Over thirty million (3 crore) children in the age group of 12-14 years have been administered the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Tuesday.

The vaccination for children between the 12-14 age group started on March 16 with Biological E's intramuscular vaccine Corbevax, which is administered to the beneficiaries in an interval of 28 days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-centre-approves-russian-vaccine-sputnik-booster-shot-says-officials-477030">Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report</a>

"Children are making a significant contribution to the vaccination campaign! Over 3 crore youngsters between 12-14 age group have received 1st dose of COVID19 vaccine. Congratulations to all my young friends who got vaccinated," Mandaviya said in a tweet.

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टीकाकरण अभियान में बच्चे दे रहे हैं महत्वपूर्ण योगदान! 💉 
 
Over 3⃣ crore youngsters between 12-14 age group have received 1st dose of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccine. 
 
Congratulations to all my young friends who got vaccinated. <a href="https://t.co/SdHfALZyua">pic.twitter.com/SdHfALZyua</a>
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1523664998689820672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India`s COVID-19 vaccination coverage has crossed 1,900 million (190.48 Crore or 190,485,426,3) on Monday.

Watch |&nbsp;India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge

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So far 30,669,820 children between the 12-14 age group have been administered the first dose of the vaccine while 10,200,272 have received the second dose.

In the age group of 15-18 years, 587,704,28 first doses of the vaccine have been administered, and 43,308,651 second doses.

The countrywide vaccination drive began on January 16 last year with healthcare workers getting inoculated in the first phase.

Vaccination of frontline workers started on February 2, 2021. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.

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India launched vaccinations for all people aged more than 45 years from April 1 last year. The government then expanded its vaccination drive by allowing everyone above 18 years of age to be inoculated against the viral disease from May 1, 2021.

COVID-19 vaccination for minors in India started from January 3 onwards for those in the 15-18 age group with Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin. The drive later expanded on March 16 to include children aged above 12 for Biological E`s Corbevax.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-who-data-collection-methodology-unsound-and-scientifically-questionable-476612">India calls WHO data collection methodology 'unsound and scientifically questionable'</a>

The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. Similarly, the COVID-19 precaution dose administration for the age group 18-59 years also started from April 10 onwards.

India witnessed a slight dip in the COVID-19 cases on Monday as the country reported 3,207 fresh infections in a day, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

Over thirty million (3 crore) children in the age group of 12-14 years have been administered the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Tuesday.

Over thirty million (3 crore) children in the age group of 12-14 years have been administered the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Tuesday. The vaccination for children between the 12-14 age group started on March 16 with Biological E's intramuscular vaccine Corbevax, which is administered to the beneficiaries in an interval of 28 days. Also read | Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report "Children are making a significant contribution to the vaccination campaign! Over 3 crore youngsters between 12-14 age group have received 1st dose of COVID19 vaccine. Congratulations to all my young friends who got vaccinated," Mandaviya said in a tweet. टीकाकरण अभियान में बच्चे दे रहे हैं महत्वपूर्ण योगदान! 💉 Over 3⃣ crore youngsters between 12-14 age group have received 1st dose of #COVID19 vaccine. Congratulations to all my young friends who got vaccinated. pic.twitter.com/SdHfALZyua — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) May 9, 2022 × According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India`s COVID-19 vaccination coverage has crossed 1,900 million (190.48 Crore or 190,485,426,3) on Monday. Watch | India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge So far 30,669,820 children between the 12-14 age group have been administered the first dose of the vaccine while 10,200,272 have received the second dose. In the age group of 15-18 years, 587,704,28 first doses of the vaccine have been administered, and 43,308,651 second doses. The countrywide vaccination drive began on January 16 last year with healthcare workers getting inoculated in the first phase. Vaccination of frontline workers started on February 2, 2021. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: India launched vaccinations for all people aged more than 45 years from April 1 last year. The government then expanded its vaccination drive by allowing everyone above 18 years of age to be inoculated against the viral disease from May 1, 2021. COVID-19 vaccination for minors in India started from January 3 onwards for those in the 15-18 age group with Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin. The drive later expanded on March 16 to include children aged above 12 for Biological E`s Corbevax. Also read | India calls WHO data collection methodology 'unsound and scientifically questionable' The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. Similarly, the COVID-19 precaution dose administration for the age group 18-59 years also started from April 10 onwards. India witnessed a slight dip in the COVID-19 cases on Monday as the country reported 3,207 fresh infections in a day, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

COVID-19 India: Over 30 million children between 12-14 years age group administered covid first dose

North Korea has confirmed its first covid outbreak. Its state media says cases of an 'unidentified fever' are exploding. 350,000 people have reportedly been infected. North Korea has no vaccines. How will it fight the virus? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Covid cases are 'exploding' in North Korea

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020.

While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-tests-positive-for-covid-19-says-experiencing-mild-symptoms-477995">Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms'</a>

This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said.

The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said.

"Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China.

"Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement.

The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes.

Watch |&nbsp;China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy

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They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years.

Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said.

The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men.

Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid&nbsp;symptom, according to the researchers. 
By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said.

Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said.

Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-growing-criticism-chinese-study-claims-lifting-zero-covid-policy-will-unleash-tsunami-of-cases-478182">Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’</a>

The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties.

COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said.

Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid.

In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression.

Long covid&nbsp;participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder.

The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-the-first-time-north-korea-officially-confirms-covid-outbreak-orders-lockdown-to-check-omicrons-spread-478240">Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown</a>

Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said.

The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers.

This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added.

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More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal.

More than half of people hospitalised with COVID-19 still have at least one symptom two years after they were first infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, according to the longest follow-up study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal. The research followed 1,192 participants in China infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the first phase of the pandemic in 2020. While physical and mental health generally improved over time, the study suggests that COVID-19 patients still tend to have poorer health and quality of life than the general population. Also read | Bill Gates tests positive for COVID-19, says experiencing 'mild symptoms' This is especially the case for participants with long covid, who typically still have at least one symptom including fatigue, shortness of breath, and sleep difficulties two years after initially falling ill, the researchers said. The long-term health impacts of COVID-19 have remained largely unknown, as the longest follow-up studies to date have spanned around one year, they said. "Our findings indicate that for a certain proportion of hospitalised COVID-19 survivors, while they may have cleared the initial infection, more than two years is needed to recover fully from COVID-19," said study lead author Professor Bin Cao, of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China. "Ongoing follow-up of COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with symptoms of long covid, is essential to understand the longer course of the illness, as is further exploration of the benefits of rehabilitation programmes for recovery," Cao said in a statement. The researchers noted that there is a clear need to provide continued support to a significant proportion of people who have had COVID-19, and to understand how vaccines, emerging treatments, and variants affect long-term health outcomes. Watch | China’s censors target WHO Chief after comments criticizing its Zero covid policy They evaluated the health of 1,192 participants with acute COVID-19 treated at Jin Yin-tan Hospital in Wuhan, between January 7 and May 29, 2020, at six months, 12 months, and two years. Assessments involved a six-minute walking test, laboratory tests, and questionnaires on symptoms, mental health, health-related quality of life, if they had returned to work, and health-care use after discharge, the researchers said. The median age of participants at discharge was 57 years, and 54 per cent were men. Six months after initially falling ill, 68 per cent of participants reported at least one long covid symptom, according to the researchers. By two years after infection, reports of symptoms had fallen to 55 per cent, they said. Fatigue or muscle weakness were the symptoms most often reported and fell from 52 per cent at six months to 30 per cent at two years, the researchers said. Regardless of the severity of their initial illness, 89 per cent of participants had returned to their original work at two years, they said. Also read | Chinese study claims lifting ‘zero-Covid’ policy will unleash ‘tsunami of cases’ The researchers noted that two years after initially falling ill, patients with COVID-19 are generally in poorer health than the general population, with 31 per cent reporting fatigue or muscle weakness and 31 per cent reporting sleep difficulties. COVID-19 patients were also more likely to report a number of other symptoms including joint pain, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches, they said. Around half of study participants had symptoms of long COVID at two years, and reported lower quality of life than those without long covid. In mental health questionnaires, 35 per cent reported pain or discomfort and 19 per cent reported anxiety or depression. Long covid participants also more often reported problems with their mobility or activity than those without the disorder. The authors acknowledge some limitations to their study. Also read | Covid-19 in North Korea: After official confirmation of outbreak, Kim orders lockdown Without a control group of hospital survivors unrelated to COVID-19 infection, it is hard to determine whether observed abnormalities are specific to COVID-19, they said. The slightly increased proportion of participants included in the analysis who received oxygen leads to the possibility that those who did not participate in the study had fewer symptoms than those who did, according to the researchers. This may result in an overestimate of the prevalence of long covid symptoms, they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Half of Covid survivors show one symptom even two years after infection: Lancet study

Shanghai has intensified its Wuhan virus lockdown. Violators are being put behind bars, entire buildings are being isolated over just one case. Tesla has suspended most production, Chinese exports have also taken a hit. Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Shanghai intensifies lockdown

China's capital city is racing to contain the covid cases. Beijing has kicked off a fresh round of mass testing and officials have continued to tighten covid restrictions. Various subway stations have been shut down and at least 15% of the transportation network remains closed.

China struggles to contain covid surge, Beijing ramps up mass testing

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The death toll climbed to 5,24,103 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-centre-approves-russian-vaccine-sputnik-booster-shot-says-officials-477030">Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report</a>

A decrease of 766 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.47 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.79 per cent, according to the ministry.

Watch |&nbsp;India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge

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The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,63,949, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent.

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The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 190.50 crore.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covovax-vaccine-available-for-everyone-above-12-years-adar-poonawalla-476470">Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla</a>

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

The 10 new fatalities include six from Kerala, three from Delhi and one from Karnataka.&nbsp;

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

With 2,288 new coronavirus infections reported in a day, India's tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,31,07,689, while the active cases decreased to 19,637, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The death toll climbed to 5,24,103 with 10 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.05 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report A decrease of 766 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.47 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.79 per cent, according to the ministry. Watch | India: Mask mandate back in New Delhi as COVID cases surge The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,63,949, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 190.50 crore. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. Also read | Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. The 10 new fatalities include six from Kerala, three from Delhi and one from Karnataka.

India: Active COVID-19 cases dip to 19,637

Amid china's zero-covid policy, cases in the Chinese capital Beijing continue to surge. The city reported 39 new covid infections in the last 24 hours taking its total tally to 727. Authorities continued to conduct regular mass testing.

Covid Update: China's capital Beijing witnesses surge in covid cases

Amid the rising&nbsp;COVID-19 cases&nbsp;in India,&nbsp;the central government&nbsp;has approved the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine for those who opted for it as per a report by Hindustan Times.

While India began administering the third dosage of vaccination to its adult population earlier this year, it was only to individuals who had chosen Covaxin and Covishield.

Currently, there is no such opportunity for people who had chosen two doses of Sputnik V vaccines to receive a third dose.&nbsp;No specific time frame about how long the availability&nbsp;process will take is declared but the officials suggested that it might take a few weeks.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-who-data-collection-methodology-unsound-and-scientifically-questionable-476612">India calls WHO data collection methodology 'unsound and scientifically questionable'</a>

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, which has the rights to market and distribute the Russian vaccine in India, has already begun its talk with hospitals and manufacturing partners, and especially the government to make the vaccine available on CoWIN app as an option.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India's Central Bank hikes interest rates

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Dr Reddy’s statement said, “This week, component 1 of Sputnik V (or Sputnik Light) was approved for administration at private centres as the precaution dose for those who received Sputnik V as their primary vaccine. Having now received official confirmation of the approval, we are working with manufacturing partners in India...”

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The Supreme Court of India had earlier this week asked the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to decide on a person’s request to change the COVDI-19 policy to allow voluntary re-vaccination of people who had received the Sputnik V vaccine and wanted to travel abroad, reported by Times Now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heatwave-hit-indian-states-ready-with-plans-says-official-476886">India: 23 states, hundreds of cities, districts at risk due to heatwave, says official</a>

In February of this year, Sputnik Light acquired an Emergency Use Authorisation from the Drugs Controller general of India (DGCI). Sputnik’s V two dosages are separated by the duration of 21 to 30 days and have different formulations. The booster ‘light’ jab on the other hand, is some what identical to the standard edition’s initial dose.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amid the rising COVID-19 cases in India, the central government has approved the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine for those who opted for it as per a report by Hindustan Times.

Amid the rising COVID-19 cases in India, the central government has approved the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine for those who opted for it as per a report by Hindustan Times. While India began administering the third dosage of vaccination to its adult population earlier this year, it was only to individuals who had chosen Covaxin and Covishield. Currently, there is no such opportunity for people who had chosen two doses of Sputnik V vaccines to receive a third dose. No specific time frame about how long the availability process will take is declared but the officials suggested that it might take a few weeks. Also read | India calls WHO data collection methodology 'unsound and scientifically questionable' Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, which has the rights to market and distribute the Russian vaccine in India, has already begun its talk with hospitals and manufacturing partners, and especially the government to make the vaccine available on CoWIN app as an option. Watch | Gravitas: India's Central Bank hikes interest rates Dr Reddy’s statement said, “This week, component 1 of Sputnik V (or Sputnik Light) was approved for administration at private centres as the precaution dose for those who received Sputnik V as their primary vaccine. Having now received official confirmation of the approval, we are working with manufacturing partners in India...” WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The Supreme Court of India had earlier this week asked the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to decide on a person’s request to change the COVDI-19 policy to allow voluntary re-vaccination of people who had received the Sputnik V vaccine and wanted to travel abroad, reported by Times Now. Also read | India: 23 states, hundreds of cities, districts at risk due to heatwave, says official In February of this year, Sputnik Light acquired an Emergency Use Authorisation from the Drugs Controller general of India (DGCI). Sputnik’s V two dosages are separated by the duration of 21 to 30 days and have different formulations. The booster ‘light’ jab on the other hand, is some what identical to the standard edition’s initial dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre approves Russian vaccine ‘Sputnik’ booster COVID-19 shot: Report

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5).

The health ministry announced that regulations requiring all students to wear masks in class expired at midnight ad were not renewed. However, adults are still required to wear masks in public indoor locations, and there are still limits on the number of people for gatherings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-chief-warns-world-is-blind-to-how-covid-is-mutating-after-safrica-reports-two-new-omicron-variants-476547" hreflang="en">After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations</a>

The country has officially reported over 3.8 million infected cases and 100,407 fatalities, the highest toll in Africa and yet just around half of the adult population has been properly vaccinated. Following a brief break in April, the number of cases has been in the country has been steadily increasing with reporting more than 6,100 cases on Wednesday (May 4).

Watch |&nbsp;More trouble for Jacob Zuma, probe finds questionable deals under his rule

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The ministry in a statement said, “The only way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against this pandemic and the current rising number of positive cases is through vaccination and adhering to preventative measures at all times.”

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Indoor gatherings are limited to half of the venue capacity or 1,000 people and outdoor events can have 2,000 people with a negative covid test report. The inbound travellers are expected to be fully vaccinated and if not,&nbsp;to submit their negative covid test report.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-warns-pandemic-is-far-from-over-will-continue-to-impact-our-lives-476651" hreflang="en">EU watchdog warns pandemic is 'far from over', will continue to impact our lives</a>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organisation chief on Wednesday said that the two Omicron sub-variant are to be blamed for the increase in infections in the country. He further said, “too soon to know whether these new sub-variants can cause more severe disease than other Omicron sub-variants." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5).

Despite an outbreak of the coronavirus caused by two new Omicron sub-variants of coronavirus; BA.4 and BA.5, South Africa has now put an end to school children wearing masks on Thursday (May 5). The health ministry announced that regulations requiring all students to wear masks in class expired at midnight ad were not renewed. However, adults are still required to wear masks in public indoor locations, and there are still limits on the number of people for gatherings. Also read | After S.Africa reports two new Omicron variants, WHO chief warns world is blind to Covid mutations The country has officially reported over 3.8 million infected cases and 100,407 fatalities, the highest toll in Africa and yet just around half of the adult population has been properly vaccinated. Following a brief break in April, the number of cases has been in the country has been steadily increasing with reporting more than 6,100 cases on Wednesday (May 4). Watch | More trouble for Jacob Zuma, probe finds questionable deals under his rule The ministry in a statement said, “The only way we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against this pandemic and the current rising number of positive cases is through vaccination and adhering to preventative measures at all times.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Indoor gatherings are limited to half of the venue capacity or 1,000 people and outdoor events can have 2,000 people with a negative covid test report. The inbound travellers are expected to be fully vaccinated and if not, to submit their negative covid test report. Also read | EU watchdog warns pandemic is 'far from over', will continue to impact our lives Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organisation chief on Wednesday said that the two Omicron sub-variant are to be blamed for the increase in infections in the country. He further said, “too soon to know whether these new sub-variants can cause more severe disease than other Omicron sub-variants." (With inputs from agencies)

Despite an increase in COVID-19 cases, South Africa to drop masks for kids

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years.

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A lot of you have asked if Covovax is available for adults. The answer is yes, it is available for everyone above the age of 12.
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1521908211577618437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This confirmation came a day after Poonawalla stated on Twitter that Covovax is now available for children in India. In the country, Covovax (Novavax) will be available for children. This is the only Indian-made vaccine that is also available in Europe, and it boasts a 90 per cent efficacy rate. The CEO even mentioned the vision of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aim of delivering another vaccine to protect the children.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-as-severe-as-previous-covid-variants-large-study-finds-476450">Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds</a>

The Indian government last year in December approved use of Covovax for an emergency case.

Watch |&nbsp;Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports

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Last Monday (May 2), the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) authorised the Covovax COVID-19 vaccine from the Serum Institute of India for the age group of 12-17 years.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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However, many Twitter users expressed their dissatisfaction with the fact that the Covovax option is not available on the CoWIN app for vaccine recipients for the age group of 18 years and above.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-may-result-in-cognitive-ability-dropping-by-10-iq-points-study-476336">Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study</a>

Another user tweeted with a screenshot of the app and said, “Check this out, when we select 18 &amp; above option in CoWIN app, automatically Covovax option gets faded i.e disabled while 4 other options are highlighted i.e Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik, ZyCov-D."

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years.

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune, confirmed on Wednesday (May 4) in his tweet that the COVID-19 vaccination Covovax will now be available to everyone above the age of 12 years. A lot of you have asked if Covovax is available for adults. The answer is yes, it is available for everyone above the age of 12. — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) May 4, 2022 × This confirmation came a day after Poonawalla stated on Twitter that Covovax is now available for children in India. In the country, Covovax (Novavax) will be available for children. This is the only Indian-made vaccine that is also available in Europe, and it boasts a 90 per cent efficacy rate. The CEO even mentioned the vision of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aim of delivering another vaccine to protect the children. Also read | Omicron as severe as previous Covid variants, large study finds The Indian government last year in December approved use of Covovax for an emergency case. Watch | Cognitive abilities can decline due to severe covid: Reports Last Monday (May 2), the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) authorised the Covovax COVID-19 vaccine from the Serum Institute of India for the age group of 12-17 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: However, many Twitter users expressed their dissatisfaction with the fact that the Covovax option is not available on the CoWIN app for vaccine recipients for the age group of 18 years and above. Also read | Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study Another user tweeted with a screenshot of the app and said, “Check this out, when we select 18 & above option in CoWIN app, automatically Covovax option gets faded i.e disabled while 4 other options are highlighted i.e Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik, ZyCov-D." (With inputs from agencies)

Covovax vaccine available for everyone above 12 years: Adar Poonawalla

It is already known that Covid infection affects physical as well as mental health. But a new study suggests that cognitive impairment caused due to severe Covid infection may be equal to drop of 10 IQ points.

In other words, severe Covid infections may result in loss of cognitive abilities which happens between 50 and 70 years of age. The study has been carried out by a team of scientists from University of Cambridge and Imperial College London.

The study points at the possibility that effects of Covid may be detectable in a person even more than six months after the infection. The cognitive recovery may at best be gradual.

For this study, the researchers sifted through data of 46 patients who were admitted to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge for treatment of Covid.

Six months after their acute illness, the patients were asked to take detailed cognitive tests that checked their memory, attention and reasoning. Results obtained from the group of patients were compared to those obtained from a control group.

It was found that Covid survivors had slower response time and were less accurate in their answers in the cognitive tests. Such results were detected six months after the infection.

It was found during the study that cognitive impairment was strongest among patients who needed mechanical ventilation during their illness. In other words, they were severely infected by Covid.

The researchers compared the results with larger dataset obtained from 66,008 members of the public and inferred that the cognitive impairment due to severe infection of Covid was equivalent to 10 IQ points.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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It is already known that Covid infection affects physical as well as mental health. But a new study suggests that cognitive impairment caused due to severe Covid infection may be equal to drop of 10 IQ points.

It is already known that Covid infection affects physical as well as mental health. But a new study suggests that cognitive impairment caused due to severe Covid infection may be equal to drop of 10 IQ points. In other words, severe Covid infections may result in loss of cognitive abilities which happens between 50 and 70 years of age. The study has been carried out by a team of scientists from University of Cambridge and Imperial College London. The study points at the possibility that effects of Covid may be detectable in a person even more than six months after the infection. The cognitive recovery may at best be gradual. For this study, the researchers sifted through data of 46 patients who were admitted to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge for treatment of Covid. Six months after their acute illness, the patients were asked to take detailed cognitive tests that checked their memory, attention and reasoning. Results obtained from the group of patients were compared to those obtained from a control group. It was found that Covid survivors had slower response time and were less accurate in their answers in the cognitive tests. Such results were detected six months after the infection. It was found during the study that cognitive impairment was strongest among patients who needed mechanical ventilation during their illness. In other words, they were severely infected by Covid. The researchers compared the results with larger dataset obtained from 66,008 members of the public and inferred that the cognitive impairment due to severe infection of Covid was equivalent to 10 IQ points. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Severe Covid infection may affect thinking similar to 20 years of ageing: Study

An elderly man in Shanghai was mistakenly declared dead and wheeled to the morgue. He was saved by alert medics who felt something was wrong. How many such mishaps will it take for Xi Jinping to abandon 'zero-covid'? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Shanghai man mistakenly declared dead

As Shanghai continues to battle the virus, China's Guangzhou city cancelled flights and launched mass testing after reporting just one suspected coronavirus case.

China's Guangzhou city orders mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case

In pics: Seoul celebrates ‘Lantern Festival’ after three years of covid hiatus

China is facing the worst outbreak of covid despite the zero-covid policy. Amid covid cases hike, tourists are visiting Beijing's temple of heaven. Meanwhile, Taiwan has reported more than 10,000 new covid cases.

China: Amid covid hike, tourists visit Beijing's temple of heaven

Beijing authorities are now imposing strict covid-19 curbs, they are ramping up measures to control the spread of the virus. However, Shanghai officials ease covid curbs because no cases have been reported outside quarantine areas.

Covid-19 in China: Authorities in Beijing impose strict covid curbs

Authorities in China are now moving quickly to try and prevent a massive outbreak, one that could trigger a city-wide lockdown. They want to avoid a Shanghai-like situation because the political stakes are too high this time.

China: Is Xi Jinping trapped in his own lockdown policy?

In pics: Millions of people travel back home in Indonesia to celebrate Eid al-Fitr

The US economy unexpectedly contracted in the first quarter amid a resurgence in COVID-19 cases and drop in pandemic relief money from the government, but the decline in output is misleading as domestic demand remained strong.

US economy shrinks in first quarter of 2022

Apple has forecast bigger problems as COVID-19 lockdowns snarl production and demand in China, the war in Ukraine dents sales and growth slows in services, which the iPhone maker sees as its engine for expansion.

Apple sees bigger supply problems after strong start to the year

Apple&nbsp;Inc on Thursday forecast bigger problems as COVID-19 lockdowns snarl production and demand in China, the war in Ukraine dents sales and growth slows in services, which the iPhone maker sees as its engine for expansion.

Shares were down 2.2 per cent&nbsp;in late trade after executives laid out their glum outlook on a conference call. The news outweighed record profit and sales for&nbsp;Apple's fiscal second quarter, which ended in March.

Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri warned in an interview that the war in Ukraine, which led&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;to stop sales in Russia, would cut sales more deeply in the fiscal third quarter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-just-released-ios154-update-with-37-new-emojis-and-netizens-are-not-pleased-471948">Apple just released iOS15.4 update with 37 new emojis, and netizens are not pleased</a>

He told analysts on the call that supply-chain issues would hurt sales in the quarter by $4 billion to $8 billion, "substantially larger" than the hit in the second quarter.

Supply problems were focused on a corridor in Shanghai, China and reflected covid&nbsp;disruptions and chip shortages, he added. The pandemic was also affecting demand in China, he said.

Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said that almost all of the Chinese factories doing final assembly of&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;products had restarted after recent covid&nbsp;shutdowns, but the company is not forecasting when the chips shortage, mostly affecting older products, would end.

Cook said he hoped covid&nbsp;issues would be "transitory" and "get better over time."

At least one analyst said the outlook lacked clarity.

"We were all looking for just better guidance on what is really going on over there (China) ... and that didn't come out," said Louis Navellier, chief investment officer for Navellier &amp; Associates.

Kim Caughey Forrest, Chief Investment Officer at Bokeh Capital Partners, said that ongoing demand remained a big question, despite&nbsp;Apple's management of supply chain in the March quarter.

Watch |&nbsp;How netizens are reacting to Apple's 'pregnant man' emoji | Tech It Out

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Indeed, other high-profile tech companies also raised concerns. Amazon on Thursday posted a disappointing outlook as it was swamped by higher costs, sending its shares down 9 per cent&nbsp;after the close, and Intel Corp forecast a bleak quarter based on supply chain issues, and its stock fell 4 per cent.

Both companies, along with&nbsp;Apple, are part of the broader Nasdaq index, which has fallen nearly 19% this year as rising inflation drives investors elsewhere.

March quarter strength&nbsp;

Apple's overall fiscal second-quarter revenue was $97.3 billion, up 8.6 per cent&nbsp;from last year and higher than analysts' average estimate of $93.89 billion, according to Refinitiv data.

Worldwide phone sales revenue was $50.6 billion, a 5.5 per cent&nbsp;increase from a year ago, and services sales rose 17 per cent&nbsp;to $19.8 billion, both ahead of analyst average forecasts.

However, Maestri said that services growth would decelerate from the March quarter, while remaining in double-digits. He cited several factors, including more unfavorable currency exchange rates.

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Total profit was $25 billion, or $1.52 per share and easily topped analysts' expectations of $23.2 billion and $1.43.

Apple&nbsp;also raised its dividend 5 per cent&nbsp;to $0.23 per share and the board approved a buyback for an added $90 billion in shares.

Investors have been bracing for drops in consumer spending on tech gadgets and services as the war in Ukraine and other factors drive up the cost of oil, food and other staples.

Cook shrugged off an analyst question on inflation and consumers.

"We're monitoring that closely. But right now, our main focus, frankly speaking, is on the supply side," he said.

Asked about rising inflation, Maestri said demand, particularly for iPhones, had been higher than the company had anticipated at the start of the quarter. But he noted inflation was affecting expenses.

The pandemic, including the shift to hybrid work, has benefited other businesses.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-is-internally-testing-new-models-of-macbook-series-report-471251">Apple is internally testing new models of MacBook series: Report</a>

Apple&nbsp;said iPad sales fell 2 per cent&nbsp;to $7.65 billion due to supply-chain constraints, while revenue from Mac computers, also facing supply-chain issues, rose 14.7 per cent&nbsp;to $10.4 billion.

Sales of wearables, home speakers and accessories rose 12 per cent&nbsp;to $8.8 billion, and was the only unit to miss Wall Street targets. Maestri said Watch and AirPods sold well, and attributed the miss to seasonal variability in demand for other accessories.

Apple&nbsp;said it now has 825 million paying subscribers across its at least seven subscription offerings, up by 40 million from 785 million last quarter. Its growth comes as rivals such as Netflix Inc report subscriber losses.

Apple Inc on Thursday forecast bigger problems as COVID-19 lockdowns snarl production and demand in China, the war in Ukraine dents sales and growth slows in services, which the iPhone maker sees as its engine for expansion.

Apple Inc on Thursday forecast bigger problems as COVID-19 lockdowns snarl production and demand in China, the war in Ukraine dents sales and growth slows in services, which the iPhone maker sees as its engine for expansion. Shares were down 2.2 per cent in late trade after executives laid out their glum outlook on a conference call. The news outweighed record profit and sales for Apple's fiscal second quarter, which ended in March. Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri warned in an interview that the war in Ukraine, which led Apple to stop sales in Russia, would cut sales more deeply in the fiscal third quarter. Also read | Apple just released iOS15.4 update with 37 new emojis, and netizens are not pleased He told analysts on the call that supply-chain issues would hurt sales in the quarter by $4 billion to $8 billion, "substantially larger" than the hit in the second quarter. Supply problems were focused on a corridor in Shanghai, China and reflected covid disruptions and chip shortages, he added. The pandemic was also affecting demand in China, he said. Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said that almost all of the Chinese factories doing final assembly of Apple products had restarted after recent covid shutdowns, but the company is not forecasting when the chips shortage, mostly affecting older products, would end. Cook said he hoped covid issues would be "transitory" and "get better over time." At least one analyst said the outlook lacked clarity. "We were all looking for just better guidance on what is really going on over there (China) ... and that didn't come out," said Louis Navellier, chief investment officer for Navellier & Associates. Kim Caughey Forrest, Chief Investment Officer at Bokeh Capital Partners, said that ongoing demand remained a big question, despite Apple's management of supply chain in the March quarter. Watch | How netizens are reacting to Apple's 'pregnant man' emoji | Tech It Out Indeed, other high-profile tech companies also raised concerns. Amazon on Thursday posted a disappointing outlook as it was swamped by higher costs, sending its shares down 9 per cent after the close, and Intel Corp forecast a bleak quarter based on supply chain issues, and its stock fell 4 per cent. Both companies, along with Apple, are part of the broader Nasdaq index, which has fallen nearly 19% this year as rising inflation drives investors elsewhere. March quarter strength Apple's overall fiscal second-quarter revenue was $97.3 billion, up 8.6 per cent from last year and higher than analysts' average estimate of $93.89 billion, according to Refinitiv data. Worldwide phone sales revenue was $50.6 billion, a 5.5 per cent increase from a year ago, and services sales rose 17 per cent to $19.8 billion, both ahead of analyst average forecasts. However, Maestri said that services growth would decelerate from the March quarter, while remaining in double-digits. He cited several factors, including more unfavorable currency exchange rates. WATCH WION LIVE HERE Total profit was $25 billion, or $1.52 per share and easily topped analysts' expectations of $23.2 billion and $1.43. Apple also raised its dividend 5 per cent to $0.23 per share and the board approved a buyback for an added $90 billion in shares. Investors have been bracing for drops in consumer spending on tech gadgets and services as the war in Ukraine and other factors drive up the cost of oil, food and other staples. Cook shrugged off an analyst question on inflation and consumers. "We're monitoring that closely. But right now, our main focus, frankly speaking, is on the supply side," he said. Asked about rising inflation, Maestri said demand, particularly for iPhones, had been higher than the company had anticipated at the start of the quarter. But he noted inflation was affecting expenses. The pandemic, including the shift to hybrid work, has benefited other businesses. Also read | Apple is internally testing new models of MacBook series: Report Apple said iPad sales fell 2 per cent to $7.65 billion due to supply-chain constraints, while revenue from Mac computers, also facing supply-chain issues, rose 14.7 per cent to $10.4 billion. Sales of wearables, home speakers and accessories rose 12 per cent to $8.8 billion, and was the only unit to miss Wall Street targets. Maestri said Watch and AirPods sold well, and attributed the miss to seasonal variability in demand for other accessories. Apple said it now has 825 million paying subscribers across its at least seven subscription offerings, up by 40 million from 785 million last quarter. Its growth comes as rivals such as Netflix Inc report subscriber losses.

Apple sees bigger supply problems after strong start to year

China has sharpened Covid screening in Beijing to prevent chaos like what we saw in Shanghai but many commuters are not happy about the restrictions. For Chinese commuter workers, waking up in the early mornings to travel miles away for work has gotten even tougher than before.

China: Commuter workers unable to go home or find other work

Visitors trickle back, but climbing mecca Nepal seeks more - see pics

According to a new study, unvaccinated people are a threat to the safety of those who are vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19). Researchers explored the effect of mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated people to understand the dynamics of an infectious disease. When vaccinated and unvaccinated people were mixed, a substantial number of new infections would occur in the vaccinated people. Read details here: https://www.wionews.com/science/unvaccinated-people-pose-a-threat-to-those-inoculated-against-covid-19-study-473685

If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

In pics: Brazil holds first carnival after two years of pandemic

Venice imposes tax and reservation system for travellers

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid&nbsp;restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses.

Many restaurants reported full bookings for the coming weeks as&nbsp;dining&nbsp;out has been extended until 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) from 6 p.m. and group gatherings have been expanded to four people, from two previously. Many schools have also resumed in-person learning after months of online classes.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has eased the measures as Shanghai authorities said tough coronavirus restrictions would remain in place for now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/plastic-everywhere-chinas-zero-covid-facilities-causing-environmental-problems-472088">Plastic everywhere: Hong Kong's zero-Covid facilities have become an environmental nightmare</a>

Residents flocked to gyms, salons and massage parlours, while others visited temples and churches which had also been shut.

"Everyone has things to do and be able to make money. It's excellent and people can come out for activities again, everyone is happy," said Idy Lee, 44, who owns a hair salon in the city's bustling Mong Kok district.

The easing comes as the number of daily&nbsp;COVID-19 infections in the global financial hub dropped below 1,000 for the past six days from a peak of more than 70,000 on March 3.

While many residents are relieved at the relaxation of rules, scores of businesses have already closed and tens of thousands of people have fled the city as authorities re-imposed measures in January that were first implemented in 2020.

Watch |&nbsp;Plastic waste surges amid COVID crisis: Hong Kong landfills run out of space

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Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has grappled to impose a "dynamic zero" covid&nbsp;policy similar to mainland China, which aims to quash all outbreaks versus living with the virus as many countries are doing.

Hong&nbsp;Kong's borders have been effectively sealed since 2020 with few flights able to land and hardly any passengers allowed to transit, isolating a city that had built a reputation as a global hub.

Swimming pools and beaches remain shut, frustrating many athletes and residents. Bars, nightclubs and saunas are also still closed, with many unable to stay afloat and others on borrowed time.

"The reopening of gyms is a happy thing, but I hope the government will give us some subsidies because we have been closed on and off for a year and a half and lost a lot of customers," Parker Chan, a 25-year-old coach at Fitness Formula.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-ease-covid-19-restrictions-as-infections-fall-470984">Hong Kong to ease COVID-19 restrictions as infections fall</a>

While&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;managed to keep the coronavirus at bay for much of 2021, a surge of the highly contagious Omicron variant brought the former British colony to its knees in February, swamping its world-class medical system as&nbsp;cases&nbsp;ripped through the densely-packed city.

It has recorded more than 1.1 million infections and 8,963 deaths.

Hong Kong reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses.

Hong Kong reopened gyms, beauty parlours, theme parks and cinemas for the first time in more than four months on Thursday, as authorities relax some of the world's most stringent covid restrictions that have weighed on residents and businesses. Many restaurants reported full bookings for the coming weeks as dining out has been extended until 10 p.m. (1400 GMT) from 6 p.m. and group gatherings have been expanded to four people, from two previously. Many schools have also resumed in-person learning after months of online classes. Hong Kong has eased the measures as Shanghai authorities said tough coronavirus restrictions would remain in place for now. Also read | Plastic everywhere: Hong Kong's zero-Covid facilities have become an environmental nightmare Residents flocked to gyms, salons and massage parlours, while others visited temples and churches which had also been shut. "Everyone has things to do and be able to make money. It's excellent and people can come out for activities again, everyone is happy," said Idy Lee, 44, who owns a hair salon in the city's bustling Mong Kok district. The easing comes as the number of daily COVID-19 infections in the global financial hub dropped below 1,000 for the past six days from a peak of more than 70,000 on March 3. While many residents are relieved at the relaxation of rules, scores of businesses have already closed and tens of thousands of people have fled the city as authorities re-imposed measures in January that were first implemented in 2020. Watch | Plastic waste surges amid COVID crisis: Hong Kong landfills run out of space Hong Kong has grappled to impose a "dynamic zero" covid policy similar to mainland China, which aims to quash all outbreaks versus living with the virus as many countries are doing. Hong Kong's borders have been effectively sealed since 2020 with few flights able to land and hardly any passengers allowed to transit, isolating a city that had built a reputation as a global hub. Swimming pools and beaches remain shut, frustrating many athletes and residents. Bars, nightclubs and saunas are also still closed, with many unable to stay afloat and others on borrowed time. "The reopening of gyms is a happy thing, but I hope the government will give us some subsidies because we have been closed on and off for a year and a half and lost a lot of customers," Parker Chan, a 25-year-old coach at Fitness Formula. Also read | Hong Kong to ease COVID-19 restrictions as infections fall While Hong Kong managed to keep the coronavirus at bay for much of 2021, a surge of the highly contagious Omicron variant brought the former British colony to its knees in February, swamping its world-class medical system as cases ripped through the densely-packed city. It has recorded more than 1.1 million infections and 8,963 deaths.

Hong Kong reopens venues, extends dining hours as covid cases fall

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days.

The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022."

It has been decided to extend the policy so as to continue to provide a safety net for the dependents of health workers who are deputed to take care of COVID-19 patients. 
 
The insurance policy PMGKP was launched on March 30, 2020 to give assistance of Rs 5 million in complete personal accident insurance to 2.1 million health care providers, including all health workers who might have direct contact and treatment of a COVID patient and are at risk.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/delhi-records-over-500-covid-19-cases-no-mandatory-rtpcr-required-for-domestic-air-travel-472034">Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel</a>

A letter to this effect was sent to all Additional Chief Secretaries (Health), Principal Secretaries (Health) and Health Secretaries of all state and Union territories on April 19,2022, requesting widespread exposure among health personnel in their own respective states and Union territories.

The government said, private hospital staffs, volunteers, local urban bodies, daily wages outsourced staff requisitioned by state or central hospitals, AIIMS and Institute of National Importance (INI) of the central ministries specifically drafted for the care of covid patients.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/what-caused-90-jump-in-covid-cases-in-india-kerala-govt-reacts-to-data-discrepancies-reports-472103">What caused 90% jump in Covid cases in India? Central, Kerala state govts in tussle over 'late reporting'</a> 
 
So far, 1905 claims of health workers who died during COVID-related duties have been settled since the scheme’s inception.

However, the country has recently reported 1247 new COVID cases in the last 24 hours, which is roughly 43 per cent down from the previous day. As per the ministry, 928 patients have recovered from the last 24 hours.

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days. The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022.

The Indian government’s insurance policy for COVID-19 fighting health staff has been extended for another 180 days. The central government stated in an order, "The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP): Insurance Scheme for Healthcare Workers Fighting COVID-19 has been extended for a further period of 180 days from April 19, 2022." It has been decided to extend the policy so as to continue to provide a safety net for the dependents of health workers who are deputed to take care of COVID-19 patients. The insurance policy PMGKP was launched on March 30, 2020 to give assistance of Rs 5 million in complete personal accident insurance to 2.1 million health care providers, including all health workers who might have direct contact and treatment of a COVID patient and are at risk. Also read | Delhi records over 500 COVID-19 cases; no mandatory RT-PCR required for domestic air travel A letter to this effect was sent to all Additional Chief Secretaries (Health), Principal Secretaries (Health) and Health Secretaries of all state and Union territories on April 19,2022, requesting widespread exposure among health personnel in their own respective states and Union territories. The government said, private hospital staffs, volunteers, local urban bodies, daily wages outsourced staff requisitioned by state or central hospitals, AIIMS and Institute of National Importance (INI) of the central ministries specifically drafted for the care of covid patients. Also read | What caused 90% jump in Covid cases in India? Central, Kerala state govts in tussle over 'late reporting' So far, 1905 claims of health workers who died during COVID-related duties have been settled since the scheme’s inception. However, the country has recently reported 1247 new COVID cases in the last 24 hours, which is roughly 43 per cent down from the previous day. As per the ministry, 928 patients have recovered from the last 24 hours.

India extends Covid medical insurance policy for health workers for 6 months

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases.

This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-rejects-biden-administrations-mask-mandate-for-public-transport-472024">US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport</a>

Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country.

Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights.

However,&nbsp;they along with United Airlines have&nbsp;warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions&nbsp;when they arrive&nbsp;at their respective destinations.

As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official.

Watch |&nbsp;US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-judge-strikes-down-cdc-mask-mandate-amid-covid-19-surge-472036/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline.

"We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ba2-covid-variant-driving-new-infections-in-some-parts-of-us-471264">BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US</a>

This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern.

Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier.

(with input from agencies)US

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority. CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases. This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end. Also read | US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country. Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights. However, they along with United Airlines have warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions when they arrive at their respective destinations. As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official. Watch | US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline. "We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline. Also read | BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern. Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier. (with input from agencies)US

US airlines announce plan to drop mask mandates

Plastic everywhere: Hong Kong's zero-Covid facilities have become an environmental nightmare

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after&nbsp;hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown.

It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll&nbsp;bringing the total&nbsp;to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-economic-data-hints-at-cost-of-zero-covid-strategy-471860">China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy</a>

According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems.

As per&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases".

Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said&nbsp;that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shanghai-reports-first-covid-deaths-since-start-of-covid-19-lockdown-471768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official&nbsp;figures.

AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet.

Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police&nbsp;handling&nbsp;policing on the internet.&nbsp;

The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-covid-19-deaths-in-shanghai-russia-ukraine-updates-and-more-471767">&nbsp;Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more</a>

Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle.

Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported.

Shanghai reported seven more Covid deaths on Tuesday. This comes after hundreds of thousands of cases were reported in the city during its week-long lockdown. It doesn’t end here, the city reported more than 20,000 mostly asymptomatic cases on Tuesday, defying officials’ efforts to eradicate the virus, the AFP reported. Even while the virus still continues to spread, the city officials announced the first deaths of this outbreak on Monday (April 18) with Tuesday's death toll bringing the total to an unbelievable low of 10 as per official figures. Also read | China's economic data hints at cost of zero Covid strategy According to Shanghai’s health official Wu Qianyu, who spoke at a press conference on Tuesday, the recent seven deaths were all the unvaccinated patients aged between 60 and 101 with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems. As per Shanghai Municipal Health Commission, the patients "became severely ill after admission to hospital, and died after ineffective rescue efforts, with the direct cause of death being underlying diseases". Earlier on Sunday, Shanghai’s health officials said that less than two-thirds of residents have received their covid jabs and nearly 40 per cent have received their booster. On the other hand, Beijing claims its zero-covid policy of tight lockdowns and mass testing has prevented deaths and public health disasters that much of the rest of the world is battling with. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown However, China has a massive senior population with a poor vaccination rate, which has raised questions over official figures. AFP reports, unverified social media posts claimed that the fatalities in Shanghai were going unnoticed, but the messages were swiftly removed from the internet. Since March 2022, many of the 25 million residents who have been restricted to their homes have been complaining about food shortages, harsh quarantine conditions and strict police handling policing on the internet. The country's social media was flooded with protest footage that spread faster than the Chinese government’s ability to remove them. Also read | Morning news brief: COVID-19 deaths in Shanghai, Russia-Ukraine updates, and more Since the virus first emerged in late 2019 in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the country’s zero-tolerance approach to covid has limited new cases to a trickle. Nearly 350 million people in at least 44 cities in the country are in some sort of lockdown as per one estimate released on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Shanghai reports seven deaths as the virus toll rises

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