A combined coronavirus and influenza vaccine will be tested, according to Pfizer-BioNTech, which could lead to increased vaccination rates for both diseases.&nbsp;

The mRNA-based combination vaccination candidate was expected to advance to a phase one study in the United States with 180 participants, according to a statement from the firms.

The inoculation "could simplify immunisation practices against these two respiratory pathogens, potentially leading to better vaccine uptake for both diseases," said Annaliesa Anderson, head of vaccine research and development at US drugmaker Pfizer.

"Even with existing seasonal influenza vaccines, the burden of this virus is severe across the world, causing thousands of deaths and hospitalisations every year."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christian-monastery-pre-dating-islam-unearthed-in-uae-530822">Christian monastery pre-dating Islam unearthed in UAE</a>

One of the most popular vaccines to fight COVID-19 was created by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech.&nbsp;

Competing vaccine producers Moderna and Novavax have also tested flu and COVID vaccines together.

(with inputs from agencies)

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A combined coronavirus and influenza vaccine will be tested, according to Pfizer-BioNTech, which could lead to increased vaccination rates for both diseases. The mRNA-based combination vaccination candidate was expected to advance to a phase one study in the United States with 180 participants, according to a statement from the firms.

A combined coronavirus and influenza vaccine will be tested, according to Pfizer-BioNTech, which could lead to increased vaccination rates for both diseases. The mRNA-based combination vaccination candidate was expected to advance to a phase one study in the United States with 180 participants, according to a statement from the firms. The inoculation "could simplify immunisation practices against these two respiratory pathogens, potentially leading to better vaccine uptake for both diseases," said Annaliesa Anderson, head of vaccine research and development at US drugmaker Pfizer. "Even with existing seasonal influenza vaccines, the burden of this virus is severe across the world, causing thousands of deaths and hospitalisations every year." Also Read: Christian monastery pre-dating Islam unearthed in UAE One of the most popular vaccines to fight COVID-19 was created by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech. Competing vaccine producers Moderna and Novavax have also tested flu and COVID vaccines together. (with inputs from agencies)

Combined Covid and influenza vaccine developed by Pfizer-BioNTech to enter testing phase

In the UK, lives of 33 heart disease patients have been claimed recently due to delays in treatment as the ambulance reached late.&nbsp;Since the start of the pandemic, researchers calculated that nearly 30,000 individuals have died due to heart ailments. Mentioning the data, experts worry that deaths will continue until the NHS is able to manage the situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-predicts-risk-of-heart-disease-with-simple-eye-test-in-less-than-a-minute-says-study-523154">Also read |&nbsp;AI predicts risk of heart disease with simple eye test, in less than a minute, says study</a>

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) research&nbsp;claimed that delays in receiving life-saving treatments and tests are contributing to at least 230 fatalities each week. The chief executive said that there is a need to manage the situation to stop unnecessary deaths and grief.

According to the data, weekly deaths are still 17 per cent more, mostly caused by heart disease, than they were before the Covid breakout.&nbsp;

Around 7.6 million people have a heart or circulatory illness in the UK, causing 25 per cent of deaths every year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sleeping-too-little-or-too-much-puts-you-at-increased-risk-of-glaucoma-says-study-530511">Also read | Sleeping too little or too much puts you at increased risk of glaucoma, says study</a>

Every year, around 10,000 patients are&nbsp;admitted to hospitals after having a heart attack and 900,000&nbsp;for&nbsp;heart failure. The BHF attributes the rise in excess fatalities from heart illness in the country to ambulance delays.&nbsp;

The latest figures show that the ambulance response time for a call has increased to 48 minutes from 18 minutes.

The charity also cautioned people that there are millions of heart patients having&nbsp;trouble accessing care due to problems like high blood are at a high risk of having a heart attack or stroke.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the UK, lives of 33 heart disease patients have been claimed recently due to delays in treatment as the ambulance reached late. Since the start of the pandemic, researchers calculated that nearly 30,000 individuals have died due to heart ailments.

In the UK, lives of 33 heart disease patients have been claimed recently due to delays in treatment as the ambulance reached late. Since the start of the pandemic, researchers calculated that nearly 30,000 individuals have died due to heart ailments. Mentioning the data, experts worry that deaths will continue until the NHS is able to manage the situation. Also read | AI predicts risk of heart disease with simple eye test, in less than a minute, says study The British Heart Foundation (BHF) research claimed that delays in receiving life-saving treatments and tests are contributing to at least 230 fatalities each week. The chief executive said that there is a need to manage the situation to stop unnecessary deaths and grief. According to the data, weekly deaths are still 17 per cent more, mostly caused by heart disease, than they were before the Covid breakout. Around 7.6 million people have a heart or circulatory illness in the UK, causing 25 per cent of deaths every year. Also read | Sleeping too little or too much puts you at increased risk of glaucoma, says study Every year, around 10,000 patients are admitted to hospitals after having a heart attack and 900,000 for heart failure. The BHF attributes the rise in excess fatalities from heart illness in the country to ambulance delays. The latest figures show that the ambulance response time for a call has increased to 48 minutes from 18 minutes. The charity also cautioned people that there are millions of heart patients having trouble accessing care due to problems like high blood are at a high risk of having a heart attack or stroke. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK: Nearly 30,000 patients died since pandemic due to ambulance delays, average service time rises to 48 mins

After several people left the Foxconn factory in China amid the rising number of covid-19 cases in the country and severe restrictions, the company told its staff that it would quadruple their bonuses, if they stay.

WION Business News | China: Foxconn plant to increase bonuses if workers remain at the plant

A day after authorities in Macau mass-tested all its 700,000 residents, a second round of Covid-19 RT-PCR testing was announced Wednesday. The mass testing spree, prompted by the emergence of new Covid-19 cases at a major casino in Macau last weekend underlines the adoption of China’s zero-Covid policy that seeks to ensure absence of Covid-19 cases in China.&nbsp;

The second round of mass testing has been scheduled for all 700,000 residents of Macau on Friday and Saturday.

Earlier on Sunday, authorities in Macau locked down MGM China’s Cotai casino resort with nearly 1500 guests and staff directed to stay inside for three days. It is not immediately clear if they were released after the first round of testing on Tuesday.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-chaos-shanghai-government-bars-people-from-entering-and-exiting-disney-park-529933">China Covid Chaos: Shanghai government bars people from entering and exiting Disney park</a>

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After a three-month long duration of virtually no Covid cases, Macau reported 11 new infections last week. Macau, the world's biggest gambling hub, saw the return of Covid-related curbs with the discovery of new cases last week, prompting worries for casino executives and investors.&nbsp;

In mainland China, the authorities directed the closure of Disney’s Shanghai resort to contain Covid infections this week. Meanwhile, workers at Zhengzhou’s Foxconn plant, China’s biggest iPhone-making unit, started fleeing to their native places to escape strict Covid restrictions in place. The Foxconn facility was locked down due to a Covid outbreak on campus, leading to a major disruption in production. Authorities Wednesday imposed a seven-day lockdown of the area that houses the Foxconn plant, an order that could hit the iPhone assembler’s shipments.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A day after authorities in Macau mass-tested all its 700,000 residents, a second round of Covid-19 RT-PCR testing was announced Wednesday. The mass testing spree, prompted by the emergence of new Covid-19 cases at a major casino in Macau last weekend underlines the adoption of China’s zero-Covid policy that seeks to ensure absence of Covid-19 cases in China.

A day after authorities in Macau mass-tested all its 700,000 residents, a second round of Covid-19 RT-PCR testing was announced Wednesday. The mass testing spree, prompted by the emergence of new Covid-19 cases at a major casino in Macau last weekend underlines the adoption of China’s zero-Covid policy that seeks to ensure absence of Covid-19 cases in China. The second round of mass testing has been scheduled for all 700,000 residents of Macau on Friday and Saturday. Earlier on Sunday, authorities in Macau locked down MGM China’s Cotai casino resort with nearly 1500 guests and staff directed to stay inside for three days. It is not immediately clear if they were released after the first round of testing on Tuesday. WATCH | China Covid Chaos: Shanghai government bars people from entering and exiting Disney park × After a three-month long duration of virtually no Covid cases, Macau reported 11 new infections last week. Macau, the world's biggest gambling hub, saw the return of Covid-related curbs with the discovery of new cases last week, prompting worries for casino executives and investors. In mainland China, the authorities directed the closure of Disney’s Shanghai resort to contain Covid infections this week. Meanwhile, workers at Zhengzhou’s Foxconn plant, China’s biggest iPhone-making unit, started fleeing to their native places to escape strict Covid restrictions in place. The Foxconn facility was locked down due to a Covid outbreak on campus, leading to a major disruption in production. Authorities Wednesday imposed a seven-day lockdown of the area that houses the Foxconn plant, an order that could hit the iPhone assembler’s shipments. (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: Macau announces second round of mass testing in week for 700,000 residents

After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday.

The locals have been ordered to take PCR test on Tuesday and then get themselves tested with rapid antigen daily, reports Reuters news agency.

Apart from that, around 1,500 staff and guests were locked inside MGM China's Cotai casino resort on Sunday for three days. It was not clear whether they would be released on Tuesday.

The officials are taking strict measures as the biggest gambling city braces for Typhoon Nalgae, which is fast approaching southern China. Authorities are hoping that the PCR tests can be completed in one day.

Being a special administrative region of China, Macau has adopted Beijing’s strict zero-Covid policy that involves frequent lockdowns and strict testing requirements.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Business News | China imposes Covid curbs in Macau as infections surge

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China has been witnessing a spurt of cases in the past one week, which has seen the closure of Disney's Shanghai resort while a Foxconn plant in Zhengzhou continues to be rocked by workers leaving en masse over strict Covid restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-experts-saying-about-the-highly-transmissible-xbb-covid-variant-530115" hreflang="en">What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant?</a>

On Monday, the Chinese authorities allowed mainland residents to travel to Macau through an online visa system, streamlining travel to the world's largest gambling hub after more than two years of pandemic restrictions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frustrated-chinese-turn-to-popular-indian-song-to-mock-beijings-zero-covid-policy-530094" hreflang="en">'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy</a>

Macau is the only place in China where casinos are legal.

Before the online visa process, mainland visitors were required to submit detailed, in-person applications to visit the Chinese territory, with approvals typically limited to essential business travel. The strict process was being followed for the past two and a half years.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday.

After remaining Covid-free for three months, Macau registered 11 cases, prompting the authorities to carry out mass testing for all of its 700,000 residents on Tuesday. The locals have been ordered to take PCR test on Tuesday and then get themselves tested with rapid antigen daily, reports Reuters news agency. Apart from that, around 1,500 staff and guests were locked inside MGM China's Cotai casino resort on Sunday for three days. It was not clear whether they would be released on Tuesday. The officials are taking strict measures as the biggest gambling city braces for Typhoon Nalgae, which is fast approaching southern China. Authorities are hoping that the PCR tests can be completed in one day. Being a special administrative region of China, Macau has adopted Beijing’s strict zero-Covid policy that involves frequent lockdowns and strict testing requirements. Watch | WION Business News | China imposes Covid curbs in Macau as infections surge China has been witnessing a spurt of cases in the past one week, which has seen the closure of Disney's Shanghai resort while a Foxconn plant in Zhengzhou continues to be rocked by workers leaving en masse over strict Covid restrictions. Also read | What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant? On Monday, the Chinese authorities allowed mainland residents to travel to Macau through an online visa system, streamlining travel to the world's largest gambling hub after more than two years of pandemic restrictions. Also read | 'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy Macau is the only place in China where casinos are legal. Before the online visa process, mainland visitors were required to submit detailed, in-person applications to visit the Chinese territory, with approvals typically limited to essential business travel. The strict process was being followed for the past two and a half years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Covid-free for three months, Macau records 11 cases, tests entire population

The coveted menace continues to trouble the people of China. Despite facing descent, Chinese regime has not shied away from taking harsh measures to implement its zero Covid policy.

China Covid Chaos: Shanghai government bars people from entering and exiting Disney park

China locked down Disneyland in Shanghai. Workers were reportedly climbing fences to escape a Foxconn factory in central China. As cases rise, China's ramping up its lockdowns. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | China's COVID lockdowns intensify

Undeterred by protests and slowing economy, Beijing continues to stick to zero-Covid policy. The latest to join the dissenters club against strict Covid rules are the Tibetans who are up in arms against the Chinese government. Watch the video to know more about it.

Video: China | Lhasa under lockdown for over three months due to rise in Covid cases

In an effort to stop spreading outbreaks, Chinese cities from Wuhan in the centre to Xining in the northwest are ramping up COVID-19 curbs, closing off buildings, locking down districts, thus&nbsp;putting millions of people in distress.

China reported on Thursday that there had been more than 1,000 new Covid&nbsp;cases nationwide for the third day in a row, a low number compared to the tens of thousands per day that had put Shanghai on complete lockdown earlier this year, but still enough to warrant additional curbs and restrictions across the nation.

The number of cases in China have&nbsp;remained low by international standards, but this year's extremely rigorous and disruptive containment measures against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carbon-dioxide-methane-levels-in-atmosphere-reached-record-high-in-2021-says-un-report-528654">highly contagious Omicron</a> form have put a strain on the second-largest economy in the world and shook the financial markets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rolls-out-inhalable-coronavirus-vaccine-offered-for-free-as-booster-dose-report-528640">China rolls out inhalable coronavirus vaccine, offers it for free as booster dose: Report</a>

As more locations were deemed high-risk in a Covid&nbsp;comeback that extended into its fourth week, Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong and China's fourth-largest metropolis by economic output, blocked off more streets and neighbourhoods and kept residents inside their houses on Thursday.

This week, Wuhan, the location of the first COVID-19 outbreak in the globe, reported between 20 and 25 new cases every day. More than 800,000 residents of one district were told to remain at home until October 30 by local officials.

Following the discovery of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-scraps-covid-19-entry-test-requirement-for-world-cup-fans-528658">COVID-19 </a>case, which officials claimed was connected to the regional pig supply chain, the sale of pork in several areas of Wuhan was also halted.

As health officials in the 2.5 million-person city rushed to contain a COVID-19 comeback after the week-long National Day holiday in early October, social media posts in Xining, the capital of Qinghai province, warned of food shortages and price inflation for necessities.

"To reduce the risk of transmission, some vegetable and fruit stores have been closed and put under quarantine," said a Xining government official on Wednesday.

Other large cities across China including Zhengzhou, Datong and Xian have implemented new curbs this week to rein in local outbreaks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an effort to stop spreading outbreaks, Chinese cities from Wuhan in the centre to Xining in the northwest are ramping up COVID-19 curbs, closing off buildings, locking down districts, thus putting millions of people in distress.

In an effort to stop spreading outbreaks, Chinese cities from Wuhan in the centre to Xining in the northwest are ramping up COVID-19 curbs, closing off buildings, locking down districts, thus putting millions of people in distress. China reported on Thursday that there had been more than 1,000 new Covid cases nationwide for the third day in a row, a low number compared to the tens of thousands per day that had put Shanghai on complete lockdown earlier this year, but still enough to warrant additional curbs and restrictions across the nation. The number of cases in China have remained low by international standards, but this year's extremely rigorous and disruptive containment measures against the highly contagious Omicron form have put a strain on the second-largest economy in the world and shook the financial markets. Also read | China rolls out inhalable coronavirus vaccine, offers it for free as booster dose: Report As more locations were deemed high-risk in a Covid comeback that extended into its fourth week, Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong and China's fourth-largest metropolis by economic output, blocked off more streets and neighbourhoods and kept residents inside their houses on Thursday. This week, Wuhan, the location of the first COVID-19 outbreak in the globe, reported between 20 and 25 new cases every day. More than 800,000 residents of one district were told to remain at home until October 30 by local officials. Following the discovery of a COVID-19 case, which officials claimed was connected to the regional pig supply chain, the sale of pork in several areas of Wuhan was also halted. As health officials in the 2.5 million-person city rushed to contain a COVID-19 comeback after the week-long National Day holiday in early October, social media posts in Xining, the capital of Qinghai province, warned of food shortages and price inflation for necessities. "To reduce the risk of transmission, some vegetable and fruit stores have been closed and put under quarantine," said a Xining government official on Wednesday. Other large cities across China including Zhengzhou, Datong and Xian have implemented new curbs this week to rein in local outbreaks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China: Wuhan, Guangzhou and other cities tighten measures to combat growing COVID-19 outbreaks

Covid fears have come back to haunt China now. According to reports, Foxconn's largest iPhone manufacturing facility in Zhangzhou is facing another Covid-19 outbreak. However, the company has assured it has had minimal impacts on operations.

World Business Watch: China Covid policy disrupts iPhone production

A new wave of COVID-19 infection&nbsp;is expected to hit Europe “within a week”, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has warned, adding that new variants of the virus are evolving faster than the ability to supply adaptive vaccines, which are still in the early stages of the development.

At a press conference in The Netherlands on Wednesday, the EU drug watchdog asserted that the pandemic was still not over as new mutations continue to surface.

"Last week one of these new Omicron variants that is called BQ.1 has been identified in at least five countries in the European Union and European Economic Area," said Dr Marco Cavaleri, Head of Health Threats and Vaccines Strategy, according to AFP news agency.

"According to the ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) BQ.1 and each sub-lineage, which is called BQ.1.1 will become the dominant strains by mid-November to the beginning of December."

Since the influenza virus and Covid will be circulating simultaneously this winter, European health officials have asked people in high-risk groups to be vaccinated against both.

The EMA, however, struck a positive note in the end when it clarified that the current vaccines are still effective.

The warning comes in the wake of BQ.1 and closely related BQ.1.1 subvariants of Omicron driving up cases across Europe and the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rolls-out-inhalable-coronavirus-vaccine-offered-for-free-as-booster-dose-report-528640" hreflang="en">China rolls out inhalable Covid vaccine, offers it for free as booster dose</a>

This week, the World Health Organisation said that BQ.1.1 subvariant is circulating in at least 29 countries.

The US CDC said on Friday that BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 were estimated to make up 9.4 per cent of circulating variants last week.

The officials have warned that the new variant is capable of evading some immune protections, citing laboratory studies in Asia, but added that there is no evidence yet that BQ.1 is linked with increased severity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xbb-ba5-bq11-more-the-scrabble-covid-19-variants-taking-over-the-world-528481" hreflang="en">XBB, BA.5, BQ.1.1 &amp; more: The 'Scrabble' COVID-19 variants taking over the world</a>

"These variants (BQ.1 and BQ.1.1) can quite possibly lead to a very bad surge of illness this winter in the U.S. as it's already starting to happen in Europe and the UK," Gregory Poland, a virologist and vaccine researcher at Mayo Clinic, told Reuters news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new wave of COVID-19 infection is expected to hit Europe “within a week”, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has warned, adding that new variants of the virus are evolving faster than the ability to supply adaptive vaccines, which are still in the early stages of the development.

A new wave of COVID-19 infection is expected to hit Europe “within a week”, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has warned, adding that new variants of the virus are evolving faster than the ability to supply adaptive vaccines, which are still in the early stages of the development. At a press conference in The Netherlands on Wednesday, the EU drug watchdog asserted that the pandemic was still not over as new mutations continue to surface. "Last week one of these new Omicron variants that is called BQ.1 has been identified in at least five countries in the European Union and European Economic Area," said Dr Marco Cavaleri, Head of Health Threats and Vaccines Strategy, according to AFP news agency. "According to the ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) BQ.1 and each sub-lineage, which is called BQ.1.1 will become the dominant strains by mid-November to the beginning of December." Since the influenza virus and Covid will be circulating simultaneously this winter, European health officials have asked people in high-risk groups to be vaccinated against both. The EMA, however, struck a positive note in the end when it clarified that the current vaccines are still effective. The warning comes in the wake of BQ.1 and closely related BQ.1.1 subvariants of Omicron driving up cases across Europe and the United States. Also read | China rolls out inhalable Covid vaccine, offers it for free as booster dose This week, the World Health Organisation said that BQ.1.1 subvariant is circulating in at least 29 countries. The US CDC said on Friday that BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 were estimated to make up 9.4 per cent of circulating variants last week. The officials have warned that the new variant is capable of evading some immune protections, citing laboratory studies in Asia, but added that there is no evidence yet that BQ.1 is linked with increased severity. Also read | XBB, BA.5, BQ.1.1 & more: The 'Scrabble' COVID-19 variants taking over the world "These variants (BQ.1 and BQ.1.1) can quite possibly lead to a very bad surge of illness this winter in the U.S. as it's already starting to happen in Europe and the UK," Gregory Poland, a virologist and vaccine researcher at Mayo Clinic, told Reuters news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New COVID-19 wave to hit Europe ‘in coming week’, warns watchdog

Two metres is the average distance recommended around the world for social distancing as coronavirus continues to affect people. But authorities in China appear to have gone great lengths to ensure that a coronavirus patient does not affect others in his community.

If a video being shared on social media and some media reports are to be believed, a patient in China was seen being hoisted with the help of a crane.

The video below has not been independently verified by WION.

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中国式现代化。【方老师，投稿一个防疫大革命的荒谬视频。一个阳性患者被吊机吊出小区，因为他们不敢进去接，也不想患者的细菌留在地板上，这样能保证最小的接触面积。】 <a href="https://t.co/2BM3Afm3V6">pic.twitter.com/2BM3Afm3V6</a>
— 方舟子 (@fangshimin) <a href="https://twitter.com/fangshimin/status/1585010916198055936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Chinese President Xi Jinping has already declared his Zero Covid Policy. The strict policy means that lockdowns are imposed in cities if Covid infections are found.

The policy has attracted global criticsm as total lockdowns in important cities and regions have resulted in economic impact. China being a major global economy, a slowdown impacts global economy too.

Meanwhile, lockdowns have returned to Wuhan the first-ever coronavirus epicentre in the world.

From Oct. 26 to Oct. 30, the district's more than 800,000 people have been told to stay at home as services were limited across sectors, authorities said in a notice.

Wuhan's Union hospital said in a release that it suspended ourpatient services after a staff member at canteen tested positive. Universities in Wuhan have reverted to online teaching.

"It's already the third year and things are still like this," Wuhan resident Joy Dai, who works in the tourism sector, told Reuters.

"It affects me both mentally and physically ... but I'm helpless in all of this so I've learned to accept it."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Two metres is the average distance recommended around the world for social distancing as coronavirus continues to affect people. But authorities in China appear to have gone great lengths to ensure that a coronavirus patient does not affect others in his community.

Two metres is the average distance recommended around the world for social distancing as coronavirus continues to affect people. But authorities in China appear to have gone great lengths to ensure that a coronavirus patient does not affect others in his community. If a video being shared on social media and some media reports are to be believed, a patient in China was seen being hoisted with the help of a crane. The video below has not been independently verified by WION. 中国式现代化。【方老师，投稿一个防疫大革命的荒谬视频。一个阳性患者被吊机吊出小区，因为他们不敢进去接，也不想患者的细菌留在地板上，这样能保证最小的接触面积。】 pic.twitter.com/2BM3Afm3V6 — 方舟子 (@fangshimin) October 25, 2022 × Chinese President Xi Jinping has already declared his Zero Covid Policy. The strict policy means that lockdowns are imposed in cities if Covid infections are found. The policy has attracted global criticsm as total lockdowns in important cities and regions have resulted in economic impact. China being a major global economy, a slowdown impacts global economy too. Meanwhile, lockdowns have returned to Wuhan the first-ever coronavirus epicentre in the world. From Oct. 26 to Oct. 30, the district's more than 800,000 people have been told to stay at home as services were limited across sectors, authorities said in a notice. Wuhan's Union hospital said in a release that it suspended ourpatient services after a staff member at canteen tested positive. Universities in Wuhan have reverted to online teaching. "It's already the third year and things are still like this," Wuhan resident Joy Dai, who works in the tourism sector, told Reuters. "It affects me both mentally and physically ... but I'm helpless in all of this so I've learned to accept it." (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 ×

Too much distancing: Video shows Covid patient being lifted using crane, watch

As Covid instances increase in the Chinese capital despite some of the strictest anti-virus procedures in the world, amusement park Universal Resort announced on Wednesday that it has temporarily closed owing to Covid preventative efforts in Beijing.&nbsp;

The Comcast Corp.-owned park said it will issue refunds or reschedule tickets but did not specify when it would reopen.&nbsp;

"We will continue to assess the impact on operations and strive to resume operations as soon as possible," it said on Weibo, a Twitter-like social media platform.

After the national Golden Week holidays at the beginning of this month, the number of infections increased in Beijing, which has some of China's strongest Covid entrance hurdles.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-new-methane-detection-tool-will-help-detect-super-emitters-from-space-528390">NASA's new methane detection tool will help detect 'super-emitters' from space</a>

The country reported a total of 1,407 new cases on October 25, the highest number in 12 days, while the city reported 19 symptomatic cases and one asymptomatic infection.&nbsp;

China's economic development has slowed down in the fourth quarter as travel restrictions and shipping worries impede activity, limiting consumption and trade in the second-largest economy in the world.

(with inputs from agencies)

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As Covid instances increase in the Chinese capital despite some of the strictest anti-virus procedures in the world, amusement park Universal Resort announced on Wednesday that it has temporarily closed owing to Covid preventative efforts in Beijing.

As Covid instances increase in the Chinese capital despite some of the strictest anti-virus procedures in the world, amusement park Universal Resort announced on Wednesday that it has temporarily closed owing to Covid preventative efforts in Beijing. The Comcast Corp.-owned park said it will issue refunds or reschedule tickets but did not specify when it would reopen. "We will continue to assess the impact on operations and strive to resume operations as soon as possible," it said on Weibo, a Twitter-like social media platform. After the national Golden Week holidays at the beginning of this month, the number of infections increased in Beijing, which has some of China's strongest Covid entrance hurdles. Also Read: NASA's new methane detection tool will help detect 'super-emitters' from space The country reported a total of 1,407 new cases on October 25, the highest number in 12 days, while the city reported 19 symptomatic cases and one asymptomatic infection. China's economic development has slowed down in the fourth quarter as travel restrictions and shipping worries impede activity, limiting consumption and trade in the second-largest economy in the world. (with inputs from agencies)

Universal amusement park shuts in Beijing as a Covid prevention measure

China has rolled out the Oral COVID-19 vaccine amid a surge in cases. Wuhan and Guangzhou have been put under partial lockdown. Watch this report.

China rolls out oral COVID-19 vaccine amid a surge in cases

The new XBB strain of the coronavirus has been detected in 17 countries with Hong Kong recording 140 cases of them. Is there a need for variant specific booster vaccines?

XBB strain detected in 17 countries: Is there a need for variant specific booster vaccines?

The boom in the production and consumption of gummy vitamins since the COVID pandemic has led to speculations about whether they are actually healthy. Neha Khanna brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | Gummy vitamins: Healthy or glorified candies?

China showed signs of moving back to their Zero Covid policy as tough restrictions were imposed on the economic center of Guangzhou. The significant southern Chinese city announced that all schools and restaurants will be closed in order to control the sudden rise in COVID-19 infections.

Guangzhou is one of the largest cities in China and besides being a commercial hub, it also houses the highest number of restaurants in the country. As a result, experts have expressed their concerns regarding the harm to the region’s economy that the new restrictions can cause in the near future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-and-south-korea-exchange-warning-fire-at-maritime-border-amid-tensions-527870">North and South Korea exchange warning fire at maritime border amid tensions</a>

Although the GDP of the country grew by almost four per cent in Quarter 3 of 2022, the economic growth as a whole has been quite sluggish. With in-person meetings and commercial places facing closure once again, the damage can get worse with financial institutions predicting a steady fall.

The Zero Covid policy was a cornerstone of President Xi Jinping’s campaign for a third term and the decision to introduce further restrictions was taken days after his official re-election.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-economy-live-updates-hong-kong-stocks-dive-more-than-4-tokyo-stocks-open-higher-527862" hreflang="en">Global economy LIVE updates: China's GDP grows 3.9% in Q3, Hong Kong stocks fall</a>

In the past few days, Guangzhou has experienced a sudden surge in cases with the official tally reaching 69 on Sunday. While no deaths were reported in the region, the Communist Party officials decided to introduce restrictions in advance with the citizens anticipating a lockdown in the future.

Other places of the country also saw a rise in cases with government data showing Shanghai and the technological center Shenzhen being the majorly affected cities off late.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

China showed signs of moving back to their Zero Covid policy as tough restrictions were imposed on the economic center of Guangzhou. The significant southern Chinese city announced that all schools and restaurants will be closed in order to control the sudden rise in COVID-19 infections.

China showed signs of moving back to their Zero Covid policy as tough restrictions were imposed on the economic center of Guangzhou. The significant southern Chinese city announced that all schools and restaurants will be closed in order to control the sudden rise in COVID-19 infections. Guangzhou is one of the largest cities in China and besides being a commercial hub, it also houses the highest number of restaurants in the country. As a result, experts have expressed their concerns regarding the harm to the region’s economy that the new restrictions can cause in the near future. Also read | North and South Korea exchange warning fire at maritime border amid tensions Although the GDP of the country grew by almost four per cent in Quarter 3 of 2022, the economic growth as a whole has been quite sluggish. With in-person meetings and commercial places facing closure once again, the damage can get worse with financial institutions predicting a steady fall. The Zero Covid policy was a cornerstone of President Xi Jinping’s campaign for a third term and the decision to introduce further restrictions was taken days after his official re-election. Also read | Global economy LIVE updates: China's GDP grows 3.9% in Q3, Hong Kong stocks fall In the past few days, Guangzhou has experienced a sudden surge in cases with the official tally reaching 69 on Sunday. While no deaths were reported in the region, the Communist Party officials decided to introduce restrictions in advance with the citizens anticipating a lockdown in the future. Other places of the country also saw a rise in cases with government data showing Shanghai and the technological center Shenzhen being the majorly affected cities off late.

China imposes new restrictions in commercial hub Guangzhou amid rising Covid cases

Covid-19 woes in China are far from over. With rising cases in the port city of Guangzhou, the authorities have now suspended in-person schooling and dining at restaurants.

China: Authorities suspend in-person schooling at Guangzhou; zero covid policy hurting economy?

The Serum Institute of India has dumped about 100 million doses of Covid vaccines after they expired. The company said that it has stopped the production due to low demand.

India dumps 100 million Covid vaccine doses; Serum Institute stops Covishield production

China has locked down parts of its Central Metropolis, this has confined some of the city's 13 million people to their homes for at least a week, this has once again bought China's zero-Covid policy back into focus.

China: Covid restrictions back in Xi'an, Hefei, Zhengzhou; zero-Covid policy takes toll on economy

Have you managed to avoid Covid-19 infection? If yes, you could be of great help to scientists. They're looking for 'super-dodgers' who've never been infected. How's that even possible? Is it luck or super immunity? Priyanka Sharma explains.

Gravitas Plus: Why scientists are looking for Super-dodgers

Why is China struggling with Covid? Curbs back in some Chinese cities

The National Institutes of Health is now examining whether experiments performed at Boston University should have triggered a federal review, after scientists at the school tested strains they created of the Covid-19 virus combining the ancestral and Omicron variants.

US health officials probe Boston University’s Covid virus research

The Chinese capital of Beijing has intensified. Measures to curb covid-19. Amongst the measures that have been taken are strengthening public checks, locking down some of the residential compounds, aggressive screening of individuals who could be at risk and meticulous checks on people entering crowded places and more.

China's covid-19 crisis: Beijing calls for meticulous checks on people entering crowded places

Asia Pacific travel and Industry could be the first to recover compared with pre-pandemic levels. Tourism Revenue in 2020 dropped more in Asia Pacific at 59% than anywhere else.

WION Business News | Travel industry could be first to recover compared with pre-pandemic levels

China is planning to reduce COVID quarantine time for inbound travellers from 10 days to seven, reported Bloomberg on Thursday (October 20). China has a strict 'zero-COVID' policy that has been a dampener on world's second-largest economy. This has compounded fears about global recession. Global investors are closely observing for signs of relaxation in the rules.

Currently, rules in China require incoming travellers to quarantine for 10 days. This includes seven days in a hotel followed by three days of home monitoring.

Officials are targeting a cut in the quarantine period to two days in a hotel and then five days at home, Bloomberg said.

Reuters said that National Health Commission didn't immediately respond to request for comment.

Bloomberg said that it was not fully clear how the new rules would apply to foreigners who do not have residence in China.

Beijing&nbsp;tightens measures

The reported cut in quarantine comes as Beijing boosts measures to stop COVID, strengthening public checks and locking down some residential compounds after a quadrupling of its case load in recent weeks.

The number of cases is small compared to other countries. However, China's zero-COVID policy is making authorities in the capital to ratchet up preventive measures.

Beijing's health authority called for stronger screening of risky individuals and meticulous checks on people entering crowded places including supermarkets and gyms.

Some residential compounds with suspected cases were put under three-day lockdowns that could be extended if new infections emerge.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China is planning to reduce COVID quarantine time for inbound travellers from 10 days to seven, reported Bloomberg on Thursday (October 20). China has a strict 'zero-COVID' policy that has been a dampener on world's second-largest economy.

China is planning to reduce COVID quarantine time for inbound travellers from 10 days to seven, reported Bloomberg on Thursday (October 20). China has a strict 'zero-COVID' policy that has been a dampener on world's second-largest economy. This has compounded fears about global recession. Global investors are closely observing for signs of relaxation in the rules. Currently, rules in China require incoming travellers to quarantine for 10 days. This includes seven days in a hotel followed by three days of home monitoring. Officials are targeting a cut in the quarantine period to two days in a hotel and then five days at home, Bloomberg said. Reuters said that National Health Commission didn't immediately respond to request for comment. Bloomberg said that it was not fully clear how the new rules would apply to foreigners who do not have residence in China. Beijing tightens measures The reported cut in quarantine comes as Beijing boosts measures to stop COVID, strengthening public checks and locking down some residential compounds after a quadrupling of its case load in recent weeks. The number of cases is small compared to other countries. However, China's zero-COVID policy is making authorities in the capital to ratchet up preventive measures. Beijing's health authority called for stronger screening of risky individuals and meticulous checks on people entering crowded places including supermarkets and gyms. Some residential compounds with suspected cases were put under three-day lockdowns that could be extended if new infections emerge. (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 ×

China plans to shorten COVID quarantine, Beijing amps up restrictions

COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues,&nbsp;according to a government<a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-105871"> report </a>released Wednesday.

For expectant moms and their newborn children, the research outlines depressing national patterns.

According to the study, there have been an increase in pregnancy-related mortality of almost 80% since 2018, with COVID-19 being a contributing factor in 25% of the 1,178 deaths reported in 2018. In addition, following years of stability, the proportion of preterm and low birthweight infants increased in 2017. Additionally, more pregnant and postpartum women are describing depressive symptoms.

“We were already in the middle of a crisis with maternal mortality in our country,” said Karen Tabb Dina, a maternal health researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “This really shows that COVID-19 has exacerbated that crisis to rates that we, as a country, are not able to handle.”

After Congress requested that it assess maternal health outcomes in the 2020 coronavirus relief bill, the nonpartisan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deposed-in-e-jean-carroll-defamation-case-526929">US&nbsp;Government</a> Accountability Office, which produced the report, examined pregnancy-related mortality.

In spite of the fact that the United States has a higher maternal mortality rate than many other affluent countries and that it had been rising in the years prior to the pandemic, COVID-19 has merely made things more difficult for expectant mothers in this country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-approves-covid-jabs-for-kids-over-six-months-526911">EU watchdog approves Covid jabs for kids over six months</a>

High health hazards are associated with the virus infected pregnant women. In addition to COVID-19 restrictions and staffing shortages, pandemic stress has made depression, a common symptom during pregnancy, worse. Expectant moms now face even more obstacles in their quest for in-person medical care.

According to that report, hospitals in rural, low-income, and predominately Black regions have been cutting back on their obstetric services.

There were more than half of rural counties without a hospital that provided maternity care as of 2018,&nbsp;According to the analysis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues, according to a government report released Wednesday.

COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues, according to a government report released Wednesday. For expectant moms and their newborn children, the research outlines depressing national patterns. According to the study, there have been an increase in pregnancy-related mortality of almost 80% since 2018, with COVID-19 being a contributing factor in 25% of the 1,178 deaths reported in 2018. In addition, following years of stability, the proportion of preterm and low birthweight infants increased in 2017. Additionally, more pregnant and postpartum women are describing depressive symptoms. “We were already in the middle of a crisis with maternal mortality in our country,” said Karen Tabb Dina, a maternal health researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “This really shows that COVID-19 has exacerbated that crisis to rates that we, as a country, are not able to handle.” After Congress requested that it assess maternal health outcomes in the 2020 coronavirus relief bill, the nonpartisan US Government Accountability Office, which produced the report, examined pregnancy-related mortality. In spite of the fact that the United States has a higher maternal mortality rate than many other affluent countries and that it had been rising in the years prior to the pandemic, COVID-19 has merely made things more difficult for expectant mothers in this country. Also read | EU watchdog approves Covid jabs for kids over six months High health hazards are associated with the virus infected pregnant women. In addition to COVID-19 restrictions and staffing shortages, pandemic stress has made depression, a common symptom during pregnancy, worse. Expectant moms now face even more obstacles in their quest for in-person medical care. According to that report, hospitals in rural, low-income, and predominately Black regions have been cutting back on their obstetric services. There were more than half of rural counties without a hospital that provided maternity care as of 2018, According to the analysis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: COVID-19 linked to increase in  pregnancy-related deaths, study reveals

Hong Kong is now increasing its limit on the number of people that gather outside. A dozen people have been given the nod to form a group and gather outside.

Hong Kong relaxes covid restrictions, approves public gatherings to 12 people from 4

For the first time since the Covid pandemic began, the variants that make up the mounting Omicron wave look different. World scientists are warning of a growing splinters of the Omicron offspring found in different parts of the world.

Covid-19 splinters into multiple variants; What is the XBB covid strain?

A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19. This, says the report, was done to back Trump's overly optimistic view of the outbreak.

Former US president Trump was heavily criticised for his handling of the pandemic. Trump publicly endorsed medicines and treatment methods which were not scientifically proven.

Investigators for the congressional report were told by senior staff at US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that Trump aides bullied staff and tried to rewrite reports.&nbsp;

Officials took "unprecedented steps to insert political appointees into the publication process and rebut CDC's scientific reports, including drafting op-eds and other public messaging designed to directly counteract CDC's findings," the report said.

To make the congressional report, investigators interviews a dozen current and former CDC officials as well as senior administration figures.

The panel that has made the report, has described how Trump appointees at Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) tried to take over CDC's weekly scientific journal, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), editing or blocking articles they believed might prove harmful to Trump.

Trump appointees had sought to "alter the contents, rebut, or delay the release" of 18 MMWRs and a health alert, succeeding on at least five occasions.

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19.

A US congressional report released on Monday (October 17) has revealed that former US president Donald Trump's administration prevented health officials from providing accurate information about Covid-19. This, says the report, was done to back Trump's overly optimistic view of the outbreak. Former US president Trump was heavily criticised for his handling of the pandemic. Trump publicly endorsed medicines and treatment methods which were not scientifically proven. Investigators for the congressional report were told by senior staff at US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that Trump aides bullied staff and tried to rewrite reports. Officials took "unprecedented steps to insert political appointees into the publication process and rebut CDC's scientific reports, including drafting op-eds and other public messaging designed to directly counteract CDC's findings," the report said. To make the congressional report, investigators interviews a dozen current and former CDC officials as well as senior administration figures. The panel that has made the report, has described how Trump appointees at Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) tried to take over CDC's weekly scientific journal, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), editing or blocking articles they believed might prove harmful to Trump. Trump appointees had sought to "alter the contents, rebut, or delay the release" of 18 MMWRs and a health alert, succeeding on at least five occasions. (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 ×

US probe reveals Trump aides blocked correct information on Covid

The last two years have been haunted by&nbsp;fatal deaths, exhausting resources of governments, all because of Zoonotic diseases. These are diseases or infections which can easily be transferred to humans via animals or vice versa.&nbsp;Coronavirus,&nbsp;African swine flu, and Monkeypox are some examples of zoonotic diseases.

Quoting the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, "About 60 per cent of the known infectious diseases in humans and 75 per cent of all emerging infectious diseases are caused by pathogens that originate in animals."

Infections like African swine flu led to the culling of pigs in large numbers due to its ability to transfer and infect other pigs as well. The same goes for cows. They are kept in isolation to prevent lumpy skin infections from spreading further to other animals or humans. Hence it is important to integrate the health system of the environment, humans and animals.&nbsp;

'One Health' is an integrated, unifying approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals and the environment.

But why 'One Health' approach is important? Of course, it reduces the risk of Zoonotic diseases, ensures food safety, helps in solving anti-microbial resistance, and protects biodiversity. The most important element of this approach is the systematic collection, collaboration, coordination, and commitment of relevant sectors to reduce the impact on health.

Let’s talk about India and its efforts towards one health approach. In India institutes like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have collaborated to control disease outbreaks. In 2004, an Integrated Disease Surveillance Project was introduced for the detection and response of any outbreak. The program failed to integrate animals and livestock.

In 2008, a roadmap was created for strategies, research and analyse which will help in minimising disease overflow. The National Mission on Biodiversity and Human Well-being was a framework to integrate ecosystem services, climate change, agriculture, health, bio-economy and capacity-building towards one health.

The government of India has set up a new department under ICMR to combat zoonotic diseases in its Nagpur centre. Furthermore a National Expert Group on one health. This paves the way to promote multi-sectoral, transdisciplinary, collaboration and cooperation to adopt one health approach.

The last two years have been haunted by fatal deaths, exhausting resources of governments, all because of Zoonotic diseases. These are diseases or infections which can easily be transferred to humans via animals or vice versa.

The last two years have been haunted by fatal deaths, exhausting resources of governments, all because of Zoonotic diseases. These are diseases or infections which can easily be transferred to humans via animals or vice versa. Coronavirus, African swine flu, and Monkeypox are some examples of zoonotic diseases. Quoting the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, "About 60 per cent of the known infectious diseases in humans and 75 per cent of all emerging infectious diseases are caused by pathogens that originate in animals." Infections like African swine flu led to the culling of pigs in large numbers due to its ability to transfer and infect other pigs as well. The same goes for cows. They are kept in isolation to prevent lumpy skin infections from spreading further to other animals or humans. Hence it is important to integrate the health system of the environment, humans and animals. 'One Health' is an integrated, unifying approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals and the environment. But why 'One Health' approach is important? Of course, it reduces the risk of Zoonotic diseases, ensures food safety, helps in solving anti-microbial resistance, and protects biodiversity. The most important element of this approach is the systematic collection, collaboration, coordination, and commitment of relevant sectors to reduce the impact on health. Let’s talk about India and its efforts towards one health approach. In India institutes like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have collaborated to control disease outbreaks. In 2004, an Integrated Disease Surveillance Project was introduced for the detection and response of any outbreak. The program failed to integrate animals and livestock. In 2008, a roadmap was created for strategies, research and analyse which will help in minimising disease overflow. The National Mission on Biodiversity and Human Well-being was a framework to integrate ecosystem services, climate change, agriculture, health, bio-economy and capacity-building towards one health. The government of India has set up a new department under ICMR to combat zoonotic diseases in its Nagpur centre. Furthermore a National Expert Group on one health. This paves the way to promote multi-sectoral, transdisciplinary, collaboration and cooperation to adopt one health approach.

Can 'One Health' approach save the world from zoonotic infections?

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