Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, China remained silent. According to several reports Chinese officials tried to silence whistleblowers while delaying the release of information regarding the seriousness of the fatal virus spreading within the nation's borders. Now, the United States is increasingly acknowledging these consequential blunders made by China with the help of&nbsp;China Lied, People Died Act. What is it all about?&nbsp;

<h2>What is&nbsp;China Lied, People Died Act?&nbsp;</h2>

Republican Texas Representative Troy Nehls has introduced a bill that would ban the transfer of federal funds to China until the communist country reimburses the United States for the $4.6 trillion it spent on COVID-19 assistance.

On Thursday, Nehls introduced China Lied, People Died Act, which would make China reimburse the billions of dollars that were spent using money that were granted by Congress to combat the COVID-19 epidemic that began in Wuhan.

Also Read | Twitter to let users appeal account suspension from THIS date

According to the former sheriff, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is singlehandedly accountable for the millions of people who have died from COVID-19. The House GOP majority will attempt to have China repay the $4.6 trillion in US coronavirus relief funds, among other things.

Holding China responsible is his top priority this Congress, Nehls said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "The Chinese Communist Party is singlehandedly responsible for the loss of a million lives in the United States and causing one of the worst economic disasters in the history of our country."

Also Read |&nbsp;Tyre Nichols Death: Timeline of investigation, Memphis police body cam footage &amp; family reaction

"With a Republican majority, we will work to force the CCP to pay back the $4.6 trillion in Congressionally appropriated funds, as well as the $16 trillion of American taxpayer dollars that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic," the Texas Republican added.

The China Lied, People Died Act is only one example of Nehls' tough position on the CCP. Earlier last month, the House passed a resolution holding China accountable for the COVID-19 epidemic and demanding that Beijing pay the U.S. $16 trillion for economic losses to Americans.

Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, a Republican, co-sponsored the measure with Nehls. The House GOP majority is already prepared to look into the causes of the COVID-19 outbreak when Nehls' bill is introduced.

Watch | East Jerusalem Synagogue shooting: Netanyahu, Ben Gvir visit site of attack

The Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, which will look into the origins of the pandemic that shook the world, was just established by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California.&nbsp;

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Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, China remained silent. According to several reports Chinese officials tried to silence whistleblowers while delaying the release of information regarding the seriousness of the fatal virus spreading within the nation's borders.

Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, China remained silent. According to several reports Chinese officials tried to silence whistleblowers while delaying the release of information regarding the seriousness of the fatal virus spreading within the nation's borders. Now, the United States is increasingly acknowledging these consequential blunders made by China with the help of China Lied, People Died Act. What is it all about? What is China Lied, People Died Act? Republican Texas Representative Troy Nehls has introduced a bill that would ban the transfer of federal funds to China until the communist country reimburses the United States for the $4.6 trillion it spent on COVID-19 assistance. On Thursday, Nehls introduced China Lied, People Died Act, which would make China reimburse the billions of dollars that were spent using money that were granted by Congress to combat the COVID-19 epidemic that began in Wuhan. Also Read | Twitter to let users appeal account suspension from THIS date According to the former sheriff, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is singlehandedly accountable for the millions of people who have died from COVID-19. The House GOP majority will attempt to have China repay the $4.6 trillion in US coronavirus relief funds, among other things. Holding China responsible is his top priority this Congress, Nehls said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "The Chinese Communist Party is singlehandedly responsible for the loss of a million lives in the United States and causing one of the worst economic disasters in the history of our country." Also Read | Tyre Nichols Death: Timeline of investigation, Memphis police body cam footage & family reaction "With a Republican majority, we will work to force the CCP to pay back the $4.6 trillion in Congressionally appropriated funds, as well as the $16 trillion of American taxpayer dollars that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic," the Texas Republican added. The China Lied, People Died Act is only one example of Nehls' tough position on the CCP. Earlier last month, the House passed a resolution holding China accountable for the COVID-19 epidemic and demanding that Beijing pay the U.S. $16 trillion for economic losses to Americans. Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, a Republican, co-sponsored the measure with Nehls. The House GOP majority is already prepared to look into the causes of the COVID-19 outbreak when Nehls' bill is introduced. Watch | East Jerusalem Synagogue shooting: Netanyahu, Ben Gvir visit site of attack The Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, which will look into the origins of the pandemic that shook the world, was just established by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California. 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.

EXPLAINED: What is 'China Lied, People Died Act' in US?

India launches its first nasal vaccine for on the occasion of its 74th Republic Day. This comes as the pandemic is on the decline in India, however, COVID- 19 is on the rise in other places such as China. The nasal vaccine has been touted as a booster dose.

India launches its first nasal vaccine 'iNCOVACC' against COVID-19

India launches its first nasal vaccine on the occasion of its 74th Republic Day. This comes as the pandemic is on the decline in India, however, Covid is on the rise in other places such as China. The nasal vaccine has been touted as a booster dose.

First made-in-India nasal vaccine unveiled, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launches Incovacc

Rural areas of China are running out of coffins and experiencing skyrocketing funeral costs because of a rapid increase in Covid-19-related deaths. Watch this report to know more.

Rural China is running out of coffins because Covid-related death toll is increasing

In the United States, Health officials want to make Covid-19 vaccinations more like the annual flu shot. According to the Food and Drug Administration, an easy way for future vaccination efforts is once a year shot for adults and children that would protect citizens against the mutation virus.

US: Country proposes once-a-year Covid-19 shots for Americans

The Wuhan Virus continues to wreak havoc in China. A new study says that 92% of Beijing's population could get infected by the end of this month.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: China's nightmare gets worse

In an effort to streamline the nation's Covid-vaccine approach, the US&nbsp;health authority suggested on Monday (January 23) that healthy adults receive one dose of the most recent updated COVID-19 shot&nbsp;each year, similar to the influenza vaccination campaign.

The US&nbsp;Food and Drug Administration also recommended that its panel coming from external experts explore administering two doses of the Covid&nbsp;vaccine annually to selected young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. In briefing documents sent before to a meeting of its panel on Thursday, the regulator advocated the necessity of routine selection of variations for upgrading the vaccine, comparable to how strains for flu vaccinations are altered yearly (January 26).

“We need to do something different, because right now it's confusing. The messaging has been very, very mixed and confused about how important the&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;is," said Dr. Bruce Farber, an infectious disease physician and chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health who spoke to Reuters. "One consistent unified message with a standard schedule I think would make a lot of sense," she added.

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The FDA thinks that yearly immunisation schedules would help make vaccine deployment less difficult and result in fewer vaccine delivery errors and higher vaccination coverage rates. After announcing its plan to revise last month, the agency's proposal was in line with expectations.

Additionally, the Biden administration has been conducting a booster vaccination programme each fall.

Currently, the majority of people in the United States must receive the initial Covid&nbsp;vaccination in two doses, at least three to four weeks apart from one another, and then a booster dose a few months later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an effort to streamline the nation's Covid-vaccine approach, the US health authority suggested on Monday (January 23) that healthy adults receive one dose of the most recent updated COVID-19 shot each year, similar to the influenza vaccination campaign.

In an effort to streamline the nation's Covid-vaccine approach, the US health authority suggested on Monday (January 23) that healthy adults receive one dose of the most recent updated COVID-19 shot each year, similar to the influenza vaccination campaign. The US Food and Drug Administration also recommended that its panel coming from external experts explore administering two doses of the Covid vaccine annually to selected young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. In briefing documents sent before to a meeting of its panel on Thursday, the regulator advocated the necessity of routine selection of variations for upgrading the vaccine, comparable to how strains for flu vaccinations are altered yearly (January 26). “We need to do something different, because right now it's confusing. The messaging has been very, very mixed and confused about how important the vaccine is," said Dr. Bruce Farber, an infectious disease physician and chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health who spoke to Reuters. "One consistent unified message with a standard schedule I think would make a lot of sense," she added. Also read | Study reveals the relationship between antidepressants and 'emotional blunting' The FDA thinks that yearly immunisation schedules would help make vaccine deployment less difficult and result in fewer vaccine delivery errors and higher vaccination coverage rates. After announcing its plan to revise last month, the agency's proposal was in line with expectations. Additionally, the Biden administration has been conducting a booster vaccination programme each fall. Currently, the majority of people in the United States must receive the initial Covid vaccination in two doses, at least three to four weeks apart from one another, and then a booster dose a few months later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: FDA proposes once-a-year Covid shots as part of a major shift in the nation's vaccine strategy

With data of daily Covid cases and deaths barred by the Chinese government, it has become really difficult to report on the health crisis. A top government scientist has now come out with a worrying picture. He says 80 percent of China's population has been infected with the virus.

China Covid Surge: Official says 'majority of Chinese population infected by Covid'

China's Wuhan Virus tragedy is worsening. The country reported a 70% jump in hospitalisations this week.

Gravitas: China's Wuhan Virus tragedy worsens

China Covid: WHO says China reports big jump in Covid hospitalisations by 70%

International passenger arrivals more than doubled in 2022 over the previous year and should resemble pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to the UN's tourism organisation, as a result of the relaxation of travel restrictions, particularly in China.&nbsp;The World Tourism Organization, based in Madrid, said that there were 917 million international tourist arrivals last year, up from 455 million in 2021, calling it "stronger than expected results."

The UN organisation projects that by 2023, the number of international arrivals could increase by between 80 and 95 percent, even if it was still only 63 per cent of the level seen in 2019 when the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

"Looking ahead, international tourism is set to consolidate its recovery in 2023, backed by pent-up demand, particularly from Asia and the Pacific as destinations and markets open up," the report said.

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The number of visitors to Europe, the most popular travel destination in the world, reached 585 million last year, or over 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

However, due to tighter pandemic-related restrictions, the Pacific area only achieved 23 per cent of pre-pandemic tourist visitation levels while Africa and the Americas only reached roughly 65 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

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International passenger arrivals more than doubled in 2022 over the previous year and should resemble pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to the UN's tourism organisation, as a result of the relaxation of travel restrictions, particularly in China.

International passenger arrivals more than doubled in 2022 over the previous year and should resemble pre-pandemic levels in 2023, according to the UN's tourism organisation, as a result of the relaxation of travel restrictions, particularly in China. The World Tourism Organization, based in Madrid, said that there were 917 million international tourist arrivals last year, up from 455 million in 2021, calling it "stronger than expected results." The UN organisation projects that by 2023, the number of international arrivals could increase by between 80 and 95 percent, even if it was still only 63 per cent of the level seen in 2019 when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. "Looking ahead, international tourism is set to consolidate its recovery in 2023, backed by pent-up demand, particularly from Asia and the Pacific as destinations and markets open up," the report said. Also watch | UN designates Pakistan's Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist The number of visitors to Europe, the most popular travel destination in the world, reached 585 million last year, or over 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. However, due to tighter pandemic-related restrictions, the Pacific area only achieved 23 per cent of pre-pandemic tourist visitation levels while Africa and the Americas only reached roughly 65 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

International tourist arrivals doubled in 2022 after easing of Covid curbs, says UN

There's a large jump in Covid-19 hospitalisations in the last week. This is the highest since the pandemic began as per the World Health Organization data. Hospitalizations rose 70 percent over the previous week to more than 63,000 cases.

China: Highest hospitalisations since pandemic began

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started. According to the WHO's report based on data submitted by Beijing, the number of people hospitalised rose by 70 % to 63,307 versus the previous week, news agency Reuters reported. However, the United Nations health agency said it was awaiting "detailed provincial data disaggregated by week of reporting" on nearly 60,000 virus-related hospital deaths reported by China last week and did not include them in the tally.

A few days back, the WHO had urged China to share more information on the pandemic and said it will continue to work with the government providing technical advice and support, and engaging in analysing the situation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-announces-censorship-crackdown-to-get-rid-of-covid-rumours-on-internet-554148">China announces censorship crackdown to remove Covid ‘rumours’&nbsp;</a>

Thursday's development comes as Beijing said that the worst was over in its battle against Covid ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Vice Premier Sun Chunlan, who oversees the country's virus response, said on Thursday the outbreak was at a "relatively low" level. Chunlan's comment comes after health officials said the number of virus patients in clinics, emergency rooms and with critical conditions had peaked.

Zhang Xiangyang, the director of the emergency department at the Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital told CCTV on Thursday that since mid-December last year, the number of patients received at the ER increased by two to three folds. The CCTV report said that Zhang's department received over 70 Covid patients in critical condition in just one day on January 8, whose average age was over 70 years. Of these, more than 10 recovered and were discharged over the past 10 days, the report added.&nbsp;

South Korea to lift mask mandate for indoor public places from Jan 30

South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Friday (January 20) that the government will lift the face mask mandate for most indoor public places from January 30, becoming the latest step to ease Covid rules in the country. However, Prime Minister Duck-soo still recommended that people should keep their faces covered and pointed out that masks will still be required on transport and in medical facilities. During a Covid response meeting, he said, "The daily number of new infections is continuing to decline and despite concerns over a spike in cases in China, the situation here is under control without major troubles," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The dropping of the mask mandate for public places comes as South Koreans will mark the Lunar Year Holidays during which they will travel to their home towns. Prime Minister Duck-soo also warned during Friday's meeting that the easing of mask rules could cause a temporary surge in new Covid infections, urging health authorities to stay vigilant, especially to those who are more vulnerable to the virus.&nbsp;

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Since the onset of the pandemic, South Korea has recorded more than 29.9 million infections and 33,104 deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The government has scrapped most of the Covid-related curbs including dropping the outdoor mask rule in May last year, but it maintains a seven-day isolation for people testing positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Additionally, the South Korean government requires that travellers from China, Macau and Hong Kong should provide a negative Covid test result before departure. As a retaliation,&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/covid-19-curbs-japan-protests-over-citizens-visa-suspension-china-defends-retaliation-551384">China suspended issuing short-term visas</a>&nbsp;in South Korea. The Chinese embassy in Seoul suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors on January 10. Taking to WeChat, the embassy said it would adjust the policy subject to the lifting of South Korea's "discriminatory entry restrictions" against Beijing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a data-loopstyle="link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-halloween-stampede-cops-blame-fatal-crush-on-negligence-552279">South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident</a>

South Korea's foreign minister &nbsp;Park Jin said on January 11 that the visa suspension was deeply regrettable while highlighting that Seoul still issues visas to Chinese visitors with urgent requests. "It's deeply regrettable that China took such a countermeasure by entirely suspending issuance of short-term visas. We make exceptions and issue visas for diplomatic, work, urgent business or humanitarian purposes," Jin told reporters, according to an earlier Reuters report.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Thursday (January 19) that China reported a 70% rise in weekly Covid hospitalisations, the highest since the pandemic started. According to the WHO's report based on data submitted by Beijing, the number of people hospitalised rose by 70 % to 63,307 versus the previous week, news agency Reuters reported. However, the United Nations health agency said it was awaiting "detailed provincial data disaggregated by week of reporting" on nearly 60,000 virus-related hospital deaths reported by China last week and did not include them in the tally. A few days back, the WHO had urged China to share more information on the pandemic and said it will continue to work with the government providing technical advice and support, and engaging in analysing the situation. ALSO READ | China announces censorship crackdown to remove Covid ‘rumours’ Thursday's development comes as Beijing said that the worst was over in its battle against Covid ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Vice Premier Sun Chunlan, who oversees the country's virus response, said on Thursday the outbreak was at a "relatively low" level. Chunlan's comment comes after health officials said the number of virus patients in clinics, emergency rooms and with critical conditions had peaked. Zhang Xiangyang, the director of the emergency department at the Beijing Tsinghua Changgeng Hospital told CCTV on Thursday that since mid-December last year, the number of patients received at the ER increased by two to three folds. The CCTV report said that Zhang's department received over 70 Covid patients in critical condition in just one day on January 8, whose average age was over 70 years. Of these, more than 10 recovered and were discharged over the past 10 days, the report added. South Korea to lift mask mandate for indoor public places from Jan 30 South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Friday (January 20) that the government will lift the face mask mandate for most indoor public places from January 30, becoming the latest step to ease Covid rules in the country. However, Prime Minister Duck-soo still recommended that people should keep their faces covered and pointed out that masks will still be required on transport and in medical facilities. During a Covid response meeting, he said, "The daily number of new infections is continuing to decline and despite concerns over a spike in cases in China, the situation here is under control without major troubles," news agency Reuters reported. The dropping of the mask mandate for public places comes as South Koreans will mark the Lunar Year Holidays during which they will travel to their home towns. Prime Minister Duck-soo also warned during Friday's meeting that the easing of mask rules could cause a temporary surge in new Covid infections, urging health authorities to stay vigilant, especially to those who are more vulnerable to the virus. ALSO READ | Around 500 people evacuated as massive blaze engulfs South Korean slum Since the onset of the pandemic, South Korea has recorded more than 29.9 million infections and 33,104 deaths, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The government has scrapped most of the Covid-related curbs including dropping the outdoor mask rule in May last year, but it maintains a seven-day isolation for people testing positive for the virus. Additionally, the South Korean government requires that travellers from China, Macau and Hong Kong should provide a negative Covid test result before departure. As a retaliation, China suspended issuing short-term visas in South Korea. The Chinese embassy in Seoul suspended issuing short-term visas for South Korean visitors on January 10. Taking to WeChat, the embassy said it would adjust the policy subject to the lifting of South Korea's "discriminatory entry restrictions" against Beijing. ALSO READ | South Korea Halloween crowd crush: Cops blame negligence for fatal incident South Korea's foreign minister Park Jin said on January 11 that the visa suspension was deeply regrettable while highlighting that Seoul still issues visas to Chinese visitors with urgent requests. "It's deeply regrettable that China took such a countermeasure by entirely suspending issuance of short-term visas. We make exceptions and issue visas for diplomatic, work, urgent business or humanitarian purposes," Jin told reporters, according to an earlier Reuters report. (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.

Covid: China reports 70% rise in weekly hospitalisations, highest since pandemic began, says WHO

As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours.&nbsp; The Guardian reports that the month-long "Spring Festival online improvement" programme is set to target people posting content that could be deemed as rumours by the authorities.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping

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As per the national cyber administration, it will undertake an "in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments". It also announced punishment for people "fabricating patient experiences". This comes as social media has been awash with people sharing their personal stories about their struggle to get treatment&nbsp;and shortage of medicines after contracting the deadly virus.

Following the sudden scrapping of China's stringent zero-Covid policy last month, the nation started reporting increasingly higher figures of those affected by the coronavirus.

As per a report by the Economic Times, Chinese premier Xi Jinping too has expressed concern about the virus situation in China's countryside.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-chinese-found-themselves-alone-in-their-fight-against-covid-so-they-decided-to-join-hands-554087">The Chinese found themselves alone in their fight against Covid. So they decided to join hands</a>

Xinhua news agency reported that the leader said&nbsp;that "he was primarily concerned about rural areas and rural residents after the country adjusted its Covid-19 response measures."

During the upcoming holiday season in China, millions of people are expected to travel from cities — in what is being called the largest migration — back home to the rural countryside.

However, defending his zero-Covid policy the leader reportedly said that the move had been "a right choice".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/champagne-sales-hit-record-high-in-2022-growth-attributed-to-waning-covid-553980">Champagne sales hit record high in 2022; growth attributed to waning Covid</a>

On the other hand, Hong Kong leader John Lee, as per a Time report, showed optimism and said that he hopes to remove the last of pandemic curbs this year.&nbsp;

In an interview with Hong Kong Commercial Daily, he said, "My hope in 2023 is to remove all Covid restrictions". He also said he hopes “all problems will be resolved in the first quarter.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours.

As the lunar new year festival approaches, China has announced an internet censorship crackdown to ensure that there are no "gloomy sentiments" caused by pandemic rumours. The Guardian reports that the month-long "Spring Festival online improvement" programme is set to target people posting content that could be deemed as rumours by the authorities. Watch | China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping As per the national cyber administration, it will undertake an "in-depth rectification of false information and other issues to prevent gloomy sentiments". It also announced punishment for people "fabricating patient experiences". This comes as social media has been awash with people sharing their personal stories about their struggle to get treatment and shortage of medicines after contracting the deadly virus. Following the sudden scrapping of China's stringent zero-Covid policy last month, the nation started reporting increasingly higher figures of those affected by the coronavirus. As per a report by the Economic Times, Chinese premier Xi Jinping too has expressed concern about the virus situation in China's countryside. Also read | The Chinese found themselves alone in their fight against Covid. So they decided to join hands Xinhua news agency reported that the leader said that "he was primarily concerned about rural areas and rural residents after the country adjusted its Covid-19 response measures." During the upcoming holiday season in China, millions of people are expected to travel from cities — in what is being called the largest migration — back home to the rural countryside. However, defending his zero-Covid policy the leader reportedly said that the move had been "a right choice". Also read | Champagne sales hit record high in 2022; growth attributed to waning Covid On the other hand, Hong Kong leader John Lee, as per a Time report, showed optimism and said that he hopes to remove the last of pandemic curbs this year. In an interview with Hong Kong Commercial Daily, he said, "My hope in 2023 is to remove all Covid restrictions". He also said he hopes “all problems will be resolved in the first quarter.” (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.

Internet censorship crackdown, Jinping's concerns and Lee's optimism, here's how Covid is faring in China

In recent days, it's been widely reported that China is struggling to contain its latest Covid-19 outbreak. In the latest, Chinese President Xi Jinping has also considered the same, as per state media reports, Xi said China's Covid-19 announcement control is still going through a time of stress. Nonetheless, he added that there is light ahead.

China: Covid containment still under stress but there is light ahead, says Xi Jinping

Over 60% of Chinese population has contracted Covid since the start of the pandemic. As per a report published by a local researcher, 900 million Chinese have contracted the virus since 2020. The research has been published by a team at the Peking University.

China Covid infections spike: Chinese publication reports over 64% population infected

A Wuhan Virus wave has gripped America. Hospitalisations are soaring in over 10 states. Health experts are asking U.S. citizens to exercise caution. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus infections spike in U.S.

China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year.

The National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday that China's economy expanded by 2.9 per cent year over year in the fourth quarter, slowing from 3.9 per cent in the quarter before.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Massive rush at stations, airports as thousands head home for Lunar New Year

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On a quarterly sequential basis, China's economy stagnated in the December quarter, highlighting the costs incurred by the stringent "zero-COVID" policy adopted.

For the full year, GDP growth was 3.0 per cent, significantly below the government's target of "around" 5.5 per cent and a sharp slowdown from 2021's 8.4 per cent growth.

While the reported rate was higher than the World Bank's 2.7 per cent forecast made earlier this month by the World Bank, the 2022 figure marks China's worst annual performance since 1976, excluding the 2.2 per cent growth that followed the initial Covid hit in 2020.

In 2020, major economies around the world slumped into a deep recession.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-population-falls-to-a-60-year-low-demographers-predict-nation-will-get-old-before-it-gets-rich-553315">China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich'</a>

China's "Zero-COVID policy" and a severe property market downturn last year hurt domestic economic activity and weighed on global supply chains already disrupted by the pandemic.

While Beijing abruptly lifted all those stringent pandemic restrictions in early December, it led to a surge in infections, which economists say would likely hamper growth in the near term.

But Redmond Wong, Greater China market strategist at Saxo Markets Hong Kong, told Reuters, "I think investors will look through the Q4 GDP prints and focus on 2023".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-housing-market-witnesses-a-slump-for-the-16th-month-553088">China's housing market witnesses a slump for the 16th month</a>

"According to Chinese media, more than half of the 31 provinces and municipalities that have released 2023 work reports are targeting above 5.5 per cent growth for 2023," added Wong.

There are questions about how the alarming mortality toll — officially at 60,000 in the past month or so — will affect broader consumer confidence. Supply chain disruptions caused by workers reporting sick may hinder the recovery and impact nations that depend heavily on Chinese imports.

With real estate prices still declining and expected to do so this year, the health of the massive property market debt-ridden property developers will pose another risk to economic recovery.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year.

China's economy slowed sharply in 2022, with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth registering its worst in nearly half a century, pressuring policymakers to provide more stimulus to boost the economy this year. The National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday that China's economy expanded by 2.9 per cent year over year in the fourth quarter, slowing from 3.9 per cent in the quarter before. Watch | China: Massive rush at stations, airports as thousands head home for Lunar New Year On a quarterly sequential basis, China's economy stagnated in the December quarter, highlighting the costs incurred by the stringent "zero-COVID" policy adopted. For the full year, GDP growth was 3.0 per cent, significantly below the government's target of "around" 5.5 per cent and a sharp slowdown from 2021's 8.4 per cent growth. While the reported rate was higher than the World Bank's 2.7 per cent forecast made earlier this month by the World Bank, the 2022 figure marks China's worst annual performance since 1976, excluding the 2.2 per cent growth that followed the initial Covid hit in 2020. In 2020, major economies around the world slumped into a deep recession. Also read | China's population falls to a 60 year low; demographers predict nation 'will get old before it gets rich' China's "Zero-COVID policy" and a severe property market downturn last year hurt domestic economic activity and weighed on global supply chains already disrupted by the pandemic. While Beijing abruptly lifted all those stringent pandemic restrictions in early December, it led to a surge in infections, which economists say would likely hamper growth in the near term. But Redmond Wong, Greater China market strategist at Saxo Markets Hong Kong, told Reuters, "I think investors will look through the Q4 GDP prints and focus on 2023". Also read | China's housing market witnesses a slump for the 16th month "According to Chinese media, more than half of the 31 provinces and municipalities that have released 2023 work reports are targeting above 5.5 per cent growth for 2023," added Wong. There are questions about how the alarming mortality toll — officially at 60,000 in the past month or so — will affect broader consumer confidence. Supply chain disruptions caused by workers reporting sick may hinder the recovery and impact nations that depend heavily on Chinese imports. With real estate prices still declining and expected to do so this year, the health of the massive property market debt-ridden property developers will pose another risk to economic recovery. (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.

Hit by Covid restrictions, China's economy grew just 3% in 2022

When the Insider media outlet questioned the show's creators, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, in December via Zoom about why the timeline of the show begins in 2003 rather than 2013, as it does in the game, Mazin said that he had suggested the change. When Mazin is watching a show that takes place 20 years in the future from the time he is viewing it, it just appears less genuine, he claimed. He claimed that doing it makes him feel less connected. He continued by saying that it oddly did provide them a chance to study the intriguing early 2000s era because it had its own design and technology. It was an unusual area to freeze the planet, according to Mazin, and it helped give the world a little bit more of a historical sense.

The series' has similarities to COVID-19 in the pilot and early episodes. The show is based on a mutant fungus that infects and zombifies humans, causing a pandemic and the show investigates the roots of the outbreak. Although COVID-19 triggered lockdowns throughout the world when the series was initially revealed in March 2020, Druckmann, who also made the popular PlayStation and Naughty Dog game, told Insider that COVID-19 barely changed the series. The influenza epidemic of 1918 served as a major inspiration for the original The Last of Us game.

Druckmann's analysis of how COVID-19 influenced the development of the series showed that not much had changed. Prior to the pandemic, according to Druckmann, Druckmann and Craig had been meeting on a fairly frequent basis. When Craig would visit Naughty Dog, they would discuss for hours about the show, the game's plot, each individual character, their relationships, the locales, and the various factions. What do we wish to retain? What do we want to get rid of? These were some of the talks the duo had.&nbsp;

The Spanish virus and how people responded and how they in some ways became xenophobic and locked off their tribes were a major focus of the study, he continued. Therefore, he said he thinks the reason it feels so genuine is that they have already lived it as part of their past. Druckmann added that the HBO adaptation's goal was not to emphasise the current outbreak. With Ellie, who appears resistant to the virus, throughout the country, the series explores the potential of discovering a genuine treatment for the fungal infestation. The programme focuses on the surreal friendship that develops between the two throughout the course of their adventure.&nbsp;

Druckmann said it became important to them actually not to comment on the modern outbreak too much because they did not want to make a Covid-19 show. He said that ultimately, this is a show that's post-pandemic. "The pandemic itself is a part of the show, and then we deal with 20 years after that," Druckmann said.

"How are people are dealing with this new reality? And people that are born after this outbreak? Ellie is an example of that. She doesn't know the world from before. All she knows is this world. And Joel is one of the few people that are slowly dying off in this world that straddles this line. He knows enough to miss it, to be nostalgic for it, or to be sad about what's no longer there."

 
&nbsp;

When the Insider media outlet questioned the show's creators, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, in December via Zoom about why the timeline of the show begins in 2003 rather than 2013, as it does in the game, Mazin said that he had suggested the change.

When the Insider media outlet questioned the show's creators, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, in December via Zoom about why the timeline of the show begins in 2003 rather than 2013, as it does in the game, Mazin said that he had suggested the change. When Mazin is watching a show that takes place 20 years in the future from the time he is viewing it, it just appears less genuine, he claimed. He claimed that doing it makes him feel less connected. He continued by saying that it oddly did provide them a chance to study the intriguing early 2000s era because it had its own design and technology. It was an unusual area to freeze the planet, according to Mazin, and it helped give the world a little bit more of a historical sense. The series' has similarities to COVID-19 in the pilot and early episodes. The show is based on a mutant fungus that infects and zombifies humans, causing a pandemic and the show investigates the roots of the outbreak. Although COVID-19 triggered lockdowns throughout the world when the series was initially revealed in March 2020, Druckmann, who also made the popular PlayStation and Naughty Dog game, told Insider that COVID-19 barely changed the series. The influenza epidemic of 1918 served as a major inspiration for the original The Last of Us game. Druckmann's analysis of how COVID-19 influenced the development of the series showed that not much had changed. Prior to the pandemic, according to Druckmann, Druckmann and Craig had been meeting on a fairly frequent basis. When Craig would visit Naughty Dog, they would discuss for hours about the show, the game's plot, each individual character, their relationships, the locales, and the various factions. What do we wish to retain? What do we want to get rid of? These were some of the talks the duo had. The Spanish virus and how people responded and how they in some ways became xenophobic and locked off their tribes were a major focus of the study, he continued. Therefore, he said he thinks the reason it feels so genuine is that they have already lived it as part of their past. Druckmann added that the HBO adaptation's goal was not to emphasise the current outbreak. With Ellie, who appears resistant to the virus, throughout the country, the series explores the potential of discovering a genuine treatment for the fungal infestation. The programme focuses on the surreal friendship that develops between the two throughout the course of their adventure. Druckmann said it became important to them actually not to comment on the modern outbreak too much because they did not want to make a Covid-19 show. He said that ultimately, this is a show that's post-pandemic. "The pandemic itself is a part of the show, and then we deal with 20 years after that," Druckmann said. "How are people are dealing with this new reality? And people that are born after this outbreak? Ellie is an example of that. She doesn't know the world from before. All she knows is this world. And Joel is one of the few people that are slowly dying off in this world that straddles this line. He knows enough to miss it, to be nostalgic for it, or to be sad about what's no longer there."

The Last of Us: Did COVID-19 pandemic influence the post-apocalyptic video game adaptation?

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world.&nbsp;

Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines."

The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities.&nbsp;

His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award.&nbsp;

Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-takes-g20-presidency-at-critical-time-will-provide-solutions-says-chief-coordinator-harsh-shringla-549951">"India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla</a>

The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country.&nbsp;

India-Guyana relations

"There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said.

"Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added.

On rise of India

"India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking.

Vaccine Maitri

"During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said.

His India connection

"India is our motherland..,” the president said.&nbsp;

WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency

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Voice of the global south summit

"Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said.&nbsp;

Oil exports to India

"Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali.&nbsp;

Defence co-operation

"We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said.

Guyana's economic progress

"Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added.

Support for India's bid at UNSC

"We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated.&nbsp;

Climate change

"We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said.&nbsp;

West's Climate Change commitments

"(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana.

Guyana President Irfaan Ali has lauded India for its "leadership" amid the covid pandemic, as the nation provided vaccines to the world. Under India's Vaccine Maitri initiative, Covid vaccines were sent to more than 100 countries including Guyana. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, President Ali said, "During the pandemic, we saw that most countries opted for more inward-looking policies...India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, they extended their support to the world through vaccines." The president of Guyana, who has an Indian origin, was on a visit to India last week during which he toured six Indian cities. His trip to India began in Indore where he attended the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award. Calling India a "motherland", the president said, "India's voice, as chair of the G20, must be one that calls for re-ordering of priorities and ensures climate, food and social justice.” India is the chair of the G20 and will be hosting the summit in September. ALSO READ| "India takes G20 Presidency at critical time, will provide solutions," says Chief Coordinator Harsh Shringla The president also spoke on defence co-operation with India, energy exports and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on his country. India-Guyana relations "There is tremendous opportunity ahead and Guyana intends to work closely with India as a strong and strategic bilateral partner in pursuing the ambitions of both countries, to create a more peaceful world,” the president said. "Guyana is working with India in championing many issues. We are part of the solar alliance, we are working with India on many renewable projects, and we are working with India on energy and food security. By supporting the commonality of the objectives, to create better work, we are actually supporting the vision of PM Modi, especially when he leads the G20,” he added. On rise of India "India is leading the G20, as we speak today. India is also one of the fastest-growing economies. India is projected to be the third-largest economy by 2030. India has been leading in the area of technology, food production, and human resource for some time now,” the president said, emphasising how PM Modi's objective of creating one policy which includes all of India's development aspirations, is similar to what government of Guyana has been seeking. Vaccine Maitri "During the pandemic, we saw most countries opt for more inward-looking policies, isolating themselves and protecting themselves first. India demonstrated full commitment to multilateralism when facing the same challenge, as they extended their support to the world through vaccines. India has demonstrated that it is ready and willing to provide better leadership in the world,” he said. His India connection "India is our motherland..,” the president said. WATCH| Gravitas: India takes charge of G20 Presidency Voice of the global south summit "Global south summit is coming at an important time. What we have to do is find a commonality of strategy in addressing important questions. The developing world is faced with increased burden of the climate crisis, food security, energy security amid high cost of energy globally, imported inflation, supply chain crisis and this is dismantling the economies of many developing countries,” he said. Oil exports to India "Focus of discussion on the oil and gas sector is to find synergy. To see how we can advance a govt-to-govt model that will create a win-win position. We have agreed to set up two technical teams and those teams will examine all the possibilities in the sale of crude, direct investment in exploration, and govt to govt collaboration in exploration and operation. The technical team will go to work immediately and will submit the report which will help determine options for a balanced framework,” President Irfaan Ali. Defence co-operation "We are in a process of modernising our military. We are examining all possibilities that are available to us in hardware and military supply from India. More importantly, we have already embarked on closer and elaborate co-operation, military to military co-operation with India. We have a number of our officers being trained in India now," he said. Guyana's economic progress "Guyana is blessed with many natural resources because of which we have access to a market of 200 million people. We are building an economy that stands on different pillars and a wide array of opportunities,” he added. Support for India's bid at UNSC "We have already communicated to India, officially, Guyana has no objection in supporting India,” the president reiterated. Climate change "We live in a world in which climate change is leading to a disastrous impact. We need to find money to build our defences and build dykes, who is going to find that capital for us. The problem we face with debt issue is lack of cheap capital,” the president said. West's Climate Change commitments "(Failed) Totally, not accidentally, but totally. What we have seen is that many of the loans are not concessional. Even new loans for adaptation and mitigation. So how are you supporting small island developing states,” he quizzed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Guyana President Irfaan Ali lauds India's leadership amid Covid pandemic

In the month since the country abandoned its tight "zero Covid" policy, China said on Saturday that it had reported about 60,000 fatalities connected to the coronavirus, accelerating an outbreak that is thought to have infected millions of people. The admission marked a significant increase in the official death toll and was the first time China had offered a measure of the Covid wave that is currently sweeping the nation.

China: Country reports around 60,000 Covid deaths, claims peak is over

China has further tightened its grip on Hong Kong as it appoints the head of the city's National Security Agency Chief, the top representative of Beijing in Hong Kong.

China: Hong Kong security agency head promoted as Beijing's top official

The Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 might become a dominant strain in Europe in the upcoming months, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), on Friday. This comes days after the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the number of COVID-19 infections caused by XBB.1.5 in the month of December increased from four per cent to 41 per cent. According to CDC’s data, the subvariant is also the cause of nearly 75 per cent of new infections in the northeast region of the US.&nbsp;

What is XBB.1.5?

The XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant or the unofficially nicknamed “Kraken” by some scientists, is also an offshoot of XBB which was first detected in the US last year in October and has recently been dubbed the most transmissible variant.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-in-usa-omicron-subvariant-xbb15-accounts-for-over-40-per-cent-cases-548265">Covid in USA: Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 accounts for over 40 per cent cases&nbsp;</a>

According to Grace Roberts, a virologist at the University of Leeds in Britain, an additional mutation to its spike protein is what makes the subvariant different from its otherwise very similar predecessor XBB.1. Notably, this additional spike protein is the key that allows the virus into the body’s cells.&nbsp;

How transmissible is it?

A study by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, US conducted by virologist Trevor Bedford and his team, suggests that the subvariant has a reproduction number of 1.6 which means that on average every person infected with it will go on to infect 1.6 other people.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, according to recent estimates by the CDC, as of Friday (January 14), at least 43 per cent of all COVID-19 cases across the country have been due to XBB.1.5 which was at 30 per cent in the first week of January. Additionally, the ECDC said that citing the data from its modelling indicates XBB.1.5 could become the dominant strain in Europe in one or two months.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-global-headlines-xbb15-could-be-dominant-in-europe-soon-552469">Gravitas Global Headlines: XBB.1.5 could be dominant in Europe soon</a>

The EU health agency said that currently, the subvariant in question only accounts for 2.5 per cent of European cases. Furthermore, the XBB.1.5 has been spreading at least 12.5 per cent faster than other variants in the US, said the ECDC.&nbsp;

So far, at least 38 countries have XBB.1.5 cases out of which 82 per cent are in the US, eight per cent in the UK, and two per cent are in Denmark, said the World Health Organization (WHO) following a rapid risk assessment, on Wednesday, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Additionally, the ECDC also noted the growth advantage that XBB.1.5 has over other Omicron variants which are 109 per cent in North America and 113 per cent in Europe. However, these figures come with “significant uncertainty”, the EU health agency added.&nbsp;

Why is it so transmissible?

Earlier this week, the WHO technical lead on Covid, Maria Van Kerkhove, said that the emerging XBB.1.5 variant is the most transmissible form of Covid and clearly had a “growth advantage” over other forms of the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid. Meanwhile, the ECDC believes that the most likely explanation for its transmissibility is the XBB.1.5’s spike protein mutation combined with its already very transmissible predecessor the XBB variant.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-offshoot-to-xbb15-may-cause-new-covid-spike-in-the-us-confirms-cdc-549368">Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC</a>

“It’s likely there will be an increase in cases in the short term, though this will depend on the extent of XBB.1.5’s advantage and the various factors affecting SARS-CoV-2 transmission in general,” said Marlin Figgins, a University of Washington PhD student working in Bedford’s lab, as per the Scientific American.&nbsp;

Mutations and resistance to antibodies

The variant XBB was also known for its ability to evade the human immune system. It is also worth noting that since the beginning of the pandemic, mutations have been known to help viruses escape detection by a person’s immune system. As mentioned earlier, with the XBB.1.5’s mutation being in its spike protein it can bind to cells better, replicate faster and spread more easily.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Scientific American, while the exact mechanism behind XBB.1.5’s increased transmissibility remains unknown it could be the subvariant’s F486P mutation which allows it to sneak past the body’s defence mechanism as effectively as it does. Notably, the aforementioned spike protein mutation is both the new variant XBB.1.5’s defining feature and the main difference from its parental XBB.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/xbb15-new-covid-subvariant-emergences-in-united-states-552513">XBB.1.5: New Covid subvariant emergences in United States</a>

According to WHO, Omicron’s XBB variants, alongside BQ.1 remain resistant to both antibodies built from vaccinations as well as previous infections. Last month, a study published in the journal Cell said that XBB.1 is 63 times less likely to be affected by existing antibodies when compared to the BA.2 subvariant and 49 times more resistant than the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.&nbsp;

Symptoms and severity&nbsp;

As the WHO continues to assess data on the subvariant, it said that so far it did not carry any mutations that are known to increase the severity of the disease. Similarly, Roberts from the UK also told AFP that there is no data that suggests the subvariant is “anymore harmful – in terms of severe disease and death than previous variants”.&nbsp;

In a recent interview, the American Medical Association (AMA) Vice President of Science, Medicine and Public Health, Andrea Garcia, said, “Symptoms with XBB 1.5 appear to be similar to the earlier Omicron variants, and those can range from cold symptoms to shortness of breath and low oxygen levels that require emergency medical attention.”&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-splinters-into-multiple-variants-what-is-the-xbb-covid-strain-526318">Covid-19 splinters into multiple variants; What is the XBB covid strain?</a>

She also pointed out that with the emergence and spread of new variants, the signs of symptoms of Covid seem different than what was seen earlier in the pandemic, referring to people losing their sense of taste and smell. The AMA VP said that while it still happens in some cases, it has become rare with the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

“The experts generally believe that the symptoms of Covid have become less severe over time. That could be because they tend to remain in the upper respiratory tract and don’t affect the lungs as much as earlier variants,” said Garcia.&nbsp;

Additionally, she went on to attribute this immunity and people reporting milder symptoms like cough, congestion and a headache in the US to having some level of immunity either from the vaccines or prior infection. However, since they can be confused with having a cold or flu the AMA VP recommends getting tested for Covid if one should experience any of these symptoms.&nbsp;

Should we be concerned?

According to a report by AFP, the University of Leeds virologist says there is “no cause to panic” about the new subvariant and she does not believe that there is a need for “any drastic action at present”. However, Roberts noted that it is important for the countries to monitor the progression and spread of XBB.1.5.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/xbb-strain-detected-in-17-countries-is-there-a-need-for-variant-specific-booster-vaccines-528557">XBB strain detected in 17 countries: Is there a need for variant specific booster vaccines?</a> 
 
Similarly, even the ECDC said that while the Omicron subvariant has become a dominant strain in the US, that might not be the case for Europe as observed earlier by the “major differences in variant circulation” throughout the pandemic.&nbsp;

Furthermore, WHO official Kerkhove, also noted that their concern is about how transmissible it is and although many parts of the world are witnessing further waves of infection it does not “translate into further waves of death”, which she has attributed to countermeasures such as vaccines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 might become a dominant strain in Europe in the upcoming months, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), on Friday.

The Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 might become a dominant strain in Europe in the upcoming months, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), on Friday. This comes days after the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the number of COVID-19 infections caused by XBB.1.5 in the month of December increased from four per cent to 41 per cent. According to CDC’s data, the subvariant is also the cause of nearly 75 per cent of new infections in the northeast region of the US. What is XBB.1.5? The XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant or the unofficially nicknamed “Kraken” by some scientists, is also an offshoot of XBB which was first detected in the US last year in October and has recently been dubbed the most transmissible variant. ALSO READ | Covid in USA: Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 accounts for over 40 per cent cases According to Grace Roberts, a virologist at the University of Leeds in Britain, an additional mutation to its spike protein is what makes the subvariant different from its otherwise very similar predecessor XBB.1. Notably, this additional spike protein is the key that allows the virus into the body’s cells. How transmissible is it? A study by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, US conducted by virologist Trevor Bedford and his team, suggests that the subvariant has a reproduction number of 1.6 which means that on average every person infected with it will go on to infect 1.6 other people. Meanwhile, according to recent estimates by the CDC, as of Friday (January 14), at least 43 per cent of all COVID-19 cases across the country have been due to XBB.1.5 which was at 30 per cent in the first week of January. Additionally, the ECDC said that citing the data from its modelling indicates XBB.1.5 could become the dominant strain in Europe in one or two months. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas Global Headlines: XBB.1.5 could be dominant in Europe soon The EU health agency said that currently, the subvariant in question only accounts for 2.5 per cent of European cases. Furthermore, the XBB.1.5 has been spreading at least 12.5 per cent faster than other variants in the US, said the ECDC. So far, at least 38 countries have XBB.1.5 cases out of which 82 per cent are in the US, eight per cent in the UK, and two per cent are in Denmark, said the World Health Organization (WHO) following a rapid risk assessment, on Wednesday, reported AFP. Additionally, the ECDC also noted the growth advantage that XBB.1.5 has over other Omicron variants which are 109 per cent in North America and 113 per cent in Europe. However, these figures come with “significant uncertainty”, the EU health agency added. Why is it so transmissible? Earlier this week, the WHO technical lead on Covid, Maria Van Kerkhove, said that the emerging XBB.1.5 variant is the most transmissible form of Covid and clearly had a “growth advantage” over other forms of the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid. Meanwhile, the ECDC believes that the most likely explanation for its transmissibility is the XBB.1.5’s spike protein mutation combined with its already very transmissible predecessor the XBB variant. ALSO READ | Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC “It’s likely there will be an increase in cases in the short term, though this will depend on the extent of XBB.1.5’s advantage and the various factors affecting SARS-CoV-2 transmission in general,” said Marlin Figgins, a University of Washington PhD student working in Bedford’s lab, as per the Scientific American. Mutations and resistance to antibodies The variant XBB was also known for its ability to evade the human immune system. It is also worth noting that since the beginning of the pandemic, mutations have been known to help viruses escape detection by a person’s immune system. As mentioned earlier, with the XBB.1.5’s mutation being in its spike protein it can bind to cells better, replicate faster and spread more easily. According to a report by the Scientific American, while the exact mechanism behind XBB.1.5’s increased transmissibility remains unknown it could be the subvariant’s F486P mutation which allows it to sneak past the body’s defence mechanism as effectively as it does. Notably, the aforementioned spike protein mutation is both the new variant XBB.1.5’s defining feature and the main difference from its parental XBB. ALSO WATCH | XBB.1.5: New Covid subvariant emergences in United States According to WHO, Omicron’s XBB variants, alongside BQ.1 remain resistant to both antibodies built from vaccinations as well as previous infections. Last month, a study published in the journal Cell said that XBB.1 is 63 times less likely to be affected by existing antibodies when compared to the BA.2 subvariant and 49 times more resistant than the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. Symptoms and severity As the WHO continues to assess data on the subvariant, it said that so far it did not carry any mutations that are known to increase the severity of the disease. Similarly, Roberts from the UK also told AFP that there is no data that suggests the subvariant is “anymore harmful – in terms of severe disease and death than previous variants”. In a recent interview, the American Medical Association (AMA) Vice President of Science, Medicine and Public Health, Andrea Garcia, said, “Symptoms with XBB 1.5 appear to be similar to the earlier Omicron variants, and those can range from cold symptoms to shortness of breath and low oxygen levels that require emergency medical attention.” ALSO WATCH | Covid-19 splinters into multiple variants; What is the XBB covid strain? She also pointed out that with the emergence and spread of new variants, the signs of symptoms of Covid seem different than what was seen earlier in the pandemic, referring to people losing their sense of taste and smell. The AMA VP said that while it still happens in some cases, it has become rare with the Omicron variant. “The experts generally believe that the symptoms of Covid have become less severe over time. That could be because they tend to remain in the upper respiratory tract and don’t affect the lungs as much as earlier variants,” said Garcia. Additionally, she went on to attribute this immunity and people reporting milder symptoms like cough, congestion and a headache in the US to having some level of immunity either from the vaccines or prior infection. However, since they can be confused with having a cold or flu the AMA VP recommends getting tested for Covid if one should experience any of these symptoms. Should we be concerned? According to a report by AFP, the University of Leeds virologist says there is “no cause to panic” about the new subvariant and she does not believe that there is a need for “any drastic action at present”. However, Roberts noted that it is important for the countries to monitor the progression and spread of XBB.1.5. ALSO WATCH | XBB strain detected in 17 countries: Is there a need for variant specific booster vaccines? Similarly, even the ECDC said that while the Omicron subvariant has become a dominant strain in the US, that might not be the case for Europe as observed earlier by the “major differences in variant circulation” throughout the pandemic. Furthermore, WHO official Kerkhove, also noted that their concern is about how transmissible it is and although many parts of the world are witnessing further waves of infection it does not “translate into further waves of death”, which she has attributed to countermeasures such as vaccines. (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.

Explained: Why is XBB.1.5 or ‘Kraken’ the most transmissible Covid subvariant?

Omicron subvariant, XBB.1.5, is causing concern among scientists after its rapid spread in the United States. Watch further to know more.

XBB.1.5: New Covid subvariant emergences in United States

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US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply. The move as per AFP is a requirement by the US congress as part of the 2023 defence spending bill. Scrapping the mandate, Austin in a memo wrote he was&nbsp;"deeply proud" of the Defense Department's efforts to combat the coronavirus adding that, "we have improved the health of our service members and the readiness of the force, and we have provided life-saving assistance to the American people."

He added that the department, however, would keep encouraging personnel to get vaccinated. Addressing commanders, the memo said they have "the responsibility and authority to preserve the department's compelling interests in mission accomplishment."

Watch |&nbsp;Travellers rush to renew passports as China ends Covid restrictions

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As per AFP, the memo then expands on the said responsibilities and authority, adding that it "includes the ability to maintain military readiness, unit cohesions, good order and discipline, and the health and safety of a resilient joint force."

The thousands of army personnel who lost their jobs because of the mandate can also apply to have the characterisations of their discharge amended. However, the memo makes no mention of reinstatement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-troops-to-begin-training-on-patriot-missiles-in-us-next-week-pentagon-confirms-551346">Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms</a>

Republicans have pushed for the removal of the said mandate and have also sought reinstatement of those relieved from their duties. Republican Kevin McCarthy, who is now the speaker of the House, had even argued that the mandate affects recruiting.

However, Austin said that he has not been made privy to any "hard data that directly links the Covid mandate to an effect on our recruiting."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-about-the-presence-of-classified-documents-in-private-office-says-biden-551349">Was surprised to learn about govt documents in private office, says Biden</a>

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, in a statement, said the mandate "appears to have very minimal impact on recruiting". She added that scrapping the mandate "would impact the readiness of the force."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on Tuesday rescinded the COVID-19 mandate bill that, as per the Pentagon, had led to the discharge of over 8,000 military personnel for refusal to comply. The move as per AFP is a requirement by the US congress as part of the 2023 defence spending bill. Scrapping the mandate, Austin in a memo wrote he was "deeply proud" of the Defense Department's efforts to combat the coronavirus adding that, "we have improved the health of our service members and the readiness of the force, and we have provided life-saving assistance to the American people." He added that the department, however, would keep encouraging personnel to get vaccinated. Addressing commanders, the memo said they have "the responsibility and authority to preserve the department's compelling interests in mission accomplishment." Watch | Travellers rush to renew passports as China ends Covid restrictions As per AFP, the memo then expands on the said responsibilities and authority, adding that it "includes the ability to maintain military readiness, unit cohesions, good order and discipline, and the health and safety of a resilient joint force." The thousands of army personnel who lost their jobs because of the mandate can also apply to have the characterisations of their discharge amended. However, the memo makes no mention of reinstatement. Also read | Ukrainian troops to begin training on Patriot missiles in US next week, Pentagon confirms Republicans have pushed for the removal of the said mandate and have also sought reinstatement of those relieved from their duties. Republican Kevin McCarthy, who is now the speaker of the House, had even argued that the mandate affects recruiting. However, Austin said that he has not been made privy to any "hard data that directly links the Covid mandate to an effect on our recruiting." Also read | Was surprised to learn about govt documents in private office, says Biden Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, in a statement, said the mandate "appears to have very minimal impact on recruiting". She added that scrapping the mandate "would impact the readiness of the force." (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.

Pentagon scraps Covid vaccine mandate that led to the discharge of more than 8,000 army personnel

Beijing has retaliated against South Korea and Japan's Covid curbs on travelers from China and has halted short-term visas for South Korean and Japanese Nationals.

China: Beijing retaliates against curbs on travellers

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