Germany&nbsp;reported&nbsp;another&nbsp;record&nbsp;high seven-day&nbsp;incidence&nbsp;of the coronavirus on Wednesday even as the country prepares to ease restrictions.

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) registered 262,593 new infections, a 22% jump compared to a week ago, bringing the total number of infections to nearly 17.7 million.

Infections have been rising again since the start of March after rules preventing unvaccinated people from accessing many indoor public spaces started to be eased.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-global-rise-in-covid-cases-is-tip-of-the-iceberg-463031">WHO says global rise in COVID-19 cases is 'tip of the iceberg'</a>

The seven-day&nbsp;incidence&nbsp;rose to a new high of 1,607 infections per 100,000 people on Wednesday, up from 1,585 the day before.

Another&nbsp;269 people died, bringing the total death toll to 126,142 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-protests-against-covid-measures-rock-europe-australia-430905">In Pics: Protests against Covid measures rock Europe, Australia</a>

On Friday, parliament is set to adopt a slimmed-down law that will significantly reduce restrictions around&nbsp;Germany. The existing law expires on Saturday.

The government argues that even though cases are rising, there is no longer a major risk of overloading the health system due to vaccinations and the fact that the dominant Omicron variant often has milder symptoms.

Limited protective measures will still be possible in hotspots with high numbers of infections.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Global covid cases are rising again

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Germany reported another record high seven-day incidence of the coronavirus on Wednesday even as the country prepares to ease restrictions. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) registered 262,593 new infections, a 22% jump compared to a week ago, bringing the total number of infections to nearly 17.

Germany reported another record high seven-day incidence of the coronavirus on Wednesday even as the country prepares to ease restrictions. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) registered 262,593 new infections, a 22% jump compared to a week ago, bringing the total number of infections to nearly 17.7 million. Infections have been rising again since the start of March after rules preventing unvaccinated people from accessing many indoor public spaces started to be eased. Also read | WHO says global rise in COVID-19 cases is 'tip of the iceberg' The seven-day incidence rose to a new high of 1,607 infections per 100,000 people on Wednesday, up from 1,585 the day before. Another 269 people died, bringing the total death toll to 126,142 people. Also read | In Pics: Protests against Covid measures rock Europe, Australia On Friday, parliament is set to adopt a slimmed-down law that will significantly reduce restrictions around Germany. The existing law expires on Saturday. The government argues that even though cases are rising, there is no longer a major risk of overloading the health system due to vaccinations and the fact that the dominant Omicron variant often has milder symptoms. Limited protective measures will still be possible in hotspots with high numbers of infections. Watch | Gravitas: Global covid cases are rising again

Germany reports another record COVID-19 incidence

Figures showing a&nbsp;global&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;could herald a much bigger problem as some countries also report a drop in testing rates, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said on Tuesday, warning nations to remain vigilant against the virus.

After more than a month of decline,&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;cases&nbsp;started to increase around the world last week, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said, with lockdowns in Asia and China's Jilin province battling to contain an outbreak.

A combination of factors was causing the increases, including the highly transmissible Omicron variant and its BA.2 sublineage, and the lifting of public health and social measures, the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-scraps-covid-19-quarantine-for-international-travellers-462920">&nbsp;Vietnam scraps COVID-19 quarantine for international travellers</a>

"These increase are occurring despite reductions in testing in some countries, which means the&nbsp;cases&nbsp;we're seeing are just the tip of the iceberg,"&nbsp;WHO's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters.

Low vaccination rates in some countries, driven partly by a "huge amount of misinformation" also explained the&nbsp;rise,&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;officials said.

New infections jumped by 8 per cent&nbsp;globally compared to the previous week, with 11 million new&nbsp;cases&nbsp;and just over 43,000 new deaths reported from March 7-13. It is the first&nbsp;rise&nbsp;since the end of January.

The biggest jump was in the&nbsp;WHO's Western Pacific region, which includes South Korea and China, where&nbsp;cases&nbsp;rose by 25 per cent&nbsp;and deaths by 27 per cent.

Africa also saw a 12 per cent rise&nbsp;in new&nbsp;cases&nbsp;and 14 per cent&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in deaths, and Europe a 2 per cent&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;but no jump in deaths. Other regions reported declining&nbsp;cases, including the eastern Mediterranean region, although this area saw a 38 per cent&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in deaths linked to a previous spike in infections.

A number of experts have raised concerns that Europe faces another coronavirus wave, with case rising since the beginning of March in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

The&nbsp;WHO's Maria Van Kerkhove said at the briefing that BA.2 appears to be the most transmissible variant so far.

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However, there are no signs that it causes more severe disease, and no evidence that any other new variants are driving the&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in&nbsp;cases.

The picture in Europe is also not universal. Denmark, for example, saw a brief peak in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;in the first half of February, driven by BA.2, which quickly subsided.

But experts have begun to warn that the United States could soon see a similar wave to that seen in Europe, potentially driven by BA.2, the lifting of restrictions and potential waning immunity from vaccines given several months ago.

"I agree with the easing of restrictions, because you can't think of it as an emergency after two years," said Antonella Viola, professor of immunology at Italy's University of Padua.

"We just have to avoid thinking that&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;is no longer there. And therefore maintain the strictly necessary measures, which are essentially the continuous monitoring and tracking of&nbsp;cases, and the maintenance of the obligation to wear a mask in closed or very crowded places."

Watch |&nbsp;Report: Combo strain 'Deltacron' detected in Israel

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Figures showing a global rise in COVID-19 cases could herald a much bigger problem as some countries also report a drop in testing rates, the WHO said on Tuesday, warning nations to remain vigilant against the virus.

Figures showing a global rise in COVID-19 cases could herald a much bigger problem as some countries also report a drop in testing rates, the WHO said on Tuesday, warning nations to remain vigilant against the virus. After more than a month of decline, COVID cases started to increase around the world last week, the WHO said, with lockdowns in Asia and China's Jilin province battling to contain an outbreak. A combination of factors was causing the increases, including the highly transmissible Omicron variant and its BA.2 sublineage, and the lifting of public health and social measures, the WHO said. Also read | Vietnam scraps COVID-19 quarantine for international travellers "These increase are occurring despite reductions in testing in some countries, which means the cases we're seeing are just the tip of the iceberg," WHO's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters. Low vaccination rates in some countries, driven partly by a "huge amount of misinformation" also explained the rise, WHO officials said. New infections jumped by 8 per cent globally compared to the previous week, with 11 million new cases and just over 43,000 new deaths reported from March 7-13. It is the first rise since the end of January. The biggest jump was in the WHO's Western Pacific region, which includes South Korea and China, where cases rose by 25 per cent and deaths by 27 per cent. Africa also saw a 12 per cent rise in new cases and 14 per cent rise in deaths, and Europe a 2 per cent rise in cases but no jump in deaths. Other regions reported declining cases, including the eastern Mediterranean region, although this area saw a 38 per cent rise in deaths linked to a previous spike in infections. A number of experts have raised concerns that Europe faces another coronavirus wave, with case rising since the beginning of March in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The WHO's Maria Van Kerkhove said at the briefing that BA.2 appears to be the most transmissible variant so far. Also read | In Pics: Protests against Covid measures rock Europe, Australia However, there are no signs that it causes more severe disease, and no evidence that any other new variants are driving the rise in cases. The picture in Europe is also not universal. Denmark, for example, saw a brief peak in cases in the first half of February, driven by BA.2, which quickly subsided. But experts have begun to warn that the United States could soon see a similar wave to that seen in Europe, potentially driven by BA.2, the lifting of restrictions and potential waning immunity from vaccines given several months ago. "I agree with the easing of restrictions, because you can't think of it as an emergency after two years," said Antonella Viola, professor of immunology at Italy's University of Padua. "We just have to avoid thinking that COVID is no longer there. And therefore maintain the strictly necessary measures, which are essentially the continuous monitoring and tracking of cases, and the maintenance of the obligation to wear a mask in closed or very crowded places." Watch | Report: Combo strain 'Deltacron' detected in Israel

WHO says global rise in COVID-19 cases is 'tip of the iceberg'

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;reported a record of more than 600,000 coronavirus cases Thursday, with authorities saying the country was near the peak of an Omicron-fuelled infection wave.

According to WHO data,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;leads the world in newly reported cases in the last seven days with 2,417,174 infections, followed by Vietnam with 1,776,045.

The 621,328 case tally recorded Thursday is&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's highest daily figure since the pandemic began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-global-rise-in-covid-cases-is-tip-of-the-iceberg-463031">WHO says global rise in COVID-19 cases is 'tip of the iceberg'</a>

But critical cases and deaths remain comparatively low in the country of around 52 million where the majority of adults are fully vaccinated and have received a booster shot, official data shows.

"We have been preparing for an increase in the number of patients since Omicron became dominant," Lee Sang-won, a senior official at the&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said Thursday.&nbsp;

But even the government's modelling did not anticipate this many, he said.&nbsp;

"The number is much greater than what was expected," he said.

Health authorities believe&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;is nearing the peak of an Omicron-driven wave, but Lee said they were recalculating "the scale of the confirmed cases or how long the 'peak period' is going to last".

Once it has passed, officials believe the country will be able to start getting back to normal.

"I think this crisis will be the last major crisis in the overall response to Covid-19," Sohn Young-rae, a senior health ministry official, said Wednesday.

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Since the pandemic began in 2020, 11,481 people have died of Covid in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, according to health authorities.

Its total Covid fatality rate stands at 0.14 percent as of Thursday, compared to 0.05 to 0.1 percent for seasonal flu, according to official statistics.

The&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;surge and its&nbsp;economic&nbsp;implications&nbsp;will pose an immediate&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;to&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's new president-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, who&nbsp;narrowly&nbsp;won&nbsp;last week.

Seoul abandoned its "trace, test and treat" approach last month as a dramatic surge in Omicron cases threatened to overwhelm its healthcare system.

Instead of mass testing and aggressive contact tracing, patients with mild or moderate symptoms are now asked to look after themselves at home.

Authorities are also prioritising PCR testing for people aged 60 or older.

The country has continued to relax its social distancing rules, under pressure from small businesses owners who say years-long Covid restrictions had pushed them to the brink.

The government is expected to decide whether to keep current distancing guidelines, such as an 11 pm curfew for businesses, this Friday.

Later this month, Seoul will also begin vaccinating children between the ages of 5 and 11.

Watch |&nbsp;South Korea facing worst COVID-19 outbreak as government eases norms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-facing-worst-covid-19-outbreak-as-government-eases-norms-463032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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South Korea reported a record of more than 600,000 coronavirus cases Thursday, with authorities saying the country was near the peak of an Omicron-fuelled infection wave.

South Korea reported a record of more than 600,000 coronavirus cases Thursday, with authorities saying the country was near the peak of an Omicron-fuelled infection wave. According to WHO data, South Korea leads the world in newly reported cases in the last seven days with 2,417,174 infections, followed by Vietnam with 1,776,045. The 621,328 case tally recorded Thursday is South Korea's highest daily figure since the pandemic began. Also read | WHO says global rise in COVID-19 cases is 'tip of the iceberg' But critical cases and deaths remain comparatively low in the country of around 52 million where the majority of adults are fully vaccinated and have received a booster shot, official data shows. "We have been preparing for an increase in the number of patients since Omicron became dominant," Lee Sang-won, a senior official at the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said Thursday. But even the government's modelling did not anticipate this many, he said. "The number is much greater than what was expected," he said. Health authorities believe South Korea is nearing the peak of an Omicron-driven wave, but Lee said they were recalculating "the scale of the confirmed cases or how long the 'peak period' is going to last". Once it has passed, officials believe the country will be able to start getting back to normal. "I think this crisis will be the last major crisis in the overall response to Covid-19," Sohn Young-rae, a senior health ministry official, said Wednesday. Also read | Suspected North Korea missile fails after launch over Pyongyang Since the pandemic began in 2020, 11,481 people have died of Covid in South Korea, according to health authorities. Its total Covid fatality rate stands at 0.14 percent as of Thursday, compared to 0.05 to 0.1 percent for seasonal flu, according to official statistics. The Omicron surge and its economic implications will pose an immediate challenge to South Korea's new president-elect Yoon Suk-yeol, who narrowly won last week. Seoul abandoned its "trace, test and treat" approach last month as a dramatic surge in Omicron cases threatened to overwhelm its healthcare system. Instead of mass testing and aggressive contact tracing, patients with mild or moderate symptoms are now asked to look after themselves at home. Authorities are also prioritising PCR testing for people aged 60 or older. The country has continued to relax its social distancing rules, under pressure from small businesses owners who say years-long Covid restrictions had pushed them to the brink. The government is expected to decide whether to keep current distancing guidelines, such as an 11 pm curfew for businesses, this Friday. Later this month, Seoul will also begin vaccinating children between the ages of 5 and 11. Watch | South Korea facing worst COVID-19 outbreak as government eases norms

South Korea reports more than 600,000 Covid cases amid Omicron surge

Wuhan virus cases are rising again around the world. In China - 10 cities are under lockdown. In Europe, multiple countries are reporting a rise in infections. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Global covid cases are rising again

Mainland&nbsp;China has logged its highest number of daily new local symptomatic COVID-19 infections in about two years, as the highly transmissible Omicron variant pressures its stringent policy to curb each outbreak quickly.

China reported 214 domestically transmitted cases with confirmed symptoms for Sunday, data from the National Health Commission showed on Monday.

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That marks the highest daily caseload since Chinese authorities started in early March 2020 to count locally found infections and cases arriving from outside&nbsp;mainland&nbsp;separately.

China's latest local virus flare-ups are tiny by global standards, and the country is sticking to its "dynamic-clearing" policy which requires local authorities to quickly identify and quarantine every infection and their close contacts and impose travel restrictions to cut off transmission.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-spikes-to-2008-highs-as-us-europe-mull-russian-oil-import-ban-iran-delay-459688">Oil spikes to 2008 highs as U.S., Europe mull Russian oil import ban, Iran delay</a>

The majority of Sunday's 214 local cases were found in the provinces of Guangdong, Jilin and Shandong.

The number of locally transmitted asymptomatic cases rose to 312 for Sunday, the highest daily number since China stared in late March, 2020 to classify symptomless infections seperately from confirmed cases.

There were no new deaths, leaving the death toll unchanged at 4,636.

As of March 6, China had reported 111,195 cases with confirmed symptoms, including both local ones and those arriving from outside the&nbsp;mainland.

Mainland China has logged its highest number of daily new local symptomatic COVID-19 infections in about two years, as the highly transmissible Omicron variant pressures its stringent policy to curb each outbreak quickly.

Mainland China has logged its highest number of daily new local symptomatic COVID-19 infections in about two years, as the highly transmissible Omicron variant pressures its stringent policy to curb each outbreak quickly. China reported 214 domestically transmitted cases with confirmed symptoms for Sunday, data from the National Health Commission showed on Monday. Also read | An Ukrainian boy travelled 1,000 km alone to Slovakia to get to safety That marks the highest daily caseload since Chinese authorities started in early March 2020 to count locally found infections and cases arriving from outside mainland separately. China's latest local virus flare-ups are tiny by global standards, and the country is sticking to its "dynamic-clearing" policy which requires local authorities to quickly identify and quarantine every infection and their close contacts and impose travel restrictions to cut off transmission. Also read | Oil spikes to 2008 highs as U.S., Europe mull Russian oil import ban, Iran delay The majority of Sunday's 214 local cases were found in the provinces of Guangdong, Jilin and Shandong. The number of locally transmitted asymptomatic cases rose to 312 for Sunday, the highest daily number since China stared in late March, 2020 to classify symptomless infections seperately from confirmed cases. There were no new deaths, leaving the death toll unchanged at 4,636. As of March 6, China had reported 111,195 cases with confirmed symptoms, including both local ones and those arriving from outside the mainland.

COVID-19: China daily local virus cases at two-year high

The COVID-19 is starting to shift from a pandemic to a more manageable endemic, several top experts have opined, adding that a rapid fall in Omicron cases indicated that the deadly virus is in the&nbsp;‘endgame’.

&nbsp;WHO Europe director Hans Kluge told news agency AFP in an interview on Sunday that the region is witnessing the final phase of the Omicron variant.

“It’s plausible that the region is moving towards a kind of pandemic endgame,” Kluge said, adding that Omicron could infect 60 per cent of Europeans by March.

He said that once the Omicron subsides across Europe, “there will be for quite some weeks and months a global immunity, either thanks to the vaccine or because people have immunity due to the infection, and also lowering seasonality.”

“We anticipate that there will be a period of quiet before COVID-19 may come back towards the end of the year, but not necessarily the pandemic coming back,” Kluge said.

US’ top scientist Anthony Fauci also expressed similar optimism.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-is-omicron-sub-variant-ba2-a-threat-in-india-more-than-400-cases-found-in-england-446950">COVID-19: Is Omicron 'sub-variant' BA.2 a threat in India? More than 400 cases found in England</a>

He told ABC News that with Covid-19 cases coming down “rather sharply” in parts of the United States, “things are looking good”.

While cautioning against overconfidence, he said that if the recent fall in case numbers in areas like the US's northeast continues, “I believe that you will start to see a turnaround throughout the entire country”.

Watch |&nbsp;Is Europe eyeing an end to COVID-19 pandemic?

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The WHO regional office for Africa also said last week that cases of Covid had plummeted in that region and deaths were declining for the first time since the Omicron-dominated fourth wave of the virus reached its peak.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-third-wave-of-coronavirus-peaked-in-india-find-several-answers-446836">Has third wave of coronavirus peaked in India? Find several answers</a>

The Omicron variant, which studies have shown is more contagious than Delta but generally leads to less severe infection among vaccinated people, has raised long-awaited hopes that Covid-19 is starting to shift from a pandemic to a more manageable endemic illness like seasonal flu.&nbsp;

But WHO’s Europe director Kluge cautioned that it was still too early to consider COVID-19 endemic and said that other variants might still emerge.

“There is a lot of talk about endemic but endemic means...that it is possible to predict what's going to happen. This virus has surprised (us) more than once so we have to be very careful,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The COVID-19 is starting to shift from a pandemic to a more manageable endemic, several top experts have opined, adding that a rapid fall in Omicron cases indicated that the deadly virus is in the ‘endgame’.

The COVID-19 is starting to shift from a pandemic to a more manageable endemic, several top experts have opined, adding that a rapid fall in Omicron cases indicated that the deadly virus is in the ‘endgame’. WHO Europe director Hans Kluge told news agency AFP in an interview on Sunday that the region is witnessing the final phase of the Omicron variant. “It’s plausible that the region is moving towards a kind of pandemic endgame,” Kluge said, adding that Omicron could infect 60 per cent of Europeans by March. He said that once the Omicron subsides across Europe, “there will be for quite some weeks and months a global immunity, either thanks to the vaccine or because people have immunity due to the infection, and also lowering seasonality.” “We anticipate that there will be a period of quiet before COVID-19 may come back towards the end of the year, but not necessarily the pandemic coming back,” Kluge said. US’ top scientist Anthony Fauci also expressed similar optimism. Also read | COVID-19: Is Omicron 'sub-variant' BA.2 a threat in India? More than 400 cases found in England He told ABC News that with Covid-19 cases coming down “rather sharply” in parts of the United States, “things are looking good”. While cautioning against overconfidence, he said that if the recent fall in case numbers in areas like the US's northeast continues, “I believe that you will start to see a turnaround throughout the entire country”. Watch | Is Europe eyeing an end to COVID-19 pandemic? The WHO regional office for Africa also said last week that cases of Covid had plummeted in that region and deaths were declining for the first time since the Omicron-dominated fourth wave of the virus reached its peak. Also read | Has third wave of coronavirus peaked in India? Find several answers The Omicron variant, which studies have shown is more contagious than Delta but generally leads to less severe infection among vaccinated people, has raised long-awaited hopes that Covid-19 is starting to shift from a pandemic to a more manageable endemic illness like seasonal flu. But WHO’s Europe director Kluge cautioned that it was still too early to consider COVID-19 endemic and said that other variants might still emerge. “There is a lot of talk about endemic but endemic means...that it is possible to predict what's going to happen. This virus has surprised (us) more than once so we have to be very careful,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Fall in Omicron cases: Early signs of Covid heading towards ‘endgame’, say experts

More than 20 cases of the coronavirus have been detected at the Esperanza Base research station in Antarctica, the media reported.

According to Patricia Ortuzar of the government's National Directorate of the Antarctic, 24 of the 43 scientists and military personnel stationed at Argentina's La Esperanza outpost have been infected.&nbsp;

As quoted by the Infobae news outlet, "COVID-19 has reached Esperanza Base in Antarctica, where 24 cases were discovered during the study of researchers and scientists as part of the 2022 campaign," the Antarctic command said.

Base employees who have not been vaccinated have been moved to Buenos Aires and placed in isolation. Those who were vaccinated against COVID-19 are still being monitored by doctors at the study station.&nbsp; 
 
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They had been in Antarctica since before Argentina's vaccination campaign began in 2021, and were scheduled to fly to the capital to get vaccinated.

They had decided to get their shots in Argentina rather than deal with the potential adverse effects of Antarctica's harsh environment.

The first occurrences on the frigid continent were recorded in December 2020 at a Chilean station. 
 
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Ortuzar stated that the situation at the La Esperanza base was "in control."

The remaining 15 asymptomatic coronavirus-positive employees remained at the base with the remainder of the crew.

Everyone has been vaccinated.

According to Ortuzar, all other Argentina bases are still free of COVID.&nbsp;

The La Esperanza base, built in 1952 in the extreme northwest of Antarctica, is one of 13 belonging to Argentina—six of them permanent.

In the winter months, Argentina has some 200 scientists, military personnel, and assistants at its permanent bases, a number that roughly doubles in summer.

The outbreak at La Esperanza started on January 12, when a base occupant was likely infected by a new arrival, said Ortuzar.

Argentina has been isolating and testing 300 scientists and military personnel aboard an icebreaker that is currently transporting them back to Antarctica to prevent illness at its Antarctic outposts since December.

Argentina, like many other nations, is in the midst of a third pandemic wave, with over 100,000 cases reported every day.

Since March 2020, the 45 million-strong South American country has recorded more than 7.4 million illnesses and 118,000 deaths.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 20 cases of the coronavirus have been detected at the Esperanza Base research station in Antarctica, the media reported. According to Patricia Ortuzar of the government's National Directorate of the Antarctic, 24 of the 43 scientists and military personnel stationed at Argentina's La Esperanza outpost have been infected.

More than 20 cases of the coronavirus have been detected at the Esperanza Base research station in Antarctica, the media reported. According to Patricia Ortuzar of the government's National Directorate of the Antarctic, 24 of the 43 scientists and military personnel stationed at Argentina's La Esperanza outpost have been infected. As quoted by the Infobae news outlet, "COVID-19 has reached Esperanza Base in Antarctica, where 24 cases were discovered during the study of researchers and scientists as part of the 2022 campaign," the Antarctic command said. Base employees who have not been vaccinated have been moved to Buenos Aires and placed in isolation. Those who were vaccinated against COVID-19 are still being monitored by doctors at the study station. Also Read: French minister criticised for announcing COVID-19 measures from Ibiza trip They had been in Antarctica since before Argentina's vaccination campaign began in 2021, and were scheduled to fly to the capital to get vaccinated. They had decided to get their shots in Argentina rather than deal with the potential adverse effects of Antarctica's harsh environment. The first occurrences on the frigid continent were recorded in December 2020 at a Chilean station. Also Read: Couple on never ending date due to Covid lockdown gets engaged Ortuzar stated that the situation at the La Esperanza base was "in control." The remaining 15 asymptomatic coronavirus-positive employees remained at the base with the remainder of the crew. Everyone has been vaccinated. According to Ortuzar, all other Argentina bases are still free of COVID. The La Esperanza base, built in 1952 in the extreme northwest of Antarctica, is one of 13 belonging to Argentina—six of them permanent. In the winter months, Argentina has some 200 scientists, military personnel, and assistants at its permanent bases, a number that roughly doubles in summer. The outbreak at La Esperanza started on January 12, when a base occupant was likely infected by a new arrival, said Ortuzar. Argentina has been isolating and testing 300 scientists and military personnel aboard an icebreaker that is currently transporting them back to Antarctica to prevent illness at its Antarctic outposts since December. Argentina, like many other nations, is in the midst of a third pandemic wave, with over 100,000 cases reported every day. Since March 2020, the 45 million-strong South American country has recorded more than 7.4 million illnesses and 118,000 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 20 COVID cases detected at an Argentine research station in Antarctica

Hospitalization in the US has reached a record high on Monday, with several states struggling to cope with the spike in cases. Now there were 132,000 hospitalizations for Covid, crossing the record set in January last year. But hospitalizations have been increasing steadily since late December, as the Omicron quickly took over Delta as the dominant version of the virus.

United States break Covid hospitalization record

The northern Bremen state in Germany has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country.

Around 84 per cent of the population in Bremen, the smallest of Germany's 16 federal states with fewer than 700,000 people, are double-vaccinated, compared with a national figure of around 72 per cent, reports news agency Reuters.

Roughly 44 per cent of the population have received a booster shot, compared with 42 per cent nationally.

Yet, Bremen is reporting one of the highest coronavirus cases in the country spurred by the Omicron variant.

The seven-day infection rate in Bremen stood at 800 cases per 100,000 residents on Thursday, the highest in Germany and more than double the national rate of 303, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases.

A data from the RKI on Thursday highlighted that Omicron accounts for more than 85 per cent of Covid infections in Bremen, well above the national figure of around 44 per cent.

As Omicron rages in the country, Germany's leaders are holding a discussion on Friday to discuss how to respond to the new variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/party-gone-wrong-canadian-passengers-stranded-in-mexico-after-airlines-refuse-to-fly-them-home-442907">Party gone wrong: Canadian passengers stranded in Mexico after airlines refuse to fly them home</a>

Among the measures that are being considered include shortening COVID-19 self-isolation periods over fears that health services might be stretched as case numbers spike.

The latest spurge in cases among the vaccinated corroborates several studies which noted that Omicron easily bypass immunity offered by the Covid vaccines.

However, the study also stated that vaccines help lower hospitalisation rates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wionews.com/world/omicron-surge-uk-to-deploy-troops-military-medics-to-help-hospital-staff-442887">Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff</a>

This is being witnessed in Breman. According to spokesperson for the state’s health senate Lukas Fuhrmann, the hospitals in the region were not as burdened as they were in the first three waves of the pandemic.

He said the patients infected with the new variant were coming in with milder symptoms.

However, doctors say that the non-intensive care units were already overburdened with patients with milder symptoms and added that the situation can worsen in the coming days.

(With inputs from agencies)

The northern Bremen state in Germany has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country. Around 84 per cent of the population in Bremen, the smallest of Germany's 16 federal states with fewer than 700,000 people, are double-vaccinated, compared with a national figure of around 72 per cent, reports news agency Reuters.

The northern Bremen state in Germany has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country. Around 84 per cent of the population in Bremen, the smallest of Germany's 16 federal states with fewer than 700,000 people, are double-vaccinated, compared with a national figure of around 72 per cent, reports news agency Reuters. Roughly 44 per cent of the population have received a booster shot, compared with 42 per cent nationally. Yet, Bremen is reporting one of the highest coronavirus cases in the country spurred by the Omicron variant. The seven-day infection rate in Bremen stood at 800 cases per 100,000 residents on Thursday, the highest in Germany and more than double the national rate of 303, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases. A data from the RKI on Thursday highlighted that Omicron accounts for more than 85 per cent of Covid infections in Bremen, well above the national figure of around 44 per cent. As Omicron rages in the country, Germany's leaders are holding a discussion on Friday to discuss how to respond to the new variant. Also read | Party gone wrong: Canadian passengers stranded in Mexico after airlines refuse to fly them home Among the measures that are being considered include shortening COVID-19 self-isolation periods over fears that health services might be stretched as case numbers spike. The latest spurge in cases among the vaccinated corroborates several studies which noted that Omicron easily bypass immunity offered by the Covid vaccines. However, the study also stated that vaccines help lower hospitalisation rates. Also read | Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff This is being witnessed in Breman. According to spokesperson for the state’s health senate Lukas Fuhrmann, the hospitals in the region were not as burdened as they were in the first three waves of the pandemic. He said the patients infected with the new variant were coming in with milder symptoms. However, doctors say that the non-intensive care units were already overburdened with patients with milder symptoms and added that the situation can worsen in the coming days. (With inputs from agencies)

In this German state, Omicron spreading among vaccinated people

The United Kingdom continues to report nearly 200,000 cases of Covid 19 infections pretty much on a day-to-day basis. But what is interesting is that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is resisting calls to impose a stringent lockdown.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson resists imposing a stringent lockdown

US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end.

In response to a question about when Covid cases would peak in America, President Joe Biden’s top medical advisor Fauci told CNBC on Wednesday, “I would imagine, given the size of our country and the diversity of vaccination versus not vaccination, that it likely will be more than a couple of weeks, probably by the end of January, I would think.”

Omicron has been fuelling fresh COVID-19 wave in the US with the new variant recording 59 per cent of all coronavirus cases in the country.

According to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker, the US recorded 265,427 COVID-19 cases in a week, which was the highest since January this year.

The new variant is considered most transmissible than the others, although the number of severe cases has remained relatively low even as&nbsp;hospitalisations&nbsp;have increased.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-reports-record-covid-19-cases-as-europe-battles-omicron-440977">Also Read:&nbsp;France reports record COVID-19 cases as Europe battles Omicron</a>

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 9,000 coronavirus patients are being hospitalised daily in the United States amid the Omicron surge.

The federal health officials have said that even though hospitalisations are rising, the virus deaths in the US have been declining.

According to the CDC, Omicron is estimated to be 58.6 per cent of COVID-19 variants circulating in the US. While the Delta variant, which was the main reason for the Covid spike earlier this year, is now accounting for 41.1 per cent of all cases in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tsunami-of-cases-delta-omicron-are-twin-threats-says-who-441022">Also Read:&nbsp;'Tsunami of cases': Delta &amp; Omicron are twin threats, says WHO&nbsp;</a>

California, New York are among the worst-hit states from COVID-19 at present.

On Tuesday, California became the first state across the country to report more than five million cases in total. More than 86,000 people tested positive for Covid in the last 24 hours.

The US CDC has listed California as an area with “high” transmission of the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end. In response to a question about when Covid cases would peak in America, President Joe Biden’s top medical advisor Fauci told CNBC on Wednesday, “I would imagine, given the size of our country and the diversity of vaccination versus not vaccination, that it likely will be more than a couple of weeks, probably by the end of January, I would think.

US top medical chief Anthony Fauci has predicted that Omicron cases are likely to peak by January-end. In response to a question about when Covid cases would peak in America, President Joe Biden’s top medical advisor Fauci told CNBC on Wednesday, “I would imagine, given the size of our country and the diversity of vaccination versus not vaccination, that it likely will be more than a couple of weeks, probably by the end of January, I would think.” Omicron has been fuelling fresh COVID-19 wave in the US with the new variant recording 59 per cent of all coronavirus cases in the country. According to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracker, the US recorded 265,427 COVID-19 cases in a week, which was the highest since January this year. The new variant is considered most transmissible than the others, although the number of severe cases has remained relatively low even as hospitalisations have increased. Also Read: France reports record COVID-19 cases as Europe battles Omicron According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 9,000 coronavirus patients are being hospitalised daily in the United States amid the Omicron surge. The federal health officials have said that even though hospitalisations are rising, the virus deaths in the US have been declining. According to the CDC, Omicron is estimated to be 58.6 per cent of COVID-19 variants circulating in the US. While the Delta variant, which was the main reason for the Covid spike earlier this year, is now accounting for 41.1 per cent of all cases in the country. Also Read: 'Tsunami of cases': Delta & Omicron are twin threats, says WHO California, New York are among the worst-hit states from COVID-19 at present. On Tuesday, California became the first state across the country to report more than five million cases in total. More than 86,000 people tested positive for Covid in the last 24 hours. The US CDC has listed California as an area with “high” transmission of the virus. (With inputs from agencies)

US Omicron cases could peak by January-end, says top medical chief Fauci

As Santa rode the cherry picker - the fire truck's hydraulic crane with a railed platform to carry people - accompanied by a firefighter, he delivered gift-wrapped presents to children.

Christmas: Santa's sweet gift to COVID infected kids in Peru

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive.

President Cyril Ramaphosa warned on Monday that South Africa is preparing its hospitals for additional admissions as the Omicron variant drives the country into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections.

The appearance of the new Omicron form was unavoidable, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who called the increase in infections a "grave concern."

In a weekly communication, Ramaphosa stated that Omicron looked to be dominating new infections in most provinces and recommended more people to acquire COVID-19 vaccines.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-acts-as-a-wake-up-call-for-rich-nations-about-vaccine-inequality-experts-434570">Also read | Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts</a>

The number of daily infections has surged fivefold in the last week, according to the President, with roughly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive.

Only 2% of tests were positive only two weeks earlier.&nbsp;

"While the surge in infections is of great concern, we should remember that we anticipated it. Disease modellers in our country have told us that we would likely experience a fourth wave around this time and that it was almost inevitable that new variants of the virus would emerge, " Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.

"As the country heads into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, we are experiencing a rate of infections that we have not seen since the pandemic started. The Omicron variant that was brought to global attention by South African scientists nearly two weeks ago appears to be dominating new infections in most provinces, " he said.

Scientists in South Africa and throughout the globe are still working to answer key issues regarding the novel Omicron variation, including its transmissibility, progression, whether it produces more severe illness, and how effective vaccinations will be against it, he added.&nbsp;

Without waiting for stronger lockdown laws, Ramaphosa advised citizens to be vaccinated and take steps to protect communal safety.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive.

The President said the number of daily infections has increased five-fold in the past week, with nearly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Two weeks ago, only two per cent of tests were positive. President Cyril Ramaphosa warned on Monday that South Africa is preparing its hospitals for additional admissions as the Omicron variant drives the country into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections. The appearance of the new Omicron form was unavoidable, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who called the increase in infections a "grave concern." In a weekly communication, Ramaphosa stated that Omicron looked to be dominating new infections in most provinces and recommended more people to acquire COVID-19 vaccines. Also read | Omicron acts as a wake-up call for rich nations about vaccine inequality: Experts The number of daily infections has surged fivefold in the last week, according to the President, with roughly a quarter of all COVID-19 tests now returning positive. Only 2% of tests were positive only two weeks earlier. "While the surge in infections is of great concern, we should remember that we anticipated it. Disease modellers in our country have told us that we would likely experience a fourth wave around this time and that it was almost inevitable that new variants of the virus would emerge, " Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday. "As the country heads into a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, we are experiencing a rate of infections that we have not seen since the pandemic started. The Omicron variant that was brought to global attention by South African scientists nearly two weeks ago appears to be dominating new infections in most provinces, " he said. Scientists in South Africa and throughout the globe are still working to answer key issues regarding the novel Omicron variation, including its transmissibility, progression, whether it produces more severe illness, and how effective vaccinations will be against it, he added. Without waiting for stronger lockdown laws, Ramaphosa advised citizens to be vaccinated and take steps to protect communal safety. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid cases increase five-fold in South Africa; President says emergence of Omicron was inevitable

COVID-19 cases are surging again in Europe, and the region has become the epicenter of the pandemic once more. Countries are now ramping up their Covid-19 arsenal to again combat the latest outbreak.

Europe becomes Covid-19 epicenter yet again

Only 32% Russians of Russians are fully vaccinated against Covid. A lack of tough restrictions has allowed the virus to spread unchecked, the Kremlin continues to avoid the implementation of strict restrictions.

Russia records more than 33,000 more new Covid cases

The number of daily infections in Victoria state has not come down, Victoria logged almost 2300 new covid cases. That's the highest for any Australian state or territory since the pandemic began.

Australia: Covid 19 cases infections in Victoria hit record high

The total number of recoveries from Covid on Saturday outnumbered the fresh cases in the last 24 hours. India reported a total of 24,354 fresh Covid cases, while recovery in the last 24 hours went up to 25,455 across the country.

According to Union Health Ministry's report on Saturday morning, as many as 234 Covid deaths were reported in the same time span, pushing the total death toll to 4,48,573 so far.

Recovery of 25,455 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally of recovered patients to 3,30,68,599. Consequently, India`s recovery rate stands at 97.86 per cent which is at its highest peak since March 2020.

The active caseload is presently 2,73,889, which is the lowest in 197 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.81 per cent of the country's total positive cases.

A total of 14,29,258 Covid tests were conducted. With this, India has so far conducted over 57,19,94,990 tests.

The weekly positivity rate at 1.68 per cent remains less than 3 per cent for the last 99 days now. The daily positivity rate reported to be 1.70 per cent which is below 3 per cent for the last 33 days and below 5 per cent for 116 consecutive days now.

With the administration of 69,33,838 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's Covid vaccination coverage exceeded 89.74 crore as per provisional report till 7 am&nbsp;on Saturday.

Meanwhile, a total of 88,14,50,515 vaccine doses have been provided to States/UTs so far through Govt of India and through direct state procurement category. According to the health ministry data, over 5.28 crore balance and unutilised vaccine doses are still available with the States/UTs to be administered.

The total number of recoveries from Covid on Saturday outnumbered the fresh cases in the last 24 hours. India reported a total of 24,354 fresh Covid cases, while recovery in the last 24 hours went up to 25,455 across the country.

The total number of recoveries from Covid on Saturday outnumbered the fresh cases in the last 24 hours. India reported a total of 24,354 fresh Covid cases, while recovery in the last 24 hours went up to 25,455 across the country. According to Union Health Ministry's report on Saturday morning, as many as 234 Covid deaths were reported in the same time span, pushing the total death toll to 4,48,573 so far. Recovery of 25,455 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally of recovered patients to 3,30,68,599. Consequently, India`s recovery rate stands at 97.86 per cent which is at its highest peak since March 2020. The active caseload is presently 2,73,889, which is the lowest in 197 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.81 per cent of the country's total positive cases. A total of 14,29,258 Covid tests were conducted. With this, India has so far conducted over 57,19,94,990 tests. The weekly positivity rate at 1.68 per cent remains less than 3 per cent for the last 99 days now. The daily positivity rate reported to be 1.70 per cent which is below 3 per cent for the last 33 days and below 5 per cent for 116 consecutive days now. With the administration of 69,33,838 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's Covid vaccination coverage exceeded 89.74 crore as per provisional report till 7 am on Saturday. Meanwhile, a total of 88,14,50,515 vaccine doses have been provided to States/UTs so far through Govt of India and through direct state procurement category. According to the health ministry data, over 5.28 crore balance and unutilised vaccine doses are still available with the States/UTs to be administered.

India logs 24,354 Covid cases and 234 deaths in 24 hours

A fourth wave of infections is rapidly approaching Israel. The daily rate of confirmed new virus cases has more than doubled in the past two weeks.

Israel faces new surge of Coronavirus cases

HBO has shut down production on `Game of Thrones` prequel series `House of the Dragon` due to COVID-19. Reports suggest that the UK shoot has been paused for two days after a positive case was found in zone A, which includes cast and crew. 
 
According to The Hollywood Reporter, in compliance with industry guidelines, the COVID positive member is currently in isolation, and close contacts will be required to quarantine.&nbsp;

The member had tested positive after rigorous testing was implemented for all production employees. Production will resume on Wednesday after a two-day pause.&nbsp; 
 
The series stars Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen and Emma D`Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon (also known as the Sea Snake), Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower and Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower. 
 
`House of the Dragon` brings the story of the Targaryen family in Westeros and is set 300 years before the events in Game of Thrones.&nbsp; 
The drama is from co-showrunners Ryan Condal (Colony) and Miguel Sapochnik (Game of Thrones), and executive producer and saga author George R.R. Martin. The production pause comes amid virus fears surging in the UK as the country ends most remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including mask mandates.&nbsp; 
 
Production on `Bridgerton` second season was similarly halted for the second time this week following a positive COVID test, with production paused indefinitely while a timetable for a return to production is reached. 
 
According to The Hollywood Reporter, `House of the Dragon` is one of six GoT-related prequel projects in the works at HBO, as well as a stage show in development for Broadway/West End that will feature new actors playing iconic characters from the original series.&nbsp;

HBO has shut down production on `Game of Thrones` prequel series `House of the Dragon` due to COVID-19. Reports suggest that the UK shoot has been paused for two days after a positive case was found in zone A, which includes cast and crew.

HBO has shut down production on `Game of Thrones` prequel series `House of the Dragon` due to COVID-19. Reports suggest that the UK shoot has been paused for two days after a positive case was found in zone A, which includes cast and crew. According to The Hollywood Reporter, in compliance with industry guidelines, the COVID positive member is currently in isolation, and close contacts will be required to quarantine. The member had tested positive after rigorous testing was implemented for all production employees. Production will resume on Wednesday after a two-day pause. The series stars Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen and Emma D`Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon (also known as the Sea Snake), Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower and Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower. `House of the Dragon` brings the story of the Targaryen family in Westeros and is set 300 years before the events in Game of Thrones. The drama is from co-showrunners Ryan Condal (Colony) and Miguel Sapochnik (Game of Thrones), and executive producer and saga author George R.R. Martin. The production pause comes amid virus fears surging in the UK as the country ends most remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including mask mandates. Production on `Bridgerton` second season was similarly halted for the second time this week following a positive COVID test, with production paused indefinitely while a timetable for a return to production is reached. According to The Hollywood Reporter, `House of the Dragon` is one of six GoT-related prequel projects in the works at HBO, as well as a stage show in development for Broadway/West End that will feature new actors playing iconic characters from the original series.

HBO pauses production on 'House Of The Dragon' due to COVID-19 positive case

It was reported earlier in the week that Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Suniel Shetty, who lives in an apartment complex in Mumbai called ‘Prithvi Apartments’, has been sealed by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after five cases of Coronavirus were detected in the building. Out of those five cases that have tested positive for the virus, three of them are of Delta variant, claimed reports.&nbsp;

 
On Monday late evening, Shetty took to Twitter to reject those claims and called the various news reports that have been floating around as 'fake'. The actor said that while a notice has been put up on one wing, the entire building has not been sealed.

 
"Wow! Must say that fake news spreads quicker than any virus. People, pls don't spread panic. There's NO Delta Variant' in my building society. Just one COVID+ case &amp; the patient is recuperating at Breach Candy hospital. The others are currently negative and self quarantined," he wrote.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My building is safe and the family is fine. One wing has a notice up but NOT entire building sealed as being misreported. My mother, my wife Mana, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ahan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ahan</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Athiya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Athiya</a> &amp; my staff; as well as the entire Bldg are fine &amp; thank U for your good wishes. Sorry folks no <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DELTA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DELTA</a>
— Suniel Shetty (@SunielVShetty) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunielVShetty/status/1414585366665854985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"My building is safe and the family is fine. One wing has a notice up but NO T entire building sealed as being misreported. My mother, my wife Mana, #Aha n, #Athiya &amp; my staff; as well as the entire Bldg are fine &amp; thank U for your good wishes. Sorry folks no #DELTA," he further added in a separate tweet

 
As per MBC guidelines, if five or more COVID-19 cases are found in any building, then that building is sealed by the corporation and declared a ‘micro-containment area.

It was reported earlier in the week that Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Suniel Shetty, who lives in an apartment complex in Mumbai called ‘Prithvi Apartments’, has been sealed by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after five cases of Coronavirus were detected in the building.

It was reported earlier in the week that Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Suniel Shetty, who lives in an apartment complex in Mumbai called ‘Prithvi Apartments’, has been sealed by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after five cases of Coronavirus were detected in the building. Out of those five cases that have tested positive for the virus, three of them are of Delta variant, claimed reports. On Monday late evening, Shetty took to Twitter to reject those claims and called the various news reports that have been floating around as 'fake'. The actor said that while a notice has been put up on one wing, the entire building has not been sealed. "Wow! Must say that fake news spreads quicker than any virus. People, pls don't spread panic. There's NO Delta Variant' in my building society. Just one COVID+ case & the patient is recuperating at Breach Candy hospital. The others are currently negative and self quarantined," he wrote. My building is safe and the family is fine. One wing has a notice up but NOT entire building sealed as being misreported. My mother, my wife Mana, #Ahan, #Athiya & my staff; as well as the entire Bldg are fine & thank U for your good wishes. Sorry folks no #DELTA — Suniel Shetty (@SunielVShetty) July 12, 2021 × "My building is safe and the family is fine. One wing has a notice up but NO T entire building sealed as being misreported. My mother, my wife Mana, #Aha n, #Athiya & my staff; as well as the entire Bldg are fine & thank U for your good wishes. Sorry folks no #DELTA," he further added in a separate tweet As per MBC guidelines, if five or more COVID-19 cases are found in any building, then that building is sealed by the corporation and declared a ‘micro-containment area.

'No Delta variant in my society', Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty refutes reports after his building gets sealed

India has reported its lowest daily rise in new cases in 44 days. For the second time, India recorded less than 200,000 infections. Palki Sharma decodes the numbers.

Gravitas: India reports its lowest daily cases in weeks

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511.

The country's overall caseload now stands at 26.95 million, while total fatalities are at 307,231, according to health ministry data.&nbsp;

On Monday, India crossed the 300,000 mark of fatalities due to coronavirus infections, thus becoming the world's third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths.

According to the Health Ministry, a total of 326,850 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 24,054,861 being cured of Covid to date.

The Health Ministry said that a total of 19,85,38,999 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 24,40,236 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 33,25,94,176 samples have been tested up to May 24 for COVID-19. Of these 20,58,112 samples were tested on Monday.

India registered record deaths due to Covid on Wednesday with 4,529 deaths -- the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019.

It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. These three are the worst hit by the pandemic. Now, India is behind the US and Brazil with the highest deaths due to COVID-19.

After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the 3,00,000 mark for the first time on May 17 after touching a record high of 4,14,188 on May 7.

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511.

India on Tuesday posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since April 14, while deaths from COVID-19 rose by 3,511. The country's overall caseload now stands at 26.95 million, while total fatalities are at 307,231, according to health ministry data. On Monday, India crossed the 300,000 mark of fatalities due to coronavirus infections, thus becoming the world's third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths. According to the Health Ministry, a total of 326,850 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 24,054,861 being cured of Covid to date. The Health Ministry said that a total of 19,85,38,999 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 24,40,236 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 33,25,94,176 samples have been tested up to May 24 for COVID-19. Of these 20,58,112 samples were tested on Monday. India registered record deaths due to Covid on Wednesday with 4,529 deaths -- the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019. It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. These three are the worst hit by the pandemic. Now, India is behind the US and Brazil with the highest deaths due to COVID-19. After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the 3,00,000 mark for the first time on May 17 after touching a record high of 4,14,188 on May 7.

India reports its lowest COVID-19 case count since April 14 at 196,427

India's daily infections have dropped below 300,000 for the first time in 25 days. Has India's deadly second wave touched its peak? Palki Sharma has the answers.

Gravitas: India's COVID Surge: New cases drop for the first time in 25 days

The daily COVID-19 infections across India have gone below the 300,000 mark. 281,386 fresh cases have been recorded in the last 24 hours and the nations total caseload down stands at 24.97 million.

India COVID-19: Daily infections slip below 300,000 mark, daily deaths rise by 4,106

On Tuesday, India recorded its lowest count of daily cases in 14 days. New infections have dipped in major hotspots like Maharashtra and Delhi. Has India's deadly second wave peaked? Palki Sharma brings you an assessment.

Gravitas: India's COVID surge: Major hotspots register a dip in new cases

India has recorded 4,250 COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the highest-ever death count that India has ever seen in a single day since the pandemic began in 2020. This is the third time in the span of 10 days that India has officially recorded over 4,000 deaths in 24 hours.

India records highest single day COVID-19 deaths since beginning of pandemic

India's new infections and deaths still remain close to record highs. On Sunday, testing hit a new low. While a shortage of doses has slowed down India's vaccination drive. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Less than 3% of Indians have been fully vaccinated

India continues to battle its deadly second wave of Coronavirus pandemic and for the first time in 4 days the country reported less than 400,000 daily cases. WION tells you more on India's COVID-19 crisis.

India reported less than 400,000 COVID-19 cases after 4 days

As the cases of Coronavirus amid second wave are witnessing an upward trajectory since last few weeks, the Indian nationals in UK are worried about their families here in India.

Indian nationals in UK react to worsening crisis in India

The COVID-19 pandemic in India continues to worsen as the country continues to report more than 300,000 cases everyday. The death toll surge has passed 200,000 and still there seems to be no end insight.

COVID-19 situation in India remains grim, death toll surge pass 200,000 mark

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