The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

"There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said&nbsp;officials on Tuesday.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from&nbsp;China.

While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports.

This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened.

Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health&nbsp;body will publish data once a month.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data".

The United States government is contemplating imposing new measures on travellers from China to the country. As per a Reuters report citing US officials, this is due to concerns over Beijing's "lack of transparent data". "There are mounting concerns in the international community on the ongoing COVID-19 surges in China and the lack of transparent data, including viral genomic sequence data, being reported from the PRC," said officials on Tuesday. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens As per Reuters, recently three nations, namely Japan, India and Malaysia have also announced that they'll be stepping up rules for travellers from China. While Malaysia has put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures, Japan said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts Meanwhile, India's health ministry as per Zee News said that travellers coming from "selected countries" will have to undergo mandatory RT-PCR tests, additionally, two per cent of international passengers will have to submit to random sampling tests at Indian airports. This comes as coronavirus cases in China witnessed a sudden spike following the easing of the country's once stringent zero-Covid rules. While reports indicate that some hospitals and funeral homes in the country are overwhelmed as the virus spreads largely unchecked across the nation of 1.4 billion people, officials for seven consecutive days reported zero deaths. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers This has sparked doubts among health experts, residents and international communities about Beijing's government data. There is concern that Beijing's numbers are inconsistent with the ones reported by much less populous countries after they reopened. Recently, on Sunday the Chinese top health authority, the National Health Commission (NHC) said that it will no longer publish daily Covid data. On Tuesday reports indicated that the health body will publish data once a month. (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-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China

According to a new study, the Covid-19 outbreak which is hitting China is being caused by strains of the virus that have already circled the world, with no signs yet of significant new mutations emerging.

WION Pulse | Study: Existing Covid strains driving China surge

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people.&nbsp;China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

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Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting&nbsp;close to a million people every day.&nbsp;

However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a>

On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening.

Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-japan-india-and-malaysia-now-us-mulls-stricter-rules-for-travellers-from-china-547206">COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China</a>

Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". 
 
An emergency department pharmacy staff said,&nbsp;“Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms.

Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.

Hospitals and funeral homes in China on Wednesday faced intense pressure as the surge in the nation's COVID-19 cases and the dearth of resources hit the nation of 1.4 billion people. China recently began taking down its strict Zero-Covid restriction measures which have been in place for almost three years. This abrupt change has sparked an outbreak that is fast exhausting the nation's hospitals. Watch | China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens Experts warn that the virus is spreading "largely unchecked" in the nation, and is likely infecting close to a million people every day. However with China's National Health Commission (NHC) announcing that it will no longer be publishing daily data and the nation for seven consecutive days reporting zero deaths, the international community has raised questions about the reported data. Also read | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts On Tuesday, China reported three new Covid related deaths up from one on Monday, however, these numbers are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting and also go against what much less populous countries went through upon reopening. Funeral homes are reportedly full, performing 200 funerals a day up from 30-50 a day before China opened up. Also read | COVID-19 | After Japan, India and Malaysia, now US mulls stricter rules for travellers from China Hospitals too have reported being "extremely busy". Talking to Reuters, an ambulance driver who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, "I’ve been doing this job for 30 years and this is the busiest I have ever known it". An emergency department pharmacy staff said, “Almost all of the patients have COVID" and that hospitals don't have Covid-specific medicines so they've just been providing medicine for particular symptoms. Recent days have also seen multiple countries impose travel restrictions on travellers from China as the international community remains concerned about similar outbreaks. Japan, Malaysia and India have imposed restrictions while the USA is reportedly considering doing the same. (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’s funeral homes, hospitals overwhelmed even as official Covid figures remain low

Tech giant Apple and electric car major Tesla are witnessing major tumble in their share prices as concerns mount over delays in their production lines amid Covid crisis in China. Both companies have struggled to keep their manufacturing on track as China grapples with fresh wave of Covid infections.

Apple stocks have tumbled to the lowest since June 2021. For Tesla, the tumble is of 73 per cent from a record high in November 2021.

Apple supplier Foxconn says its revenue in November was down 11 per cent compared with the same month in 2021, following unrest at its Zhangzhou plant known as "iPhone City."

Watch | China: Tesla halts production at Shanghai plant; year-end closure comes as Covid cases rise

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This week, media reports said Tesla's Shanghai manufacturing plant had cut production as Covid infections rose in China. The company declined to comment.

But analysts say the company's sluggish sales are evident in the fact that it has offered discounts to both Chinese and North American customers, BBC reported.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/teslas-wall-street-fortunes-plummet-by-two-third-since-elon-musks-twitter-takeover-547212">Tesla's Wall Street fortunes plummet by two-third since Elon Musk's Twitter takeover</a> 
 
Investors have also raised concerns about Tesla's chief executive Elon Musk, who has repeatedly made controversial headlines. He took over Twitter in October after a drawn-out legal battle and since then Musk has focused a significant amount of his time on running the social media platform. Some have cited his alleged distraction during this time as another reason for the fall in Tesla's share price.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tech giant Apple and electric car major Tesla are witnessing major tumble in their share prices as concerns mount over delays in their production lines amid Covid crisis in China.

Tech giant Apple and electric car major Tesla are witnessing major tumble in their share prices as concerns mount over delays in their production lines amid Covid crisis in China. Both companies have struggled to keep their manufacturing on track as China grapples with fresh wave of Covid infections. Apple stocks have tumbled to the lowest since June 2021. For Tesla, the tumble is of 73 per cent from a record high in November 2021. Apple supplier Foxconn says its revenue in November was down 11 per cent compared with the same month in 2021, following unrest at its Zhangzhou plant known as "iPhone City." Watch | China: Tesla halts production at Shanghai plant; year-end closure comes as Covid cases rise × This week, media reports said Tesla's Shanghai manufacturing plant had cut production as Covid infections rose in China. The company declined to comment. But analysts say the company's sluggish sales are evident in the fact that it has offered discounts to both Chinese and North American customers, BBC reported. Also Read | Tesla's Wall Street fortunes plummet by two-third since Elon Musk's Twitter takeover Investors have also raised concerns about Tesla's chief executive Elon Musk, who has repeatedly made controversial headlines. He took over Twitter in October after a drawn-out legal battle and since then Musk has focused a significant amount of his time on running the social media platform. Some have cited his alleged distraction during this time as another reason for the fall in Tesla's share price. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Apple, Tesla stocks hit major lows as concerns prevail over production amid Covid

Hospitals in major Chinese cities are overwhelmed with a big spike in covid cases. Even the morgues, funeral homes and crematoriums are over flowing.

China: Hospitals under seige as covid crisis worsens

Chinese people flocked to travel sites on Tuesday ahead of borders reopening, even as rising Covid infections strained the health system and roiled the economy.

WION Pulse: Chinese citizens looking forward to travel as Covid rules ease further

Has China's vultureism backfired? A year back it mocked the sight of funeral pyres in India, now China's own crematoriums are filled with dead bodies.

Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Shocking videos emerge from China

After the unprecedented wave of coronavirus hit China, Beijing has approved the offline distribution of Paxlovid, a COVID-19 medicine by Pfizer. It will be available at community health centres, and local doctors will assist in training residents on how to use it.&nbsp;

China has been struggling with the current wave due to the rapid growth in coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, China's National Health Commission has stopped publishing the daily Covid data, reported China News Service.&nbsp;

However, the arrival date of the medicines is not known yet.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/bf7-variant-live-updates-covid-19-rt-pcr-test-on-arrival-in-india-and-mock-drills-546591">Covid BF.7 variant live updates: China lifts quarantine for inbound travels, Japan to tighten restriction for travelers from China, random RT-PCR tests across India</a>

Paxlovid, a medicine hard to access due to high demand, is the only foreign medicine authorised by China's healthcare body for national use. A few weeks ago, a Chinese healthcare app listed it online. However, the medication sold out only within a few hours of listing. It will be Paxlovid's first retail sale in China.&nbsp;

Apart from Paxlovid, China's healthcare authority has also approved Azvudine by Genuine Biotech.&nbsp;

China's abrupt abandonment of its 'zero-Covid' policy has caused a heavy social and economic toll on the nation. Panicky Chinese residents are stocking fever and cold medicines, leading to a medicine shortage in retail pharmacies.

Watch|&nbsp;China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

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President Xi Jinping, in one of his first public statements on the COVID-19 pandemic, mentioned that the country requires a more focused method to protect its citizens.&nbsp;

Beijing, the capital city of China, has one of the best healthcare facilities in the country. But the abrupt ease of the zero-Covid policy and sudden surge in cases has become a problem despite the available resources.&nbsp;

China has intercepted reporting asymptomatic tests and allowed citizens to use antigen tests at home. The rural parts of China are also at risk as migrant workers in big cities will return to their hometowns during Lunar New Year in January 2023. Lack of medical resources and low vaccination rates have the potential to become reasons behind the spread of coronavirus in rural China. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

After the unprecedented wave of coronavirus hit China, Beijing has approved the offline distribution of Paxlovid, a COVID-19 medicine by Pfizer. It will be available at community health centres, and local doctors will assist in training residents on how to use it.

After the unprecedented wave of coronavirus hit China, Beijing has approved the offline distribution of Paxlovid, a COVID-19 medicine by Pfizer. It will be available at community health centres, and local doctors will assist in training residents on how to use it. China has been struggling with the current wave due to the rapid growth in coronavirus cases. Meanwhile, China's National Health Commission has stopped publishing the daily Covid data, reported China News Service. However, the arrival date of the medicines is not known yet. Also read| Covid BF.7 variant live updates: China lifts quarantine for inbound travels, Japan to tighten restriction for travelers from China, random RT-PCR tests across India Paxlovid, a medicine hard to access due to high demand, is the only foreign medicine authorised by China's healthcare body for national use. A few weeks ago, a Chinese healthcare app listed it online. However, the medication sold out only within a few hours of listing. It will be Paxlovid's first retail sale in China. Apart from Paxlovid, China's healthcare authority has also approved Azvudine by Genuine Biotech. China's abrupt abandonment of its 'zero-Covid' policy has caused a heavy social and economic toll on the nation. Panicky Chinese residents are stocking fever and cold medicines, leading to a medicine shortage in retail pharmacies. Watch| China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th President Xi Jinping, in one of his first public statements on the COVID-19 pandemic, mentioned that the country requires a more focused method to protect its citizens. Beijing, the capital city of China, has one of the best healthcare facilities in the country. But the abrupt ease of the zero-Covid policy and sudden surge in cases has become a problem despite the available resources. China has intercepted reporting asymptomatic tests and allowed citizens to use antigen tests at home. The rural parts of China are also at risk as migrant workers in big cities will return to their hometowns during Lunar New Year in January 2023. Lack of medical resources and low vaccination rates have the potential to become reasons behind the spread of coronavirus in rural China. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Covid wave prompts Beijing to approve distribution of Pfizer antiviral medication

In the latest, as China reels under a deadly Covid wave, President Xi Jinping has finally spoken up. On the Russia-Ukraine front, Ukraine has called for Russia's exclusion from the UN's Security Council. Meanwhile, in South Asia,&nbsp;Pushpa Kamal Dahal was sworn in as the new PM of Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-xi-jinping-finally-speaks-as-china-faces-new-situation-urges-steps-to-protect-lives-546753">COVID-19: Xi Jinping finally speaks as China faces 'new situation', urges steps to 'protect' lives</a>

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday (December 26) spoke for the first time about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the country. China is battling a fresh wave of Covid cases after the nation eased some of the hardline measures earlier this month.&nbsp;

In his directive, Xi urged healthcare officials to take steps to protect lives. His remarks come amid reports emerged that people are struggling due to shortages of medicines, overflowing bed wards, etc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-demand-russias-exclusion-from-united-nations-security-council-546695">Ukraine calls for Russia's exclusion from United Nations Security Council</a>

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Ukraine will demand the United Nations exclude Russia from the UN Security Council, according to AFP. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Sunday that the Russian invasion of Ukraine is a blot on the country’s reputation and it should be removed from the Security Council which also includes the United States, United Kingdom, China and France.

"Tomorrow we will officially express our position. We have a very simple question: Does Russia have the right to remain a permanent member of the UN Security Council and to be in the United Nations at all?" Kuleba said. "We have a convincing and reasoned answer -- no, it does not."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pushpa-kamal-dahal-prachanda-sworn-in-as-new-prime-minister-of-nepal-546751">Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ sworn in as new prime minister of Nepal</a>

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Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known by nom de guerre Prachanda “Prachanda”, on Monday took oath as Nepal's new prime minister for the third time, one day after he was appointed as the new premier by President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-drones-hit-engels-air-base-deep-inside-russia-three-dead-moscow-claims-546607">Ukraine drones hit Engels air base deep inside Russia, three dead, Moscow claims</a>

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Russia once again accused Ukraine of attacking an air base in the interiors of the country on Monday. Russian news agencies reported, citing the defence ministry, that a Ukrainian drone attacking a base in Saratov region was shot down. The wreckage killed three people, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-blizzard-of-2022-historic-us-winter-storm-kills-31-including-12-in-new-york-state-546563">'Blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, New York, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone'</a>

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a54d7d3-e1fd-40ab-a000-a52765c1b141" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AN4KCKM7ZNK5JJS6TLHAVF45LI.jpg" />

A devastating storm is&nbsp;wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal winter with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis situation since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-will-rise-from-fifth-place-to-become-the-third-largest-economy-by-2037-546800">India will rise from fifth place to become the third-largest economy by 2037: Report</a>

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The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), which is a UK-based economics consultancy, predicted that India will become the third-largest economy by 2037.&nbsp;The December 2022—14th edition of the&nbsp;report also noted that over the next five years, the annual rate of GDP growth is expected to average 6.4%. After that, the growth is expected to average 6.5% in the subsequent nine years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-one-out-of-five-chinese-are-unemployed-amid-covid-19-crisis-report-546797">Nearly one out of five Chinese are unemployed amid COVID-19 crisis: Report</a>

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The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for the Chinese economy and CNN reported on Monday that around 20 million people between the ages of 16 and 24 are currently unemployed.&nbsp;The data shows that one in every five Chinese citizens is currently out of a job&nbsp;due to the strict restrictions imposed by the government led by President Xi Jinping. The prolonged lockdowns and lack of new employment opportunities mean that the top companies have been forced to cut jobs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-loan-fraud-case-cbi-arrests-videocon-founder-venugopal-dhoot-546687">ICICI loan fraud case: CBI arrests Videocon founder Venugopal Dhoot</a>

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Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials.&nbsp;

In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court.

WATCH | WION Dispatch: US embassy warns officials against visiting Islamabad's Marriott Hotel

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WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: December 26, 2004 World witnessed deadliest Tsunami

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In the latest, as China reels under a deadly Covid wave, President Xi Jinping has finally spoken up. On the Russia-Ukraine front, Ukraine has called for Russia's exclusion from the UN's Security Council.

In the latest, as China reels under a deadly Covid wave, President Xi Jinping has finally spoken up. On the Russia-Ukraine front, Ukraine has called for Russia's exclusion from the UN's Security Council. Meanwhile, in South Asia, Pushpa Kamal Dahal was sworn in as the new PM of Nepal. Click on the headlines to read more. COVID-19: Xi Jinping finally speaks as China faces 'new situation', urges steps to 'protect' lives Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday (December 26) spoke for the first time about the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in the country. China is battling a fresh wave of Covid cases after the nation eased some of the hardline measures earlier this month. In his directive, Xi urged healthcare officials to take steps to protect lives. His remarks come amid reports emerged that people are struggling due to shortages of medicines, overflowing bed wards, etc. Ukraine calls for Russia's exclusion from United Nations Security Council Ukraine will demand the United Nations exclude Russia from the UN Security Council, according to AFP. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Sunday that the Russian invasion of Ukraine is a blot on the country’s reputation and it should be removed from the Security Council which also includes the United States, United Kingdom, China and France. "Tomorrow we will officially express our position. We have a very simple question: Does Russia have the right to remain a permanent member of the UN Security Council and to be in the United Nations at all?" Kuleba said. "We have a convincing and reasoned answer -- no, it does not." Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ sworn in as new prime minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known by nom de guerre Prachanda “Prachanda”, on Monday took oath as Nepal's new prime minister for the third time, one day after he was appointed as the new premier by President Bidya Devi Bhandari. Ukraine drones hit Engels air base deep inside Russia, three dead, Moscow claims Russia once again accused Ukraine of attacking an air base in the interiors of the country on Monday. Russian news agencies reported, citing the defence ministry, that a Ukrainian drone attacking a base in Saratov region was shot down. The wreckage killed three people, it said. 'Blizzard of 2022': US winter storm kills 31; Buffalo, New York, battles crisis situation, is 'like a warzone' A devastating storm is wreaking havoc in the eastern US leaving millions of Americans fighting a brutal winter with at least 31 deaths being reported due to the weather conditions. Buffalo, in western New York, is currently being slammed by a blizzard, creating a crisis situation since emergency services are unable to reach high-impact areas. India will rise from fifth place to become the third-largest economy by 2037: Report The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), which is a UK-based economics consultancy, predicted that India will become the third-largest economy by 2037. The December 2022—14th edition of the report also noted that over the next five years, the annual rate of GDP growth is expected to average 6.4%. After that, the growth is expected to average 6.5% in the subsequent nine years. Nearly one out of five Chinese are unemployed amid COVID-19 crisis: Report The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for the Chinese economy and CNN reported on Monday that around 20 million people between the ages of 16 and 24 are currently unemployed. The data shows that one in every five Chinese citizens is currently out of a job due to the strict restrictions imposed by the government led by President Xi Jinping. The prolonged lockdowns and lack of new employment opportunities mean that the top companies have been forced to cut jobs. ICICI loan fraud case: CBI arrests Videocon founder Venugopal Dhoot Videocon Group founder Venugopal Dhoot was arrested by CBI officials on Monday in the ICICI Bank loan fraud case, stated the officials. In the early morning hours of Monday, a brief questioning session was held with the 71-year-old Dhoot after which he was arrested in Mumbai. Dhoot has been arrested hours after ICICI Bank's former CEO and MD Chanda Kochhar, along with her husband Deepak Kochhar were produced for a remand hearing in a Special Court. WATCH | WION Dispatch: US embassy warns officials against visiting Islamabad's Marriott Hotel WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: December 26, 2004 World witnessed deadliest Tsunami

Top 10 world news: Xi Jinping speaks up about China's Covid situation; Ukraine calls for Russia's UNSC removal

Starting next year, the UK will stop publishing its regular Covid infection data as the country transitions towards the phase of “living with the virus” while heavily relying on vaccines and medicines.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that from Monday they will start treating Covid like other common viral illnesses such as seasonal flu and stop publishing the data on the reproductive rate, or the R-value, which measures the speed at which the coronavirus infects people.

The R-value of the monitoring data has been published&nbsp;fortnightly as a monitoring tool.

“Now that vaccines and therapeutics have allowed us to move to a phase where we are living with COVID-19, with surveillance scaled down but still closely monitored through a number of different indicators, the publication of this specific data is no longer necessary,” Dr Nick Watkins, chair of the UKHSA Epidemiology Modelling Review Group (EMRG), said in a statement.

After witnessing a long period of ebb in Covid cases, England’s infection rate has been ticking up slightly.

As of Friday, the R range for England was 1-1.2. &nbsp;An R-value of greater than 1 indicates that COVID-19 cases are increasing. An R number of 2, for example, means a person with COVID-19 will infect two other people.

“All data publications are kept under constant review and this modelling data can be reintroduced promptly if needed, for example, if a new Variant of Concern was to be identified,” Watkins added.

UK will continue to publish its weekly flu and COVID-19 surveillance report and infection surveys, he said.

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Starting next year, the UK will stop publishing its regular Covid infection data as the country transitions towards the phase of “living with the virus” while heavily relying on vaccines and medicines.

Starting next year, the UK will stop publishing its regular Covid infection data as the country transitions towards the phase of “living with the virus” while heavily relying on vaccines and medicines. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that from Monday they will start treating Covid like other common viral illnesses such as seasonal flu and stop publishing the data on the reproductive rate, or the R-value, which measures the speed at which the coronavirus infects people. The R-value of the monitoring data has been published fortnightly as a monitoring tool. “Now that vaccines and therapeutics have allowed us to move to a phase where we are living with COVID-19, with surveillance scaled down but still closely monitored through a number of different indicators, the publication of this specific data is no longer necessary,” Dr Nick Watkins, chair of the UKHSA Epidemiology Modelling Review Group (EMRG), said in a statement. After witnessing a long period of ebb in Covid cases, England’s infection rate has been ticking up slightly. As of Friday, the R range for England was 1-1.2. An R-value of greater than 1 indicates that COVID-19 cases are increasing. An R number of 2, for example, means a person with COVID-19 will infect two other people. “All data publications are kept under constant review and this modelling data can be reintroduced promptly if needed, for example, if a new Variant of Concern was to be identified,” Watkins added. UK will continue to publish its weekly flu and COVID-19 surveillance report and infection surveys, he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK to stop publishing Covid infection data from New Year

China is witnessing a new COVID outbreak most likely due to the BF.7 Omicron variant. There are many reports which suggest that the ground situation in hospitals and crematoriums is scary owing to the explosion in the daily number of COVID cases and the shortage of medical staff. In a key development, the management of COVID-19 will now be reduced from Class A to Class B from 8 January, according to a late Monday night announcement from China's National Health Commission (NHC). What will that change?

According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are now 40 kinds of notifiable infectious diseases in China, divided into three classes,&nbsp;Class A, Class B, and Class C.&nbsp;Class A infectious illnesses include cholera and plague. Among the infectious illnesses classified as Class B include SARS, AIDS, and TB. Flu, the mumps, and other infectious disorders fall under class C.

In a significant change to its epidemic response strategies, China will manage COVID-19 with measures against Class-B infectious illnesses rather than Class-A.&nbsp;As a result of the downgrade of COVID management from Class A to Class B, there won't be any more quarantine for travellers entering the nation, sealed COVID-19 case management, or high-risk geographic zones. However, foreign visitors who are entering China should undergo nucleic acid testing 48 hours before departure. According to a handout published by NHC, saying that China has met the right conditions for downgrading the management of COVID-19.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travel-sites-see-an-uptick-as-china-loosens-international-travel-rules-546939">Travel sites see an uptick as China loosens international travel rules</a>

What will change?

According to Global Times, downgrading the administration of COVID-19 to Class B indicates that control of COVID-19 will once again fall under the purview of the medical system; nevertheless, tactics like widespread lockdowns and mobility restrictions enforced by local governments will no longer be applied. Reducing the management can safeguard vulnerable groups, free up a lot of medical resources from temporary hospitals that can be used for regular medical care, and serve as a foundation for future improvements to preventative and control measures.

NHC requested that community health clinics and hospitals above the secondary level open as many fever clinics as they could. Additionally, it mandated that temporary hospitals be upgraded to designated hospitals for the care of COVID-19 patients. In order to preserve lives, major hospitals were also urged to hire more employees and provide more resources, such as ensuring that there would be enough people to staff the ICU beds.

China said that it will ease the visa policies for those who wish to visit family, resume their studies, or work. In light of the global pandemic scenario and the support capability of all sectors, the nation will also gradually resume passenger transit through maritime and land ports as well as outbound tourism.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/at-least-13-people-have-been-killed-in-philippine-floods-546931">At least 13 people have been killed in Philippine floods</a>

COVID19 name also changed&nbsp;

The National Health Commission said on Monday that China has changed the nomenclature of COVID-19 from "novel coronavirus pneumonia" to "novel coronavirus infection." Since the majority of patients displayed pneumonia symptoms, it was first referred to as new coronavirus pneumonia. However, now&nbsp;only a few patients are&nbsp;displaying&nbsp;pneumonia symptoms as a result of the Omicron variation becoming the dominant strain, the NHC stated on Monday. 
&nbsp;

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China is witnessing a new COVID outbreak most likely due to the BF.7 Omicron variant. There are many reports which suggest that the ground situation in hospitals and crematoriums is scary owing to the explosion in the daily number of COVID cases and the shortage of medical staff.

China is witnessing a new COVID outbreak most likely due to the BF.7 Omicron variant. There are many reports which suggest that the ground situation in hospitals and crematoriums is scary owing to the explosion in the daily number of COVID cases and the shortage of medical staff. In a key development, the management of COVID-19 will now be reduced from Class A to Class B from 8 January, according to a late Monday night announcement from China's National Health Commission (NHC). What will that change? According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are now 40 kinds of notifiable infectious diseases in China, divided into three classes, Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A infectious illnesses include cholera and plague. Among the infectious illnesses classified as Class B include SARS, AIDS, and TB. Flu, the mumps, and other infectious disorders fall under class C. In a significant change to its epidemic response strategies, China will manage COVID-19 with measures against Class-B infectious illnesses rather than Class-A. As a result of the downgrade of COVID management from Class A to Class B, there won't be any more quarantine for travellers entering the nation, sealed COVID-19 case management, or high-risk geographic zones. However, foreign visitors who are entering China should undergo nucleic acid testing 48 hours before departure. According to a handout published by NHC, saying that China has met the right conditions for downgrading the management of COVID-19. ALSO READ | Travel sites see an uptick as China loosens international travel rules What will change? According to Global Times, downgrading the administration of COVID-19 to Class B indicates that control of COVID-19 will once again fall under the purview of the medical system; nevertheless, tactics like widespread lockdowns and mobility restrictions enforced by local governments will no longer be applied. Reducing the management can safeguard vulnerable groups, free up a lot of medical resources from temporary hospitals that can be used for regular medical care, and serve as a foundation for future improvements to preventative and control measures. NHC requested that community health clinics and hospitals above the secondary level open as many fever clinics as they could. Additionally, it mandated that temporary hospitals be upgraded to designated hospitals for the care of COVID-19 patients. In order to preserve lives, major hospitals were also urged to hire more employees and provide more resources, such as ensuring that there would be enough people to staff the ICU beds. China said that it will ease the visa policies for those who wish to visit family, resume their studies, or work. In light of the global pandemic scenario and the support capability of all sectors, the nation will also gradually resume passenger transit through maritime and land ports as well as outbound tourism. WATCH | At least 13 people have been killed in Philippine floods COVID19 name also changed The National Health Commission said on Monday that China has changed the nomenclature of COVID-19 from "novel coronavirus pneumonia" to "novel coronavirus infection." Since the majority of patients displayed pneumonia symptoms, it was first referred to as new coronavirus pneumonia. However, now only a few patients are displaying pneumonia symptoms as a result of the Omicron variation becoming the dominant strain, the NHC stated on Monday. 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 downgrades COVID management to class B, what does it mean?

The new COVID outbreak and the protracted cold weather have caused a steep decline in blood donations in China and several areas from the north to the south of the country have lately been urging more citizens to actively donate blood under strict personal protection guidelines, as per China's state-media Global Times.&nbsp;

The Shandong blood centre reported that Jinan, the capital of East China's Shandong province, is now experiencing unprecedented blood supply and collection pressure because of the rise in hospital outpatient and surgical patients. Jinan also has the province's highest concentration of medical resources. The centre said that the blood group A and O stock has been at a red alert level for many days. According to the centre, the gap in clinical blood consumption is expected to hit an all-time high around the time of the approaching New Year's and Spring Festival vacations, making it extremely difficult for clinical procedures and medical blood transfusions to take place.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-face-criticism-over-distributing-traditional-medicine-not-ibuprofen-and-paracetamol-546493">Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol</a>

According to other reports quoted by the Global Times, the blood scarcity has put pregnant women and seriously ill patients in some areas of the country at risk. To meet the need for clinical blood usage, Guangzhou, in South China's Guangdong Province, needs roughly 1,200 blood donors every day. According to the Guangzhou Blood Center, blood supply has reached critically low levels as a result of the recent increase in COVID-19 infection cases as well as the cold weather.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a> 
&nbsp;

For locals who would donate their blood to those in need as a sign of thanks, the clinic provided supplied N95 face masks and antigen testing kits as prizes for contributions. The National Health Commission (NHC) said on Sunday that China will stop publishing daily statistics on COVID-19 cases and fatalities, terminating a practice that started in early 2020.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-and-us-embassy-issue-notice-amid-islamabad-terror-red-alert-546594">UK and U.S Embassy issue notice amid Islamabad Terror 'Red Alert'</a>

Since Beijing abruptly abolished its zero-COVID policy earlier this month, cities around China are grappling with an increase in viral infections that have left pharmacy shelves empty and overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums.

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The new COVID outbreak and the protracted cold weather have caused a steep decline in blood donations in China and several areas from the north to the south of the country have lately been urging more citizens to actively donate blood under strict personal protection guidelines, as per China's state-media Global Times.

The new COVID outbreak and the protracted cold weather have caused a steep decline in blood donations in China and several areas from the north to the south of the country have lately been urging more citizens to actively donate blood under strict personal protection guidelines, as per China's state-media Global Times. The Shandong blood centre reported that Jinan, the capital of East China's Shandong province, is now experiencing unprecedented blood supply and collection pressure because of the rise in hospital outpatient and surgical patients. Jinan also has the province's highest concentration of medical resources. The centre said that the blood group A and O stock has been at a red alert level for many days. According to the centre, the gap in clinical blood consumption is expected to hit an all-time high around the time of the approaching New Year's and Spring Festival vacations, making it extremely difficult for clinical procedures and medical blood transfusions to take place. ALSO READ | Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol According to other reports quoted by the Global Times, the blood scarcity has put pregnant women and seriously ill patients in some areas of the country at risk. To meet the need for clinical blood usage, Guangzhou, in South China's Guangdong Province, needs roughly 1,200 blood donors every day. According to the Guangzhou Blood Center, blood supply has reached critically low levels as a result of the recent increase in COVID-19 infection cases as well as the cold weather. ALSO READ | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts For locals who would donate their blood to those in need as a sign of thanks, the clinic provided supplied N95 face masks and antigen testing kits as prizes for contributions. The National Health Commission (NHC) said on Sunday that China will stop publishing daily statistics on COVID-19 cases and fatalities, terminating a practice that started in early 2020. WATCH | UK and U.S Embassy issue notice amid Islamabad Terror 'Red Alert' Since Beijing abruptly abolished its zero-COVID policy earlier this month, cities around China are grappling with an increase in viral infections that have left pharmacy shelves empty and overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums. 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.

New COVID BF.7 outbreak causes blood shortage across China

China will reopen borders and abandon quarantine measures meant to stem the spread of coronavirus infections on Jan. 8, removing the last major restrictions under its strict "Zero-Covid" policy.

WION Pulse: China to reopen border, drop the quarantine policy from Jan 8

A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar&nbsp;confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday. As stated by the official, a second person, a 60-year-old British woman, also tested positive last week before the central government formally requested that states amplify their analysis of positive Covid-19 cases in order to find new coronavirus variants amid a wave that was spiralling out of control in China. As per Gaya civil surgeon Dr Ranjan Kumar Singh, she has returned to her native country.

Four foreigners tested positive on Sunday, three of them from Thailand and one from Myanmar.

The five were asymptomatic when they undertook random testing at the Gaya international airport last week, according to Dr Singh.

“We have isolated two foreigners (from Thailand) at their hotel rooms at Bodh Gaya,” the medical officer said. The administration has not been able to track down the third person from Thailand since the person’s mobile phone number was switched off.

Prior to receiving the test results, the resident of Myanmar departed Gaya for Srinagar through Delhi. As soon as the results of the confirmatory test were received, according to Dr Singh, the airport personnel was made aware of his Covid-19 status.

Following a positive test from a Thai national on December 23, the district administration said that tests were also conducted on around 27 additional travellers in the same travel group. As a result of the contact tracing inquiry, two additional people had positive tests.

Prior to the Dalai Lama's discourse&nbsp;which is expected to draw approximately 100,000 followers and is set to take place from December 29 to 31, incidences of Covid-19 have been discovered. Around 20,000 worshippers from 50 nations have registered online for the event, according to those with knowledge of the situation.

The Gaya district magistrate Thiyagarajan SM has advised people to wear masks and follow&nbsp;Covid protocols, particularly by keeping a distance from others. Additionally, he has requested that only those who test negative be permitted to meet the Dalai Lama.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday.

A senior medical officer of Gaya, Bihar confirmed on Monday that samples of four foreigners who tested positive for Covid-19 at the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Gaya were sent for genome sequencing on Sunday. As stated by the official, a second person, a 60-year-old British woman, also tested positive last week before the central government formally requested that states amplify their analysis of positive Covid-19 cases in order to find new coronavirus variants amid a wave that was spiralling out of control in China. As per Gaya civil surgeon Dr Ranjan Kumar Singh, she has returned to her native country. Four foreigners tested positive on Sunday, three of them from Thailand and one from Myanmar. The five were asymptomatic when they undertook random testing at the Gaya international airport last week, according to Dr Singh. “We have isolated two foreigners (from Thailand) at their hotel rooms at Bodh Gaya,” the medical officer said. The administration has not been able to track down the third person from Thailand since the person’s mobile phone number was switched off. Prior to receiving the test results, the resident of Myanmar departed Gaya for Srinagar through Delhi. As soon as the results of the confirmatory test were received, according to Dr Singh, the airport personnel was made aware of his Covid-19 status. Following a positive test from a Thai national on December 23, the district administration said that tests were also conducted on around 27 additional travellers in the same travel group. As a result of the contact tracing inquiry, two additional people had positive tests. Prior to the Dalai Lama's discourse which is expected to draw approximately 100,000 followers and is set to take place from December 29 to 31, incidences of Covid-19 have been discovered. Around 20,000 worshippers from 50 nations have registered online for the event, according to those with knowledge of the situation. The Gaya district magistrate Thiyagarajan SM has advised people to wear masks and follow Covid protocols, particularly by keeping a distance from others. Additionally, he has requested that only those who test negative be permitted to meet the Dalai Lama. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Bihar: Five foreigners test positive for COVID-19 at Gaya, four samples sent for genome sequencing

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world.

Will the latest COVID-19 outbreak in China lead to a potentially dangerous virus mutation?

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world.

As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant."

Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation.

Watch |&nbsp;China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

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"When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said&nbsp;Ray comparing&nbsp;the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those."

The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population.&nbsp;

Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said&nbsp;that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers</a>

Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time.

"Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-face-criticism-over-distributing-traditional-medicine-not-ibuprofen-and-paracetamol-546493">Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol</a>

The World Health Organization&nbsp;has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China.

"We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over."

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant.

China's rising number of COVID-19 cases has sparked the worry that the surge might unleash a new mutant variant of the deadly virus into the world. As per Dr Stuart Campbell Ray, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University, China's large population has limited immunity, which "seems to be the setting in which we may see an explosion of a new variant." Experts warn that every new Covid infection offers the virus a chance to mutate, and given the way it is circulating in China, variables like the recently discontinued zero-Covid rules, high population, high overall vaccination but low booster rates and the unavailability of the more effective foreign mRNA vaccines could contribute to a highly fertile breeding ground for a coronavirus mutation. Watch | China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th "When we've seen big waves of infection, it's often followed by new variants being generated," said Ray comparing the coronavirus to a boxer that "learns to evade the skills that you have and adapt to get around those." The current surge in China is believed to be driven by the BF.7 subvariant, with many other Omicron variants believed to be circulating among the population. Dr Shan-Lu Liu, who studies viruses at Ohio State University as per an AP report said that BF.7 is very adept at evading immunity. Also read | China’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers Experts warn that partially vaccinated populations like the one in China "put pressure" on the virus to mutate and it is impossible to predict if the new mutation will cause more severe disease. Apparently, there is no inherent reason for the coronavirus to become milder over time. "Much of the mildness we've experienced over the past six to 12 months in many parts of the world has been due to accumulated immunity either through vaccination or infection, not because the virus has changed" in severity, says Ray. Also read | Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol The World Health Organization has also expressed concern as cities run out of intensive care beds and a staff shortage is witnessed amid reports of severe disease in China. "We don't know all of what's going on", currently little is known about the genetic viral sequencing coming out of China says Jeremy Luban, a virologist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School warning, "the pandemic is not over." (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 a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts

While the urban cities of China grapple with COVID's upcoming wave, the nation's rural population is also at risk of a dark Covid winter, as per Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) forecasts. With the holiday season commencing in January, millions of migrant workers will return from Covid-stricken cities to their rural hometowns. Due to this, China's rural areas, with a limited healthcare supply, can face a wave of severe infections.

Even though COVID-19 is rapidly spreading across China, reluctance towards vaccines remains consistent among older citizens. Researchers fear that the patchy healthcare systems and rising cases might affect the already vulnerable part of mainland China, reported NPR.&nbsp;

COVID-19's first wave affected the country in several ways. It impacted the People's Republic of China (PRC), mainly in agriculture and food systems. Since rural China is primarily agriculture-based, the pandemic could have a harmful influence on it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/east-asia/china-deployed-71-airforce-planes-in-weekend-strike-drills-47-crossed-taiwan-strait-taiwan-defence-ministry-546569">China deployed 71 jets into Taiwan air defence zone in largest incursion so far, says Taiwan</a>

In 2020, rural migrant workers received the worst shocks in monetary terms due to the pandemic. More than 53 million migrant workers had to stay in their hometowns due to lockdown policies. Thus, the number of migrant workers decreased by 30.6 per cent at the end of February 2020, according to reports.&nbsp;

According to a report titled '<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8110271/">COVID-19 in Rural China'</a>, villages can survive the pandemic by disconnecting from the outside world. The analysis called rural areas 'the weakest links in China's pandemic prevention.'&nbsp;

In January 2020, the highest number of cases was in Shijiazhuang, a Chinese city, mainly home to farmers. The average age of the workers was 45 years, and more than 20 per cent of people were 60 years old. Moreover, the number of cases in females was slightly higher than the males.&nbsp;

Watch|&nbsp;China reports ‘zero Covid death’ for the first time in three years

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Many children from nearby villages also tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. According to the report, the primary reason behind this was the consistent migration of young individuals from rural to urban areas in search of work.

Due to the local customs of wedding celebrations at the end of the year, social gatherings became common. They also led to the spread of the virus in rural areas.&nbsp;

Rural citizens of China have low awareness of medical treatment, furthermore, poor medical habits and insufficient access to resources were prime reasons behind the pandemic's outbreak.&nbsp;

IHME has predicted around a million deaths in China in 2023 due to the current wave of COVID. Medical scarcity has already hit rural pharmacies. The situation is likely to worsen if PRC's government does not take appropriate steps.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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While the urban cities of China grapple with COVID's upcoming wave, the nation's rural population is also at risk of a dark Covid winter, as per Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) forecasts.

While the urban cities of China grapple with COVID's upcoming wave, the nation's rural population is also at risk of a dark Covid winter, as per Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) forecasts. With the holiday season commencing in January, millions of migrant workers will return from Covid-stricken cities to their rural hometowns. Due to this, China's rural areas, with a limited healthcare supply, can face a wave of severe infections. Even though COVID-19 is rapidly spreading across China, reluctance towards vaccines remains consistent among older citizens. Researchers fear that the patchy healthcare systems and rising cases might affect the already vulnerable part of mainland China, reported NPR. COVID-19's first wave affected the country in several ways. It impacted the People's Republic of China (PRC), mainly in agriculture and food systems. Since rural China is primarily agriculture-based, the pandemic could have a harmful influence on it. Also read | China deployed 71 jets into Taiwan air defence zone in largest incursion so far, says Taiwan In 2020, rural migrant workers received the worst shocks in monetary terms due to the pandemic. More than 53 million migrant workers had to stay in their hometowns due to lockdown policies. Thus, the number of migrant workers decreased by 30.6 per cent at the end of February 2020, according to reports. According to a report titled 'COVID-19 in Rural China', villages can survive the pandemic by disconnecting from the outside world. The analysis called rural areas 'the weakest links in China's pandemic prevention.' In January 2020, the highest number of cases was in Shijiazhuang, a Chinese city, mainly home to farmers. The average age of the workers was 45 years, and more than 20 per cent of people were 60 years old. Moreover, the number of cases in females was slightly higher than the males. Watch| China reports ‘zero Covid death’ for the first time in three years Many children from nearby villages also tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. According to the report, the primary reason behind this was the consistent migration of young individuals from rural to urban areas in search of work. Due to the local customs of wedding celebrations at the end of the year, social gatherings became common. They also led to the spread of the virus in rural areas. Rural citizens of China have low awareness of medical treatment, furthermore, poor medical habits and insufficient access to resources were prime reasons behind the pandemic's outbreak. IHME has predicted around a million deaths in China in 2023 due to the current wave of COVID. Medical scarcity has already hit rural pharmacies. The situation is likely to worsen if PRC's government does not take appropriate steps. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Covid-19's grim impact on rural China might worsen in recent wave: Report

Hospitals in China struggle with spike in Covid cases. Even as China records zero covid deaths now data firm is claiming that the real scale of infection could be far greater than what the official data is showing. Watch to know further.

China reports ‘zero Covid death’ for the first time in three years

Despite rising pressures across the globe, China will now stop publishing daily Covid-19 figures. The National Health Commission says that the decision will come into effect immediately which is from December 25. The NHC has been releasing daily Covid data on this website for the last three years.

China: No Covid data to be available from December 25th

Chinese hospitals and crematoriums are reportedly having difficulty running and are overburdened, according to a number of media outlets. In light of these worries, Chinese people have turned to their own solutions to the Covid-19 pandemic, some of which have also gained popularity on social media and have gone viral.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-face-criticism-over-distributing-traditional-medicine-not-ibuprofen-and-paracetamol-546493">Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol</a>

In a recent video published by People's Daily, a state-affiliated outlet in China, a couple is seen purchasing vegetables by wrapping themselves in plastic wrap from head to toe, which is supported by the man's umbrella. The pair interacts with people while staying behind the improvised "shield" and avoiding making "direct" eye contact.

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A Chinese couple takes self-protection to another level... <a href="https://t.co/ovPlIaAeZg">pic.twitter.com/ovPlIaAeZg</a>
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Some of&nbsp;social media users mocked the couple's improvised method while others expressed alarm over the "epidemic." In the meanwhile, Chinese officials announced Sunday that the country will cease posting daily Covid-19 statistics. China was criticised last week for its decision to reduce the standards by which Covid-19 fatalities were tallied, which experts claimed was an effort to conceal the true mortality rate in the country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-a-fertile-breeding-ground-for-a-potentially-dangerous-covid-mutation-experts-546567">China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts</a> 
&nbsp;

As Covid observes a rebound across the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the nations that have been reporting the greatest numbers of weekly cases.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-hospitals-under-strain-due-to-spike-in-new-infections-545883">China: Hospitals under strain due to spike in new infections</a>

The WHO reported that Japan (1,046,650 new cases), the Republic of Korea (459,811), the United States (445,424), France (341,136), and Brazil had the greatest weekly numbers of new cases (337,810).

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Chinese hospitals and crematoriums are reportedly having difficulty running and are overburdened, according to a number of media outlets. In light of these worries, Chinese people have turned to their own solutions to the Covid-19 pandemic, some of which have also gained popularity on social media and have gone viral.

Chinese hospitals and crematoriums are reportedly having difficulty running and are overburdened, according to a number of media outlets. In light of these worries, Chinese people have turned to their own solutions to the Covid-19 pandemic, some of which have also gained popularity on social media and have gone viral. ALSO READ | Chinese authorities face criticism over distributing traditional medicine, not ibuprofen and paracetamol In a recent video published by People's Daily, a state-affiliated outlet in China, a couple is seen purchasing vegetables by wrapping themselves in plastic wrap from head to toe, which is supported by the man's umbrella. The pair interacts with people while staying behind the improvised "shield" and avoiding making "direct" eye contact. A Chinese couple takes self-protection to another level... pic.twitter.com/ovPlIaAeZg — People's Daily, China (@PDChina) December 22, 2022 × Some of social media users mocked the couple's improvised method while others expressed alarm over the "epidemic." In the meanwhile, Chinese officials announced Sunday that the country will cease posting daily Covid-19 statistics. China was criticised last week for its decision to reduce the standards by which Covid-19 fatalities were tallied, which experts claimed was an effort to conceal the true mortality rate in the country. ALSO READ | China a 'fertile breeding ground' for a potentially dangerous Covid mutation: Experts As Covid observes a rebound across the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the nations that have been reporting the greatest numbers of weekly cases. WATCH | China: Hospitals under strain due to spike in new infections The WHO reported that Japan (1,046,650 new cases), the Republic of Korea (459,811), the United States (445,424), France (341,136), and Brazil had the greatest weekly numbers of new cases (337,810). 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.

VIRAL VIDEO | Chinese couple improvised PPE kit while shopping for vegetables

China to stop publishing daily Covid data, NHC gives no explanation for policy change

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official.&nbsp;Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend.&nbsp;

This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-top-health-body-says-will-no-longer-publish-daily-covid-numbers-546408">China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers</a>

In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China.

Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive.

In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak".

Almost half a million people in the Chinese city of Qingdao are being infected by Covid-19 every day, said a senior health official. Bo Tao, the municipal health chief reportedly said that the Chinese coastal city with a population of around 10 million people was seeing "between 490,000 and 530,000" new Covid cases a day and that it was "in a period of rapid transmission ahead of an approaching peak". He also said that the infection rate would accelerate by another 10 per cent over the weekend. This rare acknowledgement of the nation's wave of infections was quickly censored. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency As per AFP, Tao's statement was published by a ruling Communist party-backed news outlet and shared by many others, however, by Saturday morning, the reports seemed to have been edited to remove the case figures. Also read | China's top health body says will no longer publish daily Covid numbers In contrast, figures by China's National Health Commission show a much smaller figure of 4,103 daily cases reported for all of China. Official figures for Shandong, the province where Qingdao is located, logged just 31 new domestic cases. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter Censorship isn't a new phenomenon in China. The Chinese government maintains strict control over the nation's media, with hordes of online censors on hand to remove anything deemed to be politically sensitive. In recent days Chinese government-run publications have downplayed the severity of the nation's Covid outbreak, while foreign publications have raised alarm. (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.

Chinese health official says half a million people in Qingdao infected with Covid daily; censored

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country.&nbsp;The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. 
 
"Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency 
 
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This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/covid-horror-six-pictures-show-reality-of-coronavirus-outbreak-haunting-china-546043">COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China</a>

Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator.

As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported.

However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-covid-19-cases-spike-caccine-hesistancy-plagues-china-544348">Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter</a>

On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week."

He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources."&nbsp;

Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable."

Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data.

China's National Health Commission will no longer be publishing daily data on COVID-19 case figures for the country. The health agency, which as per Reuters has been publishing the numbers for the past three years, has said that starting Sunday, it won't release such data. However, the agency did not disclose the reasons behind this decision. It is also not known how frequently China will now update Covid information. "Relevant COVID information will be published by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention for reference and research," said the NHC in a statement. Watch | China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency This comes as China faces a sudden surge in Covid numbers following the easing of its stringent zero-Covid restrictions, and dropping of mandatory testing requirements and travel restrictions. Also read | COVID Horror: Six pictures show reality of coronavirus outbreak haunting China Bloomberg reported on Friday that up to 37 million individuals may have contracted the deadly illness on a single day this past week, citing statistics from China's top health regulator. As per a Reuters report, on Saturday, the country's national health authority reported 4,128 symptomatic cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive day, no new deaths were reported. However, this is after authorities narrowed the criteria for Covid deaths, a decision that has invited criticism from many disease experts. Also read | Even as Covid cases spike, vaccine hesitancy plagues China; experts predict 3 waves of infections in winter On Thursday, Zhang Wenhong, director of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases as per a report in state-backed news outlet The Paper said that China "is expected to reach the peak of infections within a week." He cautioned that this will also "increase the rate of severe disease, which will have a certain impact on our entire medical resources." Wenhong added that the wave will last another one or two months after that and that "We must be mentally prepared that infection is inevitable." Other experts too have warned that China will be hit with "waves" of infection. As per the estimates of one Chinese expert, this winter will see three consecutive waves of infections. (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’s top health body says it will no longer publish daily Covid infection numbers

China battles surge in Covid cases, medics blame government for 'insufficient planning'

The Wuhan Virus has returned to China. Millions are reportedly getting infected everyday. Thousands could die in the days ahead. Can this wave be contained to the mainland? Or will it spill over to the rest of the world? Priyanka Sharma explains on Gravitas Plus.

Gravitas Plus | Explained: China's deadliest Wuhan Virus wave

The Christmas business isn't quite blooming in the holy city of Bethlehem but it has been resurrected after severely being impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The community that depends entirely on tourism is now hoping for an upswing in the number of visitors and better future.

Bethlehem hopes for cheerful Christmas; holy city marred by pandemic impact

Almost 250 million people in China might have caught Covid-19 in the first 20 days of December. The figure is according to an internal estimate of Beijing Health Officials, accessed by the Financial Times and Bloomberg News. The numbers were reportedly presented in an internal meeting of the National Health Commission.

China: Covid-19 cases explode; Beijing underplaying health emergency

The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction.&nbsp;

The nasal tissue of Covid patients was analysed by doctors who found inflammation-driving immune cells present inside the delicate nasal lining of those people who were facing the loss of smell which was probably removing vital sensory nerve cells.&nbsp;

North Carolina Duke University neurobiology department's associate professor Dr Bradley Goldstein said that tissues present inside the nose lining “contained unique immune cells producing inflammatory signals, combined with fewer olfactory nerve cells”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japan-approves-blood-test-that-might-detect-alzheimers-move-aims-to-reduce-financial-and-emotion-pain-545564"> Japan approves one of the world's first blood test kit that might detect Alzheimer's</a>

The research found unusual immune responses present in patients who are suffering from the loss of sense of smell for months. “It appears that there is an unresolved local immune response, which the delicate olfactory cells are seeing,” he said.&nbsp;

Since it was brought to the notice of doctors that many Covid patients are suffering the loss of smell, it has remained unclear if the sensory cells present in the nose and around the brain have individually or together suffered damage by the virus.&nbsp;

Biopsied tissue present in 24 Covid patients' nasal linings was studied by the researchers, which included nine patients who had no sense of smell for at least four months.&nbsp;

In the tissue, it was found that the nasal lining was infiltrated by T-cells involved in inflammation where smell nerve cells are present.

WATCH| China witnesses a sharp surge in Covid Cases again

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This unusual immune response was present in patients who had no detectable coronavirus, which further indicated that the response persisted after the clearance of infection.

When the number of sensory nerve cells which are involved in smell was studied by the researchers, it was found that those suffering from loss of smell for a long time had fewer cells because the nasal lining's delicate issue was damaged by the T-cell-driven inflammation.

Goldstein added that other symptoms of Covid might be explained by similar immune responses.

“Currently, we have no specific, effective treatments. To develop therapies, we need to understand the pathobiology of the problem: what is damaged and where,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction.

The researchers have said that lots of people who lost their smell after they contracted coronavirus may be facing abnormal immune responses in which they suffer nasal cell destruction. The nasal tissue of Covid patients was analysed by doctors who found inflammation-driving immune cells present inside the delicate nasal lining of those people who were facing the loss of smell which was probably removing vital sensory nerve cells. North Carolina Duke University neurobiology department's associate professor Dr Bradley Goldstein said that tissues present inside the nose lining “contained unique immune cells producing inflammatory signals, combined with fewer olfactory nerve cells”. ALSO READ| Japan approves one of the world's first blood test kit that might detect Alzheimer's The research found unusual immune responses present in patients who are suffering from the loss of sense of smell for months. “It appears that there is an unresolved local immune response, which the delicate olfactory cells are seeing,” he said. Since it was brought to the notice of doctors that many Covid patients are suffering the loss of smell, it has remained unclear if the sensory cells present in the nose and around the brain have individually or together suffered damage by the virus. Biopsied tissue present in 24 Covid patients' nasal linings was studied by the researchers, which included nine patients who had no sense of smell for at least four months. In the tissue, it was found that the nasal lining was infiltrated by T-cells involved in inflammation where smell nerve cells are present. WATCH| China witnesses a sharp surge in Covid Cases again This unusual immune response was present in patients who had no detectable coronavirus, which further indicated that the response persisted after the clearance of infection. When the number of sensory nerve cells which are involved in smell was studied by the researchers, it was found that those suffering from loss of smell for a long time had fewer cells because the nasal lining's delicate issue was damaged by the T-cell-driven inflammation. Goldstein added that other symptoms of Covid might be explained by similar immune responses. “Currently, we have no specific, effective treatments. To develop therapies, we need to understand the pathobiology of the problem: what is damaged and where,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Nasal cell destruction causing loss of smell in Covid cases: Researchers

An intranasal Covid vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech will be available for the public on the CoWIN website from Friday as India gears up surveillance, and prepares to counter a possible COVID-19 wave. The nasal vaccine, which was approved in the month of September, can be used as a booster dose, as per official sources. The same will be available in private health centres.

So far, about 22.35 crore booster doses have been administered which is 27 percent &nbsp;of the total population eligible to take the booster jab. The first and second doses coverage currently stand at 97 per cent and 90 per cent respectively.

As Covid cases rise in China, Indian states have been asked to commence mock drills across health facilities with major focus on oxygen plants, ventilators, logistics and human resources. They have also been asked to ramp up testing and genome sequencing. Official sources have also highlighted that while India is taking all precautions to tackle any possible rise in cases, there is no reason to create panic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-alert-no-entry-for-visitors-in-taj-mahal-without-covid-testing-546034">Covid Alert: No entry for visitors in Taj Mahal without Covid testing</a>

The nasal vaccine, like Bharat Biotech’s prvious vaccine Covaxin, is an outcome of public-private partnership. It is a joint venture between Bharat Biotech and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and its PSU, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).

Also watch |&nbsp;China: Hospitals under strain due to spike in new infections

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As part of Aatmanirbhar 3.0, the mission to support and expedite the development of the COVID-19 vaccine was launched by DBT and carried out by BIRAC under the banner of Mission COVID Suraksha. DBT laboratories and BIRAC offered scientific leadership at key stages of the vaccine development process. According to Bharat Biotech, the vaccine, known by the brand name iNCOVACC, is the first intranasal vaccine ever to be approved by Covid for the primary 2-dose schedule and heterologous booster dosage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An intranasal Covid vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech will be available for the public on the CoWIN website from Friday as India gears up surveillance, and prepares to counter a possible COVID-19 wave.

An intranasal Covid vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech will be available for the public on the CoWIN website from Friday as India gears up surveillance, and prepares to counter a possible COVID-19 wave. The nasal vaccine, which was approved in the month of September, can be used as a booster dose, as per official sources. The same will be available in private health centres. So far, about 22.35 crore booster doses have been administered which is 27 percent of the total population eligible to take the booster jab. The first and second doses coverage currently stand at 97 per cent and 90 per cent respectively. As Covid cases rise in China, Indian states have been asked to commence mock drills across health facilities with major focus on oxygen plants, ventilators, logistics and human resources. They have also been asked to ramp up testing and genome sequencing. Official sources have also highlighted that while India is taking all precautions to tackle any possible rise in cases, there is no reason to create panic. Also read | Covid Alert: No entry for visitors in Taj Mahal without Covid testing The nasal vaccine, like Bharat Biotech’s prvious vaccine Covaxin, is an outcome of public-private partnership. It is a joint venture between Bharat Biotech and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and its PSU, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). Also watch | China: Hospitals under strain due to spike in new infections As part of Aatmanirbhar 3.0, the mission to support and expedite the development of the COVID-19 vaccine was launched by DBT and carried out by BIRAC under the banner of Mission COVID Suraksha. DBT laboratories and BIRAC offered scientific leadership at key stages of the vaccine development process. According to Bharat Biotech, the vaccine, known by the brand name iNCOVACC, is the first intranasal vaccine ever to be approved by Covid for the primary 2-dose schedule and heterologous booster dosage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Bharat Biotech’s nasal Covid vaccine to be available as booster dose on CoWIN app now

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