A research paper has claimed that lockdowns enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic had only minimal impact in cutting down deaths compared to other forms of restrictions, and called for an end to such policy as a future pandemic plan.

The conclusion was arrived at after studying the effects of different COVID-19 measures across the countries.

The analysis was done by the experts from Johns Hopkins University in US, Lund University in Sweden and the Centre for Political Studies in Denmark, UK newspaper The Telegraph reported.

The researchers claimed to have found that lockdown measures “may have increased deaths” by stopping access to outdoor space.

“We do find some evidence that limiting gatherings was counterproductive and increased COVID-19 mortality,” the authors said in the study.

“Often, lockdowns have limited people’s access to safe outdoor places such as beaches, parks, and zoos, or included outdoor mask mandates or strict outdoor gathering restrictions, pushing people to meet at less safe indoor places.”

However, the team found that there were some other measures which did in fact save lives.

Closing non-essential businesses—especially pubs&nbsp;and bars—was estimated to have lowered mortality by about 10.6 per cent.

Shutting schools lowered deaths by 4.4 per cent, while asking people to stay at home prevented 2.9 per cent of deaths and border controls roughly 0.1 per cent.

In comparison, the legally enforced lockdowns prevented only 0.2 per cent deaths, the research said.

“Lockdowns during the initial phase of the Covid-19 pandemic have had devastating effects. They have contributed to reducing economic activity, rising unemployment, reducing schooling, causing political unrest, contributing to domestic violence and undermining liberal democracy,” the experts said,

“These costs to society must be compared to the benefits of lockdowns, which our meta-analysis has shown are marginal at best. Such a standard benefit-cost calculation leads to a strong conclusion: lockdowns should be rejected out of hand as a pandemic policy instrument,” they concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

A research paper has claimed that lockdowns enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic had only minimal impact in cutting down deaths compared to other forms of restrictions, and called for an end to such policy as a future pandemic plan.

A research paper has claimed that lockdowns enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic had only minimal impact in cutting down deaths compared to other forms of restrictions, and called for an end to such policy as a future pandemic plan. The conclusion was arrived at after studying the effects of different COVID-19 measures across the countries. The analysis was done by the experts from Johns Hopkins University in US, Lund University in Sweden and the Centre for Political Studies in Denmark, UK newspaper The Telegraph reported. The researchers claimed to have found that lockdown measures “may have increased deaths” by stopping access to outdoor space. “We do find some evidence that limiting gatherings was counterproductive and increased COVID-19 mortality,” the authors said in the study. “Often, lockdowns have limited people’s access to safe outdoor places such as beaches, parks, and zoos, or included outdoor mask mandates or strict outdoor gathering restrictions, pushing people to meet at less safe indoor places.” However, the team found that there were some other measures which did in fact save lives. Closing non-essential businesses—especially pubs and bars—was estimated to have lowered mortality by about 10.6 per cent. Shutting schools lowered deaths by 4.4 per cent, while asking people to stay at home prevented 2.9 per cent of deaths and border controls roughly 0.1 per cent. In comparison, the legally enforced lockdowns prevented only 0.2 per cent deaths, the research said. “Lockdowns during the initial phase of the Covid-19 pandemic have had devastating effects. They have contributed to reducing economic activity, rising unemployment, reducing schooling, causing political unrest, contributing to domestic violence and undermining liberal democracy,” the experts said, “These costs to society must be compared to the benefits of lockdowns, which our meta-analysis has shown are marginal at best. Such a standard benefit-cost calculation leads to a strong conclusion: lockdowns should be rejected out of hand as a pandemic policy instrument,” they concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Lockdowns had little to no effect in cutting down Covid deaths, claims study

As Canada continues to grapple with massive protests against Covid mandates, the Ottawa province has set up a hotline to report hate incidents as reports of agitators threatening and intimidating residents emerge.

Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly said at a video news conference that the hotline “will field reports of criminal activity, threats, assaults and hate-related crimes, directly related to the demonstrations.”

"We already have a number of hate-related incidents that we're investigating," Sloly said on Monday.

“We encourage anyone who's been the victim of a hate crime or think they may have been the victim of a hate crime or exposed to hate incidents to contact us."

The announcement came days after residents and organisations across Ottawa complained to city councillors, media and on social media about hate-related threats.

The agitators are part of the “Freedom Convoy” of truckers who have been opposing a recent vaccine mandate asking truckers entering Canada to be fully vaccinated or face testing and quarantine requirements.

The agitation snowballed into a wider protest against Covid-19 restrictions, with the blockade of the city and the obstruction of a US-Canadian border crossing.

Demonstrators have been accused of desecrating a national war memorial and harassing residents and workers at a homeless shelter.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson on Monday condemned reports that a couple living near the protests was harassed over a Pride flag (the rainbow flag of LGBTQ) displayed on their home.

“This kind of intimidation and bullying tactics, it's causing great angst in the community. And here's an example of homophobia," Watson said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Canada continues to grapple with massive protests against Covid mandates, the Ottawa province has set up a hotline to report hate incidents as reports of agitators threatening and intimidating residents emerge.

As Canada continues to grapple with massive protests against Covid mandates, the Ottawa province has set up a hotline to report hate incidents as reports of agitators threatening and intimidating residents emerge. Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly said at a video news conference that the hotline “will field reports of criminal activity, threats, assaults and hate-related crimes, directly related to the demonstrations.” "We already have a number of hate-related incidents that we're investigating," Sloly said on Monday. “We encourage anyone who's been the victim of a hate crime or think they may have been the victim of a hate crime or exposed to hate incidents to contact us." The announcement came days after residents and organisations across Ottawa complained to city councillors, media and on social media about hate-related threats. The agitators are part of the “Freedom Convoy” of truckers who have been opposing a recent vaccine mandate asking truckers entering Canada to be fully vaccinated or face testing and quarantine requirements. The agitation snowballed into a wider protest against Covid-19 restrictions, with the blockade of the city and the obstruction of a US-Canadian border crossing. Demonstrators have been accused of desecrating a national war memorial and harassing residents and workers at a homeless shelter. Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson on Monday condemned reports that a couple living near the protests was harassed over a Pride flag (the rainbow flag of LGBTQ) displayed on their home. “This kind of intimidation and bullying tactics, it's causing great angst in the community. And here's an example of homophobia," Watson said. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada sets up hate crime hotline amid reports of protesters intimidating Ottawa residents

The British government is lifting all Covid-19 restrictions across England. Mask wearing would not be compulsory anymore, guidance to work from home will also end and Covid passes would not be required to access big events.

British government removes almost all Covid curbs across UK

Protesting to the Covid 19 norms thousands of people took to the streets of Brussels, opposing the latest Covid 19 instructions.

Belgium: Protestors 'denounce' dictatorship of covid restrictions

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

In China, the city of Zhengzhou now ordered its 12 million residents to take Covid 19 tests. China has been ramping up measures to stamp out the various clusters ahead of the controversial winter Olympics and, authorities have now ordered everyone to get themselves tested to uncover infections that can remain hidden amongst the public.

China: The city of Zhengzhou now ordered its 12 million residents to take Covid 19 tests

The government in France has revamped quarantine rules for the infected, and it is planning to bring in stricter restrictions for the unvaccinated starting today.

French government revamps quarantine rules for the infected

World prepares up for Christmas and new year's many nations have imposed new imposed new restrictions to slow down the spread of the omicron variant.

Celebration begin at the Church of the Nativity

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken out in his own defense after a local newspaper published pictures of him and 18 others enjoying a quiet moment with wine in the 10 Downing Street residence’s garden.<o:p></o:p>

In a picture published in the local newspaper, the Guardian, Boris Johnson, his wife and 17 others were spotted sitting in the garden, enjoying wine during the May 2020 lockdown phase.<o:p></o:p>

While the internet, locals, opposition and critics slammed Johnson for having his 'wine and cheese' party, Johnson and his office have reacted to the photograph and have claimed that those were just 'work meetings'.<o:p></o:p>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/downing-street-garden-gathering-during-may-2020-lockdown-returns-to-haunt-pm-after-uk-paper-publishes-photo-438252">Downing Street garden gathering during May 2020 lockdown returns to haunt PM after UK paper publishes photo</a>

"This is where I live, it is where I work. Those were meetings of people at work, talking about work," Johnson said.<o:p></o:p>

As per Johnson’s spokesperson, this picture was clicked probably on May 15, 2020. On this day, PM’s spokesperson claims, the PM had held a few meetings in the afternoon in the garden area of his official residence.<o:p></o:p>

"In the summer months Downing Street staff regularly use the garden for some meetings. On 15 May 2020 the prime minister held a series of meetings throughout the afternoon, including briefly with the then health and care secretary and his team in the garden following a press conference. The prime minister went to his residence shortly after 7pm. A small number of staff required to be in work remained in the Downing Street garden for part of the afternoon and evening," the spokesman said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
May 2020. 
 
The guidance: 
“Social mixing between households limited to 2 people outdoors at least 2 metres apart. 
In workplaces, in-person meetings only if absolutely necessary” 
 
Boris Johnson: <a href="https://t.co/VZm0t4fE5F">pic.twitter.com/VZm0t4fE5F</a>
— David Schneider (@davidschneider) <a href="https://twitter.com/davidschneider/status/1472641021783777280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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"As we said last week, work meetings often take place in the Downing Street garden in the summer months. On this occasion there were staff meetings after a No 10 press conference. Downing Street is the prime minister’s home as well as his workplace. The prime minister’s wife lives in No 10 and therefore also legitimately uses the garden," he added. <o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

On Monday, the spokesman added that the picture showed government officers enjoying a moment of peace outside while discussing office work, which was not illegal. "This shows colleagues who were required to be in work, meeting following a press conference to discuss work … It was not against the regulations for those individuals to have a drink outside working hours, but still discussing work," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Dominic Raab, Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain, also jumped to defend the PM saying, "I think there’s a lot of exhausted people, and they, as people do in work, were having a drink after the formal business had been done."<o:p></o:p>

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken out in his own defense after a local newspaper published pictures of him and 18 others enjoying a quiet moment with wine in the 10 Downing Street residence’s garden.

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken out in his own defense after a local newspaper published pictures of him and 18 others enjoying a quiet moment with wine in the 10 Downing Street residence’s garden. In a picture published in the local newspaper, the Guardian, Boris Johnson, his wife and 17 others were spotted sitting in the garden, enjoying wine during the May 2020 lockdown phase. While the internet, locals, opposition and critics slammed Johnson for having his 'wine and cheese' party, Johnson and his office have reacted to the photograph and have claimed that those were just 'work meetings'. Also read | Downing Street garden gathering during May 2020 lockdown returns to haunt PM after UK paper publishes photo "This is where I live, it is where I work. Those were meetings of people at work, talking about work," Johnson said. As per Johnson’s spokesperson, this picture was clicked probably on May 15, 2020. On this day, PM’s spokesperson claims, the PM had held a few meetings in the afternoon in the garden area of his official residence. "In the summer months Downing Street staff regularly use the garden for some meetings. On 15 May 2020 the prime minister held a series of meetings throughout the afternoon, including briefly with the then health and care secretary and his team in the garden following a press conference. The prime minister went to his residence shortly after 7pm. A small number of staff required to be in work remained in the Downing Street garden for part of the afternoon and evening," the spokesman said. May 2020. The guidance: “Social mixing between households limited to 2 people outdoors at least 2 metres apart. In workplaces, in-person meetings only if absolutely necessary” Boris Johnson: pic.twitter.com/VZm0t4fE5F — David Schneider (@davidschneider) December 19, 2021 × "As we said last week, work meetings often take place in the Downing Street garden in the summer months. On this occasion there were staff meetings after a No 10 press conference. Downing Street is the prime minister’s home as well as his workplace. The prime minister’s wife lives in No 10 and therefore also legitimately uses the garden," he added. On Monday, the spokesman added that the picture showed government officers enjoying a moment of peace outside while discussing office work, which was not illegal. "This shows colleagues who were required to be in work, meeting following a press conference to discuss work … It was not against the regulations for those individuals to have a drink outside working hours, but still discussing work," he said. Dominic Raab, Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain, also jumped to defend the PM saying, "I think there’s a lot of exhausted people, and they, as people do in work, were having a drink after the formal business had been done."

'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo

In a bid to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic South Korea has reimposed curfews on businesses and tightened social distancing rules in the capital Seoul.

South Korea tightens COVID restrictions amid spike in cases

South Korea reimposes COVID-19 curfew amid spike in cases

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that despite a surge in Covid cases, the country will not go under a lockdown at least till Christmas. However, British scientists disagree with him.<o:p></o:p>

Leading medical experts have claimed that waiting till New Year or later to impose a lockdown in the country will "almost certainly be too late to have a material impact on the epidemic".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-at-work-talking-about-work-boris-johnson-reacts-to-downing-street-garden-party-photo-438627">'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The UK has been struggling to control the wide spread of Omicron variant through the country. Cases have been doubling up at a rate faster than that of the Delta variant. While locals have been urged to stay indoors, wear masks and practice social distancing, the same looks difficult as the country is gearing up to celebrate Christmas and New Year next weekend.<o:p></o:p>

However, some experts have also said that looking at the data of Covid cases, there is a chance that it is already too late to impose these restrictions. In such a case, it will be difficult to analyse if these restrictions, if imposed, have any impact on controlling the virus.<o:p></o:p>

"We are damned if we do and damned if we don’t," Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at the University of East Anglia, was quoted by the Guardian.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-surge-across-world-governments-taking-strict-measures-to-curb-spread-438659">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-surge-across-world-governments-taking-strict-measures-to-curb-spread-438659/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, he still suggests reintroducing all Covid regulations to make sure there is some chance of flattening the curve, rather than facing a calamity. "If we implement control measures now, they are unlikely to be sufficient to reverse the growth, only slow it," he said. "But there may still be benefits in slowing the peak, in terms of flattening the curve."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister stands firm on his decision of not imposing a complete lockdown at least till December. "The situation is extremely difficult and the arguments either way are very, very finely balanced," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, he has also stressed that the government and medical experts will make sure a 'constant revie'’ is carried out of all the Covid data, especially for the Omicron variant.<o:p></o:p>

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that despite a surge in Covid cases, the country will not go under a lockdown at least till Christmas. However, British scientists disagree with him.

UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that despite a surge in Covid cases, the country will not go under a lockdown at least till Christmas. However, British scientists disagree with him. Leading medical experts have claimed that waiting till New Year or later to impose a lockdown in the country will "almost certainly be too late to have a material impact on the epidemic". Also read | 'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo The UK has been struggling to control the wide spread of Omicron variant through the country. Cases have been doubling up at a rate faster than that of the Delta variant. While locals have been urged to stay indoors, wear masks and practice social distancing, the same looks difficult as the country is gearing up to celebrate Christmas and New Year next weekend. However, some experts have also said that looking at the data of Covid cases, there is a chance that it is already too late to impose these restrictions. In such a case, it will be difficult to analyse if these restrictions, if imposed, have any impact on controlling the virus. "We are damned if we do and damned if we don’t," Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at the University of East Anglia, was quoted by the Guardian. WATCH | However, he still suggests reintroducing all Covid regulations to make sure there is some chance of flattening the curve, rather than facing a calamity. "If we implement control measures now, they are unlikely to be sufficient to reverse the growth, only slow it," he said. "But there may still be benefits in slowing the peak, in terms of flattening the curve." Meanwhile, the Prime Minister stands firm on his decision of not imposing a complete lockdown at least till December. "The situation is extremely difficult and the arguments either way are very, very finely balanced," he said. However, he has also stressed that the government and medical experts will make sure a 'constant revie'’ is carried out of all the Covid data, especially for the Omicron variant.

UK experts disagree with Boris Johnson's plan of delaying Covid regulations

Britain is dealing with a concerning surge in Omicron cases amid the rapid rise of infections ahead of Christmas, The UK might be staring at tougher covid-19 restrictions. While uncertainty over the covid-19 variant continues, UK's health secretary hasn't ruled out the chances of further covid curbs before Christmas festivities.

'No guarantees in covid pandemic,' says UK's health secretary on restrictions ahead of Christmas

Protests against Covid restrictions in Brussels turned violent on Sunday prompting the police to use water cannons and teargas. The protesters pelted officers with stones and fireworks.

A few thousand protesters initially marched peacefully through the centre of Belgian capital to the neighbourhood which hosts the headquarters of European Union institutions, where the demonstration reached its endpoint.

A group of protesters, wearing black hoods and chanting "liberte" (freedom) started to throw stones at the police when the protest march reached EU quarter.

Demonstrators were protesting rules imposed in October that oblige people to show COVID-19 passes to access bars and restaurants.

"I can't bear discrimination in any form, and now there's the vaccine pass which is discriminatory, sanctions for (unvaccinated) carers which are discriminatory too, there's mandatory vaccination which is heading our way," one protestor, martial arts teacher Alain Sienaort, said.

"That's all discrimination, so we have to fight it. We don't want a dictatorship."

The protest followed new measures announced on Friday to curb one of Europe's highest infection rates, including mandatory mask wearing for most primary school children and a lengthening of the school holidays.

In late November, a much larger number of demonstrators clashed violently with the police in Brussels. That led to dozens of arrests, injuries among police officers and widespread property damage.

(With inputs from agencies)

Protests against Covid restrictions in Brussels turned violent on Sunday prompting the police to use water cannons and teargas. The protesters pelted officers with stones and fireworks.

Protests against Covid restrictions in Brussels turned violent on Sunday prompting the police to use water cannons and teargas. The protesters pelted officers with stones and fireworks. A few thousand protesters initially marched peacefully through the centre of Belgian capital to the neighbourhood which hosts the headquarters of European Union institutions, where the demonstration reached its endpoint. A group of protesters, wearing black hoods and chanting "liberte" (freedom) started to throw stones at the police when the protest march reached EU quarter. Demonstrators were protesting rules imposed in October that oblige people to show COVID-19 passes to access bars and restaurants. "I can't bear discrimination in any form, and now there's the vaccine pass which is discriminatory, sanctions for (unvaccinated) carers which are discriminatory too, there's mandatory vaccination which is heading our way," one protestor, martial arts teacher Alain Sienaort, said. "That's all discrimination, so we have to fight it. We don't want a dictatorship." The protest followed new measures announced on Friday to curb one of Europe's highest infection rates, including mandatory mask wearing for most primary school children and a lengthening of the school holidays. In late November, a much larger number of demonstrators clashed violently with the police in Brussels. That led to dozens of arrests, injuries among police officers and widespread property damage. (With inputs from agencies)

Brussels: Protest march against Covid restrictions turns violent

The omicron variant has taken the world by storm, there is not much known about the virus' effects but one does know that it is spreading fast. 24 countries have reported the presence of new covid-19 mutation, the latest to them is the United States. Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations has slammed countries' travel restrictions calling them 'ineffective.'

Antonio Guterres slams COVID-19 flight curbs, calls them 'ineffective'

For months, Europe’s opera, music and theater fans have been flocking to packed venues as if the coronavirus pandemic was fading from view. Now that feeling of freedom is receding for many.

In Vienna, all performances are now banned until at least Dec. 13, after Austria imposed a lockdown to deal with a rise in coronavirus cases. The Dec. 5 premiere of the Vienna State Opera’s new production of “Don Giovanni,” directed by Barrie Kosky, will be televised from an empty house.

In Munich, performances are still taking place at the city’s storied Bavarian State Opera despite a surge in cases in Bavaria. Only vaccinated patrons or those who have recovered from COVID-19 are allowed in, and they must also all show proof of a negative coronavirus test and wear a medical-grade mask. According to new rules announced Tuesday, venues in Bavaria can admit only 25% of their maximum capacity.

In Milan, there are no restrictions on audience numbers at venues including La Scala, and no social distancing requirements — but only vaccinated audience members are allowed in.

The confusing picture across the continent has been getting more complicated by the day in recent weeks as national and regional governments respond to a new wave of cases and as an alert about a new variant prompts concern. On Wednesday, Germany reported 79,051 new cases — its highest daily number since the pandemic began.

After months of relative normalcy, Europe’s opera houses, concert halls and theaters are reintroducing measures all too familiar from earlier phases of the pandemic, restricting audience numbers and mandating testing, if not canceling shows outright. Some cultural workers at venues where the doors are still open are concerned that they might not stay that way for long.

Despite the new prevention measures, the mood was “very different” from previous lockdowns, said Ulf Schirmer, general music director of Leipzig Opera, in eastern Germany. All performances in the city of Leipzig are banned until Jan. 9.

“We’ve learned so much from past lockdowns,” Schirmer said, “we now know what to do.”

Leipzig Opera would lose 1 million euros (about $1.1 million) by refunding tickets for canceled performances across all shows, Schirmer added. The company could cope with that, he said, because it receives a significant government subsidy and has sufficient reserves.

Other venues throughout the continent, where the pace of cancellations and restrictions has been accelerating since last month, might not be in such a secure position. Latvia was one of the first countries to impose new restrictions on cultural life, when it ordered performance venues shut from late October as part of a national lockdown. Since then, many other countries and regions have imposed new, if varied, restrictions.

This month, the Netherlands went into a partial lockdown that let performances continue in front of seated audiences but forced other venues such as bars and restaurants to close by 8 p.m. Austria initially introduced a lockdown for unvaccinated people that included barring them from attending cultural events, before announcing a nationwide lockdown days later.

Some venues that remain open in Europe are putting in place extra safety measures, even without government mandates. In Berlin, performance venues are allowed to operate at full capacity, as long as attendees show proof that they are vaccinated, recovered or provide a negative test, and wear a mask.

But Sarah Boehler, a spokesperson for the Sophiensaele, a theater in the city, said her venue would also require a negative test in addition to either proof of vaccination or recovery. The theater expected that city officials would require such a measure “in a week or two anyway,” she said, adding it was better to get ahead of the curve.

There is one place that looks unlikely to see new restrictions on cultural life: Britain, where governing lawmakers have spoken since July of the need to live with the virus. New coronavirus cases have averaged around 40,000 a day for the past month, and one of the government’s leading scientific advisers this week said the country was “almost at herd immunity.”

In England, theatergoers and operagoers are not required to wear masks or show proof of vaccination. Instead, each venue can decide its own requirements. Many West End theaters ask for proof of vaccination, and most encourage spectators to wear masks, but enforcement varies.

This month, a revival of “Cabaret,” starring Eddie Redmayne at the Playhouse Theater, went further than other London shows by requiring attendees to show a negative test result to gain entry. The Ambassador Theater Group, which owns the venue, said in a statement that “the intimacy of the production,” in which the audience sits close to the actors, was behind the decision. But no other theaters have appeared to follow its lead.

Composer and theater impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber on Tuesday told the BBC he would be happy to mandate masks and proof of vaccination at the six theaters he owns in London.

“If that was what was necessary to keep our theaters open without social distancing, I think that’s a very small price to pay,” he said.

Even if few in Britain’s theater world anticipate new restrictions, elsewhere in Europe, where governments are weighing actions to curb rising case numbers, industry figures are worried that more closures are on the way.

“Everyone is still very concerned there will be another lockdown soon,” said Boehler of the Sophiensaele. “We just hope vaccinated people will be in a position to keep going to the theater.”

For months, Europe’s opera, music and theater fans have been flocking to packed venues as if the coronavirus pandemic was fading from view. Now that feeling of freedom is receding for many.

For months, Europe’s opera, music and theater fans have been flocking to packed venues as if the coronavirus pandemic was fading from view. Now that feeling of freedom is receding for many. In Vienna, all performances are now banned until at least Dec. 13, after Austria imposed a lockdown to deal with a rise in coronavirus cases. The Dec. 5 premiere of the Vienna State Opera’s new production of “Don Giovanni,” directed by Barrie Kosky, will be televised from an empty house. In Munich, performances are still taking place at the city’s storied Bavarian State Opera despite a surge in cases in Bavaria. Only vaccinated patrons or those who have recovered from COVID-19 are allowed in, and they must also all show proof of a negative coronavirus test and wear a medical-grade mask. According to new rules announced Tuesday, venues in Bavaria can admit only 25% of their maximum capacity. In Milan, there are no restrictions on audience numbers at venues including La Scala, and no social distancing requirements — but only vaccinated audience members are allowed in. The confusing picture across the continent has been getting more complicated by the day in recent weeks as national and regional governments respond to a new wave of cases and as an alert about a new variant prompts concern. On Wednesday, Germany reported 79,051 new cases — its highest daily number since the pandemic began. After months of relative normalcy, Europe’s opera houses, concert halls and theaters are reintroducing measures all too familiar from earlier phases of the pandemic, restricting audience numbers and mandating testing, if not canceling shows outright. Some cultural workers at venues where the doors are still open are concerned that they might not stay that way for long. Despite the new prevention measures, the mood was “very different” from previous lockdowns, said Ulf Schirmer, general music director of Leipzig Opera, in eastern Germany. All performances in the city of Leipzig are banned until Jan. 9. “We’ve learned so much from past lockdowns,” Schirmer said, “we now know what to do.” Leipzig Opera would lose 1 million euros (about $1.1 million) by refunding tickets for canceled performances across all shows, Schirmer added. The company could cope with that, he said, because it receives a significant government subsidy and has sufficient reserves. Other venues throughout the continent, where the pace of cancellations and restrictions has been accelerating since last month, might not be in such a secure position. Latvia was one of the first countries to impose new restrictions on cultural life, when it ordered performance venues shut from late October as part of a national lockdown. Since then, many other countries and regions have imposed new, if varied, restrictions. This month, the Netherlands went into a partial lockdown that let performances continue in front of seated audiences but forced other venues such as bars and restaurants to close by 8 p.m. Austria initially introduced a lockdown for unvaccinated people that included barring them from attending cultural events, before announcing a nationwide lockdown days later. Some venues that remain open in Europe are putting in place extra safety measures, even without government mandates. In Berlin, performance venues are allowed to operate at full capacity, as long as attendees show proof that they are vaccinated, recovered or provide a negative test, and wear a mask. But Sarah Boehler, a spokesperson for the Sophiensaele, a theater in the city, said her venue would also require a negative test in addition to either proof of vaccination or recovery. The theater expected that city officials would require such a measure “in a week or two anyway,” she said, adding it was better to get ahead of the curve. There is one place that looks unlikely to see new restrictions on cultural life: Britain, where governing lawmakers have spoken since July of the need to live with the virus. New coronavirus cases have averaged around 40,000 a day for the past month, and one of the government’s leading scientific advisers this week said the country was “almost at herd immunity.” In England, theatergoers and operagoers are not required to wear masks or show proof of vaccination. Instead, each venue can decide its own requirements. Many West End theaters ask for proof of vaccination, and most encourage spectators to wear masks, but enforcement varies. This month, a revival of “Cabaret,” starring Eddie Redmayne at the Playhouse Theater, went further than other London shows by requiring attendees to show a negative test result to gain entry. The Ambassador Theater Group, which owns the venue, said in a statement that “the intimacy of the production,” in which the audience sits close to the actors, was behind the decision. But no other theaters have appeared to follow its lead. Composer and theater impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber on Tuesday told the BBC he would be happy to mandate masks and proof of vaccination at the six theaters he owns in London. “If that was what was necessary to keep our theaters open without social distancing, I think that’s a very small price to pay,” he said. Even if few in Britain’s theater world anticipate new restrictions, elsewhere in Europe, where governments are weighing actions to curb rising case numbers, industry figures are worried that more closures are on the way. “Everyone is still very concerned there will be another lockdown soon,” said Boehler of the Sophiensaele. “We just hope vaccinated people will be in a position to keep going to the theater.”

Europe’s theaters go back to the future with COVID restrictions

With covid-19 border restrictions easing, Australia will now allow entry for fully-vaccinated, eligible visa holders into the country from December 1, here's all you need to know.

Australia to ease border ban, fully vaccinated visa holders to be allowed

Peruvian interior minister Luis Barranzuela resigned from his position on Tuesday, following reports that he violated COVID-19 regulations by hosting a Halloween party at his home.

The South American country has been hit hard by the pandemic, with over 200,000 people having died due to coronavirus, making it the country with the world's highest death rate per capita.

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Minister Luis Barranzuela who has been in office for just a little more than a month, faced huge criticism, after&nbsp;TV reports claimed that he&nbsp;held a Halloween party at his home in the capital Lima on Sunday, a type of gathering prohibited by a government decree just days before.

In a country of 33 million, the news prompted outrage from all sides of the political spectrum, prompting Barranzuela to claim the gathering was work-related and that he was the victim of "false accusations".

The minister later resigned amid the controversy.

"I have received and accepted the resignation of&nbsp;Interior&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Luis Barranzuela. In the next few hours I will take the oath of office of whoever will succeed him," leftist president Pedro Castillo tweeted.

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Anuncio que he recibido y aceptado la renuncia del ministro del Interior Luis Barranzuela. En las próximas horas tomaré juramento a quien le sucederá en el cargo. Nuestro compromiso continúa siendo el de garantizar la gobernabilidad del país.
— Pedro Castillo Terrones (@PedroCastilloTe) <a href="https://twitter.com/PedroCastilloTe/status/1455739547900334085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Peruvian Congress, controlled by the right-wing opposition, must decide this Thursday whether to support Castillo's government headed by Prime Minister Mirtha Vasquez.

Watch |&nbsp;Peru swears in Pedro Castillo as fifth President

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The local press had reported the government would have likely lost the vote had 58-year-old former policeman Barranzuela had remained in office.

(With inputs from agencies)

Peruvian interior minister Luis Barranzuela resigned from his position on Tuesday, following reports that he violated COVID-19 regulations by hosting a Halloween party at his home.

Peruvian interior minister Luis Barranzuela resigned from his position on Tuesday, following reports that he violated COVID-19 regulations by hosting a Halloween party at his home. The South American country has been hit hard by the pandemic, with over 200,000 people having died due to coronavirus, making it the country with the world's highest death rate per capita. Also read | Trumpian tactics threaten to undo democracy in Peru Minister Luis Barranzuela who has been in office for just a little more than a month, faced huge criticism, after TV reports claimed that he held a Halloween party at his home in the capital Lima on Sunday, a type of gathering prohibited by a government decree just days before. In a country of 33 million, the news prompted outrage from all sides of the political spectrum, prompting Barranzuela to claim the gathering was work-related and that he was the victim of "false accusations". The minister later resigned amid the controversy. "I have received and accepted the resignation of Interior Minister Luis Barranzuela. In the next few hours I will take the oath of office of whoever will succeed him," leftist president Pedro Castillo tweeted. Anuncio que he recibido y aceptado la renuncia del ministro del Interior Luis Barranzuela. En las próximas horas tomaré juramento a quien le sucederá en el cargo. Nuestro compromiso continúa siendo el de garantizar la gobernabilidad del país. — Pedro Castillo Terrones (@PedroCastilloTe) November 3, 2021 × The Peruvian Congress, controlled by the right-wing opposition, must decide this Thursday whether to support Castillo's government headed by Prime Minister Mirtha Vasquez. Watch | Peru swears in Pedro Castillo as fifth President The local press had reported the government would have likely lost the vote had 58-year-old former policeman Barranzuela had remained in office. (With inputs from agencies)

A heavy cost: Peru interior minister resigns after hosting party that breached Covid rules

After celebrating few months of Covid-free enjoyment, China is once again under the threat of another serious outbreak of coronavirus pandemic in the country.<o:p></o:p>

Beijing is now introducing new Covid curbs to stay a step ahead of the incoming surge of Covid cases, a few days before the Winter Olympics.<o:p></o:p>

The capital city of China, Beijing, has established strict zero-tolerance policy as nearly 14 provinces all around the country have been hit with a new infection wave.<o:p></o:p>

Describing the situation as "serious and complex", the authorities have ordered all cinema halls to shut down till November 14, especially near the Tiananmen Square in the capital’s Xicheng district. Nearly six million locals have been put under travel restrictions in cities where cases of coronavirus were detected recently.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-targets-vegetable-hoarders-as-prices-soar-424646">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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These restrictions have been brought in to make sure that the country is able to control the rise in Covid cases before the Winter Olympics kick off — then event is scheduled to start in less than 100 days.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to restrictions on entertainment venues, one of the biggest train operators has also decided to suspend or at least limit routes in specified affected areas of the country. A lot of outgoing flights from Beijing were also cancelled from Friday onwards. Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and specifically not leave the city to make sure the infection in contained within the borders, and does not spread to the entire nation.<o:p></o:p>

Capital city’s citizens have also been asked to cancel all upcoming weddings as citizens are being urged to stay indoors and avoid public gatherings at all costs.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, authorities have been conducting mass Covid tests in the country and are urging locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible to make sure the spread of the virus can be curbed.<o:p></o:p>

After celebrating few months of Covid-free enjoyment, China is once again under the threat of another serious outbreak of coronavirus pandemic in the country. Beijing is now introducing new Covid curbs to stay a step ahead of the incoming surge of Covid cases, a few days before the Winter Olympics.

After celebrating few months of Covid-free enjoyment, China is once again under the threat of another serious outbreak of coronavirus pandemic in the country. Beijing is now introducing new Covid curbs to stay a step ahead of the incoming surge of Covid cases, a few days before the Winter Olympics. The capital city of China, Beijing, has established strict zero-tolerance policy as nearly 14 provinces all around the country have been hit with a new infection wave. Describing the situation as "serious and complex", the authorities have ordered all cinema halls to shut down till November 14, especially near the Tiananmen Square in the capital’s Xicheng district. Nearly six million locals have been put under travel restrictions in cities where cases of coronavirus were detected recently. WATCH | These restrictions have been brought in to make sure that the country is able to control the rise in Covid cases before the Winter Olympics kick off — then event is scheduled to start in less than 100 days. In addition to restrictions on entertainment venues, one of the biggest train operators has also decided to suspend or at least limit routes in specified affected areas of the country. A lot of outgoing flights from Beijing were also cancelled from Friday onwards. Authorities are urging locals to stay indoors and specifically not leave the city to make sure the infection in contained within the borders, and does not spread to the entire nation. Capital city’s citizens have also been asked to cancel all upcoming weddings as citizens are being urged to stay indoors and avoid public gatherings at all costs. Meanwhile, authorities have been conducting mass Covid tests in the country and are urging locals to get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible to make sure the spread of the virus can be curbed.

China struggles to control fresh Covid outbreak before Winter Olympics

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying.

"I think we're just in a very different place to where we were a year ago because of the vaccine," he said in an interview. "There's this enormous wave of protection, and that changes things. That`s our first line of defence." Adding that&nbsp;the economy was the priority.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-uk-starting-next-week-vaccination-centres-in-england-will-accept-bookings-for-children-422487">Coronavirus in UK: Starting next week, vaccination centres in England will accept bookings for children</a>

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a new COVID-19 lockdown was not on the cards after advisers warned that early action through lighter measures would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later.

Watch

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COVID-19 cases in Britain are the highest in Europe and hit their most elevated levels in three months earlier this week. However, the rollout of vaccines has meant that deaths from the disease remain far below their levels at the start of this year.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying.

British finance minister Rishi Sunak said there must be no return to "significant economic restrictions" despite a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country, The Times newspaper quoted him as saying. "I think we're just in a very different place to where we were a year ago because of the vaccine," he said in an interview. "There's this enormous wave of protection, and that changes things. That`s our first line of defence." Adding that the economy was the priority. Also Read | Coronavirus in UK: Starting next week, vaccination centres in England will accept bookings for children Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a new COVID-19 lockdown was not on the cards after advisers warned that early action through lighter measures would reduce the need for tougher restrictions later. Watch COVID-19 cases in Britain are the highest in Europe and hit their most elevated levels in three months earlier this week. However, the rollout of vaccines has meant that deaths from the disease remain far below their levels at the start of this year.

British finance minister rules out return to major Covid restrictions

Melbourne residents flocked to the city's pubs, restaurants and hair salons in the early hours of Friday after the world's most locked-down city emerged from its latest spate of restrictions designed to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Australia's second-largest city has so far endured 262 days, or nearly nine months, of restrictions during six separate lockdowns since March 2020, representing the longest cumulative lockdown for any city in the world.

Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, last year went through 234 straight days of lockdown.

In Melbourne, people were seen cheering and clapping from their balconies, while cars honked horns continuously at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday when lockdown restrictions in place since early August ended.

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Many venues, including food outlets and even haircutters, opened at the unusual hour for the occasion.

Josh Mihan, owner of The Bearded Man barber shop in Melbourne, told Reuters he is nearly booked out for the next month and he is encouraging customers to make appointments for Christmas.

"We all love cutting hair and being on the floor is such a lovely feeling, being around people," he said. "I have urged our customer base, make sure you have booked in your Christmas cut."

Similar jubilant scenes were seen in the country's largest city, Sydney, almost two weeks ago, when authorities started easing restrictions as COVID-19 vaccination rates rose.

Just over 70% of adults in Australia are now fully vaccinated and many residents are planning to fly overseas again as international border restrictions start to ease from November&nbsp;

From Nov. 1, fully vaccinated international travellers arriving in Sydney and Melbourne will no longer need to quarantine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-trans-woman-says-safe-and-free-in-australia-422338">Malaysian trans woman says 'safe and free' in Australia</a>

Qantas Airways Ltd said on Friday that it would speed up plans to restart flights to many destinations and upsize some planes amid "massive demand".

Qantas said it would launch a new route from Sydney to Delhi in early December and bring forward plans for flights to Singapore, Fiji, Johannesburg, Bangkok and Phuket.

"This is a wonderful day - Australia is ready for take-off," Prime Minister Scott Morrison said shortly after the Qantas announcement.

A quarantine-free travel bubble between Australia and Singapore could operate from next month, Morrison said, if an agreement is reached as expected.

A LONG LOCKDOWN

Even with Delta outbreaks across Australia's southeast from late June, coronavirus numbers are still far lower than those of many comparable nations, with some 152,000 cases and 1,590 deaths.

The state of Victoria, of which Melbourne is the capital, reported 2,189 new local COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths on Friday, making it the centre of the Delta outbreak in Australia.

Daily cases in New South Wales, home to Sydney where the Delta variant was first detected in June, dropped slightly to 345. The state recorded a further five deaths.

With a once-stuttering vaccine rollout gaining momentum, authorities no longer plan to rely on extended lockdowns to suppress the virus.

It has been an arduous period, especially for those in Melbourne running a business.

"We've been open for a year, and this is our fourth lockdown. It's been very difficult," said David Boyle, the head chef at the up-market Farmer’s Daughters restaurant in Melbourne.

Under more relaxed rules, restaurants and cafes can reopen with up to 20 people indoors and 50 outdoors - all of whom must be vaccinated - while 10 guests can gather at homes. Masks will remain mandatory.

The reopening will be a boost for Australia's A$2 trillion ($1.5 trillion) economy after recent lockdowns pushed it to the brink of a second recession in as many years.

At Melbourne's once bustling Journal Cafe, waitress Sullivan Kovacs said business was still modest on Friday and that customer numbers would increase once office workers and trades people returned to the city en masse.

"A lot of the traffic comes from people working in the city, and a lot of the tradies haven't gone back to work yet," Kovacs said.

Melbourne residents flocked to the city's pubs, restaurants and hair salons in the early hours of Friday after the world's most locked-down city emerged from its latest spate of restrictions designed to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Melbourne residents flocked to the city's pubs, restaurants and hair salons in the early hours of Friday after the world's most locked-down city emerged from its latest spate of restrictions designed to combat the spread of COVID-19. Australia's second-largest city has so far endured 262 days, or nearly nine months, of restrictions during six separate lockdowns since March 2020, representing the longest cumulative lockdown for any city in the world. Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, last year went through 234 straight days of lockdown. In Melbourne, people were seen cheering and clapping from their balconies, while cars honked horns continuously at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday when lockdown restrictions in place since early August ended. Also Read | Australian government offering financial aid to victims to seperate from violent partners Many venues, including food outlets and even haircutters, opened at the unusual hour for the occasion. Josh Mihan, owner of The Bearded Man barber shop in Melbourne, told Reuters he is nearly booked out for the next month and he is encouraging customers to make appointments for Christmas. "We all love cutting hair and being on the floor is such a lovely feeling, being around people," he said. "I have urged our customer base, make sure you have booked in your Christmas cut." Similar jubilant scenes were seen in the country's largest city, Sydney, almost two weeks ago, when authorities started easing restrictions as COVID-19 vaccination rates rose. Just over 70% of adults in Australia are now fully vaccinated and many residents are planning to fly overseas again as international border restrictions start to ease from November From Nov. 1, fully vaccinated international travellers arriving in Sydney and Melbourne will no longer need to quarantine. Also Read | Malaysian trans woman says 'safe and free' in Australia Qantas Airways Ltd said on Friday that it would speed up plans to restart flights to many destinations and upsize some planes amid "massive demand". Qantas said it would launch a new route from Sydney to Delhi in early December and bring forward plans for flights to Singapore, Fiji, Johannesburg, Bangkok and Phuket. "This is a wonderful day - Australia is ready for take-off," Prime Minister Scott Morrison said shortly after the Qantas announcement. A quarantine-free travel bubble between Australia and Singapore could operate from next month, Morrison said, if an agreement is reached as expected. A LONG LOCKDOWN Even with Delta outbreaks across Australia's southeast from late June, coronavirus numbers are still far lower than those of many comparable nations, with some 152,000 cases and 1,590 deaths. The state of Victoria, of which Melbourne is the capital, reported 2,189 new local COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths on Friday, making it the centre of the Delta outbreak in Australia. Daily cases in New South Wales, home to Sydney where the Delta variant was first detected in June, dropped slightly to 345. The state recorded a further five deaths. With a once-stuttering vaccine rollout gaining momentum, authorities no longer plan to rely on extended lockdowns to suppress the virus. It has been an arduous period, especially for those in Melbourne running a business. "We've been open for a year, and this is our fourth lockdown. It's been very difficult," said David Boyle, the head chef at the up-market Farmer’s Daughters restaurant in Melbourne. Under more relaxed rules, restaurants and cafes can reopen with up to 20 people indoors and 50 outdoors - all of whom must be vaccinated - while 10 guests can gather at homes. Masks will remain mandatory. The reopening will be a boost for Australia's A$2 trillion ($1.5 trillion) economy after recent lockdowns pushed it to the brink of a second recession in as many years. At Melbourne's once bustling Journal Cafe, waitress Sullivan Kovacs said business was still modest on Friday and that customer numbers would increase once office workers and trades people returned to the city en masse. "A lot of the traffic comes from people working in the city, and a lot of the tradies haven't gone back to work yet," Kovacs said.

Melbourne reopens as world's most locked-down city eases pandemic restrictions

As cases are alarmingly increasing in Russia, the capital city has decided to shut all its non-essential services between October 28 and November 07.<o:p></o:p>

Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin&nbsp;has announced an 11-day closure to make sure that the spread of the deadly coronavirus can be stopped.<o:p></o:p>

"Situation in&nbsp;Moscow&nbsp;is continuing to develop according to the worst-case scenario," the Mayor said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/180000-healthcare-workers-may-have-died-due-to-covid-19-who-422734">180,000 healthcare workers may have died due to COVID-19: WHO</a></o:p>

This announcement has come a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a nationwide paid week off towards the end of the month. The decision has been taken to curb the spread of the virus.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to this, Putin has also shifted all of his meetings and engagements to virtual mode and has cancelled all in-person meeting. This will continue till the civilians are advised to stay at home and follow a non-working period.<o:p></o:p>

"There will be no face-to-face events taking into account the difficult epidemiological situation," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state news agency RIA Novosti.<o:p></o:p>

During this closure of non-essential businesses in Moscow, all restaurants and cafes will be allowed to only sell take-away food. In addition to this, any large gathering is also prohibited.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-scripted-history-pm-narendra-modi-hails-indias-covid-19-vaccine-drive-422730">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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Schools will remain shut during this time; this closure time has coincided with national school holidays, giving students time to relax.<o:p></o:p>

However, theatres and museums have been allowed to operate but people can enter only if they are able to show the needed QR code on the entrance gate.<o:p></o:p>

Russia had reported 1,036 Covid deaths in the past 24 hours on Thursday. However, as only 35 per cent of the population has been vaccinated, authorities have warned people that the worst is yet to come.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the government and medical experts are still urging locals to give up vaccine hesitancy and get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible. President Putin has also been fully vaccinated.<o:p></o:p>

As cases are alarmingly increasing in Russia, the capital city has decided to shut all its non-essential services between October 28 and November 07. Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has announced an 11-day closure to make sure that the spread of the deadly coronavirus can be stopped.

As cases are alarmingly increasing in Russia, the capital city has decided to shut all its non-essential services between October 28 and November 07. Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin has announced an 11-day closure to make sure that the spread of the deadly coronavirus can be stopped. "Situation in Moscow is continuing to develop according to the worst-case scenario," the Mayor said. Also read | 180,000 healthcare workers may have died due to COVID-19: WHO This announcement has come a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a nationwide paid week off towards the end of the month. The decision has been taken to curb the spread of the virus. In addition to this, Putin has also shifted all of his meetings and engagements to virtual mode and has cancelled all in-person meeting. This will continue till the civilians are advised to stay at home and follow a non-working period. "There will be no face-to-face events taking into account the difficult epidemiological situation," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state news agency RIA Novosti. During this closure of non-essential businesses in Moscow, all restaurants and cafes will be allowed to only sell take-away food. In addition to this, any large gathering is also prohibited. WATCH | Schools will remain shut during this time; this closure time has coincided with national school holidays, giving students time to relax. However, theatres and museums have been allowed to operate but people can enter only if they are able to show the needed QR code on the entrance gate. Russia had reported 1,036 Covid deaths in the past 24 hours on Thursday. However, as only 35 per cent of the population has been vaccinated, authorities have warned people that the worst is yet to come. Meanwhile, the government and medical experts are still urging locals to give up vaccine hesitancy and get vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus as soon as possible. President Putin has also been fully vaccinated.

Moscow announces closure of non-essential services as Covid cases surge

As the UK observes another increase in Covid cases around the country, health experts are urging the Boris Johnson government to reintroduce curbs.<o:p></o:p>

On Wednesday, the healthcare leaders urged the British government to reintroduce Covid-related curbs in the country to make sure that the cases do not increase in the upcoming winter season.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-report-calls-for-homicide-charge-against-brazil-president-bolsonaro-over-covid-19-errors-422173">Senate report calls for homicide charge against Brazil President Bolsonaro over COVID-19 errors</a></o:p>

"We've got a very particular problem over this winter, and we need to act," Matthew Taylor, head of the NHS Confederation told Sky News.<o:p></o:p>

He also added that when ministers talk about Covid cases in the country, they are not paying heed to the number of people waiting in the emergency rooms, being treated in ambulances and the hospital backlogs.<o:p></o:p>

Is it better to act early and take measures which don't stop the economy working -- but I recognise they are inconvenient for people -- or do we wait for things to get worse and possibly risk having to take more severe measures?" he added.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-workers-face-job-losses-as-vaccine-mandates-kick-in-422285">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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However, the ministers are hesitant about reintroducing curbs as they believe the locals should now learn to live with coronavirus. He also adde3d that hospitals are starting to feel pressure due to the increasing cases, and the government should take immediate action.<o:p></o:p>

The Johnson administration believes that reintroducing Covid-related restrictions — such as restricting number of customers in shops, cafes etc — can be a huge blow to the industry. Ministers have claimed that there is no plan of bringing back those restrictions anytime soon.<o:p></o:p>

"This is a virus that we are learning to live with," Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng told the BBC. "Clearly any increase is concerning and we're monitoring the data on a daily basis.&nbsp;But for now, we think that this policy is working."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the government is urging the eligible population to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible. They have also added that getting vaccinated can also help protect children who are not yet eligible for vaccination.<o:p></o:p>

As the UK observes another increase in Covid cases around the country, health experts are urging the Boris Johnson government to reintroduce curbs. On Wednesday, the healthcare leaders urged the British government to reintroduce Covid-related curbs in the country to make sure that the cases do not increase in the upcoming winter season.

As the UK observes another increase in Covid cases around the country, health experts are urging the Boris Johnson government to reintroduce curbs. On Wednesday, the healthcare leaders urged the British government to reintroduce Covid-related curbs in the country to make sure that the cases do not increase in the upcoming winter season. Also read | Senate report calls for homicide charge against Brazil President Bolsonaro over COVID-19 errors "We've got a very particular problem over this winter, and we need to act," Matthew Taylor, head of the NHS Confederation told Sky News. He also added that when ministers talk about Covid cases in the country, they are not paying heed to the number of people waiting in the emergency rooms, being treated in ambulances and the hospital backlogs. Is it better to act early and take measures which don't stop the economy working -- but I recognise they are inconvenient for people -- or do we wait for things to get worse and possibly risk having to take more severe measures?" he added. WATCH | However, the ministers are hesitant about reintroducing curbs as they believe the locals should now learn to live with coronavirus. He also adde3d that hospitals are starting to feel pressure due to the increasing cases, and the government should take immediate action. The Johnson administration believes that reintroducing Covid-related restrictions — such as restricting number of customers in shops, cafes etc — can be a huge blow to the industry. Ministers have claimed that there is no plan of bringing back those restrictions anytime soon. "This is a virus that we are learning to live with," Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng told the BBC. "Clearly any increase is concerning and we're monitoring the data on a daily basis. But for now, we think that this policy is working." Meanwhile, the government is urging the eligible population to get vaccinated against coronavirus as soon as possible. They have also added that getting vaccinated can also help protect children who are not yet eligible for vaccination.

'Bring back Covid regulations', urge health experts as cases in UK rise again

After months of Covid regulations, the UK has decided to open its borders for travellers who are fully vaccinated. This announcement will help people travelling on long haul flights between India and the UK.<o:p></o:p>

Starting from October 04, the system of red, amber and green countries will be scrapped. Instead, there will only be one list, i.e., red list countries. This list will have all the countries where coronavirus is increasing at an alarming rate.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-panel-recommends-pfizers-covid-booster-shot-for-65-and-above-rejects-for-16-year-olds-413903">US panel recommends Pfizer's Covid booster shot for 65 and above, rejects for 16 year-olds</a></o:p>

UK will also put a stop at the pre-departure tests that the travellers have to go through before arriving in the UK. This will be applicable for fully-vaccinated people entering the UK from the countries which are not on the red list.<o:p></o:p>

This has come as a piece of good news for Indians who have had to take longer and more complicated routes to reach to the UK.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-violent-clash-breaks-out-between-police-and-anti-lockdown-protestors-413937">Australia: Violent clash breaks out between police and anti-lockdown protestors</a></o:p>

From October, this decision will help Indians save money and time in travelling as they will not be required to undergo the compulsory PCR tests now.<o:p></o:p>

However, people vaccinated by Covishield in India will have go through a pre-departure test, two PCR tests (first on day two and second on day eight), and self-isolate at the given address for 10 days upon entry. This has been made compulsory as India has not been added in the list of exempted countries whose Covid vaccines have been recognised in the UK.<o:p></o:p>

After months of Covid regulations, the UK has decided to open its borders for travellers who are fully vaccinated. This announcement will help people travelling on long haul flights between India and the UK.

After months of Covid regulations, the UK has decided to open its borders for travellers who are fully vaccinated. This announcement will help people travelling on long haul flights between India and the UK. Starting from October 04, the system of red, amber and green countries will be scrapped. Instead, there will only be one list, i.e., red list countries. This list will have all the countries where coronavirus is increasing at an alarming rate. Also read | US panel recommends Pfizer's Covid booster shot for 65 and above, rejects for 16 year-olds UK will also put a stop at the pre-departure tests that the travellers have to go through before arriving in the UK. This will be applicable for fully-vaccinated people entering the UK from the countries which are not on the red list. This has come as a piece of good news for Indians who have had to take longer and more complicated routes to reach to the UK. Also read | Australia: Violent clash breaks out between police and anti-lockdown protestors From October, this decision will help Indians save money and time in travelling as they will not be required to undergo the compulsory PCR tests now. However, people vaccinated by Covishield in India will have go through a pre-departure test, two PCR tests (first on day two and second on day eight), and self-isolate at the given address for 10 days upon entry. This has been made compulsory as India has not been added in the list of exempted countries whose Covid vaccines have been recognised in the UK.

UK eases Covid travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers

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