilation recovered eight days faster when baricitinib was included in their drug regimen.</p>

<p>In these groups, “I think the data clearly supports a role for baricitinib,” said Dr. Boghuma Kabisen Titanji, an infectious disease physician at Emory University who pioneered early studies of baricitinib against the coronavirus.</p>

<p>Titanji also noted that the data hinted that certain patients might be less likely to die or need a ventilator if they took baricitinib in addition to remdesivir. But these results, like the results that showed faster recovery times, weren’t uniform across the trial’s participants.</p>

<p>Dr. Lauren Henderson, a pediatric rheumatologist at Boston Children’s Hospital, said she was encouraged by the results and the prospect of having another option in the treatment arsenal against the coronavirus.</p>

<p>But she and several other experts added that they might still be inclined to default to dexamethasone as a treatment for severely sick COVID-19 patients who needed respiratory support.</p>

<p>Dexamethasone, unlike baricitinib, has been shown in studies to curb mortality in seriously ill COVID patients. It’s also inexpensive and easy to obtain, while baricitinib is considered more of a specialty drug, potentially posing supply chain obstacles, said Dr. Erin McCreary, an infectious disease pharmacist at the University of Pittsburgh.</p>

<p>Several experts pointed to another National Institutes of Health trial that will conduct a head-to-head comparison of two combination treatment regimens: one that puts hospitalized patients on remdesivir and baricitinib, and another that pairs remdesivir with dexamethasone. McCreary also noted the importance of studying patients who receive both baricitinib and dexamethasone “to determine if there is incremental benefit.”</p>

<p>Dr. Andre Kalil, an infectious disease physician at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the lead researcher on the new paper, noted that while dexamethasone had already become a widely accepted treatment for COVID-19, the steroid still needed further study. He cited “a multitude of serious safety issues” with the drug that warranted some scrutiny.</p>

<p>Like other steroids, dexamethasone, which broadly blunts inflammation, can come with a host of unwanted side effects, including exacerbating conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis.</p>


Adding an arthritis drug called baricitinib to COVID treatment regimens that include antiviral drug remdesivir might shave a day or more off recovery times, especially for those who are seriously sick, according to a study published Friday.

Adding an arthritis drug called baricitinib to COVID treatment regimens that include antiviral drug remdesivir might shave a day or more off recovery times, especially for those who are seriously sick, according to a study published Friday. The findings of a government-sponsored clinical trial were made public more than three weeks after the Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for the dual treatment. Earlier this month, some experts said they were uncomfortable deploying drugs without the opportunity to vet the underlying data supporting their performance. Last month, the World Health Organization also recommended against remdesivir as a treatment for COVID patients because evidence supporting its use was lacking. Also read | New variant of coronavirus identified in UK; London in Tier 3 lockdown Limited results earlier were announced via news releases, showing that hospitalized COVID patients treated with baricitinib and remdesivir recovered one day faster than those who had received remdesivir alone. Some questioned adopting the combination treatment given baricitinib’s hefty price tag — which might be about $1,500 per patient — and also cited side effects like blood clots. Several doctors also wondered whether adding baricitinib would be worthwhile because steroids like dexamethasone were cheap and widely available. Both baricitinib and dexamethasone are thought to act by tamping down excessive inflammation, which drives many severe cases of COVID. The new paper, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, adds some granularity to the findings, showing that certain subgroups of patients benefited from the addition of baricitinib far more than others. The trial enrolled more than 1,000 hospital patients with COVID, all of whom received remdesivir. People who were sick enough to require a high dose of supplemental oxygen or a noninvasive form of ventilation recovered eight days faster when baricitinib was included in their drug regimen. In these groups, “I think the data clearly supports a role for baricitinib,” said Dr. Boghuma Kabisen Titanji, an infectious disease physician at Emory University who pioneered early studies of baricitinib against the coronavirus. Titanji also noted that the data hinted that certain patients might be less likely to die or need a ventilator if they took baricitinib in addition to remdesivir. But these results, like the results that showed faster recovery times, weren’t uniform across the trial’s participants. Dr. Lauren Henderson, a pediatric rheumatologist at Boston Children’s Hospital, said she was encouraged by the results and the prospect of having another option in the treatment arsenal against the coronavirus. But she and several other experts added that they might still be inclined to default to dexamethasone as a treatment for severely sick COVID-19 patients who needed respiratory support. Dexamethasone, unlike baricitinib, has been shown in studies to curb mortality in seriously ill COVID patients. It’s also inexpensive and easy to obtain, while baricitinib is considered more of a specialty drug, potentially posing supply chain obstacles, said Dr. Erin McCreary, an infectious disease pharmacist at the University of Pittsburgh. Several experts pointed to another National Institutes of Health trial that will conduct a head-to-head comparison of two combination treatment regimens: one that puts hospitalized patients on remdesivir and baricitinib, and another that pairs remdesivir with dexamethasone. McCreary also noted the importance of studying patients who receive both baricitinib and dexamethasone “to determine if there is incremental benefit.” Dr. Andre Kalil, an infectious disease physician at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the lead researcher on the new paper, noted that while dexamethasone had already become a widely accepted treatment for COVID-19, the steroid still needed further study. He cited “a multitude of serious safety issues” with the drug that warranted some scrutiny. Like other steroids, dexamethasone, which broadly blunts inflammation, can come with a host of unwanted side effects, including exacerbating conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis.

COVID study shows an Arthritis drug may help patients recover

A mass vaccination program is underway in the United States to bring the numbers under control in the pandemic that has upended daily life in the United States.

United States: Mass inoculation underway as COVID-19 cases soar

Alex Azar, the Health Secretary of the United States, has claimed that country could start its mass vaccination program against COVID-19 pandemic as early as Monday.

US Health Secy: Country could start its mass vaccination program as early as Monday

<p>Popular TV chat show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres announced on Thursday that she had tested positive for coronavirus. DeGeneres assured fans that she was doing fine.<br />
<br />
"Hi Everyone, I want to let you all know that I tested positive for COVid-19. Fortunately, I'm feeling fine right now. Anyone who has been in close contact with me has been notified and I am following all proper CDC guidelines. I'll see you all again after the holidays Please stay healthy and safe," Ellen wrote in a statement that was shared on Instagram.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Production of daytime talk show has been paused until January. Reruns of 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' were to air from Thursday night itself.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
When the coronavirus outbreak hit in March, DeGeneres shifted to taping without a studio audience, as did other talk shows.<br />
<br />
When the series began its 18th season in September, her show added fans virtually into the seats, then said it would allow a few dozen people into the studio. The show and Ellen herself were accused of work place harassment. An internal probe was set up and two of the senior producers were fired. The host also issued several apologies to the viewers as well as her team members.&nbsp;</p>


Popular TV chat show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres announced on Thursday that she had tested positive for coronavirus. DeGeneres assured fans that she was doing fine.

Popular TV chat show host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres announced on Thursday that she had tested positive for coronavirus. DeGeneres assured fans that she was doing fine. "Hi Everyone, I want to let you all know that I tested positive for COVid-19. Fortunately, I'm feeling fine right now. Anyone who has been in close contact with me has been notified and I am following all proper CDC guidelines. I'll see you all again after the holidays Please stay healthy and safe," Ellen wrote in a statement that was shared on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ellen DeGeneres (@theellenshow) × Production of daytime talk show has been paused until January. Reruns of 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' were to air from Thursday night itself. When the coronavirus outbreak hit in March, DeGeneres shifted to taping without a studio audience, as did other talk shows. When the series began its 18th season in September, her show added fans virtually into the seats, then said it would allow a few dozen people into the studio. The show and Ellen herself were accused of work place harassment. An internal probe was set up and two of the senior producers were fired. The host also issued several apologies to the viewers as well as her team members.

Ellen DeGeneres tests positive for coronavirus, show stalled till January

Hong Kong authorities are all set to ban dining in restaurants after 6 PM. This is one of the revised measures that will be put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Hong Kong set to ban dining in restaurants post 6 PM

Britain becomes the first Western country in the world to start mass vaccination programme against the COVID-19. UK is rolling out the vaccine manufactured by US pharma Pfizer & its German partner BioNTech.

UK becomes the first Western country to begin mass vaccination against COVID-19

<p>Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus. The actress was in Chandigarh recently to shoot for a film that co-stars Rajkummar Rao.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
According to reports, the actress tested positive during her stay in Chandigarh and decided to come back to Mumbai.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A few days earlier, Kriti had shared a picture on her social media handle revealing that she has wrapped up her schedule of the film and will be flying back home.<br />
<br />
She is yet to confirm about having tested COVID positive.<br />
<br />
Ever since film shooting resumed in Bollywood, several actors have contracted the disease. Actors Neetu Kapoor, &nbsp;Varun Dhawan and director Raj Mehta too tested positive for the virus while they were shooting in Chandigarh for 'Jug Jug Jeeyo'. TV actor Maniesh Paul too is reportedly down with the the same virus.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus. The actress was in Chandigarh recently to shoot for a film that co-stars Rajkummar Rao.

Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus. The actress was in Chandigarh recently to shoot for a film that co-stars Rajkummar Rao. According to reports, the actress tested positive during her stay in Chandigarh and decided to come back to Mumbai. A few days earlier, Kriti had shared a picture on her social media handle revealing that she has wrapped up her schedule of the film and will be flying back home. She is yet to confirm about having tested COVID positive. Ever since film shooting resumed in Bollywood, several actors have contracted the disease. Actors Neetu Kapoor, Varun Dhawan and director Raj Mehta too tested positive for the virus while they were shooting in Chandigarh for 'Jug Jug Jeeyo'. TV actor Maniesh Paul too is reportedly down with the the same virus.

Kriti Sanon tests positive for coronavirus: Reports

<p>Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Samanta, who is 99 years and 11 months old, was admitted on November 24 at a designated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>festival in Fuleswar area after she faced breathing difficulty and fever.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-over-36000-new-cases-confirmed-death-toll-tops-140000-347836">India: Over 36,000 new cases confirmed; death toll tops 140,000</a></strong></p>

<p>She has had various complications and a medical team was set up to assess her health condition, said Subhasis Mitra, director of the hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-seeks-emergency-approval-for-covid-vaccine-in-india-347819">Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India</a></strong></p>

<p>"With time and care, she started recovering. We are delighted that we could make her free from Covid-19 and send her home in time for the 100th birthday, which is just a few days away," the director was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Samantha's family members and doctors are surprised at the recovery from the deadly virus which greatly affects the elderly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though a month is left to mark the 100th birthday, the elderly woman received flowers and sweets and was greeted with songs by doctors, nurses and other medical staff as a gesture before she boarded an ambulance to return back home on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The director of the hospital also said that the hospital has had over 4,000 coronavirus patients, out of which 3,700 have successfully recovered.&nbsp;</p>


Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary.

Bhabatarini Samanta from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal has more than one reason to be happy as she is geared up to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary. Samanta, who is 99 years and 11 months old, was admitted on November 24 at a designated coronavirus festival in Fuleswar area after she faced breathing difficulty and fever. Also read | India: Over 36,000 new cases confirmed; death toll tops 140,000 She has had various complications and a medical team was set up to assess her health condition, said Subhasis Mitra, director of the hospital. Also read | Pfizer seeks emergency approval for Covid vaccine in India "With time and care, she started recovering. We are delighted that we could make her free from Covid-19 and send her home in time for the 100th birthday, which is just a few days away," the director was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Samantha's family members and doctors are surprised at the recovery from the deadly virus which greatly affects the elderly. Even though a month is left to mark the 100th birthday, the elderly woman received flowers and sweets and was greeted with songs by doctors, nurses and other medical staff as a gesture before she boarded an ambulance to return back home on Saturday. The director of the hospital also said that the hospital has had over 4,000 coronavirus patients, out of which 3,700 have successfully recovered.

As woman gears up to mark 100th birthday, she beats Covid-19 to make celebrations grander

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