A WION exclusive report by Rahesha Sehgal: - It's 2022 and the world is keen to emerge out of the pandemic but there are big challenges lined up. - There are new dimensions, new paradigms. We ask are we really out of the pandemic? - What are the collateral damages of the Covid-19 pandemic and when will we completely break free.

Year Ender 2022: Life after Covid

New research on the Omicron subvariant of the coronavirus has suggested the pathogen could be changing how it attacks the human body, shifting from infecting respiratory systems to increasingly targeting the brain.

Study: Omicron BA.5 subvariant may cause more damage

In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China.&nbsp;As per an earlier report by the Telegraph, the nation was mulling over restrictions including requiring testing travellers for the deadly virus on arrival.

A spokesperson of the UK government said, "There are no plans to re-introduce COVID-19 testing or additional requirements for arrivals into the UK."

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under siege as Covid crisis worsens

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Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister had said that restrictions were not something the nation was looking at.

Australia too as per a Reuters report said that it will make no change to its rules for travellers from China. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they are consulting heath experts but at the moment there is no change in travel advice, adding that they are monitoring "the situation, as we continue to monitor the impact of COVID here in Australia as well as around the world."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passengers-travelling-from-china-to-us-now-need-to-show-negative-covid-test-547503">Passengers travelling from China to US now need to show negative Covid&nbsp; test report</a>&nbsp;

Recent days have seen nations stepping up precautionary measures involving travellers from China. These restrictions come as this month Beijing abruptly eased its once stringent zero-Covid rules that left much of its population vulnerable to infection and its healthcare infrastructure overwhelmed.

The United States has made mandatory a negative COVID-19 result. Passengers from China will have to submit to the airline before boarding a negative Covid test that needs to be done two days before flying. Italy on the other hand has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Meanwhile, India's health ministry said that travellers coming from "select&nbsp;countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random tests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China.

In contrast to the precautionary steps many nations, including the United States, have taken, Britain on Thursday said it has no plans to impose any kind of curbs on travellers from China. As per an earlier report by the Telegraph, the nation was mulling over restrictions including requiring testing travellers for the deadly virus on arrival. A spokesperson of the UK government said, "There are no plans to re-introduce COVID-19 testing or additional requirements for arrivals into the UK." Watch | China: Hospitals under siege as Covid crisis worsens Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister had said that restrictions were not something the nation was looking at. Australia too as per a Reuters report said that it will make no change to its rules for travellers from China. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they are consulting heath experts but at the moment there is no change in travel advice, adding that they are monitoring "the situation, as we continue to monitor the impact of COVID here in Australia as well as around the world." Also read | Passengers travelling from China to US now need to show negative Covid test report Recent days have seen nations stepping up precautionary measures involving travellers from China. These restrictions come as this month Beijing abruptly eased its once stringent zero-Covid rules that left much of its population vulnerable to infection and its healthcare infrastructure overwhelmed. The United States has made mandatory a negative COVID-19 result. Passengers from China will have to submit to the airline before boarding a negative Covid test that needs to be done two days before flying. Italy on the other hand has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Meanwhile, India's health ministry said that travellers coming from "select countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random tests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK, Australia have no plans to impose Covid restrictions on travellers from China

Hospitals across China have been overwhelmed by an explosion of Covid cases following Beijing's decision to lift strict rules. Watch this video to know more.

China's Covid surge triggers global alarm

Japan on Wednesday recorded 415 Covid deaths, the highest-ever count for a single day, health ministry data showed.

Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data

Beijing and Shanghai commuters crowded subway trains, with China’s two biggest cities moving closer to living with COVID-19.

Residents in Beijing, Shanghai back to work as China eases into living with Covid

The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

"There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said&nbsp;officials on Tuesday.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from&nbsp;China.

While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports.

This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened.

Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health&nbsp;body will publish data once a month.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data". "There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said officials on Tuesday. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from China. While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports. This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened. Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health body will publish data once a month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China

What image does the name 'woolly mammoth' bring to your mind? Huge, majestic creatures with giant tusks walking an Earth yet untouched by modern humans.&nbsp;

They last walked that walk a million years back and since then the majestic animals have lain silent and mostly undisturbed in their permafrost graves. But, now curious scientists have decided to disturb their slumber and attempt to 'reawaken' ancient, Stone Age viruses.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Scientists revive 48,500-year-old ‘zombie virus’ buried in ice

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As per researchers, northeast Siberia is home to the remains of the woolly mammoth, the woolly rhinoceros, other extinct species and...dormant ancient viruses.

The project is being carried out by Vector or Russia's State Research Centre of Virology and Biotechnology and as per Daily Mail, it aims to extract cellular material that contains viruses that killed the giant beasts and perform experiments on them in a lab.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skorea-reports-first-death-by-naegleria-fowleri-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-brain-eating-amoeba-547004">S.Korea reports first death by Naegleria fowleri. Here's all you need to know about the 'brain-eating amoeba'</a>

However, there's concern that given the fact that the human bodies of today are strangers to these prehistoric 'paleoviruses' and if they were to jump the species barrier, the coronavirus pandemic may end up looking like the less deadly outbreak.&nbsp;

Given that the woolly mammoth were huge animals the size of today's elephants which are much larger than an average human, the viruses that killed them are definitely a cause of concern.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

The scientific community too has raised the alarm. &nbsp;Jean-Michel Claverie, a professor of microbiology at the University of Aix-Marseille in France said that the Russian research "is terrible. I'm totally against it".

He added that it "is very, very risky. Our immune systems have never encountered these types of viruses. Some of them could be 200,000 or even 400,000 years old. But ancient viruses that infected animals or humans could still be infectious."

But the sad truth is that even without Vector's reawakening of the ancient viruses chances are something deadly will slip out of the Arctic's frozen waters sooner or later. As global warming slowly melts permafrost the global scientific community has already raised alarm over deadly diseases that may escape their "frozen prisons".

(With inputs from agencies)

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What image does the name 'woolly mammoth' bring to your mind? Huge, majestic creatures with giant tusks walking an Earth yet untouched by modern humans. They last walked that walk a million years back and since then the majestic animals have lain silent and mostly undisturbed in their permafrost graves.

What image does the name 'woolly mammoth' bring to your mind? Huge, majestic creatures with giant tusks walking an Earth yet untouched by modern humans. They last walked that walk a million years back and since then the majestic animals have lain silent and mostly undisturbed in their permafrost graves. But, now curious scientists have decided to disturb their slumber and attempt to 'reawaken' ancient, Stone Age viruses. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: Scientists revive 48,500-year-old ‘zombie virus’ buried in ice As per researchers, northeast Siberia is home to the remains of the woolly mammoth, the woolly rhinoceros, other extinct species and...dormant ancient viruses. The project is being carried out by Vector or Russia's State Research Centre of Virology and Biotechnology and as per Daily Mail, it aims to extract cellular material that contains viruses that killed the giant beasts and perform experiments on them in a lab. Also read | S.Korea reports first death by Naegleria fowleri. Here's all you need to know about the 'brain-eating amoeba' However, there's concern that given the fact that the human bodies of today are strangers to these prehistoric 'paleoviruses' and if they were to jump the species barrier, the coronavirus pandemic may end up looking like the less deadly outbreak. Given that the woolly mammoth were huge animals the size of today's elephants which are much larger than an average human, the viruses that killed them are definitely a cause of concern. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts The scientific community too has raised the alarm. Jean-Michel Claverie, a professor of microbiology at the University of Aix-Marseille in France said that the Russian research "is terrible. I'm totally against it". He added that it "is very, very risky. Our immune systems have never encountered these types of viruses. Some of them could be 200,000 or even 400,000 years old. But ancient viruses that infected animals or humans could still be infectious." But the sad truth is that even without Vector's reawakening of the ancient viruses chances are something deadly will slip out of the Arctic's frozen waters sooner or later. As global warming slowly melts permafrost the global scientific community has already raised alarm over deadly diseases that may escape their "frozen prisons". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian researchers attempt to 're-awaken' ancient viruses that killed giant woolly mammoths

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people.&nbsp;China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting&nbsp;close to a million people every day.&nbsp;

However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening.

Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". 
 
An emergency department pharmacy staff said,&nbsp;“Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms.

Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people. China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting close to a million people every day. However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening. Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". An emergency department pharmacy staff said, “Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms. Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s funeral homes, hospitals overwhelmed even as official Covid figures remain low

Famous German virologist Christian Drosten believes the coronavirus pandemic has ended and Covid-19 is now an endemic disease.

WION Fineprint: Top German virologist says it is the end of pandemic

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world.

As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant."

Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation.

Watch |&nbsp;China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

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"When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said&nbsp;Ray comparing&nbsp;the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those."

The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population.&nbsp;

Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said&nbsp;that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time.

"Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-face-criticism-over-distributing-traditional-medicine-not-ibuprofen-and-paracetamol-546493">Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol</a>

The World Health Organization&nbsp;has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China.

"We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant.

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant." Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation. Watch | China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th "When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said Ray comparing the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those." The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population. Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time. "Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray. Also read | Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol The World Health Organization has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China. "We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official.&nbsp;Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend.&nbsp;

This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers</a>

In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China.

Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive.

In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak".

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend. This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures. Also read | China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China. Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive. In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese health official says half a million people in Qingdao infected with Covid daily; censored

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country.&nbsp;The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. 
 
"Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/covid-horror-six-pictures-show-reality-of-coronavirus-outbreak-haunting-china-546043">COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China</a>

Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator.

As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported.

However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week."

He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources."&nbsp;

Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable."

Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data.

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. "Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions. Also read | COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator. As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported. However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week." He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources." Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable." Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers

China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China. During German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing, a deal was reached between the two nations under which China agreed to allow German nationals in China to receive the mRNA vaccine.

Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world

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As per Reuters, Scholz's also urged Beijing to allow Chinese citizens and other foreign nationals to avail the shot. However, initially, the vaccines will be administered to German expatriates.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it is "supporting China&nbsp;to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system".

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"WHO is supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system"-<a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrTedros</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>
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Up till now, China has only allowed its own vaccines for the general public. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available and only inactivated shots of Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

These would be the first mRNA vaccines available in China. mRNA vaccines are generally considered to be the most efficient against the deadly virus.

Faced with a huge surge in cases following its easing of stringent zero-Covid restrictions, cities in China have also begun distributing free fever and cold drugs to the public, in order to deal with a spike in demand for the medicines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-is-china-a-threat-to-the-world-beijings-new-covid-wave-a-wild-card-warn-experts-544965">Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts</a>

As per Global Times, the market regulator in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province has distributed 73,030 fever medicines to local residents with plans to distribute more. Dongguan in South China's Guangdong Province will be distributing 100,000 ibuprofen tablets. &nbsp;Zhengzhou, Shangqiu, Zhoukou and a number of other cities have also handed out anti-epidemic drugs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China.

China on Thursday (December 22) announced that it is making arrangements for German expatriates to receive the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This comes after Germany said that it has sent a batch of mRNA vaccines to China. During German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing, a deal was reached between the two nations under which China agreed to allow German nationals in China to receive the mRNA vaccine. Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world As per Reuters, Scholz's also urged Beijing to allow Chinese citizens and other foreign nationals to avail the shot. However, initially, the vaccines will be administered to German expatriates. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it is "supporting China to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system". "WHO is supporting #China to focus its efforts on vaccinating people at the highest risk across the country, and we continue to offer our support for clinical care and protecting its health system"-@DrTedros #COVID19 — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) December 21, 2022 × Up till now, China has only allowed its own vaccines for the general public. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available and only inactivated shots of Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter These would be the first mRNA vaccines available in China. mRNA vaccines are generally considered to be the most efficient against the deadly virus. Faced with a huge surge in cases following its easing of stringent zero-Covid restrictions, cities in China have also begun distributing free fever and cold drugs to the public, in order to deal with a spike in demand for the medicines. Also read | Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts As per Global Times, the market regulator in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province has distributed 73,030 fever medicines to local residents with plans to distribute more. Dongguan in South China's Guangdong Province will be distributing 100,000 ibuprofen tablets. Zhengzhou, Shangqiu, Zhoukou and a number of other cities have also handed out anti-epidemic drugs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China accepts Germany's mRNA COVID vaccines as cases spike, distributes free fever, cold medicines

Just a week back,&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.

This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done."

Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID</a> emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming

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"It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added.

Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January.

This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine.

Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-in-china-demand-for-a-particular-fruit-rises-as-people-seek-natural-remedies-to-fight-the-virus-544905">COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus</a>

Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment."&nbsp;

Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]."&nbsp;

Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-population-in-china-may-be-infected-by-covid-in-the-next-three-months-top-epidemiologist-544810">Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist</a>

Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks.

"We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang.

Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.

Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic. This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done." Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the COVID emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave." Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming "It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added. Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January. This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine. Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear. Also read | COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment." Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]." Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office. Also read | Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks. "We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang. Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts

With the number of the Covid cases soaring in various nations, India stepped up for genome sequencing of Covid positive cases. States have been requested to ensure that samples are sent to the labs on daily basis.

Indian states asked to submit samples for Genome sequencing

Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped.

Talking to the press before his visit to the Chinese capital Beijing, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu revealed the relaxation adding that details would be provided at a health briefing later in the day.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

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Lee who will be on a "duty visit" from Wednesday to Saturday will reportedly update President Xi Jinping on the latest situation of Covid and the city's economy.

The Hong Kong leader as per the Standard promised to reflect Hong Kongers' hopes to reopen the border with mainland China. However, he did not say when that would happen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

"I believe the central government understands very much about Hong Kong residents' longstanding hopes for reopening the border and having exchanges in a normal manner," said Lee.

While the particulars of the curb relaxation are not known citing sources the Standard reported that in addition to the possible scrapping of the mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT test for entry to bars, banquets or joining local group tours, other restrictions like the number of people allowed at venues like cinemas, performance venues, theme parks may also be removed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-takes-away-much-criticised-covid-restrictions-542509">Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions</a>

Currently, as per the Strati Times, in Hong Kong masks remain mandatory in public places, arrivals are still subject to PCR tests and people visiting a bar have to produce a negative rapid antigen test. Additionally, only 240 people are allowed to attend a banquet.

This comes as China and Hong Kong battle a sudden surge in the number of Covid cases after the lifting of coronavirus restrictions. On Monday, hong Kong reported 15,00 new daily cases and 39 deaths. Last week the city&nbsp;also scrapped a mandatory Covid mobile application that was required to check in to most venues such as gyms, beauty salons and schools.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped.

Hong Kong has announced a further easing of its social distancing rules, additionally the previously mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT ( rapid antigen test) result is also set to be scrapped. Talking to the press before his visit to the Chinese capital Beijing, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu revealed the relaxation adding that details would be provided at a health briefing later in the day. Watch | Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion? Lee who will be on a "duty visit" from Wednesday to Saturday will reportedly update President Xi Jinping on the latest situation of Covid and the city's economy. The Hong Kong leader as per the Standard promised to reflect Hong Kongers' hopes to reopen the border with mainland China. However, he did not say when that would happen. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' "I believe the central government understands very much about Hong Kong residents' longstanding hopes for reopening the border and having exchanges in a normal manner," said Lee. While the particulars of the curb relaxation are not known citing sources the Standard reported that in addition to the possible scrapping of the mandatory negative COVID-19 RAT test for entry to bars, banquets or joining local group tours, other restrictions like the number of people allowed at venues like cinemas, performance venues, theme parks may also be removed. Also read | Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions Currently, as per the Strati Times, in Hong Kong masks remain mandatory in public places, arrivals are still subject to PCR tests and people visiting a bar have to produce a negative rapid antigen test. Additionally, only 240 people are allowed to attend a banquet. This comes as China and Hong Kong battle a sudden surge in the number of Covid cases after the lifting of coronavirus restrictions. On Monday, hong Kong reported 15,00 new daily cases and 39 deaths. Last week the city also scrapped a mandatory Covid mobile application that was required to check in to most venues such as gyms, beauty salons and schools. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong announces further easing of COVID-19 curbs

Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower.

As per a Reuters report citing academics, vaccine hesitancy poses a growing headache for Beijing as it attempts to persuade more and more of its citizens to vaccinate in the face of the sudden spike of Covid cases reported after the lifting of the nation's stringent Zero-Covid restrictions.

Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world

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Compared to the official vaccination rate of 90 per cent the rate of adults who have taken a booster shot drops to 57.9 per cent. According to government data, the number takes a further plunge to 42.3 per cent among people aged 80 and above.

This has prompted warning calls that the country could see over 1.5 million deaths after curbs like mass testing and lockdowns were lifted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-major-cities-fight-surge-in-covid-cases-as-hearses-queue-outside-crematoriums-544198">China’s major cities battle surge in Covid cases, hearses queue up outside crematoriums</a>

Speaking to BBC epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that the nation might undergo three waves of infection this winter. As per his estimates the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office.

In China where till recently stringent restrictions were the norm, vaccination isn't mandatory. This is because of signs that the public might push back against any such move.

Vaccinations developed overseas are not available to the general public in mainland china. Only inactivated shots Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-ordered-to-hold-online-classes-in-shanghai-to-control-covid-19-cases-544061">Schools ordered to hold online classes in Shanghai to control COVID-19 cases</a>

However, Beijing is yet to develop an mRNA vaccine and in its absence questions have been raised about the efficacy of Chinese vaccines vs foreign-made mRNA vaccines.

"At least a half of doctors and educated people wanted to get the mRNA ones and refused to get the Chinese ones," said &nbsp;Kelly Lei, a doctor from Shenzhen.

With the neighbouring Chinese territory of Macau offering these mRNA vaccines, people are scrambling to get the jab. As a consequence, no bookings are available until January 21.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower.

Even as coronavirus cases surge across the nation vaccine hesitancy runs deep in mainland China. While officially the country's vaccination rate is above 90 per cent, the rate for adults with booster shots is much lower. As per a Reuters report citing academics, vaccine hesitancy poses a growing headache for Beijing as it attempts to persuade more and more of its citizens to vaccinate in the face of the sudden spike of Covid cases reported after the lifting of the nation's stringent Zero-Covid restrictions. Watch | Gravitas: China's bogus vaccines: How China fooled the world Compared to the official vaccination rate of 90 per cent the rate of adults who have taken a booster shot drops to 57.9 per cent. According to government data, the number takes a further plunge to 42.3 per cent among people aged 80 and above. This has prompted warning calls that the country could see over 1.5 million deaths after curbs like mass testing and lockdowns were lifted. Also read | China’s major cities battle surge in Covid cases, hearses queue up outside crematoriums Speaking to BBC epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that the nation might undergo three waves of infection this winter. As per his estimates the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office. In China where till recently stringent restrictions were the norm, vaccination isn't mandatory. This is because of signs that the public might push back against any such move. Vaccinations developed overseas are not available to the general public in mainland china. Only inactivated shots Sinopharm, Sinovac's Coronavac and other domestically developed options are available. Also read | Schools ordered to hold online classes in Shanghai to control COVID-19 cases However, Beijing is yet to develop an mRNA vaccine and in its absence questions have been raised about the efficacy of Chinese vaccines vs foreign-made mRNA vaccines. "At least a half of doctors and educated people wanted to get the mRNA ones and refused to get the Chinese ones," said Kelly Lei, a doctor from Shenzhen. With the neighbouring Chinese territory of Macau offering these mRNA vaccines, people are scrambling to get the jab. As a consequence, no bookings are available until January 21. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter

As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers.

The city has reported a significant uptick in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2-causing COVID-19 virus infection, which as per CNN is a first since the pandemic began.

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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Across China, and especially ‌in Beijing empty streets, and deserted shopping centres have become the new normal as people stay at home to avoid being infected.

CNN reports that in the upmarket shopping district Sanlitun the usually bustling shops and restaurants were without customers and in some cases getting by via their takeout services and working with skeleton crews.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-impossible-to-accurately-grasp-the-actual-number-of-covid-infected-people-542857">China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people</a>

The only crowds are in and around pharmacies. As per Reuters, the city's residents are clamouring to stock up on medicines. The demand for medicines has undergone a sudden spike as people worry about the risk of infection.

On Wednesday, China reported 2,000 new symptomatic COVID-19 infections, on Tuesday this number stood at 2,291. However, given the absence of mass testing official figures have become an unreliable guide.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-covid-19-wont-be-a-public-emergency-in-2023-seeking-information-on-virus-origins-from-china-543144">WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China</a>

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China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect the reality and that it was impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing". The agency further said that due to this it will stop reporting new asymptomatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers.

As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers. The city has reported a significant uptick in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2-causing COVID-19 virus infection, which as per CNN is a first since the pandemic began. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy Across China, and especially ‌in Beijing empty streets, and deserted shopping centres have become the new normal as people stay at home to avoid being infected. CNN reports that in the upmarket shopping district Sanlitun the usually bustling shops and restaurants were without customers and in some cases getting by via their takeout services and working with skeleton crews. Also read | China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people The only crowds are in and around pharmacies. As per Reuters, the city's residents are clamouring to stock up on medicines. The demand for medicines has undergone a sudden spike as people worry about the risk of infection. On Wednesday, China reported 2,000 new symptomatic COVID-19 infections, on Tuesday this number stood at 2,291. However, given the absence of mass testing official figures have become an unreliable guide. Also read | WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect the reality and that it was impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing". The agency further said that due to this it will stop reporting new asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Streets deserted, pharmacies overcrowded as Beijing battles a sudden surge in Covid cases

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much.

"Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency."

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began.

"We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-impossible-to-accurately-grasp-the-actual-number-of-covid-infected-people-542857">China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people</a>

The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories.

A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-focuses-on-economic-stability-in-2023-traditional-medicine-expert-endorses-changing-covids-name-540754">In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert</a>

The WHO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp; technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology.

As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much. "Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency." Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with Covid and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began. "We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros. Also read | China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories. A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase. Also read | In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert The WHO COVID-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology. As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China

Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country.

This comes as officials warn of a rapid uptake in Beijing's coronavirus cases. After nearly three years of stringent regulations that prompted rare widespread protests in the country, China recently loosened its quarantine and mass testing policies.

With extensive mass testing no longer a requirement for most of the country, China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect reality.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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In a statement, the NHC said that it is impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing."

Recently, Vice Premier Sun Chunlan too said that the capital Beijing's new COvid infections are "rapidly growing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-very-likely-to-downgrade-growth-forcast-for-china-542825">IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China</a>

Faced with the rare display of public anger, and an economy that is suffering officials are determined to push ahead with the opening up of the country. On Tuesday Beijing's tourism authorities said that it would resume tour groups in and out of the capital.

The country is ill-equipped to face the surge, millions of elderly remain vulnerable, still not fully vaccinated. The sudden influx of patients can also handicap underfunded hospitals that lack resources.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-as-china-recalibrates-its-covid-19-response-strategy-celebs-share-their-infection-experiences-542736">As China recalibrates its COVID-19 response strategy, celebs share their infection experiences</a>

With people opting to self-medicate at home, as per AFP, residents have also reported facing a shortage of cold medicines and long lines at pharmacies.&nbsp;Soaring demand for at-home covid tests or rapid antigen tests and medicines has also given birth to a black market with astronomical prices.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country.

Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country. This comes as officials warn of a rapid uptake in Beijing's coronavirus cases. After nearly three years of stringent regulations that prompted rare widespread protests in the country, China recently loosened its quarantine and mass testing policies. With extensive mass testing no longer a requirement for most of the country, China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect reality. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy In a statement, the NHC said that it is impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing." Recently, Vice Premier Sun Chunlan too said that the capital Beijing's new COvid infections are "rapidly growing". Also read | IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China Faced with the rare display of public anger, and an economy that is suffering officials are determined to push ahead with the opening up of the country. On Tuesday Beijing's tourism authorities said that it would resume tour groups in and out of the capital. The country is ill-equipped to face the surge, millions of elderly remain vulnerable, still not fully vaccinated. The sudden influx of patients can also handicap underfunded hospitals that lack resources. Also read | As China recalibrates its COVID-19 response strategy, celebs share their infection experiences With people opting to self-medicate at home, as per AFP, residents have also reported facing a shortage of cold medicines and long lines at pharmacies. Soaring demand for at-home covid tests or rapid antigen tests and medicines has also given birth to a black market with astronomical prices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP. Her comments have come as China faces increasing number of Covid cases as it eases restrictions after nearly three years.

China has begun easing Covid restrictions after enforcing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which had battered its economy in the firsr place. Now, the rising infections due to easing of restrictions " is going to create some difficulties over the next months" as well, Georgieva said.

"But it is likely that as China overcomes this in the second half of the year, there could be some improvement in growth prospects," she said.

The zero-Covid policy, characterized by snap lockdowns, international travel restrictions and mass testing, took a heavy toll on consumers and businesses, with demonstrations against the measures eventually erupting in major Chinese cities.

The IMF earlier warned that tough virus restrictions have been especially hard on China's residents.

In October this year, the IMF cut its growth projection for China to 3.2 per cent. This is the lowest growth forecast in decades. It is expected that growth will rise to 4.4 per cent next year.

But "very likely, we will be downgrading our growth projections for China, both for 2022 and for 2023," Georgieva said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP. Her comments have come as China faces increasing number of Covid cases as it eases restrictions after nearly three years. China has begun easing Covid restrictions after enforcing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which had battered its economy in the firsr place. Now, the rising infections due to easing of restrictions " is going to create some difficulties over the next months" as well, Georgieva said. "But it is likely that as China overcomes this in the second half of the year, there could be some improvement in growth prospects," she said. The zero-Covid policy, characterized by snap lockdowns, international travel restrictions and mass testing, took a heavy toll on consumers and businesses, with demonstrations against the measures eventually erupting in major Chinese cities. The IMF earlier warned that tough virus restrictions have been especially hard on China's residents. In October this year, the IMF cut its growth projection for China to 3.2 per cent. This is the lowest growth forecast in decades. It is expected that growth will rise to 4.4 per cent next year. But "very likely, we will be downgrading our growth projections for China, both for 2022 and for 2023," Georgieva said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China

Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues.

Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away. Under&nbsp;this&nbsp;travellers were given an amber code on Hong Kong's&nbsp;app, which restricted their movement and they had to undergo a three-day medical surveillance period.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

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Instead, the city will now adopt a "0+0" arrangement, visitors will be allotted a blue code that does not restrict their movement.

On Tuesday, the city announced that the programme which has long been a key source of frustration for travellers who had been subjected to curbs the first three days of their visit will be stopped. &nbsp;

Announcing the new measures Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that residents will no longer have to scan QR codes with the app to record visits to different premises.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

However, as per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), they will still need to present their Covid vaccination proof at restaurants etc. Mask mandates, indoors and outdoors too will continue, as will the ban on public gatherings of more than 12 people.

Talkin to reporters he said, "We have made these two decisions because we have considered the data and the risks."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-focuses-on-economic-stability-in-2023-traditional-medicine-expert-endorses-changing-covids-name-540754">In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert</a>

As per AFP, the new measures will come into effect on Wednesday and further details will be announced later in the day by the city's health department.

The change comes after a similar move in mainland China and at a time when the city's businesses face the battering of a recession-mired economy after two years of self-imposed isolation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues. Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away.

Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues. Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away. Under this travellers were given an amber code on Hong Kong's app, which restricted their movement and they had to undergo a three-day medical surveillance period. Watch | Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion? Instead, the city will now adopt a "0+0" arrangement, visitors will be allotted a blue code that does not restrict their movement. On Tuesday, the city announced that the programme which has long been a key source of frustration for travellers who had been subjected to curbs the first three days of their visit will be stopped. Announcing the new measures Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that residents will no longer have to scan QR codes with the app to record visits to different premises. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' However, as per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), they will still need to present their Covid vaccination proof at restaurants etc. Mask mandates, indoors and outdoors too will continue, as will the ban on public gatherings of more than 12 people. Talkin to reporters he said, "We have made these two decisions because we have considered the data and the risks." Also read | In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert As per AFP, the new measures will come into effect on Wednesday and further details will be announced later in the day by the city's health department. The change comes after a similar move in mainland China and at a time when the city's businesses face the battering of a recession-mired economy after two years of self-imposed isolation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions

The country is ramping up ICU beds, and building new hospitals, as it relaxes covid measures and drops mandatory quarantine. What explains these contradictory measures? @MollyGambhir tells you

Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction.

The Covid-related personal protective equipment (PPE) was reportedly ordered during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but never even left China as they were deemed surplus to the requirements.

However, these recently auctioned PPE kits are only the tip of the iceberg. The Department for Health and Social Care as per DailyMail has admitted to incurring losses of ($10.1 billion) £8.7 billion due to PPE that was not fit for use, expired or overpriced.

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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As per National Audit Office estimates the facemasks would have cost taxpayers about 40p each at the time of the epidemic, bringing the price of those auctioned to £25.8 million.

The aprons cost 5p each, therefore their overall price came to roughly $20,000 (£180,000).

While their auction price isn't known, as per DailyMail, the auction organised by UK-based disposal firm Ramco the items were sold in two lots priced at around $306 (£250).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-uk-braces-for-a-strike-full-winter-rcn-offers-to-suspend-strikes-if-govt-agrees-to-negotiate-541957">As UK braces for a 'strike-full' winter, RCN offers to suspend strikes if govt agrees to negotiate</a>

Reportedly the UK decided to get rid of the stock as it was costing too much to store it. Last year the country spent $28.1 million (£23 million) on storage.

As Wes Streeting, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary puts it "The Government is spending more on storing PPE in China each week than Manchester United pay for Cristiano Ronaldo’s wages."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kwasi-kwarteng-admits-that-he-and-liz-truss-got-carried-away-with-uks-mini-budget-541927">Kwasi Kwarteng admits that he and Liz Truss ‘got carried away’ with UK’s mini-budget</a>

Earlier this year, UK officials disclosed that 580 lorry tonnes of obsolete PPE were being burnt each month.

According to a representative for the health department, in order to maintain taxpayer value for money, "We continue to sell, donate, repurpose and recycle excess PPE in the most cost-effective way, as well as seeking to recover costs from suppliers wherever possible."

"We are also exploring innovative solutions to reprocess excess PPE into materials or new products that have further uses," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction.

About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction. The Covid-related personal protective equipment (PPE) was reportedly ordered during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but never even left China as they were deemed surplus to the requirements. However, these recently auctioned PPE kits are only the tip of the iceberg. The Department for Health and Social Care as per DailyMail has admitted to incurring losses of ($10.1 billion) £8.7 billion due to PPE that was not fit for use, expired or overpriced. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy As per National Audit Office estimates the facemasks would have cost taxpayers about 40p each at the time of the epidemic, bringing the price of those auctioned to £25.8 million. The aprons cost 5p each, therefore their overall price came to roughly $20,000 (£180,000). While their auction price isn't known, as per DailyMail, the auction organised by UK-based disposal firm Ramco the items were sold in two lots priced at around $306 (£250). Also read | As UK braces for a 'strike-full' winter, RCN offers to suspend strikes if govt agrees to negotiate Reportedly the UK decided to get rid of the stock as it was costing too much to store it. Last year the country spent $28.1 million (£23 million) on storage. As Wes Streeting, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary puts it "The Government is spending more on storing PPE in China each week than Manchester United pay for Cristiano Ronaldo’s wages." Also read | Kwasi Kwarteng admits that he and Liz Truss ‘got carried away’ with UK’s mini-budget Earlier this year, UK officials disclosed that 580 lorry tonnes of obsolete PPE were being burnt each month. According to a representative for the health department, in order to maintain taxpayer value for money, "We continue to sell, donate, repurpose and recycle excess PPE in the most cost-effective way, as well as seeking to recover costs from suppliers wherever possible." "We are also exploring innovative solutions to reprocess excess PPE into materials or new products that have further uses," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK's Covid wastage: Country auctions off PPE kits worth $31.8 million for $600

Some health officials are warning about a "Tridemic" this winter season. It is a triple threat of COVID-19, Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus or RSV Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Is the world headed for a "Tridemic"

As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year.&nbsp;

This comes as a leading authority on traditional Chinese medicine recommended that the nation change the official name for COVID-19 to reflect the virus's mutation.

Speaking to the state-run Beijing daily, Gu Xiaohong said that the name which identifies the infectious virus as a pneumonia-causing disease should be changed to call it an infectious virus.

Watch |&nbsp;China: New Covid-19 infections hit record highs in November

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As per Xiaohong, the infectious disease arm of the China Association of Chinese Medicine has reached a consensus on how the Covid virus is described and on China's approach to it.

For the last two-plus years, China has emphasised mass testing, stringent lockdowns and quarantining of positive cases in special facilities. However, the new approach suggests that instead of "passive detection", China should focus on " active prevention", letting patients with light symptoms recuperate at home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-readies-itself-for-life-again-as-authorities-drop-some-covid-19-tests-540618">Beijing ‘readies itself for life again’ as authorities drop some COVID-19 tests</a>

The high-level meeting of China's ruling party also concluded that in 2023, China must better coordinate epidemic policies with economic and social development.

As per Xinhua news agency's report, in 2023, the nation will focus on stabilising growth, employment and prices, even as it works towards preventing systemic risks.&nbsp;

Beijing said that it continue to implement active fiscal policy and prudent monetary policy next year while making efforts to expand domestic demand.&nbsp;The meeting also emphasised the importance of promoting high-level openings to the outside world and attracting and utilising foreign capital.

Three years into the pandemic, China seems to be headed towards normalcy. AFP reports that authorities have begun loosening the world's toughest COVID-19 curbs.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

State-run news agency Xinhua too on Monday, as per Reuters cited the weakening pathogenicity of COVID-19 and the vaccination efforts, commenting that the "most difficult time has passed".

On Tuesday China reported 25,321 cases, some 3,000 less than the 28,062 reported on Monday. No deaths were reported. The number of overall cases seems to be dropping.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year.

As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year. This comes as a leading authority on traditional Chinese medicine recommended that the nation change the official name for COVID-19 to reflect the virus's mutation. Speaking to the state-run Beijing daily, Gu Xiaohong said that the name which identifies the infectious virus as a pneumonia-causing disease should be changed to call it an infectious virus. Watch | China: New Covid-19 infections hit record highs in November As per Xiaohong, the infectious disease arm of the China Association of Chinese Medicine has reached a consensus on how the Covid virus is described and on China's approach to it. For the last two-plus years, China has emphasised mass testing, stringent lockdowns and quarantining of positive cases in special facilities. However, the new approach suggests that instead of "passive detection", China should focus on " active prevention", letting patients with light symptoms recuperate at home. Also read | Beijing ‘readies itself for life again’ as authorities drop some COVID-19 tests The high-level meeting of China's ruling party also concluded that in 2023, China must better coordinate epidemic policies with economic and social development. As per Xinhua news agency's report, in 2023, the nation will focus on stabilising growth, employment and prices, even as it works towards preventing systemic risks. Beijing said that it continue to implement active fiscal policy and prudent monetary policy next year while making efforts to expand domestic demand. The meeting also emphasised the importance of promoting high-level openings to the outside world and attracting and utilising foreign capital. Three years into the pandemic, China seems to be headed towards normalcy. AFP reports that authorities have begun loosening the world's toughest COVID-19 curbs. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' State-run news agency Xinhua too on Monday, as per Reuters cited the weakening pathogenicity of COVID-19 and the vaccination efforts, commenting that the "most difficult time has passed". On Tuesday China reported 25,321 cases, some 3,000 less than the 28,062 reported on Monday. No deaths were reported. The number of overall cases seems to be dropping. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert

Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel. The result of the study is being seen as a sign that consumer recovery from Covid measures in China will take time.

Mainland China retains some of the world's most stringent measures on PCR testing and quarantine for international travellers, despite some domestic easing of curbs after last month's unprecedented Covid protests.

The respondents to the survey, most of those who wanted to postpone the travel abroad, said that they were fearful of getting infected. This was the top concern. Worries about changes to domestic re-entry guidelines were in second place.

The sample size of the survey was 4000.

"People have become cautious," said Imke Wouters, a retail and consumer goods partner at the firm. "So even when they can travel, we don't think they will come back right away."

As many as 51% of those surveyed plan to delay international travel. And when they do, short-haul destinations will be the first to benefit, the consultancy said in its study, "China Consumption Recovery".

The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong topped wishlists for travel, with 34% of respondents saying it would be their first stop after the re-opening.

The survey, in late October, followed the 20th Congress of the ruling Communist Party in Beijing, which brought President Xi Jinping a precedent-breaking third term as leader, at an event many had hoped would herald an opening-up after Covid.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel.

Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel. The result of the study is being seen as a sign that consumer recovery from Covid measures in China will take time. Mainland China retains some of the world's most stringent measures on PCR testing and quarantine for international travellers, despite some domestic easing of curbs after last month's unprecedented Covid protests. The respondents to the survey, most of those who wanted to postpone the travel abroad, said that they were fearful of getting infected. This was the top concern. Worries about changes to domestic re-entry guidelines were in second place. The sample size of the survey was 4000. "People have become cautious," said Imke Wouters, a retail and consumer goods partner at the firm. "So even when they can travel, we don't think they will come back right away." As many as 51% of those surveyed plan to delay international travel. And when they do, short-haul destinations will be the first to benefit, the consultancy said in its study, "China Consumption Recovery". The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong topped wishlists for travel, with 34% of respondents saying it would be their first stop after the re-opening. The survey, in late October, followed the 20th Congress of the ruling Communist Party in Beijing, which brought President Xi Jinping a precedent-breaking third term as leader, at an event many had hoped would herald an opening-up after Covid. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study

A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee".

The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room. As per South China Morning Post, a Hong Konger Vivien Siu told them that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel had charged her Australian in-laws a 642 USD fee after her father-in-law tested positive for coronavirus.

The hotel apparently informed the guests of this charge only after they arrived from Sydney last month. During check-in, they were told that they will have to pay HK$5,000 if they tested positive for COVID-19.

Watch |&nbsp;Indonesia passes new criminal code, bans sex outside marriage

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As per protocol, Siu's father-in-law was sent to the government’s Penny’s Bay isolation centre for quarantine, however, they still had to pay the "excessive" fee.

Under Hong Kong's current pandemic regime, instead of compulsory quarantine in hotels, foreign guests just have to undergo three days of medical surveillance during which they have to take two PCR tests.

Not only was the HK$5,000 cleaning fee excessive, but the fact that they only told their guests about the fee upon check-in was also completely unreasonable and felt very much like a trap for tourists,” said Siu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-confirms-over-47000-new-covid-cases-as-country-battles-eighth-wave-of-pandemic-540401">Japan confirms over 47,000 new Covid cases as country battles eighth wave of pandemic</a>

She said that they were charged the fee while checking in, which is a point where "it was simply impractical to refuse" because that would've meant that they had to scramble to find another hotel.

Following Siu's complaint, the hotel had to return the fee. however, it turns out that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel is not the only one charging this fee. Different hotels charge different amounts.

When the SCMP reached out to Consumer Council, they were told that they have received two such complaints however hotels are generally allowed to charge additional fees, but they have to inform the guests up front. Once the guests accept the liability only then these extra charges can be incurred.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-not-keen-to-travel-abroad-even-if-covid-restrictions-ease-study-540392">Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study</a>

The representative advised that consumers should carefully check for additional charges at the time of booking itself.

"If the amount of the additional fee is not expressed in the terms and conditions, the hotel may only charge an amount that is reasonable. Whether the customer has agreed to pay for the additional fee or incurred liability to do so, and what amounts to a reasonable fee, is fact sensitive."(With inputs from agencies)

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A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee". The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room.

A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee". The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room. As per South China Morning Post, a Hong Konger Vivien Siu told them that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel had charged her Australian in-laws a 642 USD fee after her father-in-law tested positive for coronavirus. The hotel apparently informed the guests of this charge only after they arrived from Sydney last month. During check-in, they were told that they will have to pay HK$5,000 if they tested positive for COVID-19. Watch | Indonesia passes new criminal code, bans sex outside marriage As per protocol, Siu's father-in-law was sent to the government’s Penny’s Bay isolation centre for quarantine, however, they still had to pay the "excessive" fee. Under Hong Kong's current pandemic regime, instead of compulsory quarantine in hotels, foreign guests just have to undergo three days of medical surveillance during which they have to take two PCR tests. Not only was the HK$5,000 cleaning fee excessive, but the fact that they only told their guests about the fee upon check-in was also completely unreasonable and felt very much like a trap for tourists,” said Siu. Also read | Japan confirms over 47,000 new Covid cases as country battles eighth wave of pandemic She said that they were charged the fee while checking in, which is a point where "it was simply impractical to refuse" because that would've meant that they had to scramble to find another hotel. Following Siu's complaint, the hotel had to return the fee. however, it turns out that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel is not the only one charging this fee. Different hotels charge different amounts. When the SCMP reached out to Consumer Council, they were told that they have received two such complaints however hotels are generally allowed to charge additional fees, but they have to inform the guests up front. Once the guests accept the liability only then these extra charges can be incurred. Also read | Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study The representative advised that consumers should carefully check for additional charges at the time of booking itself. "If the amount of the additional fee is not expressed in the terms and conditions, the hotel may only charge an amount that is reasonable. Whether the customer has agreed to pay for the additional fee or incurred liability to do so, and what amounts to a reasonable fee, is fact sensitive."(With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'

The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions. To pacify the protestors, Beijing hinted at the loosening of pandemic controls, but now the nation faces another looming problem; cash deficit.

As per a CNN report, local Chinese governments, which were charged with conducting mass testing and enforcing quarantine to keep infection at bay, are now running short on cash. To deal with the problem, they may be forced to cut corners or reduce other vital services.

Also read |&nbsp;China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing

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China's zero-Covid policy which has been in place for almost three years now has negatively affected the nation's business and economy, While the policy kept China out of recession in 2020, after nearly three years the bills "are mounting", says the report. The bills have placed an extraordinary strain on the nation's municipal authorities.&nbsp;

Talking to CNN business, George Magnus, an associate at the China Centre at Oxford University predicted that if lockdowns and mass testing continue, the risk to the nation's financial stability will increase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unwilling-to-allow-effective-foreign-covid-vaccine-despite-the-protests-us-539816">China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US</a>

"Local governments are under huge pressure from the cost of maintaining zero-Covid, and we can already see this in the debt sustainability of several entities and [in] instances where public services are being scaled back, local assets or services sold and so on."

Compared to the federal government, local governments are more at risk because their income is mainly dependent on land sales. According to data from China's Ministry of Finance, they borrowed heavily to fund their expenditures of 11.8 trillion yuan ($1.65 trillion), which were higher than their revenue collections between January and October.

China's economic health is directly threatened by the nation's soaring debt levels. It not only raises the possibility of municipalities going into default on their debts, but it also limits the government's capacity to promote economic growth, maintain jobs, and strengthen public services.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-looks-to-loosen-some-covid-curbs-guangzhou-calls-virus-symptoms-flu-like-539731">As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’</a>

As per the report, around 40 per cent of local government expenditure in previous years has been funded by land sales. However, due to the slump in the housing market, this revenue has suffered.

Between January and October 2022, land sales fell by 26 per cent and are on pace to experience their first decline in seven years.

Meanwhile, as per official data, the spending on Covid-related healthcare soared by 13 per cent to reach $245 billion or 1.75 trillion yuan.

Compulsory testing which was largely government-funded has hit treasuries and many cities across the country while maintaining the mandatory negative test have now asked the citizens to pay for the tests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions.

The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions. To pacify the protestors, Beijing hinted at the loosening of pandemic controls, but now the nation faces another looming problem; cash deficit. As per a CNN report, local Chinese governments, which were charged with conducting mass testing and enforcing quarantine to keep infection at bay, are now running short on cash. To deal with the problem, they may be forced to cut corners or reduce other vital services. Also read | China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing China's zero-Covid policy which has been in place for almost three years now has negatively affected the nation's business and economy, While the policy kept China out of recession in 2020, after nearly three years the bills "are mounting", says the report. The bills have placed an extraordinary strain on the nation's municipal authorities. Talking to CNN business, George Magnus, an associate at the China Centre at Oxford University predicted that if lockdowns and mass testing continue, the risk to the nation's financial stability will increase. Also read | China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US "Local governments are under huge pressure from the cost of maintaining zero-Covid, and we can already see this in the debt sustainability of several entities and [in] instances where public services are being scaled back, local assets or services sold and so on." Compared to the federal government, local governments are more at risk because their income is mainly dependent on land sales. According to data from China's Ministry of Finance, they borrowed heavily to fund their expenditures of 11.8 trillion yuan ($1.65 trillion), which were higher than their revenue collections between January and October. China's economic health is directly threatened by the nation's soaring debt levels. It not only raises the possibility of municipalities going into default on their debts, but it also limits the government's capacity to promote economic growth, maintain jobs, and strengthen public services. Also read | As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’ As per the report, around 40 per cent of local government expenditure in previous years has been funded by land sales. However, due to the slump in the housing market, this revenue has suffered. Between January and October 2022, land sales fell by 26 per cent and are on pace to experience their first decline in seven years. Meanwhile, as per official data, the spending on Covid-related healthcare soared by 13 per cent to reach $245 billion or 1.75 trillion yuan. Compulsory testing which was largely government-funded has hit treasuries and many cities across the country while maintaining the mandatory negative test have now asked the citizens to pay for the tests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Almost three years of zero-Covid policy takes its toll on China's coffers; local govt cash strapped

United States officials on Saturday said that even though&nbsp;China is facing challenges and public anger that is translating into protests against restrictions, the nation's leader Xi Jinping is still unwilling to accept Western vaccines.

In China, a near all-time high number of daily COVID-19 cases have triggered massive protests, with people pouring into streets protesting the nation's strict restrictions under the Zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing

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However, despite the social and economic impact of the virus, Xi "is unwilling to take a better vaccine from the West, and is instead relying on a vaccine made in China that's just not nearly as effective against Omicron," said US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines.

"Seeing protests and the response to it is countering the narrative that he likes to put forward, which is that China is so much more effective at government," Haines said.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-looks-to-loosen-some-covid-curbs-guangzhou-calls-virus-symptoms-flu-like-539731">As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’</a>

It's nothing that we now consider to pose a threat to stability or to a regime transition, she continued, adding that its course will be crucial to "Xi's standing".

According to experts, lowering virus preventive measures could have significant risks.

Even though China's domestically produced COVID vaccines&nbsp;may not be as effective as some foreign ones, the nation has chosen not to approve any overseas coronavirus vaccines in favour of those made there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-chinas-stringent-zero-covid-restrictions-spark-protests-across-the-country-538231">In Pics | China’s strict ‘zero-Covid’ restrictions spark protests; other countries join in solidarity</a>

The White House said earlier this week that China had not requested vaccines from the US, and one official told Reuters that there was "no expectation at present" that the country would allow western vaccines.

"It seems fairly far-fetched that China would greenlight Western vaccines at this point. It's a matter of national pride, and they'd have to swallow quite a bit of it if they went this route," said the official.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United States officials on Saturday said that even though China is facing challenges and public anger that is translating into protests against restrictions, the nation's leader Xi Jinping is still unwilling to accept Western vaccines.

United States officials on Saturday said that even though China is facing challenges and public anger that is translating into protests against restrictions, the nation's leader Xi Jinping is still unwilling to accept Western vaccines. In China, a near all-time high number of daily COVID-19 cases have triggered massive protests, with people pouring into streets protesting the nation's strict restrictions under the Zero-Covid policy. Also read | China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing However, despite the social and economic impact of the virus, Xi "is unwilling to take a better vaccine from the West, and is instead relying on a vaccine made in China that's just not nearly as effective against Omicron," said US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines. "Seeing protests and the response to it is countering the narrative that he likes to put forward, which is that China is so much more effective at government," Haines said. Also read | As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’ It's nothing that we now consider to pose a threat to stability or to a regime transition, she continued, adding that its course will be crucial to "Xi's standing". According to experts, lowering virus preventive measures could have significant risks. Even though China's domestically produced COVID vaccines may not be as effective as some foreign ones, the nation has chosen not to approve any overseas coronavirus vaccines in favour of those made there. Also read | In Pics | China’s strict ‘zero-Covid’ restrictions spark protests; other countries join in solidarity The White House said earlier this week that China had not requested vaccines from the US, and one official told Reuters that there was "no expectation at present" that the country would allow western vaccines. "It seems fairly far-fetched that China would greenlight Western vaccines at this point. It's a matter of national pride, and they'd have to swallow quite a bit of it if they went this route," said the official. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China’s vaccine not ‘effective’ against Omicron, Xi still not allowing better foreign ones: US

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