The Nepali government on Saturday reported a record spike in COVID-19 cases with the second wave of coronavirus hitting the Himalayan country.

"A total of 5,763 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the last 24 hours," Nepal`s Ministry of Health and Population said on Saturday. The last record of highest coronavirus cases in a day was reported on October 21 last year, when the Nepali government reported 5,743 cases.

Nepal, which had reported cases as low as 47 on March 6, had started to see a rise in the cases in late March. But the cases have been surging rapidly in the last two weeks. In the last week, the number of cases more than doubled from 2,619 on April 24 to over 5,700 on Saturday.

Along with rising cases, hospitals are running out of beds which prompted the health ministry to issue a stern warning on Friday that the cases were rising at the scale that the health system was not able to cope with."Such a situation has arisen now that the patients cannot be provided care at the hospitals as they are running out of beds," the ministry said in a press statement on Friday.

This is obviously true in the case of Kathmandu-based Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital where patients exceeding the number of hospital beds have been admitted. "We have a total of 60 beds in our hospital but we are providing treatment to 78 patients at the moment," Sagar Kumar Rajbhandari, director of the hospital, told Xinhua on Saturday.

"We have five beds in the emergency ward but there are 18 patients there including in the adjoining corridor waiting for the occupied beds to become vacant."

In order to control the surging cases, the Nepali government has enforced a lockdown in the Kathmandu valley starting from April 29 for two weeks while similar measures are being adopted in many other parts of the country.

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 Crisis Management Centre headed by Nepal`s Deputy Prime Minister Ishawar Pokharel on Friday recommended to the cabinet to suspend international flights amid the coronavirus crisis, according to Nepali media reports.

The Nepali government on Saturday reported a record spike in COVID-19 cases with the second wave of coronavirus hitting the Himalayan country. "A total of 5,763 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the last 24 hours," Nepal`s Ministry of Health and Population said on Saturday.

The Nepali government on Saturday reported a record spike in COVID-19 cases with the second wave of coronavirus hitting the Himalayan country. "A total of 5,763 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the last 24 hours," Nepal`s Ministry of Health and Population said on Saturday. The last record of highest coronavirus cases in a day was reported on October 21 last year, when the Nepali government reported 5,743 cases. Nepal, which had reported cases as low as 47 on March 6, had started to see a rise in the cases in late March. But the cases have been surging rapidly in the last two weeks. In the last week, the number of cases more than doubled from 2,619 on April 24 to over 5,700 on Saturday. Along with rising cases, hospitals are running out of beds which prompted the health ministry to issue a stern warning on Friday that the cases were rising at the scale that the health system was not able to cope with."Such a situation has arisen now that the patients cannot be provided care at the hospitals as they are running out of beds," the ministry said in a press statement on Friday. This is obviously true in the case of Kathmandu-based Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital where patients exceeding the number of hospital beds have been admitted. "We have a total of 60 beds in our hospital but we are providing treatment to 78 patients at the moment," Sagar Kumar Rajbhandari, director of the hospital, told Xinhua on Saturday. "We have five beds in the emergency ward but there are 18 patients there including in the adjoining corridor waiting for the occupied beds to become vacant." In order to control the surging cases, the Nepali government has enforced a lockdown in the Kathmandu valley starting from April 29 for two weeks while similar measures are being adopted in many other parts of the country. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 Crisis Management Centre headed by Nepal`s Deputy Prime Minister Ishawar Pokharel on Friday recommended to the cabinet to suspend international flights amid the coronavirus crisis, according to Nepali media reports.

Nepal reports record high COVID-19 cases; Govt warns about hospital beds shortage

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases.

"I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying.

Related video:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/us-may-not-need-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-says-anthony-fauci-374992" hreflang="en">'US may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine', says Anthony Fauci</a>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an address following the surge in cases had said that he was not going to impose a national lockdown but left the onus on states to take the call. "But also, one of the immediate things to do is to essentially call a shutdown of the country," Fauci&nbsp;said during the interview.

He further said that the COVID-19 lockdown need not be extremely long. "And if you shut down, you don't have to shut down for six months. You can shut down temporarily to put an end to the cycle of transmission," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/world-has-failed-india-amid-record-surge-in-covid-19-cases-says-top-us-disease-expert-fauci-381019" hreflang="en">World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci</a>

Fauci also said that “no one likes likes to lock down the country”, while urging Indian authorities to lock down the country for a “few weeks”, which in his opinion would have a considerable impact on the degree of the outbreak.

Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1. In April alone, India recorded over seven million infections which has overwhelmed healthcare system in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-contemplating-changing-3-foot-social-distancing-rule-anthony-fauci-370452" hreflang="en">US contemplating changing 3-foot social distancing rule: Anthony Fauci</a>

New states and regions in the country have imposed lockdowns - namely the state of Maharashtra and the Union Territory of Delhi. On Saturday, Delhi extended its lockdown by a week for the second time.

(With inputs from agencies)

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases. "I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying.

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases. "I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying. Related video: 'US may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine', says Anthony Fauci Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an address following the surge in cases had said that he was not going to impose a national lockdown but left the onus on states to take the call. "But also, one of the immediate things to do is to essentially call a shutdown of the country," Fauci said during the interview. He further said that the COVID-19 lockdown need not be extremely long. "And if you shut down, you don't have to shut down for six months. You can shut down temporarily to put an end to the cycle of transmission," he said. Also read: World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci Fauci also said that “no one likes likes to lock down the country”, while urging Indian authorities to lock down the country for a “few weeks”, which in his opinion would have a considerable impact on the degree of the outbreak. Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1. In April alone, India recorded over seven million infections which has overwhelmed healthcare system in the country. Also read: US contemplating changing 3-foot social distancing rule: Anthony Fauci New states and regions in the country have imposed lockdowns - namely the state of Maharashtra and the Union Territory of Delhi. On Saturday, Delhi extended its lockdown by a week for the second time. (With inputs from agencies)

Top US disease expert Dr Fauci urges India to impose nationwide lockdown for 'few weeks'

Indian capital New Delhi&nbsp;extended&nbsp;lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far.

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"Lockdown in&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;is being extended by one week," Arvind Kejriwal said on Twitter. The current lockdown was set to expire in the city on Monday but the cases are currently rising in the city which is home to over 20 million residents.

On Saturday, India reported 401,993 new cases of COVID-19 from the last 24 hours, marking the highest daily count for the country as well as the world. For the last ten days, the country has reported over 300,000 fresh cases everyday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-mutations-that-could-evade-immune-response-flagged-by-indian-scientists-report-381970" hreflang="en">Coronavirus mutations that could 'evade immune response' flagged by Indian scientists: Report</a>

COVID-19 deaths jumped by 3,523 over the last 23 hours, taking the total death toll in the country to 211,853, according to the data by the Indian Health Ministry.

On Friday, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal urged people to not crowd at vaccination centres, while promising that more vaccines are set to arrive in the city "tomorrow or the day after".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-first-lot-of-russian-vaccine-sputnik-v-arrives-in-hyderabad-381953" hreflang="en">COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad</a>

On Saturday, a&nbsp;group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry.

Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital New Delhi extended lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far.

Indian capital New Delhi extended lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far. "Lockdown in Delhi is being extended by one week," Arvind Kejriwal said on Twitter. The current lockdown was set to expire in the city on Monday but the cases are currently rising in the city which is home to over 20 million residents. On Saturday, India reported 401,993 new cases of COVID-19 from the last 24 hours, marking the highest daily count for the country as well as the world. For the last ten days, the country has reported over 300,000 fresh cases everyday. Also read: Coronavirus mutations that could 'evade immune response' flagged by Indian scientists: Report COVID-19 deaths jumped by 3,523 over the last 23 hours, taking the total death toll in the country to 211,853, according to the data by the Indian Health Ministry. On Friday, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal urged people to not crowd at vaccination centres, while promising that more vaccines are set to arrive in the city "tomorrow or the day after". Also read: COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad On Saturday, a group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry. Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital New Delhi extends lockdown by a week as Covid cases rise

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories to import the Russian vaccine to India for emergency use.

The rollout of the Russian vaccine is expected to augment India`s third phase of the vaccination drive which commenced today amid a record rise in COVID-19 cases. India for the first time has reported more than 4 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours.

A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded in the last 24 hours taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported on Saturday.

Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has given the go-ahead to after `Covishield`, developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and `Covaxin`, the indigenous vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech.

Covishield is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.Earlier, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma had said that India expects between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May.

Diplomatic sources had told ANI that India will get a substantive number of vaccines in the first tranche and the supply will continue in instalments. India is expecting 5 million vials of Sputnik vaccines by the next month.

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr.

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories to import the Russian vaccine to India for emergency use. The rollout of the Russian vaccine is expected to augment India`s third phase of the vaccination drive which commenced today amid a record rise in COVID-19 cases. India for the first time has reported more than 4 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded in the last 24 hours taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported on Saturday. Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has given the go-ahead to after `Covishield`, developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and `Covaxin`, the indigenous vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech. Covishield is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.Earlier, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma had said that India expects between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May. Diplomatic sources had told ANI that India will get a substantive number of vaccines in the first tranche and the supply will continue in instalments. India is expecting 5 million vials of Sputnik vaccines by the next month.

COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad

Indian food delivery startup Zomato, backed by China`s Ant Group, has filed for an initial public offering of up to 82.5 billion rupees ($1.11 billion), as consumers increasingly turn to ordering food online during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
Launched in 2008, Zomato is one of India`s most prominent startups. It is present in 24 countries and employs more than 5,000 people, according to its website. 
 
In February, the company raised $250 million from five investors including hedge fund Tiger Global Management for a post-money valuation of $5.4 billion. 
 
According to draft papers submitted to India`s market regulator on Wednesday, Zomato`s offering will comprise a fresh issue of shares worth up to 75 billion rupees. The company said it intends to use the proceeds to fund growth initiatives and general corporate purposes. 
 
Top shareholder Info Edge will sell shares worth 7.5 billion rupees in the IPO. 
 
The company, along with domestic rival Swiggy, backed by Accel, dominates the Indian food delivery market, which research firm RedSeer estimates is worth $4.2 billion. 
 
India has been one of the hottest IPO markets so far in 2021, helped by a flood of foreign money and high interest from mom-and-pop investors. 
 
However, since late March, a second wave of coronavirus infections has dampened investor enthusiasm for stocks and IPOs. 
 
Well-known domestic brands and names such as Barbeque-Nation Hospitality Ltd and Macrotech Developers Ltd saw a muted response to their stock market listings. 
 
Kotak Mahindra Capital, Morgan Stanley India, Credit Suisse Securities India, BofA Securities India and Citigroup Global Markets India are the lead book running managers for Zomato`s IPO.

Indian food delivery startup Zomato, backed by China`s Ant Group, has filed for an initial public offering of up to 82.5 billion rupees ($1.11 billion), as consumers increasingly turn to ordering food online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian food delivery startup Zomato, backed by China`s Ant Group, has filed for an initial public offering of up to 82.5 billion rupees ($1.11 billion), as consumers increasingly turn to ordering food online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Launched in 2008, Zomato is one of India`s most prominent startups. It is present in 24 countries and employs more than 5,000 people, according to its website. In February, the company raised $250 million from five investors including hedge fund Tiger Global Management for a post-money valuation of $5.4 billion. According to draft papers submitted to India`s market regulator on Wednesday, Zomato`s offering will comprise a fresh issue of shares worth up to 75 billion rupees. The company said it intends to use the proceeds to fund growth initiatives and general corporate purposes. Top shareholder Info Edge will sell shares worth 7.5 billion rupees in the IPO. The company, along with domestic rival Swiggy, backed by Accel, dominates the Indian food delivery market, which research firm RedSeer estimates is worth $4.2 billion. India has been one of the hottest IPO markets so far in 2021, helped by a flood of foreign money and high interest from mom-and-pop investors. However, since late March, a second wave of coronavirus infections has dampened investor enthusiasm for stocks and IPOs. Well-known domestic brands and names such as Barbeque-Nation Hospitality Ltd and Macrotech Developers Ltd saw a muted response to their stock market listings. Kotak Mahindra Capital, Morgan Stanley India, Credit Suisse Securities India, BofA Securities India and Citigroup Global Markets India are the lead book running managers for Zomato`s IPO.

India's Zomato files for $1.11 billion IPO as food delivery surges in pandemic

As India battles the second wave of the Covid pandemic, US President Joe Bidn has said that his "intention" is to send vaccines to the country.

The development comes a&nbsp;day after the United States announced it will make&nbsp;60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid vaccine available to other countries within two&nbsp;months.&nbsp;Before any AstraZeneca doses can be shipped from the United States, US FDA needs to give its nod.

Recalling his talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, President Biden said,&nbsp;"I spoke at length with PM Modi, we are sending immediately a whole series of help that it (India) needs including providing for those Remdesivir and other drugs that are able to deal" with the disease and help recovery."&nbsp;

On vaccines, he said, "we are sending actual mechanical parts that are needed for the machinery they have to build a vaccine", adding, "I have also discussed with him (PM Modi) when we will be able to send actual vaccines to India which will be my intention to do".

The&nbsp;United States has approved&nbsp;three&nbsp;vaccines so far, Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson &amp; Johnson. And while AstraZeneca is being used in many parts of the world, it has not been authorised for use in the US yet. But despite no authorisation yet, the country still has stockpiled the vaccine doses as part of its strategy to be ready for a range of scenarios.&nbsp;

Biden said,&nbsp;"I think we will be in a position to share vaccines as well as knowhow with other countries who are in real need. That is the hope and expectations."

In the backdrop of the Covid crisis in India, the US over the weekend announced assistance including&nbsp;providing raw material for Indian manufactures to produce the Covishield vaccine. Other than that, the US will send therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, and Personal Protective Equipment.

The president also lauded India's support of last year, saying, "when we were in a bind at the very beginning, India helped us." In 2020, India had sent HCQ to the US when it was battling the Covid pandemic.

As India battles the second wave of the Covid pandemic, US President Joe Bidn has said that his "intention" is to send vaccines to the country. The development comes a day after the United States announced it will make 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid vaccine available to other countries within two months.

As India battles the second wave of the Covid pandemic, US President Joe Bidn has said that his "intention" is to send vaccines to the country. The development comes a day after the United States announced it will make 60 million doses of AstraZeneca Covid vaccine available to other countries within two months. Before any AstraZeneca doses can be shipped from the United States, US FDA needs to give its nod. Recalling his talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, President Biden said, "I spoke at length with PM Modi, we are sending immediately a whole series of help that it (India) needs including providing for those Remdesivir and other drugs that are able to deal" with the disease and help recovery." On vaccines, he said, "we are sending actual mechanical parts that are needed for the machinery they have to build a vaccine", adding, "I have also discussed with him (PM Modi) when we will be able to send actual vaccines to India which will be my intention to do". The United States has approved three vaccines so far, Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. And while AstraZeneca is being used in many parts of the world, it has not been authorised for use in the US yet. But despite no authorisation yet, the country still has stockpiled the vaccine doses as part of its strategy to be ready for a range of scenarios. Biden said, "I think we will be in a position to share vaccines as well as knowhow with other countries who are in real need. That is the hope and expectations." In the backdrop of the Covid crisis in India, the US over the weekend announced assistance including providing raw material for Indian manufactures to produce the Covishield vaccine. Other than that, the US will send therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, and Personal Protective Equipment. The president also lauded India's support of last year, saying, "when we were in a bind at the very beginning, India helped us." In 2020, India had sent HCQ to the US when it was battling the Covid pandemic.

Intend to send COVID-19 vaccines to India, says US President Joe Biden

Days ahead of May 1&nbsp;when vaccination against COVID-19 is meant to be open for all adults aged between 18 and 44 in India, the Tamil Nadu Government said it has issued orders to procure 15 million (1.5 crore) vaccinations via the Tamil Nadu medical Services Corporation. So&nbsp;far, about 5.551&nbsp;million (55.51 lakh) persons in the above-45 age group have taken the jabs, the government stated.&nbsp;

Via a statement, the State Government assured the people regarding free vaccines being made available to those in the eligible age group, as was promised by Chief Minister K Palaniswami late last year.&nbsp;

Regarding the rising demand for drug remdesivir, Dr. TS&nbsp;Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said that there was an unnecessary panic and artificial demand for the drug. “Remdesivir is not a life-saving drug. Not recommended as mandatory drug for COVID-19 treatment by WHO. Not all patients who are sick need remdesivir, it is not going to prevent mortality, at the most it will only prevent the duration of your stay” he said.&nbsp;

He also added that the state government had procured enough drugs via the TNMSC and that those who needed the drugs must provide their personal, medical details, test positivity and clinical details at the TNMSC counter.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, amid rising cases in Chennai city, the Chennai Corporation Commissioner has sanctioned permissions for hotels and private hospitals to start private Covid Care centres, by just intimating the civic body.&nbsp; As on Tuesday, there are 0.108&nbsp;million (1.08 lakh) active cases in Tamil Nadu, of which 35,000 are in Chennai.&nbsp;

Days ahead of May 1 when vaccination against COVID-19 is meant to be open for all adults aged between 18 and 44 in India, the Tamil Nadu Government said it has issued orders to procure 15 million (1.

Days ahead of May 1 when vaccination against COVID-19 is meant to be open for all adults aged between 18 and 44 in India, the Tamil Nadu Government said it has issued orders to procure 15 million (1.5 crore) vaccinations via the Tamil Nadu medical Services Corporation. So far, about 5.551 million (55.51 lakh) persons in the above-45 age group have taken the jabs, the government stated. Via a statement, the State Government assured the people regarding free vaccines being made available to those in the eligible age group, as was promised by Chief Minister K Palaniswami late last year. Regarding the rising demand for drug remdesivir, Dr. TS Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said that there was an unnecessary panic and artificial demand for the drug. “Remdesivir is not a life-saving drug. Not recommended as mandatory drug for COVID-19 treatment by WHO. Not all patients who are sick need remdesivir, it is not going to prevent mortality, at the most it will only prevent the duration of your stay” he said. He also added that the state government had procured enough drugs via the TNMSC and that those who needed the drugs must provide their personal, medical details, test positivity and clinical details at the TNMSC counter. Meanwhile, amid rising cases in Chennai city, the Chennai Corporation Commissioner has sanctioned permissions for hotels and private hospitals to start private Covid Care centres, by just intimating the civic body. As on Tuesday, there are 0.108 million (1.08 lakh) active cases in Tamil Nadu, of which 35,000 are in Chennai.

COVID-19: Over 5 million people vaccinated in Tamil Nadu so far, says govt

The Coronavirus lockdowns have harmed young children’s speech and language skills, new research has found.

Data from 50,000 pupils and a survey of schools showed an increased number of four and five-year-olds needing help with the language.

Research by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) found that of 58 primary schools surveyed, 76 per cent said pupils starting school in September 2020 needed more support with communication than in previous years, and 96 per cent were concerned about pupils’ speech and language development.

The majority of parents were also worried about their child starting school, with 56% saying they were concerned about their child going back to the classroom following the lockdowns in the spring and summer.

Problems with communication can limit young children, particularly if they are unable to express themselves, interact with peers and make themselves understood.

Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 147.5 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.11 million, according to Johns Hopkins University.

In its latest update on Tuesday morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 147,533,386 and 3,116,582, respectively.

The US is the worst-hit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 32,123,535 and 572,666, respectively, according to the CSSE.

In terms of infections, India follows in second place with 17,313,163 cases.

The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (14,369,423), France (5,565,080), Russia (4,717,321), Turkey (4,667,281), the UK (4,422,562), Italy (3,971,114), Spain (3,488,469), Germany (3,312,653), Argentina (2,879,677), Colombia (2,787,303), Poland (2,762,323), Iran (2,417,230) and Mexico (2,328,391), the CSSE figures showed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Coronavirus lockdowns have harmed young children’s speech and language skills, new research has found. Data from 50,000 pupils and a survey of schools showed an increased number of four and five-year-olds needing help with the language.

The Coronavirus lockdowns have harmed young children’s speech and language skills, new research has found. Data from 50,000 pupils and a survey of schools showed an increased number of four and five-year-olds needing help with the language. Research by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) found that of 58 primary schools surveyed, 76 per cent said pupils starting school in September 2020 needed more support with communication than in previous years, and 96 per cent were concerned about pupils’ speech and language development. The majority of parents were also worried about their child starting school, with 56% saying they were concerned about their child going back to the classroom following the lockdowns in the spring and summer. Problems with communication can limit young children, particularly if they are unable to express themselves, interact with peers and make themselves understood. Meanwhile, the overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 147.5 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 3.11 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Tuesday morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 147,533,386 and 3,116,582, respectively. The US is the worst-hit country with the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 32,123,535 and 572,666, respectively, according to the CSSE. In terms of infections, India follows in second place with 17,313,163 cases. The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (14,369,423), France (5,565,080), Russia (4,717,321), Turkey (4,667,281), the UK (4,422,562), Italy (3,971,114), Spain (3,488,469), Germany (3,312,653), Argentina (2,879,677), Colombia (2,787,303), Poland (2,762,323), Iran (2,417,230) and Mexico (2,328,391), the CSSE figures showed. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Children's speech and language skills 'impacted by lockdowns'

Authorities in northern Italy announced Monday they had identified two cases of the Indian variant of coronavirus, in a father and daughter recently returned from India. 
 
The news follows reports of another case in the central region of Tuscany last month, and comes after the Italian government banned arrivals from the virus-hit country. 
 
"Today in (the city of) Bassano we have the first two patients, two Indians," announced Luca Zaia, head of the Veneto region. 
 
Bassano, in the province of Vicenza, lies some 65 kilometres (40 miles) north-east of Venice.&nbsp; 
 
The two patients were identified as a father and adult daughter of Indian origin who recently returned from a trip to India. They are currently isolating at home. 
 
Health Minister Roberto Speranza on Sunday announced a new ban on anyone entering Italy who has been in India in the past 14 days.&nbsp; 
 
India is battling a catastrophic, record-breaking outbreak that has overwhelmed hospitals and set crematoriums&nbsp;working at full capacity.

Authorities in northern Italy announced Monday they had identified two cases of the Indian variant of coronavirus, in a father and daughter recently returned from India.

Authorities in northern Italy announced Monday they had identified two cases of the Indian variant of coronavirus, in a father and daughter recently returned from India. The news follows reports of another case in the central region of Tuscany last month, and comes after the Italian government banned arrivals from the virus-hit country. "Today in (the city of) Bassano we have the first two patients, two Indians," announced Luca Zaia, head of the Veneto region. Bassano, in the province of Vicenza, lies some 65 kilometres (40 miles) north-east of Venice. The two patients were identified as a father and adult daughter of Indian origin who recently returned from a trip to India. They are currently isolating at home. Health Minister Roberto Speranza on Sunday announced a new ban on anyone entering Italy who has been in India in the past 14 days. India is battling a catastrophic, record-breaking outbreak that has overwhelmed hospitals and set crematoriums working at full capacity.

Indian Covid variant found in northern Italy

To fight the ongoing wave of COVID-19 infections, Canada will send its armed forces and the Red Cross to Ontario. The province is facing a surge in the number of cases and hospitalisations due to COVID-19, Canada’s public safety minister said on Monday.

Toronto has emerged as the epicentre of Ontario’s third COVID-19 wave, and the federal government recently approved a request to airlift medical personnel from the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, a spokesperson for Public Safety Canada said in a statement.

The country’s Minister of Public Safety, Bill Blair on Twitter said that the government has given its nod to providing support.

On Monday alone, Ontario reported 877 cases that required intensive care. Scientific modelling suggests that the virus could put 1,500 people in the ICU by the beginning of May.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-says-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccines-from-suspended-us-plant-are-safe-380467" hreflang="en">Canada says AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines from suspended US plant are safe</a>

Alberta currently has highest rate of COVID-19 cases in the country, and on Tuesday said that it would offer vaccination to over 15,000 workers at meat-packing plants across the province where the highest number of cases were recorder during the first wave.

Canada’s Ontario recently announced sweeping police powers in a bid to enforce stay-at-home orders.&nbsp;Ontario is Canada’s most populous province and has witnessed a record number of coronavirus cases, with health experts worried about the effects of healthcare system being overwhelmed.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/canada-to-suspend-passenger-flights-from-india-pakistan-over-covid-19-fears-379365" hreflang="en">Canada to suspend passenger flights from India, Pakistan over COVID-19 fears</a>

“We’re losing the battle between the variants and vaccines… We’re on our heels. If we dig in, remain steadfast, we can turn this around,’’ Doug Ford, Ontario’s premier announced on April 16.

A new model predicts Ontario will have 15,000 new cases everyday by June if the current trajectory of daily cases continues. This model has taken into account vaccinations. In addition, the province could see 30,000 cases a day.

(With inputs from agencies)

To fight the ongoing wave of COVID-19 infections, Canada will send its armed forces and the Red Cross to Ontario. The province is facing a surge in the number of cases and hospitalisations due to COVID-19, Canada’s public safety minister said on Monday.

To fight the ongoing wave of COVID-19 infections, Canada will send its armed forces and the Red Cross to Ontario. The province is facing a surge in the number of cases and hospitalisations due to COVID-19, Canada’s public safety minister said on Monday. Toronto has emerged as the epicentre of Ontario’s third COVID-19 wave, and the federal government recently approved a request to airlift medical personnel from the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, a spokesperson for Public Safety Canada said in a statement. The country’s Minister of Public Safety, Bill Blair on Twitter said that the government has given its nod to providing support. On Monday alone, Ontario reported 877 cases that required intensive care. Scientific modelling suggests that the virus could put 1,500 people in the ICU by the beginning of May. Also read: Canada says AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines from suspended US plant are safe Alberta currently has highest rate of COVID-19 cases in the country, and on Tuesday said that it would offer vaccination to over 15,000 workers at meat-packing plants across the province where the highest number of cases were recorder during the first wave. Canada’s Ontario recently announced sweeping police powers in a bid to enforce stay-at-home orders. Ontario is Canada’s most populous province and has witnessed a record number of coronavirus cases, with health experts worried about the effects of healthcare system being overwhelmed. Also read: Canada to suspend passenger flights from India, Pakistan over COVID-19 fears “We’re losing the battle between the variants and vaccines… We’re on our heels. If we dig in, remain steadfast, we can turn this around,’’ Doug Ford, Ontario’s premier announced on April 16. A new model predicts Ontario will have 15,000 new cases everyday by June if the current trajectory of daily cases continues. This model has taken into account vaccinations. In addition, the province could see 30,000 cases a day. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada to send army to Ontario as cases continue to rise

The Indian government has allowed all adults to get the COVID-19 vaccine from May 1st. Authorities are all set to launch the third phase of vaccination next month.

Coronavirus Update: Indian govt allows all adults to get vaccinated from 1st May

Covid-19 vaccines produced by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson have come under a cloud over rare cases of blood clots. Here's what we know:

Covid vaccines face blood clot concerns

The Wuhan virus is now targeting the youth. In Europe, Brazil and India - younger people are catching the newer variants. For some, the consequences are deadly. Can mass vaccination bring this surge under control?

Gravitas | Covid-19: The virus is now targeting the youth

Can an international treaty save the world from future pandemics? Leaders from 23 countries and the WHO back the idea. But the proposal is short on details. WION's Palki asks: Will a divided global leadership agree to a new treaty?

Gravitas: Can an international treaty save the world from future pandemics?

India is once again witnessing a massive surge in coronavirus cases as it recorded 40,953 infections in the last 24 hours, highest so far since November, taking the total tally to 1,15,55,284 on Saturday. 
 
A single-day spike of 41,810 new infections were recorded on November 28 last year. The country has been registering an increase in cases for the 10th consecutive day. 
 
According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh are exhibiting a steep rise in daily numbers. 
 
The central government is closely monitoring and actively engaging with the states and union territories over the rising cases. 
 
With death of 188 people in the last 24 hours, the toll has reached 1,59,558 in India. The active caseload in country has mounted to 2,88,394. 
 
With the discharge of 23,653 patients in a day, a total of 1,11,07,332 persons have been discharged so far. A total of 10,60,971 tests were done on Friday. 
 
So far, 4.20 crore doses of corona vaccines have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. 
 
More than 18.16 lakh doses were administered on a single day on Friday. 
 
--IANS 
 
aka/in 
&nbsp;

India is once again witnessing a massive surge in coronavirus cases as it recorded 40,953 infections in the last 24 hours, highest so far since November, taking the total tally to 1,15,55,284 on Saturday.

India is once again witnessing a massive surge in coronavirus cases as it recorded 40,953 infections in the last 24 hours, highest so far since November, taking the total tally to 1,15,55,284 on Saturday. A single-day spike of 41,810 new infections were recorded on November 28 last year. The country has been registering an increase in cases for the 10th consecutive day. According to the Health Ministry, Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh are exhibiting a steep rise in daily numbers. The central government is closely monitoring and actively engaging with the states and union territories over the rising cases. With death of 188 people in the last 24 hours, the toll has reached 1,59,558 in India. The active caseload in country has mounted to 2,88,394. With the discharge of 23,653 patients in a day, a total of 1,11,07,332 persons have been discharged so far. A total of 10,60,971 tests were done on Friday. So far, 4.20 crore doses of corona vaccines have been administered in the country since the drive began on January 16 after approval for `Covishield` and `Covaxin`. More than 18.16 lakh doses were administered on a single day on Friday. --IANS aka/in

India adds nearly 41,000 new COVID-19 cases

A strict 25 hours lockdown has been imposed in the Brazillian capital of Brasilia to curb a worsening COVID-19 outbreak that is filled its intensive care units to near filled capacity now. Brazilian governor issues 24-hour lockdown in Brazil's capital and remains effective for 15 days.

Lockdown restrictions has been imposed in Brazillian capital of Brasilia to curb a worsening COVID-19 outbreak

According to Scientists we have now reached a precarious point in the pandemic, while conditions are turning favorable for the rise of new coronavirus variants. Despite large vaccination programs and immunizing through herd immunity. The virus continues to spread rapidly in many parts of the world and according to experts higher rates of viral transmission and partial immunizing population encourage the emergence of potentially more lethal variants.

Vaccination delays could bring more virus variants

E484K is the new variant of coronavirus which is found in Japan. Variants of this new strain is claimed to have come from overseas while 2 fresh cases also have been found at the airport. Talking about COVID-19, Japan has till now 400,000 cases of the epidemic and over 7000 deaths.

Japan: New Strain of COVID-19 found at the airport

Two 11 week old white tiger cubs that died in the Pakistani Zoo last month, are most likely died of COVID-19. An autopsy report found that the cub's lungs were badly damaged.

Two 11 week old white Tiger cubs died due to COVID-19 in Pakistan

China refuses to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to a world health organization led team probing the origin of a pandemic. Raw data could help answer crucial questions on the origin of a pandemic. WION brings you more details.

China refuse to give raw data on early COVID-19 cases to a WHO led team

A World Health Organization probe team member has said that the team concluded its site visit in China's Wuhan, they are investigating the origins of coronavirus. The probe team visited various markets and hospital sites that first witness the outbreak. WHO probe team will go through all the data before submitting a summary of their findings.

WHO team members are worried about different bat COVID-19

Britain's opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer said on Tuesday (January 26) the UK government has been too slow to act to curb the spread of the coronavirus from the onset of the pandemic.

UK opposition: government 'too slow' as COVID-19 deaths top 100,000

Riding an old-fashioned horse-driven cart, Dr Viktoria Mahnych trots country roads to attend to her patients in several villages nestled in the Carpathian Mountains in western Ukraine. Mahnych, 30, now fears that the long holidays, during which Ukrainians frequented restaurants and other entertainment venues, as well as festive parties and crowded church services, will trigger a surge in new coronavirus infections and make her job even more difficult. The country of 42 million has recorded more than 1.1 million confirmed COVID-19 infections and nearly 20,000 deaths. #COVID19 #Ukraine #Doctor

A village doctor's struggle to keep up with rising COVID-19 cases in Ukraine

COVID-19 served a huge blow to the fitness industry among other sectors. Group Workouts, packed fitness studios, carefree session on cardio machine it all seems like a dream. As COVID-19 continue to spread fitness gyms are adjusting to a new reality. WION brings you the report.

What will be the 2021 trends to stay in shape ?

As Tokyo witnessing a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases. The Tokyo governor, along with the governor of three prefectures seeks to declare a state of emergency in the country. The request comes after the country recorded over 4000 COVID-19 cases last week.

Japan: Tokyo governor calls for state of emergency as cases surge in the country

In late November, Reuters journalist Shoon Naing tested positive for the coronavirus in Yangon, after two nights of fever and coughing. This story documents her stay at a quarantine facility centre over 11 days.

Journalist records her experience at quarantine centre in Myanmar

South Korea which was once haled in successfully containing the coronavirus outbreak, overtime the reality has changed. On Tuesday south Korea has recorded its second highest spike in coronavirus infections. Seoul becomes the worst COVID-19 affected region.

South Korea battles its third COVID-19 surge, Moon Jae-in under fire for vaccine strategy

The W.H.O has been accused of conspiring with Italian Health Ministry to remove a report on COVID-19. The report reveled Italy's mismanagement during the Pandemic.

W.H.O accused of conspiring with Italy

France had initially hoped to be able to lift many of its lockdown rules on December 15th - allowing people to travel to visit friends and family over the holidays.

French govt to impose a curfew from 8 pm to 6 am for 3 weeks

New COVID-19 restrictions came into effect in Los Angeles County on Monday (November 30), leaving businesses wondering how they can survive.

"Everybody's worried": California businesses fear second shutdown

American physician and immunologist Anthony Fauci has voice his concern over rising COVID-19 cases in U.S, following the thanksgiving holiday in Country.

Coronavirus Pandemic :  U.S. Reported 13 Million Cases Of Covid - 19

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