India has reported 7,830 Covid cases in the last 24 hours. During the same period, over 16 deaths have been reported. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: India reports 7,830 Covid cases in 24 hours

<p>India's spike in Covid cases continue despite reduced fatality due to record vaccinations. The world's fifth largest economy on Thursday reported 10,158 new Covid cases, according to the country's health ministry data.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;active Covid caseload currently stands at 44,998 in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, top health ministry officials said that Covid-19 is moving towards an endemic stage in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Covid's endemic moment: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Endemic refers to a disease outbreak which is consistently present but is limited to a particular region which makes it more predictable and manageable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to officials, even though Covid cases are increasing, hospitalisation remains low and it is expected to remain low due to maximalist vaccination in most parts of the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-expert-issues-warning-over-xbb116-variant-as-nation-records-7830-new-cases-581560">COVID-19: Expert issues warning over XBB1.16 variant as India records 7,830 new cases in 24 hours</a></strong></p>

<p>Health ministry officials said cases may keep rising for the next 10-12 days after which they will begin to subside. As the virus becomes endemic, it generates a large number of variants.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India@75: How India helped world during Covid pandemic</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india75-how-india-helped-world-during-covid-pandemic-504838/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Omicron, which was first detected in 2021, has been assigned over 1,000 sub-lineages since its detection, including XBB.1.16 and XBB.1.5. Dr N K Arora, co-chair of the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), said XBB.1.16 is causing a surge in cases but hospitalisations haven’t gone up and even the deaths being attributed to the disease are mostly among people who have serious comorbidities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Until January, only about 120 to 140 new cases were being reported daily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But on Thursday, the country's daily Covid case-count crossed the mark of 10,000 for the first time in months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's spike in Covid cases continue despite reduced fatality due to record vaccinations. The world's fifth largest economy on Thursday reported 10,158 new Covid cases, according to the country's health ministry data.

India's spike in Covid cases continue despite reduced fatality due to record vaccinations. The world's fifth largest economy on Thursday reported 10,158 new Covid cases, according to the country's health ministry data. The active Covid caseload currently stands at 44,998 in India. Meanwhile, top health ministry officials said that Covid-19 is moving towards an endemic stage in India. Covid's endemic moment: What does it mean? Endemic refers to a disease outbreak which is consistently present but is limited to a particular region which makes it more predictable and manageable. According to officials, even though Covid cases are increasing, hospitalisation remains low and it is expected to remain low due to maximalist vaccination in most parts of the country. ALSO READ | COVID-19: Expert issues warning over XBB1.16 variant as India records 7,830 new cases in 24 hours Health ministry officials said cases may keep rising for the next 10-12 days after which they will begin to subside. As the virus becomes endemic, it generates a large number of variants. ALSO WATCH | India@75: How India helped world during Covid pandemic × Omicron, which was first detected in 2021, has been assigned over 1,000 sub-lineages since its detection, including XBB.1.16 and XBB.1.5. Dr N K Arora, co-chair of the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), said XBB.1.16 is causing a surge in cases but hospitalisations haven’t gone up and even the deaths being attributed to the disease are mostly among people who have serious comorbidities. Until January, only about 120 to 140 new cases were being reported daily. But on Thursday, the country's daily Covid case-count crossed the mark of 10,000 for the first time in months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India records over 10,000 daily Covid cases for first time in months

India has reported a surge in Covid cases. The new COVID-19 cases jump 30% to 10,158; active tally nears 45,000-mark. Watch the video to know more.

India's new COVID-19 cases jump 30% to 10,158

Boeing has been bitten by Airbus in delivering more planes for the first time since 2018. This is good news for the US manufacturer as it shows that the production capacity is back on the track after a tough time during the pandemic in the first quarter which is from January to March 2023.

Boeing sees an uptick in Q1 sales; Airbus sales dip 9% in Q1 | World Business Watch

After the spike in Covid-19 cases in India, Indian government has announced nationwide mock drills on Monday and Tuesday to assess hospital preparedness. Both public and private hospitals are part of the drills.

Indian government announces nationwide Covid preparedness drills

<p>The head of China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Saturday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to return to a "scientific, fair" position in tracing the origin of COVID-19.&nbsp;Speaking at a news conference, Shen Hongbing, the China CDC head warned the global health body against politicising the source of the COVID-19 virus or becoming a tool of another country. This comes as a&nbsp;team of Chinese researchers published a long-awaited analysis of samples collected more than three years ago from the Huanan seafood and wildlife market, which is often linked to the outbreak of the deadly Covid-19 virus and the resulting pandemic. BBC reports that this is the first peer-reviewed study of the biological evidence gathered from the Huanan market in 2020.</p>

<p>As per the report, the research has revealed that swabs from the market which tested positive for coronavirus also contained genetic material from wild animals. Some scientists claim that this is further evidence that the deadly disease jumped species, from animals and into humans.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-over-6000-new-covid-cases-centre-to-hold-high-level-meet-580030">India records over 6,000 new Covid cases, Centre to hold high-level meet</a></strong></p>

<p>However, others have urged caution. They say that the interpretation of the findings should be done with caution and question why it took three years for this information to be made public.</p>

<p>By linking the virus to the market's animals, this research could potentially open new lines of inquiry into Covid origins, reports BBC.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the Chinese team had posted online an early version of the study back in February 2022. But they waited till recently to publish full genetic information that was contained in the samples gathered from the market.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-variant-xbb116-leads-to-spike-in-cases-know-its-symptoms-and-precautions-580026">India: Covid variant XBB1.16 leads to spike in cases. Know its symptoms and precautions</a></strong></p>

<p>The published findings come as the lab leak theory which pins the origins of the coronavirus on a leak from a Wuhan-based lab gain traction among authorities in the US. On March 1, FBI director Christopher Wray even accused China of "doing its best to try to thwart and obfuscate", and revealed that his bureau had been convinced of the lab leak theory "for quite some time now". However, the FBI has not made any of its findings public. Beijing continues to deny suggestions that the COVID-19 virus originated in a scientific facility.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The head of China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Saturday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to return to a "scientific, fair" position in tracing the origin of COVID-19.

The head of China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Saturday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to return to a "scientific, fair" position in tracing the origin of COVID-19. Speaking at a news conference, Shen Hongbing, the China CDC head warned the global health body against politicising the source of the COVID-19 virus or becoming a tool of another country. This comes as a team of Chinese researchers published a long-awaited analysis of samples collected more than three years ago from the Huanan seafood and wildlife market, which is often linked to the outbreak of the deadly Covid-19 virus and the resulting pandemic. BBC reports that this is the first peer-reviewed study of the biological evidence gathered from the Huanan market in 2020. As per the report, the research has revealed that swabs from the market which tested positive for coronavirus also contained genetic material from wild animals. Some scientists claim that this is further evidence that the deadly disease jumped species, from animals and into humans. Also read | India records over 6,000 new Covid cases, Centre to hold high-level meet However, others have urged caution. They say that the interpretation of the findings should be done with caution and question why it took three years for this information to be made public. By linking the virus to the market's animals, this research could potentially open new lines of inquiry into Covid origins, reports BBC. Reportedly, the Chinese team had posted online an early version of the study back in February 2022. But they waited till recently to publish full genetic information that was contained in the samples gathered from the market. Also read | India: Covid variant XBB1.16 leads to spike in cases. Know its symptoms and precautions The published findings come as the lab leak theory which pins the origins of the coronavirus on a leak from a Wuhan-based lab gain traction among authorities in the US. On March 1, FBI director Christopher Wray even accused China of "doing its best to try to thwart and obfuscate", and revealed that his bureau had been convinced of the lab leak theory "for quite some time now". However, the FBI has not made any of its findings public. Beijing continues to deny suggestions that the COVID-19 virus originated in a scientific facility. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China CDC warns WHO to maintain ‘scientific, fair’ investigation into Covid origins

<p>India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness.&nbsp;The country presently has 25,587 active cases.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-backs-research-to-investigate-links-between-royal-family-and-slavery-579975">King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery</a></p>

<p>“The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States &amp; UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States &amp; UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar.</p>

<p>Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>COVID-19 deaths in India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-posing-as-fraud-prevention-specialist-dupes-many-us-elderly-gets-33-months-prison-term-579966">Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term</a></p>

<p>Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;daily positive rate&nbsp;is at&nbsp;3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-india-emerging-as-a-space-leader-579587/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged.</p>

<p>A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi COVID-19 cases&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. &nbsp;The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday.

India is witnessing an uptick in the daily number of fresh Covid cases. The country recorded 6,050 cases in the last 24 hours, a 13 per cent higher than yesterday. This is a record high since September 16 last year. Centre's high-level meeting on COVID-19 With the country crossing the 6,000 mark for the first time, the centre will hold a high-level meeting to review the preparedness. Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting this afternoon with the health ministers of all the states and Union Territories to assess the nation's readiness. The country presently has 25,587 active cases. Also Read | King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery “The Centre has regularly issued guidelines to the States & UTs on Covid19. PM Modi has held a review with all States on this. Today, Health Minister Dr Mandaviya will hold a review meeting with health ministers of States & UTs," ANI news agency reported quoting Minister of State for Health Dr. Bharati Pravin Pawar. Amid this rising trend in infections, on Thursday, a total of 5,335 cases were reported in India. COVID-19 deaths in India According to data from the Union health ministry updated on Friday, there have been 14 deaths reported today. With this, the total number of deaths in the country reached 5,30,943. Also Read | Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term Three deaths were reported from Maharashtra, two each from Karnataka and Rajasthan, one from each of Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, and one death was reconciled by Kerala. The daily positive rate is at 3.39 per cent. India now has a 4,47,45,104 Covid tally. As per the health ministry, the proportion of active cases is now 0.6% of all infections, and the national Covid recovery rate is 98.75%. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × Data released by the government on Friday showed that 4,41,85,858 persons had been discharged. A total of 2,334 doses were administered in the last 24 hours. Since the countrywide immunisation programme got underway on 16 January 2021, a total of 2,20,66,20,700 vaccinations have been administered. Delhi COVID-19 cases According to data by the Delhi government, the number of new Covid-19 cases in the nation's capital reached a high of 606 for the first time since last August. The national capital recorded 620 cases on 26 August. On Wednesday, Shelly Oberoi, the mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, assured that MCD is prepared to manage any Covid-related issue in Delhi. All MCD hospitals, according to her, have full Covid-19 facilities, including beds and oxygen tanks. The hospitals are also set up to offer RT-PCR and antigen testing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India records over 6,000 new Covid cases, Centre to hold high-level meet

<p>Today, 7 April 2023, marks World Health Day. 75 years ago, the World Health Organization was also founded on the same day in 1948.&nbsp;Though it is a chance to reflect on public health achievements over the past decades, it is equally important to address current and upcoming health concerns. One is the rampant rise of animal-to-human diseases.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are animal-to-human diseases?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Animal-to-human diseases, also known as zoonotic diseases, are illnesses caused by pathogens that are transmitted from vertebrate animals to humans. There are multiple ways in which pathogens can be transmitted from animals and humans.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-posing-as-fraud-prevention-specialist-dupes-many-us-elderly-gets-33-months-prison-term-579966">Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term</a></p>

<h2><strong>What are the common ways of transmissions?</strong></h2>

<p>For instance, one of the ways by which these diseases which are caused by pathogens like viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi can be transmitted from infected animals is through direct contact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But there are other ways too such as the transmission of pathogens through the consumption of contaminated food or water or through vectors such as ticks, mosquitoes, spiders or mites. Some of the animal-to-human diseases include Rabies, Salmonella, Lyme disease, and Ebola amoung others.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>COVID-19 and viruses which are not directly transmitted</strong></h2>

<p>One of the most fitting examples in view of the pandemic would be animal-to-human diseases such as COVID-19. Covid is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As per a report by World Health Organization, the SARSCoV-2 virus most probably "has its ecological reservoir in bats."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-backs-research-to-investigate-links-between-royal-family-and-slavery-579975">King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery</a></p>

<p>However, since there is usually very limited close contact between humans and bats, it is more likely that transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to humans happened through an intermediate host, that is another animal species more likely to be handled by humans.</p>

<p>"This intermediate animal host could be a domestic animal, a wild animal, or a domesticated wild animal and, as of yet, has not been identified," as per WHO.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Should we fear another pandemic?</strong></h2>

<p>All of this triggers fears of new pandemics. Well, they are not unfounded. History has shown us that new infectious diseases can emerge at any time and spread rapidly across the globe. There are other ways too which can propel the transmission of these diseases.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-india-emerging-as-a-space-leader-579587/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>More ways of transmission</strong></h2>

<p>With the increasing ease and frequency of international travel, diseases can quickly spread from one part of the world to another. The risk of disease transmission also increases due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare.</p>

<p>Another way of transmission could be climate change which can lead to the emergence and spread of new diseases. In fact, a study published by the scientific journal Nature warned in 2022 warned that climate change will make animals flee their ecosystems and seek for more livable lands. There has also been an emergence of medicine-resistant bacteria which can be difficult to treat and can spread rapidly.</p>

<p>Boost in international travel, industrial farming, trade in wild animals and deforestation also increases the risk of potentially transmitting the pathogens from animals to humans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Exposure to wildlife can lead to new diseases in humans as many of these infectious diseases are zoonotic. All of the viruses that caused significant influenza pandemics&nbsp;either directly or indirectly originated from birds. Zoonoses first arose thousands of years ago, but within the last 20 or 30 years, they have become more prevalent.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the preventive measures?</strong></h2>

<p>However, there are preventive measures available to prepare for new pandemics. Revamping public health infrastructure and investing in research into emerging infectious diseases could be significant ways. This can also include developing vaccines and other medical countermeasures. Promoting public health messaging for good hygiene and following infection control practices are also good ways to tackle the emerging challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Without preventative strategies, pandemics will emerge more often, spread more rapidly, kill more people, and affect the global economy with more devastating impact than ever before," the UN Biodiversity Expert Group warned in October 2020.</p>

<p>The World&nbsp;Organisation for Animal Health estimates that zoonotic infections account for 60% of all&nbsp;infectious diseases that affect humans. Salmonellosis is one that affects the digestive system. Others, including avian and&nbsp;swine&nbsp;flu, impact the respiratory system.</p>

<p>Rabies, on the other hand, affects the nervous&nbsp;system. The virulence of the pathogen and the disease itself, as well as the sick individual, who may be particularly sensitive to the infection, all have a significant role in how severe these diseases are in people.</p>

<p>Among birds and other mammals, there are an estimated 1.7 million undiscovered viruses, with 540,000 to 850,000 of them having the potential to infect people, according to estimations published in the journal Science in 2018. The likelihood that viruses capable of infecting people would "find" their host is, however, most significantly raised by the spread of human activities and greater interactions with wildlife.</p>

<h2><strong>Call for equity in times of health crisis</strong></h2>

<p>Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General called for equity in the face of emerging health challenges. “The history of WHO demonstrates what is possible when nations come together for a common purpose,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Today, 7 April 2023, marks World Health Day. 75 years ago, the World Health Organization was also founded on the same day in 1948. Though it is a chance to reflect on public health achievements over the past decades, it is equally important to address current and upcoming health concerns.

Today, 7 April 2023, marks World Health Day. 75 years ago, the World Health Organization was also founded on the same day in 1948. Though it is a chance to reflect on public health achievements over the past decades, it is equally important to address current and upcoming health concerns. One is the rampant rise of animal-to-human diseases. What are animal-to-human diseases? Animal-to-human diseases, also known as zoonotic diseases, are illnesses caused by pathogens that are transmitted from vertebrate animals to humans. There are multiple ways in which pathogens can be transmitted from animals and humans. Also Read | Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term What are the common ways of transmissions? For instance, one of the ways by which these diseases which are caused by pathogens like viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi can be transmitted from infected animals is through direct contact. But there are other ways too such as the transmission of pathogens through the consumption of contaminated food or water or through vectors such as ticks, mosquitoes, spiders or mites. Some of the animal-to-human diseases include Rabies, Salmonella, Lyme disease, and Ebola amoung others. COVID-19 and viruses which are not directly transmitted One of the most fitting examples in view of the pandemic would be animal-to-human diseases such as COVID-19. Covid is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As per a report by World Health Organization, the SARSCoV-2 virus most probably "has its ecological reservoir in bats." Also Read | King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery However, since there is usually very limited close contact between humans and bats, it is more likely that transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to humans happened through an intermediate host, that is another animal species more likely to be handled by humans. "This intermediate animal host could be a domestic animal, a wild animal, or a domesticated wild animal and, as of yet, has not been identified," as per WHO. Should we fear another pandemic? All of this triggers fears of new pandemics. Well, they are not unfounded. History has shown us that new infectious diseases can emerge at any time and spread rapidly across the globe. There are other ways too which can propel the transmission of these diseases. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × More ways of transmission With the increasing ease and frequency of international travel, diseases can quickly spread from one part of the world to another. The risk of disease transmission also increases due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare. Another way of transmission could be climate change which can lead to the emergence and spread of new diseases. In fact, a study published by the scientific journal Nature warned in 2022 warned that climate change will make animals flee their ecosystems and seek for more livable lands. There has also been an emergence of medicine-resistant bacteria which can be difficult to treat and can spread rapidly. Boost in international travel, industrial farming, trade in wild animals and deforestation also increases the risk of potentially transmitting the pathogens from animals to humans. Exposure to wildlife can lead to new diseases in humans as many of these infectious diseases are zoonotic. All of the viruses that caused significant influenza pandemics either directly or indirectly originated from birds. Zoonoses first arose thousands of years ago, but within the last 20 or 30 years, they have become more prevalent. What are the preventive measures? However, there are preventive measures available to prepare for new pandemics. Revamping public health infrastructure and investing in research into emerging infectious diseases could be significant ways. This can also include developing vaccines and other medical countermeasures. Promoting public health messaging for good hygiene and following infection control practices are also good ways to tackle the emerging challenges. "Without preventative strategies, pandemics will emerge more often, spread more rapidly, kill more people, and affect the global economy with more devastating impact than ever before," the UN Biodiversity Expert Group warned in October 2020. The World Organisation for Animal Health estimates that zoonotic infections account for 60% of all infectious diseases that affect humans. Salmonellosis is one that affects the digestive system. Others, including avian and swine flu, impact the respiratory system. Rabies, on the other hand, affects the nervous system. The virulence of the pathogen and the disease itself, as well as the sick individual, who may be particularly sensitive to the infection, all have a significant role in how severe these diseases are in people. Among birds and other mammals, there are an estimated 1.7 million undiscovered viruses, with 540,000 to 850,000 of them having the potential to infect people, according to estimations published in the journal Science in 2018. The likelihood that viruses capable of infecting people would "find" their host is, however, most significantly raised by the spread of human activities and greater interactions with wildlife. Call for equity in times of health crisis Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General called for equity in the face of emerging health challenges. “The history of WHO demonstrates what is possible when nations come together for a common purpose,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Health Day 2023: With animal-to-human diseases on rise, should we fear another pandemic?

In a fresh twist to the never-ending saga, Beijing-affiliated researchers ruled there was no proof to definitively say the virus jumped from animals to humans at a now-infamous market in Wuhan.

Chinese Government scientists claim infamous Wuhan market may NOT be source of Covid pandemic

<p>A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent&nbsp;of these cases.</p>

<p>In a poll conducted by the cabinet office in November of last year, which included 30,000 people in Japan between the ages of 10 and 69, it was found that two per cent&nbsp;of those in the 15–62 age range were hikikomori. as reported by Moneycontrol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some local authorities have responded to the increase in the number of recluses by taking action. From June, the Tokyo ward of Edogawa will host social gatherings in the metaverse where hikikomori can connect with others through their avatars. According to a 2021 study, the ward is home to more over 9,000 individuals who identify as hikikomori, including students who have stopped attending class.</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;hikikomori?</strong></h2>

<p>The social withdrawal&nbsp;condition known as hikikomori is becoming more common in Japan. The term describes people, mostly young adults, who isolate themselves from others and stay at home for extended periods of time—sometimes years. Hikikomori is regarded to be a reaction to the pressures of contemporary society, such as high academic expectations, fierce rivalry, and social isolation. It is connected to emotions of anxiety, sadness, and social phobia.</p>

<p>Hikikomori has a tremendous effect on both the affected people and society as a whole. Hikikomori can have terrible effects on individuals who suffer it. It can be challenging for people to reintegrate into society and can result in further mental health issues like sadness and anxiety.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1.5 million people in Japan living as social recluses</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-15-million-people-in-japan-living-as-social-recluses-579162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the long run, hiikikomori can affect a person's social and economic prospects, making it more difficult for them to find employment or establish relationships.</p>

<p>Hikikomori, however, has greater&nbsp;ramifications for society. It&nbsp;is viewed in Japan as a sign of more significant social issues, such as high levels of stress and competition, a lack of social support systems, and a feeling of alienation from society at large.</p>

<p>Hikikomori has a wider-ranging effect. The issue has been connected to Japan's general social and political problems as well as the country's economic stagnation. Hikikomori can result in decreased productivity and make it more difficult for people to contribute to the larger economy. It may also make demographic issues like an ageing population and a declining birth rate worse.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent of these cases.

A government survey indicates that the social withdrawal problem known as hikikomori is growing rapidly in Japan. Nearly 1.5 million people of working age are social recluses, according to the poll, with the Covid-19 pandemic being blamed for about 20 per cent of these cases. In a poll conducted by the cabinet office in November of last year, which included 30,000 people in Japan between the ages of 10 and 69, it was found that two per cent of those in the 15–62 age range were hikikomori. as reported by Moneycontrol. Some local authorities have responded to the increase in the number of recluses by taking action. From June, the Tokyo ward of Edogawa will host social gatherings in the metaverse where hikikomori can connect with others through their avatars. According to a 2021 study, the ward is home to more over 9,000 individuals who identify as hikikomori, including students who have stopped attending class. What is hikikomori? The social withdrawal condition known as hikikomori is becoming more common in Japan. The term describes people, mostly young adults, who isolate themselves from others and stay at home for extended periods of time—sometimes years. Hikikomori is regarded to be a reaction to the pressures of contemporary society, such as high academic expectations, fierce rivalry, and social isolation. It is connected to emotions of anxiety, sadness, and social phobia. Hikikomori has a tremendous effect on both the affected people and society as a whole. Hikikomori can have terrible effects on individuals who suffer it. It can be challenging for people to reintegrate into society and can result in further mental health issues like sadness and anxiety. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: 1.5 million people in Japan living as social recluses In the long run, hiikikomori can affect a person's social and economic prospects, making it more difficult for them to find employment or establish relationships. Hikikomori, however, has greater ramifications for society. It is viewed in Japan as a sign of more significant social issues, such as high levels of stress and competition, a lack of social support systems, and a feeling of alienation from society at large. Hikikomori has a wider-ranging effect. The issue has been connected to Japan's general social and political problems as well as the country's economic stagnation. Hikikomori can result in decreased productivity and make it more difficult for people to contribute to the larger economy. It may also make demographic issues like an ageing population and a declining birth rate worse. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is hikikomori? The trend keeping almost 1.5 mn Japanese in isolation

Japan's services sector activity grew at the fastest rate in over nine years in March that indicates the country's post-Covid economic recovery is gaining momentum and according to a private sector in Japan, purchasing managers index roles to 55.

Japan's services growth pace fastest in 9-years | WION Business News

India has reported 4,435 Covid cases & 15 deaths in the last 24 hours. Should this spike in cases worry you? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India reports 4,435 Covid cases in last 24 hours

Unlike the Covid vaccines, the advancements in the vaccines for cancer are awaited. Though a few major medical advancements take place now and then. Last month, U.S. FDA granted breakthrough therapy designation to Moderna & Merck's skin cancer vaccine. The mRNA cancer vaccines will train the patient's immune system to fight cancer.

Cancer vaccines to be a reality soon using technology akin to that of Covid shots

Covid cases are rising again across India. New Delhi reported over 3,000 Covid cases in the last 24 hours. The active Covid cases load now stands at over - 18,000. The recent spike is attributed to the sub-variant XBB.1.16.

India: Covid cases rise across Indian States; WHO monitors spike in Covid cases | India News | WION

India is witnessing a spike in Covid-19 infections. The daily positivity rate has surged to 2.73% from less than 1% about a month ago. Now, India's premier health research institute, ICMR is conducting a study on the rise in sudden heart attacks after Covid-19 pandemic.

India: ICMR studying the rise in sudden heart attacks after Covid-19 pandemic

India registered a 40% jump in Covid cases with 3016 new cases in the last 24 hours, said the Union Health Ministry on Thursday, March 30. The daily positivity rate has been recorded at 2.7% and the weekly positivity rate stands at 1.71%. There were 1,396 recoveries in the last 24 hours and the active caseload stood at 13,509.

India reports 40% jump in new Covid cases

India is continuously facing a surge in Covid cases. The government has advised citizens to wear masks, but has not made masks mandatory as of yet. Will the infection become a new normal for India? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India witnesses sudden surge in Covid cases

<p>India's capital New Delhi on Wednesday reported 300 new COVID-19 cases while two people succumbed to Covid-related sickness. This is the first time since September that Covid cases in the national capital have touched the mark of 300.&nbsp;The positivity rate in New Delhi currently stands at 13.89 per cent. At present, there are 806 active Covid cases in New Delhi.</p>

<p>Delhi has witnessed an increase in the number of fresh Covid cases over the last few days amid a sharp rise in the figure of H3N2 influenza cases in the country.</p>

<p>The number of fresh cases had seen a decline over the last few months in Delhi. It had dropped to zero on January 16, the first time since the pandemic broke out.</p>

<p>With the fresh cases, Delhi's COVID-19 tally has increased to 20,09,361, while the death count due to the viral infection stands at 26,526.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-prime-minister-modi-flags-rising-covid-cases-amid-spike-in-infection-574742">India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions</a></strong></p>

<p>The data also showed that 2,160 Covid tests were conducted on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Fifty-four of the 7,986 beds are occupied in the dedicated COVID-19 hospitals in the city, while 452 patients are in home isolation, the health department said.</p>

<h2><b>Covid in Delhi: Experts say no need to panic</b></h2>

<p>Amid a gradual increase in the number of Covid cases in Delhi, medical experts say the new XBB.1.16 variant of the virus could be driving the surge. However, they maintain that there is no need to panic and people should follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and get booster shots of the vaccines.</p>

<p>They also say this rise in the number of cases could be a result of more people getting themselves tested for Covid as a precaution when they actually get infected with the influenza virus and develop fever and related symptoms.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India: What's causing the spike in Covid cases?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-whats-causing-the-spike-in-covid-cases-574749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj had said there were not many influenza cases in the city hospitals and the situation was being monitored closely.</p>

<p>The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has said the rise in the number of influenza cases is due to the Influenza A sub-type H3N2 virus.</p>

<p>The H3N2 virus is leading to more hospitalisations than the other sub-types. The symptoms include a runny nose, persistent cough and fever.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's capital New Delhi on Wednesday reported 300 new COVID-19 cases while two people succumbed to Covid-related sickness. This is the first time since September that Covid cases in the national capital have touched the mark of 300.

India's capital New Delhi on Wednesday reported 300 new COVID-19 cases while two people succumbed to Covid-related sickness. This is the first time since September that Covid cases in the national capital have touched the mark of 300. The positivity rate in New Delhi currently stands at 13.89 per cent. At present, there are 806 active Covid cases in New Delhi. Delhi has witnessed an increase in the number of fresh Covid cases over the last few days amid a sharp rise in the figure of H3N2 influenza cases in the country. The number of fresh cases had seen a decline over the last few months in Delhi. It had dropped to zero on January 16, the first time since the pandemic broke out. With the fresh cases, Delhi's COVID-19 tally has increased to 20,09,361, while the death count due to the viral infection stands at 26,526. ALSO READ | India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions The data also showed that 2,160 Covid tests were conducted on Tuesday. Fifty-four of the 7,986 beds are occupied in the dedicated COVID-19 hospitals in the city, while 452 patients are in home isolation, the health department said. Covid in Delhi: Experts say no need to panic Amid a gradual increase in the number of Covid cases in Delhi, medical experts say the new XBB.1.16 variant of the virus could be driving the surge. However, they maintain that there is no need to panic and people should follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and get booster shots of the vaccines. They also say this rise in the number of cases could be a result of more people getting themselves tested for Covid as a precaution when they actually get infected with the influenza virus and develop fever and related symptoms. ALSO WATCH | India: What's causing the spike in Covid cases? × Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj had said there were not many influenza cases in the city hospitals and the situation was being monitored closely. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has said the rise in the number of influenza cases is due to the Influenza A sub-type H3N2 virus. The H3N2 virus is leading to more hospitalisations than the other sub-types. The symptoms include a runny nose, persistent cough and fever. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian capital Delhi logs highest daily Covid cases in six months, positivity rate nears 14 per cent

The Wuhan virus has made a comeback in India. The nation is witnessing a slow rise in cases in several states. Will the Covid virus become a seasonal phenomenon now? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India witnesses surge in Covid cases

<p>Pope Francis has been admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection. The 86-year-old as per the Vatican will have to stay in the hospital for a few days. While a COVID-19 infection has been ruled out, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni in a statement revealed that "in recent days Pope Francis has complained of some breathing difficulties." As per AFP, the pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital for medical checks. Upon checkup, he was revealed to have been suffering from "a respiratory infection... that will require a few days of appropriate hospital medical treatment."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;AI-generated pic of Pope Francis in bougie puffer jacket goes viral</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-generated-pic-of-pope-francis-in-bougie-puffer-jacket-goes-viral-576750/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Pope, who recently completed 10 years as the head of the Catholic Church, was unexpectedly taken to the hospital "for tests". Local media reported he was taken in an ambulance.</p>

<p>While the Pope's staff claimed that the tests had been pre-scheduled, Italian media has thrown doubt on this. They say that the pontiff actually had an interview scheduled for "this afternoon" (Wednesday) and that it was cancelled at the last moment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netizens-fooled-by-ai-generated-viral-images-of-pope-francis-in-white-puffer-jacket-576446">Netizens fooled by AI-generated viral images of Pope Francis in white puffer jacket</a></strong></p>

<p>The Vatican said that the Pope's schedule has been cleared to make way for further tests and that "Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-extends-law-to-hold-lower-rung-leaders-responsible-for-sex-abuse-575700">Pope extends law ambit to hold lower-rung leaders responsible for sex abuse</a></strong></p>

<p>During his weekly audience at the Vatican, Pope Francis as per Reuters appeared to be in good spirits. AFP reports that the head of the Catholic church suffers from chronic knee pain and in recent months has been forced to use a wheelchair because of that.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Pope Francis has been admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection. The 86-year-old as per the Vatican will have to stay in the hospital for a few days.

Pope Francis has been admitted to the hospital with a respiratory infection. The 86-year-old as per the Vatican will have to stay in the hospital for a few days. While a COVID-19 infection has been ruled out, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni in a statement revealed that "in recent days Pope Francis has complained of some breathing difficulties." As per AFP, the pontiff was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital for medical checks. Upon checkup, he was revealed to have been suffering from "a respiratory infection... that will require a few days of appropriate hospital medical treatment." Watch | AI-generated pic of Pope Francis in bougie puffer jacket goes viral The Pope, who recently completed 10 years as the head of the Catholic Church, was unexpectedly taken to the hospital "for tests". Local media reported he was taken in an ambulance. While the Pope's staff claimed that the tests had been pre-scheduled, Italian media has thrown doubt on this. They say that the pontiff actually had an interview scheduled for "this afternoon" (Wednesday) and that it was cancelled at the last moment. Also read | Netizens fooled by AI-generated viral images of Pope Francis in white puffer jacket The Vatican said that the Pope's schedule has been cleared to make way for further tests and that "Pope Francis is touched by the many messages received and expresses his gratitude for the closeness and prayer." Also read | Pope extends law ambit to hold lower-rung leaders responsible for sex abuse During his weekly audience at the Vatican, Pope Francis as per Reuters appeared to be in good spirits. AFP reports that the head of the Catholic church suffers from chronic knee pain and in recent months has been forced to use a wheelchair because of that. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope Francis rushed to hospital with respiratory infection; Vatican says it's not Covid

<p>India reported highest daily Covid case count in 149 days, with 1,890 fresh cases logged according to the data updated by India's health ministry on Sunday. The active case count in the country now stands at 9,433. The country recorded seven deaths, with two deaths each reported in Maharashtra and Gujarat states.</p>

<p>The southern state of Kerala reported three deaths while adjusting the backlog of Covid-related deaths in the state at the latest update of central data on COVID-19.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-prime-minister-modi-flags-rising-covid-cases-amid-spike-in-infection-574742">India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions</a></strong></p>

<p>The daily positivity was recorded at 1.56 per cent while the weekly positivity was pegged at 1.29 per cent.</p>

<p>The Covid case tally was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,47,04,147) The active cases now comprises 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 98.79 per cent, the health ministry said.</p>

<h2><strong>Covid-appropriate behaviour is important: Expert</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, experts have urged for caution as cases continue to mount in the country.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;India@75: How India helped world during Covid pandemic</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india75-how-india-helped-world-during-covid-pandemic-504838/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Covid might continue to prevail among us and cases keep spiking once in a while. But there is nothing to fear because hospitalisation rate is low. We’re detecting cases because our surveillance structure is strong. But we can’t afford to be careless, Covid-appropriate behaviour is important,"&nbsp;Dr Neeraj Nischal of New Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to India's health ministry, 220.65 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India reported highest daily Covid case count in 149 days, with 1,890 fresh cases logged according to the data updated by India's health ministry on Sunday. The active case count in the country now stands at 9,433.

India reported highest daily Covid case count in 149 days, with 1,890 fresh cases logged according to the data updated by India's health ministry on Sunday. The active case count in the country now stands at 9,433. The country recorded seven deaths, with two deaths each reported in Maharashtra and Gujarat states. The southern state of Kerala reported three deaths while adjusting the backlog of Covid-related deaths in the state at the latest update of central data on COVID-19. ALSO READ | India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions The daily positivity was recorded at 1.56 per cent while the weekly positivity was pegged at 1.29 per cent. The Covid case tally was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,47,04,147) The active cases now comprises 0.02 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 98.79 per cent, the health ministry said. Covid-appropriate behaviour is important: Expert Meanwhile, experts have urged for caution as cases continue to mount in the country. ALSO WATCH | India@75: How India helped world during Covid pandemic × "Covid might continue to prevail among us and cases keep spiking once in a while. But there is nothing to fear because hospitalisation rate is low. We’re detecting cases because our surveillance structure is strong. But we can’t afford to be careless, Covid-appropriate behaviour is important," Dr Neeraj Nischal of New Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences said. According to India's health ministry, 220.65 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Covid returns? India reports highest daily cases in nearly five months; active cases at 9,433

<p>Latest Data from the&nbsp;health ministry has stated that India recorded&nbsp;more than 1,500 new cases of Covid, the highest figure&nbsp;in 146 days. According to the statistics, there were 1,590 new Covid infections logged, whereas 910 recoveries were noted over the course of the previous 24 hours. There are now 8,601 active cases in India.</p>

<p>The number of fatalities increased to 5,30,824 with the addition of six more deaths, three of which were reported from Maharashtra and one each from Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand. The weekly positivity was 1.23 per cent and the daily positivity was 1.33 per cent for the same time period. The total number of Covid cases in India has increased to 4,47,02,257, with active cases making up 0.02 per cent of the total caseload, as reported by PTI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-prime-minister-modi-flags-rising-covid-cases-amid-spike-in-infection-574742">India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions</a></p>

<p>The data revealed that the national Covid recovery rate was 98.79 per cent, with recoveries reaching 4,41,62,832. The reported case fatality rate was 1.19 per cent.</p>

<p>The health ministry also reported that 220.65 crore vaccination doses have already been administered.</p>

<p>On March 22, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the recent rise in Covid cases and urged increased lab monitoring and genome sequencing. As per the&nbsp;Press Trust of India, PM Modi emphasised the importance of adhering to COVID-appropriate behaviour and personal hygiene norms.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs rom agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Latest Data from the health ministry has stated that India recorded more than 1,500 new cases of Covid, the highest figure in 146 days. According to the statistics, there were 1,590 new Covid infections logged, whereas 910 recoveries were noted over the course of the previous 24 hours.

Latest Data from the health ministry has stated that India recorded more than 1,500 new cases of Covid, the highest figure in 146 days. According to the statistics, there were 1,590 new Covid infections logged, whereas 910 recoveries were noted over the course of the previous 24 hours. There are now 8,601 active cases in India. The number of fatalities increased to 5,30,824 with the addition of six more deaths, three of which were reported from Maharashtra and one each from Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand. The weekly positivity was 1.23 per cent and the daily positivity was 1.33 per cent for the same time period. The total number of Covid cases in India has increased to 4,47,02,257, with active cases making up 0.02 per cent of the total caseload, as reported by PTI. ALSO READ | India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions The data revealed that the national Covid recovery rate was 98.79 per cent, with recoveries reaching 4,41,62,832. The reported case fatality rate was 1.19 per cent. The health ministry also reported that 220.65 crore vaccination doses have already been administered. On March 22, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the recent rise in Covid cases and urged increased lab monitoring and genome sequencing. As per the Press Trust of India, PM Modi emphasised the importance of adhering to COVID-appropriate behaviour and personal hygiene norms. (With inputs rom agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Covid cases reach highest in 146 days, over 1,500 fresh infections recorded

<p>A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid. According to the study, the virus can attack chromatin which is a structure where genetic materials in our cells are stored.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Studies have suggested that some viruses can hijack or change our chromatin, to reproduce in our cells but whether or how SARS-CoV-2 may affect our chromatin was previously unknown. “We found that many well-formed chromatin architectures of a normal cell become de-organised after infection,” said Wenbo Li, senior author of the study and associate professor at the United States-based University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, as per PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He gave an example of one type of chromatin architecture termed A/B compartments that “can be analogous to the yin and yang portions of our chromatin.” However, after a person was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 they found that the yin and yang portions of the chromatin lose their “normal shapes and start to mix together,” said Li. Furthermore, not only can the shape but also the chemical composition of chromatin be altered by SARS-CoV-2, the study found.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/beethovens-locks-of-hair-reveal-a-long-hidden-family-secret-574979">DNA study of Beethoven’s hair reveals his ailments, long-hidden family history secret</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a scientist who was a part of the study, Xiaoyi Yuan, the changes in “chemical modifications of chromatin were known to exert long-term effects on gene expression and phenotypes”, reported PTI. Therefore, their research might provide an “unrealised new perspective to understand the viral impacts on host chromatin that can associate with long Covid,” Yuan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mixing of chromatin might be the cause of some key genes like interleukin-6 to change, the study suggests. The interleukin-6 is a significant inflammation gene and this mixing and change can cause a cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients. A cytokine storm is a severe immune reaction where the body releases too many cytokines very quickly. While they play an important role in normal immune responses, a large amount released in the body at once can be harmful.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-suggests-high-caffeine-levels-my-reduce-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-572318">Study suggests high caffeine levels may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes</a></strong></p>

<p>“This study elucidated to us how SARS-CoV-2 can uniquely alter our chromatin to cause COVID-19 symptoms. Future work will focus on understanding the mechanisms of how SARS-CoV-2 can achieve this” said Li, as per PTI. Researchers also hope that these findings can pave the way for future research and understanding of the long-term effects of the virus.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid. According to the study, the virus can attack chromatin which is a structure where genetic materials in our cells are stored. Studies have suggested that some viruses can hijack or change our chromatin, to reproduce in our cells but whether or how SARS-CoV-2 may affect our chromatin was previously unknown. “We found that many well-formed chromatin architectures of a normal cell become de-organised after infection,” said Wenbo Li, senior author of the study and associate professor at the United States-based University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, as per PTI. He gave an example of one type of chromatin architecture termed A/B compartments that “can be analogous to the yin and yang portions of our chromatin.” However, after a person was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 they found that the yin and yang portions of the chromatin lose their “normal shapes and start to mix together,” said Li. Furthermore, not only can the shape but also the chemical composition of chromatin be altered by SARS-CoV-2, the study found. ALSO READ | DNA study of Beethoven’s hair reveals his ailments, long-hidden family history secret According to a scientist who was a part of the study, Xiaoyi Yuan, the changes in “chemical modifications of chromatin were known to exert long-term effects on gene expression and phenotypes”, reported PTI. Therefore, their research might provide an “unrealised new perspective to understand the viral impacts on host chromatin that can associate with long Covid,” Yuan added. The mixing of chromatin might be the cause of some key genes like interleukin-6 to change, the study suggests. The interleukin-6 is a significant inflammation gene and this mixing and change can cause a cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients. A cytokine storm is a severe immune reaction where the body releases too many cytokines very quickly. While they play an important role in normal immune responses, a large amount released in the body at once can be harmful. ALSO READ | Study suggests high caffeine levels may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes “This study elucidated to us how SARS-CoV-2 can uniquely alter our chromatin to cause COVID-19 symptoms. Future work will focus on understanding the mechanisms of how SARS-CoV-2 can achieve this” said Li, as per PTI. Researchers also hope that these findings can pave the way for future research and understanding of the long-term effects of the virus. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study

<p>The disinfectant industry saw an unprecedented boom during the Covid pandemic. The cleaning protocols of the time required disinfecting of the surfaces after every use. Consumer spending on cleaning products increased 12 per cent between 2019 and 2021 in the United States, New York Times reported.</p>

<p>While the extra cleaning did generate awareness about personal hygiene necessary to limit the spread of Covid, it also increased people's exposure to the chemicals used in those products.</p>

<p>Experts now say that repeated inhalation or skin contact can be harmful over time. This becomes significant amid rising calls to poison control centres due to accidental or intentional ingestion of such products.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-drank-bleach-to-cure-covid-claims-man-behind-magic-cure-393147">'Donald Trump drank bleach to cure Covid', claims man behind 'magic cure'</a></b></p>

<p>The most prevalent disinfecting chemicals are quaternary ammonium compounds, also known as "quats" or Q.A.C.s. A 2021 study found that the presence of Q.A.C.s in human blood was linked to disrupted immune and metabolic functions. In mice, exposure to Q.A.C.s decreased fertility.</p>

<p>"Exposure to Q.A.C.s is widespread, which was the case before Covid as well, but it definitely has increased since the pandemic," Amina Salamova, an assistant professor of environmental health at Emory University, was quoted as saying by New York Times.</p>

<p>But Salamova cautions that larger studies to look into potential outcomes in the general population in nonoccupational settings are needed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the case of Bleach, a more familiar disinfectant, its corrosive nature means that it can be damaging to skin and eyes if contact occurs. It has also been shown in numerous studies to be linked to asthma, among professional cleaners as well as people who use it frequently in the home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A New York Times report adds that most experts they reached out to opt for soap and water as disinfectants.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;COVID-19 Crisis: Tamil Nadu govt sprays disinfectants using drones &amp; heavy vehicles door to door</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-crisis-tamil-nadu-govt-sprays-disinfectants-using-drones-heavy-vehicles-door-to-door-289652/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Even a dash of dish soap with a bit of baking soda can help remove that scum off your sink or out of your bathtub, and that can really help you to avoid some of the heavier, harsher chemicals," Samara Geller, senior director of cleaning science at the Environmental Working Group, was quoted as saying by the paper.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The disinfectant industry saw an unprecedented boom during the Covid pandemic. The cleaning protocols of the time required disinfecting of the surfaces after every use.

The disinfectant industry saw an unprecedented boom during the Covid pandemic. The cleaning protocols of the time required disinfecting of the surfaces after every use. Consumer spending on cleaning products increased 12 per cent between 2019 and 2021 in the United States, New York Times reported. While the extra cleaning did generate awareness about personal hygiene necessary to limit the spread of Covid, it also increased people's exposure to the chemicals used in those products. Experts now say that repeated inhalation or skin contact can be harmful over time. This becomes significant amid rising calls to poison control centres due to accidental or intentional ingestion of such products. ALSO READ | 'Donald Trump drank bleach to cure Covid', claims man behind 'magic cure' The most prevalent disinfecting chemicals are quaternary ammonium compounds, also known as "quats" or Q.A.C.s. A 2021 study found that the presence of Q.A.C.s in human blood was linked to disrupted immune and metabolic functions. In mice, exposure to Q.A.C.s decreased fertility. "Exposure to Q.A.C.s is widespread, which was the case before Covid as well, but it definitely has increased since the pandemic," Amina Salamova, an assistant professor of environmental health at Emory University, was quoted as saying by New York Times. But Salamova cautions that larger studies to look into potential outcomes in the general population in nonoccupational settings are needed. In the case of Bleach, a more familiar disinfectant, its corrosive nature means that it can be damaging to skin and eyes if contact occurs. It has also been shown in numerous studies to be linked to asthma, among professional cleaners as well as people who use it frequently in the home. A New York Times report adds that most experts they reached out to opt for soap and water as disinfectants. ALSO WATCH | COVID-19 Crisis: Tamil Nadu govt sprays disinfectants using drones & heavy vehicles door to door × "Even a dash of dish soap with a bit of baking soda can help remove that scum off your sink or out of your bathtub, and that can really help you to avoid some of the heavier, harsher chemicals," Samara Geller, senior director of cleaning science at the Environmental Working Group, was quoted as saying by the paper. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

COVID-19: Are you using too much of sanitisers, disinfectants?

<p class="MsoNormal">Moderna, which has so far charged between around $15 to $26 for a dose of its Covid vaccine, is planning to increase prices and charge as much as $130 per dose. Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders lashed out at this prospective price hike and denounced it as an "unprecedented level of corporate greed" in the pharmaceutical industry. Defending the price hike, Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said that the distribution system will change completely when the US government lifts a state of a health emergency, which may happen&nbsp;as soon as May.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Active Covid cases in India cross 7,000 mark | WION Exclusive</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/active-covid-cases-in-india-cross-7000-mark-wion-exclusive-574702/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Speaking at a Senate hearing, Sanders remarked that Moderna was "thanking the taxpayers of the United States" by more than quadrupling the vaccine's price "at a time when it costs less than $3 to manufacture."&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Moderna CEO said that when the shots move into the private sector, the business will no longer benefit from the economies of scale from government&nbsp;purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-fda-approves-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-booster-dose-for-children-under-five-572161">US: FDA approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for children under five</a></strong></p>

<p>Up till now, Moderna had only the government as its one customer for its COVID-19 vaccine. Bancel said that upon switching to a more traditional marketing approach, the vaccine manufacturer is "going to have 10,000 customers" and will have to "manage to deliver to 60,000 pharmacies, doctors' offices and hospitals."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-its-first-mrna-vaccine-months-after-easing-covid-restrictions-574576">China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions</a></strong></p>

<p>"On top of all this, we're expecting a 90 per cent reduction in demand," said Bancel, adding "as you can see, we're losing economies of scale."&nbsp;Additionally, as per AFP, until now, Moderna did not have to pay for the cost of expired doses. However, it will now have to bear that and also take care of unsold doses.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Moderna, which has so far charged between around $15 to $26 for a dose of its Covid vaccine, is planning to increase prices and charge as much as $130 per dose. Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders lashed out at this prospective price hike and denounced it as an "unprecedented level of corporate greed" in the pharmaceutical industry.

Moderna, which has so far charged between around $15 to $26 for a dose of its Covid vaccine, is planning to increase prices and charge as much as $130 per dose. Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders lashed out at this prospective price hike and denounced it as an "unprecedented level of corporate greed" in the pharmaceutical industry. Defending the price hike, Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said that the distribution system will change completely when the US government lifts a state of a health emergency, which may happen as soon as May. Watch | Active Covid cases in India cross 7,000 mark | WION Exclusive Speaking at a Senate hearing, Sanders remarked that Moderna was "thanking the taxpayers of the United States" by more than quadrupling the vaccine's price "at a time when it costs less than $3 to manufacture." However, the Moderna CEO said that when the shots move into the private sector, the business will no longer benefit from the economies of scale from government purchases. Also read | US: FDA approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for children under five Up till now, Moderna had only the government as its one customer for its COVID-19 vaccine. Bancel said that upon switching to a more traditional marketing approach, the vaccine manufacturer is "going to have 10,000 customers" and will have to "manage to deliver to 60,000 pharmacies, doctors' offices and hospitals." Also read | China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions "On top of all this, we're expecting a 90 per cent reduction in demand," said Bancel, adding "as you can see, we're losing economies of scale." Additionally, as per AFP, until now, Moderna did not have to pay for the cost of expired doses. However, it will now have to bear that and also take care of unsold doses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moderna under fire for 'unprecedented level of corporate greed,' as it plans to raise Covid vaccine prices

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Antagonised by US-South Korea military drills, North Korea again fires multiple cruise missiles, Ukraine's reconstruction and recovery will take several years, can cost $411 billion.

New Zealand government to help heartbroken teens recover; Moderna under fire | Trending on WION

<p>China has approved its first messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine for Covid-19 from a Chinese pharmaceutical that had the technology, as per media reports. The approved mRNA vaccine is created by CSPC Pharmaceutical Group however it is only authorised for use in emergencies, the firm said in a statement to the Hong Kong stock market on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The move comes after tight Covid-19 regulations led to a major infection wave resulting in at least hundreds of thousands of fatalities. China's approval for the mRNAs comes years after these vaccinations were made widely available across the rest of the world.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-reach-agreement-on-second-power-of-siberia-gas-pipeline-574515">Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline</a></p>

<p>Not making use of the available mRNA vaccines has long been seen as a significant gap for Beijing in tackling its COVID crisis. The regulatory approval for CSPC's vaccine fills that gap. It further strengthens the nation's dependence on domestic vaccines alone to immunise its 1.4 billion people.</p>

<p>Mass manufacturing of this sort of technology was challenging for China's existing inactivated shots created by Sinopharm and Sinovac, which induce a lower immune response.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-to-criminalise-identification-as-lgbtq-introduces-strict-punishments-for-violations-574498">Uganda to criminalise identification as LGBTQ; introduces strict punishments for violations</a></p>

<p>Inactivated vaccines use the killed version of the germ that causes a disease however, mRNA uses a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA vaccines offer a possible substitute for traditional vaccination strategies and are also said to provide improved immunisation.</p>

<p>Analysts said that Beijing has maintained its contentious zero-Covid policy because of its dependence on local vaccinations so far, as per financial times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China imposed severe quarantine measures on visitors from other countries. The country also imposed stern lockdowns to prevent the COVID-19 spread however, its strict pandemic policies slowed down the economy and messed up supply chains.</p>

<p>The world's most populous country abandoned pandemic bans months ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-winners-in-a-nuclear-war-russia-china-joint-statement-574571">'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement</a></p>

<p>Despite a plethora of data and applications submitted by regional partner Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group, the Chinese government is reluctant to authorise the mRNA injection created by BioNTech SE and Pfizer. The pandemic in China was only managed by inactivated vaccines created by the state-owned pharmaceutical companies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


China has approved its first messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine for Covid-19 from a Chinese pharmaceutical that had the technology, as per media reports. The approved mRNA vaccine is created by CSPC Pharmaceutical Group however it is only authorised for use in emergencies, the firm said in a statement to the Hong Kong stock market on Wednesday.

China has approved its first messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine for Covid-19 from a Chinese pharmaceutical that had the technology, as per media reports. The approved mRNA vaccine is created by CSPC Pharmaceutical Group however it is only authorised for use in emergencies, the firm said in a statement to the Hong Kong stock market on Wednesday. The move comes after tight Covid-19 regulations led to a major infection wave resulting in at least hundreds of thousands of fatalities. China's approval for the mRNAs comes years after these vaccinations were made widely available across the rest of the world. Also Read | Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline Not making use of the available mRNA vaccines has long been seen as a significant gap for Beijing in tackling its COVID crisis. The regulatory approval for CSPC's vaccine fills that gap. It further strengthens the nation's dependence on domestic vaccines alone to immunise its 1.4 billion people. Mass manufacturing of this sort of technology was challenging for China's existing inactivated shots created by Sinopharm and Sinovac, which induce a lower immune response. Also Read | Uganda to criminalise identification as LGBTQ; introduces strict punishments for violations Inactivated vaccines use the killed version of the germ that causes a disease however, mRNA uses a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA vaccines offer a possible substitute for traditional vaccination strategies and are also said to provide improved immunisation. Analysts said that Beijing has maintained its contentious zero-Covid policy because of its dependence on local vaccinations so far, as per financial times. China imposed severe quarantine measures on visitors from other countries. The country also imposed stern lockdowns to prevent the COVID-19 spread however, its strict pandemic policies slowed down the economy and messed up supply chains. The world's most populous country abandoned pandemic bans months ago. Watch | 'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement Despite a plethora of data and applications submitted by regional partner Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group, the Chinese government is reluctant to authorise the mRNA injection created by BioNTech SE and Pfizer. The pandemic in China was only managed by inactivated vaccines created by the state-owned pharmaceutical companies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 22 flagged rising number of Covid cases in recent days and called for enhancing lab surveillance and ramping up genome sequencing. Modi stressed on the need to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and personal hygiene standards, Press Trust of India reported.</p>

<p>The announcement by Modi at a high-level meeting in New Delhi&nbsp;came hours after India's active Covid case count breached the 7,000-mark&nbsp;and the world's fifth largest economy recorded 1,134 new Covid cases in the past 24 hours.</p>

<p>The daily positivity rate in India was recorded at 1.09 per cent while the weekly positivity was&nbsp;0.98 per cent on March 22.</p>

<p>India's Prime Minister Modi, while reviewing the situation and public health preparedness, advised people to take necessary precautions to control the spread of Covid. Modi reportedly also took note of ongoing influenza situation in the country, in relation to the higher number of H1N1 and H3N2 cases.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 22 flagged rising number of Covid cases in recent days and called for enhancing lab surveillance and ramping up genome sequencing.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 22 flagged rising number of Covid cases in recent days and called for enhancing lab surveillance and ramping up genome sequencing. Modi stressed on the need to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and personal hygiene standards, Press Trust of India reported. The announcement by Modi at a high-level meeting in New Delhi came hours after India's active Covid case count breached the 7,000-mark and the world's fifth largest economy recorded 1,134 new Covid cases in the past 24 hours. The daily positivity rate in India was recorded at 1.09 per cent while the weekly positivity was 0.98 per cent on March 22. India's Prime Minister Modi, while reviewing the situation and public health preparedness, advised people to take necessary precautions to control the spread of Covid. Modi reportedly also took note of ongoing influenza situation in the country, in relation to the higher number of H1N1 and H3N2 cases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Prime Minister Modi flags rising Covid cases, urges people to take precautions

As India continues to witness a rapid surge in COVID-19 cases, the top medical body tasked with making containment strategies for coronavirus will meet today to discuss the emerging situation.

India: What's causing the spike in Covid cases?

Studies show that people have gotten lazier due to the Covid pandemic and are not completing their daily steps. Is this because of the work-from-home culture? How can people achieve the required number of steps? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Covid pandemic causes laziness among youth

There is an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in India. The country has recorded 1,134 new Covid-19 infections in the past 24 hours. In this episode of WION Conversation, we decode as to what is actually with the Covid-19 cases in India. Should you be worried or is it just about how the cases are expected to fluctuate in the coming few months.

Active Covid cases in India cross 7,000 mark | WION Exclusive

covid

Covid, News on Covid, stories on Covid, articles on Covid, Covid stories at Wion, Covid news, Covid latest news