Hong Kong will end most of its strict Covid rules starting Thursday (December 29), meaning there will be no cap on public gatherings and the city's vaccine pass would also be scrapped. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Hong Kong's chief executive John Lee said that all virus-related measures would be cancelled apart from wearing masks which still remains mandatory.

Hong Kong to end most Covid rules apart from mandatory mask wearing

China has run out of basic medicines like Ibuprofen & Panadol. State authorities have taken over pharma firms to ramp up supplies. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Medicine Shortage 'humiliates' China

Hospitals in China struggle with spike in Covid cases. Even as China records zero covid deaths now data firm is claiming that the real scale of infection could be far greater than what the official data is showing.

Hospitals in China under strain due to spike in Covid cases

India’s health minister has advised the public to take precautions against Covid-19, as the country remains on alert for potential new variants that could emerge from the wave of infections sweeping neighboring China.

WION Dispatch: Indian Health Minister holds meeting to review the Covid situation

24 hours after reports emerged that the Chinese sub-variant had reached India, New Delhi has introduced a series of measures to stop the virus from spreading. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: India is taking no chances

Is your child safe from the Wuhan virus? Should the surge in infections worry you? Is the new wave going to affect Children? Priyanka Sharma takes you through some developments that give you the answer.

Gravitas: Why are children falling sick globally?

The Wuhan Virus is back. Infections are spiking in 5 countries. Experts are warning of dreadful consequences. Has China put the world in peril again? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Has China put the world in peril again?

The Chinese subvariant Omicron BF.7 has reached India. 3 cases have been reported so far, 2 in Gujarat & 1 in Odisha. The Niti Aayog says there's no need to panic. But if the situation escalates, Is India prepared? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus returns: Is India prepared?

Three years after the virus first emerged, it's almost like we're going back to stage one. Let's take a look at what's happening in China and what is the situation like for the residents of Shanghai.

China witnesses a sharp surge in Covid Cases again

Is a new wave of the #WuhanVirus coming? Experts say China's covid surge could infect 10% of the earth's population. American scientists are worried about new variants. Should we prepare? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming?

Wuhan Virus cases in the UK are soaring. This comes amid unprecedented chaos at British airports. Health experts are suggesting the return of masks & testing. Is Britain heading towards a 'Covid Christmas'? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Is the UK headed for a 'Covid Christmas'?

Covid cases are surging in the Chinese capital of Beijing, this comes as the country tries to turn away from its zero-tolerance coronavirus strategy. Beijing authorities said, more than 22,000 patients visited hospitals across the city in the previous days.

Covid cases surge in China as hardline policy eases

The COVID-19 situation is easing around the world but not in China. Chaoyang, the largest district of China’s capital Beijing, urged people to stay home for the weekend and restricted intra-city travel as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in the city. Watch the full video to know more

China's COVID cases rise, Beijing under semi-lockdown

COVID-19 infections are on a rise in China as the country's top health officials begin easing some pandemic measures in a bit to provide some economic relief to the people

Chinese cities record new surge in COVID-19 cases

China's health authority reported a jump in COVID-19 infections, climbing to 7,475 on November 7 from 5,496 the day before and the highest since May 1.

New COVID-19 cases climb to 7,000 in China

After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday.

The locals have been ordered to take PCR test on Tuesday and then get themselves tested with rapid antigen daily, reports Reuters news agency.

Apart from that, around 1,500 staff and guests were locked inside MGM China's Cotai casino resort on Sunday for three days. It was not clear whether they would be released on Tuesday.

The officials are taking strict measures as the biggest gambling city braces for Typhoon Nalgae, which is fast approaching southern China. Authorities are hoping that the PCR tests can be completed in one day.

Being a special administrative region of China, Macau has adopted Beijing’s strict zero-Covid policy that involves frequent lockdowns and strict testing requirements.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Business News | China imposes Covid curbs in Macau as infections surge

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China has been witnessing a spurt of cases in the past one week, which has seen the closure of Disney's Shanghai resort while a Foxconn plant in Zhengzhou continues to be rocked by workers leaving en masse over strict Covid restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-experts-saying-about-the-highly-transmissible-xbb-covid-variant-530115" hreflang="en">What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant?</a>

On Monday, the Chinese authorities allowed mainland residents to travel to Macau through an online visa system, streamlining travel to the world's largest gambling hub after more than two years of pandemic restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frustrated-chinese-turn-to-popular-indian-song-to-mock-beijings-zero-covid-policy-530094" hreflang="en">'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy</a>

Macau is the only place in China where casinos are legal.

Before the online visa process, mainland visitors were required to submit detailed, in-person applications to visit the Chinese territory, with approvals typically limited to essential business travel. The strict process was being followed for the past two and a half years.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday.

After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday. The locals have been ordered to take PCR test on Tuesday and then get themselves tested with rapid antigen daily, reports Reuters news agency. Apart from that, around 1,500 staff and guests were locked inside MGM China's Cotai casino resort on Sunday for three days. It was not clear whether they would be released on Tuesday. The officials are taking strict measures as the biggest gambling city braces for Typhoon Nalgae, which is fast approaching southern China. Authorities are hoping that the PCR tests can be completed in one day. Being a special administrative region of China, Macau has adopted Beijing’s strict zero-Covid policy that involves frequent lockdowns and strict testing requirements. Watch | WION Business News | China imposes Covid curbs in Macau as infections surge China has been witnessing a spurt of cases in the past one week, which has seen the closure of Disney's Shanghai resort while a Foxconn plant in Zhengzhou continues to be rocked by workers leaving en masse over strict Covid restrictions. Also read | What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant? On Monday, the Chinese authorities allowed mainland residents to travel to Macau through an online visa system, streamlining travel to the world's largest gambling hub after more than two years of pandemic restrictions. Also read | 'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy Macau is the only place in China where casinos are legal. Before the online visa process, mainland visitors were required to submit detailed, in-person applications to visit the Chinese territory, with approvals typically limited to essential business travel. The strict process was being followed for the past two and a half years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Covid-free for three months, Macau records 11 cases, tests entire population

Pakistan is dealing with rise in active covid-19 cases and positivity rate has jumped to 3.88%. As per reports, Pakistan registered over 800 new cases on Saturday.

Pakistan deals with rise in active covid cases, positivity rate jumps to 3.88%

Pakistan is witnessing a surge in covid cases as per the data released by the national institute of health in Islamabad. The country recorded 641 fresh infections in the last 24 hours.

Pakistan records 641 fresh covid infections, positivity rate at 3.41%

Japan has registered 3,803 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday. The Tokyo metropolitan government will raise its alert level for new coronavirus infections to the second-highest of four levels.

Japan’s capital to raise Covid infections alert level to 2nd highest

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry. The 15 deaths include seven people in Kerala, three in Delhi, two in Maharashtra and one each in Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The Covid caseload increased by 4,366 in 24 hours. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 2.89 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 2.50 per cent. The total number of patients who have recovered from the illness has risen to 4,26,99,363. The state wide vaccination push has resulted in the administration of 196.14 crore Covid vaccine doses, reported by PTI.

The national capital, Delhi recorded 1,534 new cases and three deaths with a positivity rate of 7.72 per cent on Saturday (June 18). The state recorded its highest number of cases in nearly four months a day earlier with one death and an 8.18 per cent positivity rate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-fears-of-4th-wave-india-logs-12000-covid-cases-for-2nd-day-in-a-row-489218">Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row</a>

The infection count in Maharashtra has risen to 7,18,884 with the addition of 837 new Covid cases. According to the officials, the latest instances were recorded on Saturday (June 18). The Covid mortality rate stayed at 1.67 per cent.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73%

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Tamil Nadu, which is currently dealing with a surge in the number of daily coronavirus cases, added 596 new cases on Saturday (June 18) which includes four returnees from foreign travel bringing the total number to 34,60,182.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-reports-more-than-12000-new-infections-and-11-fatalities-488620">COVID-19: India reports more than 12,000 new infections and 11 fatalities</a>

According to a Health department bulletin, West Bengal recorded 288 new covid cases on Saturday (June 18) bringing the total number of cases to 20,21,555. While on the other hand, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded new nine Covid cases, six less than the previous day bringing the tally to 10,088, as per the health department officials.

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry.

India recorded 12,899 new Covid cases and 15 deaths on Sunday (June 19). The total number of infections reached 4,32,96,692 with 72,424 active cases and the death toll rose to 5,24,855 as per the figures updated by the Union Health Ministry. The 15 deaths include seven people in Kerala, three in Delhi, two in Maharashtra and one each in Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The Covid caseload increased by 4,366 in 24 hours. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 2.89 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 2.50 per cent. The total number of patients who have recovered from the illness has risen to 4,26,99,363. The state wide vaccination push has resulted in the administration of 196.14 crore Covid vaccine doses, reported by PTI. The national capital, Delhi recorded 1,534 new cases and three deaths with a positivity rate of 7.72 per cent on Saturday (June 18). The state recorded its highest number of cases in nearly four months a day earlier with one death and an 8.18 per cent positivity rate. Also read | Fresh fears of 4th wave? India logs 12,000+ Covid cases for 2nd day in a row The infection count in Maharashtra has risen to 7,18,884 with the addition of 837 new Covid cases. According to the officials, the latest instances were recorded on Saturday (June 18). The Covid mortality rate stayed at 1.67 per cent. Watch | India witnesses surge in covid cases, positivity rate stands at 2.73% Tamil Nadu, which is currently dealing with a surge in the number of daily coronavirus cases, added 596 new cases on Saturday (June 18) which includes four returnees from foreign travel bringing the total number to 34,60,182. Also read | COVID-19: India reports more than 12,000 new infections and 11 fatalities According to a Health department bulletin, West Bengal recorded 288 new covid cases on Saturday (June 18) bringing the total number of cases to 20,21,555. While on the other hand, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands recorded new nine Covid cases, six less than the previous day bringing the tally to 10,088, as per the health department officials. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records 12,899 new cases and 15 deaths

Listing out rising COVID-19 cases in academic institutions in and around Chennai, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M. Subramanian pinned the blame on "North Indians" and several other Indian states where he said cases were on the rise. By associating students from sister states coming into Tamil Nadu as those responsible for the spread of COVID, the minister's racist comments have stirred a row.&nbsp;

Outlining the COVID-19 situation in the Southern Indian state, the Minister said that Tamil Nadu had been witnessing less than 100 COVID-19 cases per day, over the last three months. He also added that this was a period when there were no COVID-19 deaths. Touching upon the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Engineering colleges near Chennai, the Minister said that it was owing to COVID-19 cases not being under control in various sister states.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-sees-five-fold-increase-in-covid-cases-484190">Mumbai sees five-fold increase in covid cases</a>

"The reason (for rising cases in colleges) is that COVID-19 numbers are not under control in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala and such states. When students from North India come to these colleges, COVID-19 cases spread through them, as a whole cluster. And then, I have visited the relevant institutions" he said.&nbsp;

He was also seen singling out a large number of students from other states and North Indian states when referring to the student population of educational institutions in Chennai.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Is covid outbreak over in China as Shanghai looks all set to reopen

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"In Sathya Sai University the cases are on the rise because of students from other states coming there and studying. VIT has around 5,600 first-year students, of which more than 80 percent are from North Indian states. They started coming to the hostel here around 13th May and the cluster that occurred among them had spread rapidly" he says.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, these comments seem to follow a pattern as leaders from Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK have been making such racist and derogatory remarks against fellow Indians and have been directing hate towards those from Hindi-speaking states. In the recent past, while speaking at different events, the Higher Education Minister of Tamil Nadu and a prominent Member of Parliament had made derogatory remarks and hate speeches against Hindi speakers and those hailing from states in the northern part of India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monkeypox-fears-in-india-no-cases-in-country-yet-icmr-official-reacts-to-recent-spread-of-virus-482707" hreflang="en">Monkeypox fears in India: No cases in country yet; ICMR official reacts to recent spread of virus</a>

Speaking about the action taken following a gang rape and murder case, Tamil Nadu's Director General of Police Sylendra Babu had recently stated that a survey to collect information on those workers hailing from other states was underway in Rameswaram and in other cities of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"Before enrolling them (new persons from other states) for work, we have instructed the concerned persons (manpower contractors and others) to check their antecedents and any prior criminal cases against them. Police also has a mechanism to verify their character and analyse it" he had said.&nbsp;

Listing out rising COVID-19 cases in academic institutions in and around Chennai, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M. Subramanian pinned the blame on "North Indians" and several other Indian states where he said cases were on the rise.

Listing out rising COVID-19 cases in academic institutions in and around Chennai, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M. Subramanian pinned the blame on "North Indians" and several other Indian states where he said cases were on the rise. By associating students from sister states coming into Tamil Nadu as those responsible for the spread of COVID, the minister's racist comments have stirred a row. Outlining the COVID-19 situation in the Southern Indian state, the Minister said that Tamil Nadu had been witnessing less than 100 COVID-19 cases per day, over the last three months. He also added that this was a period when there were no COVID-19 deaths. Touching upon the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Engineering colleges near Chennai, the Minister said that it was owing to COVID-19 cases not being under control in various sister states. Also read | Mumbai sees five-fold increase in covid cases "The reason (for rising cases in colleges) is that COVID-19 numbers are not under control in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala and such states. When students from North India come to these colleges, COVID-19 cases spread through them, as a whole cluster. And then, I have visited the relevant institutions" he said. He was also seen singling out a large number of students from other states and North Indian states when referring to the student population of educational institutions in Chennai. Watch | Is covid outbreak over in China as Shanghai looks all set to reopen "In Sathya Sai University the cases are on the rise because of students from other states coming there and studying. VIT has around 5,600 first-year students, of which more than 80 percent are from North Indian states. They started coming to the hostel here around 13th May and the cluster that occurred among them had spread rapidly" he says. Unfortunately, these comments seem to follow a pattern as leaders from Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK have been making such racist and derogatory remarks against fellow Indians and have been directing hate towards those from Hindi-speaking states. In the recent past, while speaking at different events, the Higher Education Minister of Tamil Nadu and a prominent Member of Parliament had made derogatory remarks and hate speeches against Hindi speakers and those hailing from states in the northern part of India. Also read | Monkeypox fears in India: No cases in country yet; ICMR official reacts to recent spread of virus Speaking about the action taken following a gang rape and murder case, Tamil Nadu's Director General of Police Sylendra Babu had recently stated that a survey to collect information on those workers hailing from other states was underway in Rameswaram and in other cities of Tamil Nadu. "Before enrolling them (new persons from other states) for work, we have instructed the concerned persons (manpower contractors and others) to check their antecedents and any prior criminal cases against them. Police also has a mechanism to verify their character and analyse it" he had said.

Tamil Nadu: Health minister blames other states, 'north Indians' for spike in COVID-19 cases

China’s financial capital will see strengthening of restrictions due to Covid-19, as per reports.

Shanghai to tighten COVID curbs

The authorities in Shanghai have decided to keep its tough covid restrictions in the place for time being. Covid cases outside quarantine are increasing in the city and 15,861 cases were reported on Wednesday.

Shanghai extends covid curbs, reported 15,861 cases on Wednesday

The IPL 2022 edition was dealt with a huge blow on Monday evening (April 18) after a string of Covid cases were found in the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) camp. Physiotherapist Patrick Farhat had tested positive on April 15, a day before DC's face-off versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), whereas more cases emerged out on April 18, including all-rounder Mitchell Marsh.

In the wake of the Covid cases in the Delhi camp, the DC-Punjab Kings (PBKS) face-off has now been shifted from Pune to Mumbai (i.e. Brabourne Stadium) on Wednesday (April 20).

The BCCI Statement read:&nbsp;The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a change of venue for Match No. 32 – Delhi Capital versus Punjab Kings from MCA Stadium, Pune to Brabourne – CCI scheduled on April 20th, 2022, to avoid any further incident due to any undetected case during a long-distance bus journey in a closed environment.

The change of venue has been triggered due to five COVID-19 positive cases in the Delhi Capitals contingent.

1. &nbsp; &nbsp; Mr Patrick Farhat – Physiotherapist (tested positive on April 15th)

2. &nbsp; &nbsp; Mr Chetan Kumar - Sports Massage Therapist (tested positive on April 16th)

3. &nbsp; &nbsp; Mr Mitchell Marsh – Player (tested positive on April 18th)

4. &nbsp; &nbsp; Dr Abhijit Salvi – Team doctor (tested positive on April 18th)

5. &nbsp; &nbsp; Mr Akash Mane – Social Media Content team member (tested positive on April 18th)

The COVID positive cases are under isolation and medical observation. They will be tested on Day 6 and 7 and subject to both the tests being negative they will be re-integrated into the Delhi Capitals bio-secured bubble. &nbsp;

From April 16th onwards, the entire Delhi Capitals contingent has been put under a daily RT-PCR testing procedure. The 4th round of RT-PCR tests conducted on April 19th have returned negative.

The Delhi Capitals contingent will undergo another round of RT-PCR testing on the morning of April 20th.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-rcb-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-lucknow-super-giants-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-match-472065">LSG vs RCB, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bangalore match?</a>

For Delhi, Marsh was subsequently hospitalised&nbsp;and is being monitored by a team of doctors. On the other hand, a few more positive cases in the DC camp might put their clash versus Punjab in jeopardy. While Punjab occupy the seventh spot, with three wins and equal number of defeats, Delhi has only two victories from five games to be languishing at the eighth position.
</section>

The IPL 2022 edition was dealt with a huge blow on Monday evening (April 18) after a string of Covid cases were found in the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) camp.

The IPL 2022 edition was dealt with a huge blow on Monday evening (April 18) after a string of Covid cases were found in the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) camp. Physiotherapist Patrick Farhat had tested positive on April 15, a day before DC's face-off versus Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), whereas more cases emerged out on April 18, including all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. In the wake of the Covid cases in the Delhi camp, the DC-Punjab Kings (PBKS) face-off has now been shifted from Pune to Mumbai (i.e. Brabourne Stadium) on Wednesday (April 20). The BCCI Statement read: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a change of venue for Match No. 32 – Delhi Capital versus Punjab Kings from MCA Stadium, Pune to Brabourne – CCI scheduled on April 20th, 2022, to avoid any further incident due to any undetected case during a long-distance bus journey in a closed environment. The change of venue has been triggered due to five COVID-19 positive cases in the Delhi Capitals contingent. 1. Mr Patrick Farhat – Physiotherapist (tested positive on April 15th) 2. Mr Chetan Kumar - Sports Massage Therapist (tested positive on April 16th) 3. Mr Mitchell Marsh – Player (tested positive on April 18th) 4. Dr Abhijit Salvi – Team doctor (tested positive on April 18th) 5. Mr Akash Mane – Social Media Content team member (tested positive on April 18th) The COVID positive cases are under isolation and medical observation. They will be tested on Day 6 and 7 and subject to both the tests being negative they will be re-integrated into the Delhi Capitals bio-secured bubble. From April 16th onwards, the entire Delhi Capitals contingent has been put under a daily RT-PCR testing procedure. The 4th round of RT-PCR tests conducted on April 19th have returned negative. The Delhi Capitals contingent will undergo another round of RT-PCR testing on the morning of April 20th. ALSO READ | LSG vs RCB, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bangalore match? For Delhi, Marsh was subsequently hospitalised and is being monitored by a team of doctors. On the other hand, a few more positive cases in the DC camp might put their clash versus Punjab in jeopardy. While Punjab occupy the seventh spot, with three wins and equal number of defeats, Delhi has only two victories from five games to be languishing at the eighth position.

IPL 2022: Delhi Capitals-Punjab Kings' tie shifted from Pune to Mumbai after Covid cases in Delhi camp

While Covid restrictions are being lifted across the world, China and South Korea have reported a spike in infections. Should we be worried as cases rise? Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life? Watch this special discussion to know more!

Is it too early to go back to pre-COVID life?

Covid infections are on the rise in India's capital, New Delhi. 325 new infections have been reported on Thursday, the highest single-day jump in cases in the last 40 days. The capital's positivity rate stands at 2.39 percent.

Covid cases rise in India's capital, Delhi's positivity rate climbs to 2.39% in a week

Global&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;surpassed&nbsp;500&nbsp;million&nbsp;on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally, as the highly contagious&nbsp;BA.2&nbsp;sub-variant of&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;surges&nbsp;in many countries in Europe and Asia.

The rise of&nbsp;BA.2&nbsp;has been blamed for recent&nbsp;surges&nbsp;in China as well as record infections in Europe. It has been called the "stealth variant" because it is slightly harder to track than others. &nbsp;

South Korea leads the world in the daily average number of new&nbsp;cases, reporting more than 182,000 new infections a day and accounting for one in every four infections globally, according to a Reuters analysis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-medicines-regulator-approves-valneva-covid-19-vaccine-for-adult-use-470950">UK medicines regulator approves Valneva COVID-19 vaccine for adult use</a>

New&nbsp;cases&nbsp;are rising in 20 out of more than 240 countries and territories tracked, including Taiwan, Thailand and Bhutan.

Shanghai is fighting China's worst&nbsp;COVID-19 outbreak since the virus first emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, with almost 25,000 new local&nbsp;cases&nbsp;reported, although the city's quarantine policy is criticized for separating children from parents and putting asymptomatic cases&nbsp;among those with symptoms.&nbsp;

"Shanghai's epidemic prevention and control is at the most difficult and most critical stage," Wu Qianyu, an official with the municipal health commission, told a briefing.&nbsp;

Europe, US still affected

Some European countries are now seeing a slower uptick in new&nbsp;cases, or even a decline, but the region is still reporting over 1 million cases&nbsp;about every two days, according to the Reuters tally.&nbsp;

In Germany, the seven-day average of new infections has fallen and is now at 59 per cent&nbsp;&nbsp;of its previous peak in late March. New cases&nbsp;are also falling in the United Kingdom and Italy, while they are holding steady in France.

Overall,&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in the United States have dropped sharply after hitting record levels in January, but the resurgence of&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in parts of Asia and Europe has raised concerns that another wave could follow in the United States.

Watch |&nbsp;Reports: UK PM Boris Johnson faces 3 more fines for breaking covid-19 lockdown norms

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The US&nbsp;national public health agency said on Monday the&nbsp;BA.2&nbsp;sub-variant&nbsp;of&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;was estimated to account for nearly three of every four coronavirus&nbsp;variants in the country.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;BA.2&nbsp;variant&nbsp;now makes up about 86 per cent of all sequenced&nbsp;cases&nbsp;globally, according to the World Health Organization. It is known to be more transmissible than the BA.1 and BA.1.1&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;sub-variants. Evidence so far, though, suggests&nbsp;BA.2&nbsp;is no more likely to cause severe disease.&nbsp;

Scientists continue to emphasize vaccines are critical for avoiding the devastation the virus can cause.

Roughly 64.8 per cent&nbsp;of the world population has received at least one dose of a&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;vaccine, although only 14.8 per cent&nbsp;of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose, according to figures from Our World in Data.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;cases&nbsp;have flared in Europe and Asia recently, the United States still has the highest total&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;infections since the start of the pandemic with 80.41&nbsp;million, followed by India with 43.04&nbsp;million&nbsp;and Brazil with 30.14&nbsp;million.&nbsp;

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Since 2020, about 37 per cent&nbsp;of the world’s covid&nbsp;cases&nbsp;have been in Europe, 21 per cent&nbsp;in Asia and 17 per cent&nbsp;in North America.

About 6.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people have lost their lives to covid since the pandemic began. The United States has reported the highest number of deaths, followed by Russia, Brazil and India.

Russia overtook Brazil to have the world's second-highest death toll from&nbsp;COVID-19, data from Russia's state statistics service and Reuters calculations showed on Thursday.&nbsp;

Global COVID-19 cases surpassed 500 million on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally, as the highly contagious BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron surges in many countries in Europe and Asia.

Global COVID-19 cases surpassed 500 million on Thursday, according to a Reuters tally, as the highly contagious BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron surges in many countries in Europe and Asia. The rise of BA.2 has been blamed for recent surges in China as well as record infections in Europe. It has been called the "stealth variant" because it is slightly harder to track than others. South Korea leads the world in the daily average number of new cases, reporting more than 182,000 new infections a day and accounting for one in every four infections globally, according to a Reuters analysis. Also read | UK medicines regulator approves Valneva COVID-19 vaccine for adult use New cases are rising in 20 out of more than 240 countries and territories tracked, including Taiwan, Thailand and Bhutan. Shanghai is fighting China's worst COVID-19 outbreak since the virus first emerged in Wuhan in late 2019, with almost 25,000 new local cases reported, although the city's quarantine policy is criticized for separating children from parents and putting asymptomatic cases among those with symptoms. "Shanghai's epidemic prevention and control is at the most difficult and most critical stage," Wu Qianyu, an official with the municipal health commission, told a briefing. Europe, US still affected Some European countries are now seeing a slower uptick in new cases, or even a decline, but the region is still reporting over 1 million cases about every two days, according to the Reuters tally. In Germany, the seven-day average of new infections has fallen and is now at 59 per cent of its previous peak in late March. New cases are also falling in the United Kingdom and Italy, while they are holding steady in France. Overall, COVID-19 cases in the United States have dropped sharply after hitting record levels in January, but the resurgence of cases in parts of Asia and Europe has raised concerns that another wave could follow in the United States. Watch | Reports: UK PM Boris Johnson faces 3 more fines for breaking covid-19 lockdown norms The US national public health agency said on Monday the BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron was estimated to account for nearly three of every four coronavirus variants in the country. The BA.2 variant now makes up about 86 per cent of all sequenced cases globally, according to the World Health Organization. It is known to be more transmissible than the BA.1 and BA.1.1 Omicron sub-variants. Evidence so far, though, suggests BA.2 is no more likely to cause severe disease. Scientists continue to emphasize vaccines are critical for avoiding the devastation the virus can cause. Roughly 64.8 per cent of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID vaccine, although only 14.8 per cent of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose, according to figures from Our World in Data. While cases have flared in Europe and Asia recently, the United States still has the highest total COVID infections since the start of the pandemic with 80.41 million, followed by India with 43.04 million and Brazil with 30.14 million. Also read | Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report Since 2020, about 37 per cent of the world’s covid cases have been in Europe, 21 per cent in Asia and 17 per cent in North America. About 6.5 million people have lost their lives to covid since the pandemic began. The United States has reported the highest number of deaths, followed by Russia, Brazil and India. Russia overtook Brazil to have the world's second-highest death toll from COVID-19, data from Russia's state statistics service and Reuters calculations showed on Thursday.

Worldwide covid cases surpass 500 million as Omicron variant BA.2 surges

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

The death toll climbed to 5,21,530 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-detects-first-case-of-omicron-xe-variant-in-mumbai-468855">COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai</a>

A reduction of 232 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.21 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.22 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,24,98,789 while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.20 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is it time to go mask-less?

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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. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

The 43 new fatalities include 32 from Kerala.

A total of 5,21,530 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,800 from Maharashtra, 68,228 from Kerala, 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,497 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/second-booster-shot-protects-against-covid-19-but-effect-remains-short-lived-study-468788">Second booster shot protects against COVID-19 but effect remains short-lived: Study</a>

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

With 1,033 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases rose to 4,30,31,958, while the active cases dipped to 11,639, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday. The death toll climbed to 5,21,530 with 43 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.03 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate remained at 98.76 per cent, the ministry said. Also read | COVID-19: India detects first case of Omicron XE variant in Mumbai A reduction of 232 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.21 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.22 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,24,98,789 while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.21 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 185.20 crore. Watch | Gravitas: Is it time to go mask-less? 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. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. The 43 new fatalities include 32 from Kerala. A total of 5,21,530 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,800 from Maharashtra, 68,228 from Kerala, 40,056 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,155 from Delhi, 23,497 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,200 from West Bengal. Also read | Second booster shot protects against COVID-19 but effect remains short-lived: Study The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

COVID-19: India logs 1,033 new cases, active cases dipped to 11,639

If you haven’t had COVID-19 that means you don’t have friends, a doctor from South Korea has claimed, inviting ridicule and criticism from people.

Ma Sang-hyuk, the vice-president of Korean Vaccine Society, made these comments in a Facebook post, which was widely shared on social media.

“The adults who have not yet been infected with COVID-19 are those who have interpersonal problems,” he said.

The doctor reportedly deleted the post on March 16, claiming his words were meant to be ‘metaphorical’ and had been misunderstood, news site Daily reports.

“It emphasized how difficult it is for anyone to avoid the virus in a situation where there is a high rate of confirmed cases in the area,” he was quoted as saying.

The remarks were made on the day South Korea recorded 400,741 new Covid cases.

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The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KCDA) warned that the Omicron variant is driving the record wave of infections.

Nearly 63 per cent of the country's 52 million residents had received booster shots, with 86.6 per cent of the population fully vaccinated, the KDCA said.

However, as of March 27, the daily cases have come down considerably since then, with health officials in the country believing that Omicron may have peaked in South Korea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-exit-zero-covid-strategy-top-scientist-says-it-cannot-remain-unchanged-forever-457858">China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever'</a>

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the country recorded 318,130 COVID-19 infections during the 24 hours of Saturday, staying below 400,000 for the fourth consecutive day.

The country’s daily COVID-19 cases have been decreasing since Tuesday, when the figure surpassed 490,000 cases during the 24-hour period that day, The Korean Herald newspaper reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

If you haven’t had COVID-19 that means you don’t have friends, a doctor from South Korea has claimed, inviting ridicule and criticism from people. Ma Sang-hyuk, the vice-president of Korean Vaccine Society, made these comments in a Facebook post, which was widely shared on social media.

If you haven’t had COVID-19 that means you don’t have friends, a doctor from South Korea has claimed, inviting ridicule and criticism from people. Ma Sang-hyuk, the vice-president of Korean Vaccine Society, made these comments in a Facebook post, which was widely shared on social media. “The adults who have not yet been infected with COVID-19 are those who have interpersonal problems,” he said. The doctor reportedly deleted the post on March 16, claiming his words were meant to be ‘metaphorical’ and had been misunderstood, news site Daily reports. “It emphasized how difficult it is for anyone to avoid the virus in a situation where there is a high rate of confirmed cases in the area,” he was quoted as saying. The remarks were made on the day South Korea recorded 400,741 new Covid cases. Also read | Next Covid variant may be more dangerous than Omicron, say scientists The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KCDA) warned that the Omicron variant is driving the record wave of infections. Nearly 63 per cent of the country's 52 million residents had received booster shots, with 86.6 per cent of the population fully vaccinated, the KDCA said. However, as of March 27, the daily cases have come down considerably since then, with health officials in the country believing that Omicron may have peaked in South Korea. Also read | China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever' According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the country recorded 318,130 COVID-19 infections during the 24 hours of Saturday, staying below 400,000 for the fourth consecutive day. The country’s daily COVID-19 cases have been decreasing since Tuesday, when the figure surpassed 490,000 cases during the 24-hour period that day, The Korean Herald newspaper reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Those who haven’t had Covid yet probably have no friends, says South Korean doctor

Shanghai on Saturday recorded a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, but a member of the city's pandemic task force said officials were determined to avoid a full lockdown over the damage it would do to the economy.

Millions of Chinese in affected areas have been subjected to city-wide lockdowns by an Omicron-led outbreak that has sent daily case counts creeping ever-higher, though they remain insignificant compared to other countries.

Shanghai, however, has aimed to ease disruption with a more targeted approach marked by rolling 48-hour lockdowns of individual neighbourhoods and large-scale testing while largely keeping the metropolis of 25 million people running.

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At a daily Shanghai press conference Saturday, officials alluded to the importance of avoiding a full lockdown of the huge port city.

"If Shanghai, this city of ours, came to a complete halt, there would be many international cargo ships floating in the East China Sea," said Wu Fan, a medical expert with the city's pandemic task force.

"This would impact the entire national economy and the global economy."

Wu made the comments as city officials also announced that they would begin handing out self-testing kits to Shanghai residents, in the latest sign that the government was expanding its pandemic response.

The northeastern province of Jilin also said Saturday that it had begun distributing 500,000 of the rapid-antigen kits.

Shanghai and Jilin have been the areas hardest hit by the outbreak, which took off in early March.&nbsp;

China had largely kept the coronavirus -- which first emerged in the city of Wuhan in late 2019 -- under control through its strict zero-tolerance measures.

But that top-down approach is increasingly being questioned amid concerns over the economic impact and public "pandemic fatigue", especially considering Omicron's less severe symptoms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-to-further-relax-covid-19-restrictions-as-cases-decline-says-pm-465178">Singapore to further relax COVID-19 restrictions as cases decline, says PM</a>

The National Health Commission announced two weeks ago that it would introduce the sale in China of rapid antigen self-test kits for the first time, and they have begun to appear on pharmacy shelves.

But Saturday's announcements appeared to mark their first wide-scale use as part of official pandemic control measures.

China on Saturday reported 5,600 new confirmed domestic transmissions, most of them asymptomatic.

Chinese authorities had watched nervously as a deadly Hong Kong Omicron surge sparked panic buying and claimed a high toll of unvaccinated elderly in the southern Chinese city.

Its subsequent spread in mainland China has posed a dilemma for authorities wrestling with how forcefully they should respond.

On Wednesday, Shanghai infectious disease expert Zhang Wenhong, a top doctor in the city's pandemic fight, called for balancing anti-virus measures with maintenance of "normal life".

The comments in his widely followed blog indicated growing official tolerance for voices who question the lockdown approach.

Shanghai's softer strategy has so far failed to stop cases from rising, and the localised lockdowns have provoked grumbling online and a run on groceries in some districts.

Shanghai on Saturday reported another steep rise in new local transmissions to 2,269 -- around 40 percent of the national total.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;This could happen if China doesn’t control its worst Covid-19 outbreak

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/this-could-happen-if-china-doesnt-control-its-worst-covid-19-outbreak-464622/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Shanghai on Saturday recorded a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, but a member of the city's pandemic task force said officials were determined to avoid a full lockdown over the damage it would do to the economy.

Shanghai on Saturday recorded a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, but a member of the city's pandemic task force said officials were determined to avoid a full lockdown over the damage it would do to the economy. Millions of Chinese in affected areas have been subjected to city-wide lockdowns by an Omicron-led outbreak that has sent daily case counts creeping ever-higher, though they remain insignificant compared to other countries. Shanghai, however, has aimed to ease disruption with a more targeted approach marked by rolling 48-hour lockdowns of individual neighbourhoods and large-scale testing while largely keeping the metropolis of 25 million people running. Also read | Transplantation of organs from deceased COVID-19 patients is safe and possible. Here's how At a daily Shanghai press conference Saturday, officials alluded to the importance of avoiding a full lockdown of the huge port city. "If Shanghai, this city of ours, came to a complete halt, there would be many international cargo ships floating in the East China Sea," said Wu Fan, a medical expert with the city's pandemic task force. "This would impact the entire national economy and the global economy." Wu made the comments as city officials also announced that they would begin handing out self-testing kits to Shanghai residents, in the latest sign that the government was expanding its pandemic response. The northeastern province of Jilin also said Saturday that it had begun distributing 500,000 of the rapid-antigen kits. Shanghai and Jilin have been the areas hardest hit by the outbreak, which took off in early March. China had largely kept the coronavirus -- which first emerged in the city of Wuhan in late 2019 -- under control through its strict zero-tolerance measures. But that top-down approach is increasingly being questioned amid concerns over the economic impact and public "pandemic fatigue", especially considering Omicron's less severe symptoms. Also read | Singapore to further relax COVID-19 restrictions as cases decline, says PM The National Health Commission announced two weeks ago that it would introduce the sale in China of rapid antigen self-test kits for the first time, and they have begun to appear on pharmacy shelves. But Saturday's announcements appeared to mark their first wide-scale use as part of official pandemic control measures. China on Saturday reported 5,600 new confirmed domestic transmissions, most of them asymptomatic. Chinese authorities had watched nervously as a deadly Hong Kong Omicron surge sparked panic buying and claimed a high toll of unvaccinated elderly in the southern Chinese city. Its subsequent spread in mainland China has posed a dilemma for authorities wrestling with how forcefully they should respond. On Wednesday, Shanghai infectious disease expert Zhang Wenhong, a top doctor in the city's pandemic fight, called for balancing anti-virus measures with maintenance of "normal life". The comments in his widely followed blog indicated growing official tolerance for voices who question the lockdown approach. Shanghai's softer strategy has so far failed to stop cases from rising, and the localised lockdowns have provoked grumbling online and a run on groceries in some districts. Shanghai on Saturday reported another steep rise in new local transmissions to 2,269 -- around 40 percent of the national total. Watch | This could happen if China doesn’t control its worst Covid-19 outbreak

Despite spike in Covid cases, Shanghai won't go for lockdown, says official

As a resurgent COVID-19 wreaks havoc in China, more than 70 officials have been let go as a “punishment” in the past one month for failing to control the virus.

China has been witnessing a spurt in Covid cases owing to the more contagious Omicron variant.

According to South China Morning Post, top leaders have warned officials that strict action would be taken if they fail to act swiftly.

The warning comes even as health officials have acknowledged that most of the infections showed little or no symptoms making their detection difficult, the newspaper reported.

The newspaper claimed that at least 74 officials have been sacked or reprimanded for failing to do their duty during the current wave.

Meanwhile, China reported over 4,700 new infections on Tuesday, with the bulk of cases being recorded from the northeastern province of Jilin, where more than 9 million people have been placed under lockdown.

Jilin has mostly banned trips both outside the province and from region to region within the province, and residents who have to travel must notify the police.

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The number of local symptomatic cases in Jilin's provincial capital of Changchun has increased for five days in a row and hit a record on March 21.

In Shenyang, an industrial base home to factories including carmaker BMW, 47 new cases were reported on Tuesday as authorities put all housing compounds under "closed management" and barred residents from leaving without a 48-hour negative test result.

In China's financial hub Shanghai, 865 domestically transmitted asymptomatic infections were reported on Monday, an increase from 734 a day earlier, reports Reuters citing the official data.

Although small compared with the number of infections in many outbreaks overseas, the rise is significant as Shanghai redoubles its efforts to implement China's "dynamic clearance" policy designed to curb each flare-up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/next-covid-variant-may-be-more-dangerous-than-omicron-say-scientists-453061">Next Covid variant may be more dangerous than Omicron, say scientists</a>

The city is pressing ahead with a block by block testing scheme after already completing more than 30 million tests.

The southern tech powerhouse of Shenzhen on Monday announced it would lift its week-long lockdown "in an orderly manner", after having partially eased measures on Friday to minimise the impact of virus shutdowns on factories and ports.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron threatens China's Zero COVID policy as it battles worst COVID wave in 2 years

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-threatens-chinas-zero-covid-policy-as-it-battles-worst-covid-wave-in-2-years-464068/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

As a resurgent COVID-19 wreaks havoc in China, more than 70 officials have been let go as a “punishment” in the past one month for failing to control the virus. China has been witnessing a spurt in Covid cases owing to the more contagious Omicron variant.

As a resurgent COVID-19 wreaks havoc in China, more than 70 officials have been let go as a “punishment” in the past one month for failing to control the virus. China has been witnessing a spurt in Covid cases owing to the more contagious Omicron variant. According to South China Morning Post, top leaders have warned officials that strict action would be taken if they fail to act swiftly. The warning comes even as health officials have acknowledged that most of the infections showed little or no symptoms making their detection difficult, the newspaper reported. The newspaper claimed that at least 74 officials have been sacked or reprimanded for failing to do their duty during the current wave. Meanwhile, China reported over 4,700 new infections on Tuesday, with the bulk of cases being recorded from the northeastern province of Jilin, where more than 9 million people have been placed under lockdown. Jilin has mostly banned trips both outside the province and from region to region within the province, and residents who have to travel must notify the police. Also read | BA.2 sub-variant driving spurt in Covid numbers in Scotland The number of local symptomatic cases in Jilin's provincial capital of Changchun has increased for five days in a row and hit a record on March 21. In Shenyang, an industrial base home to factories including carmaker BMW, 47 new cases were reported on Tuesday as authorities put all housing compounds under "closed management" and barred residents from leaving without a 48-hour negative test result. In China's financial hub Shanghai, 865 domestically transmitted asymptomatic infections were reported on Monday, an increase from 734 a day earlier, reports Reuters citing the official data. Although small compared with the number of infections in many outbreaks overseas, the rise is significant as Shanghai redoubles its efforts to implement China's "dynamic clearance" policy designed to curb each flare-up. Also read | Next Covid variant may be more dangerous than Omicron, say scientists The city is pressing ahead with a block by block testing scheme after already completing more than 30 million tests. The southern tech powerhouse of Shenzhen on Monday announced it would lift its week-long lockdown "in an orderly manner", after having partially eased measures on Friday to minimise the impact of virus shutdowns on factories and ports. Watch | Omicron threatens China's Zero COVID policy as it battles worst COVID wave in 2 years (With inputs from agencies)

China continues to break Covid case record, officials face the brunt for 'laxity'

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