The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid. 
 
"Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signs-russian-naval-doctrine-marks-us-nato-as-main-threats-to-national-security-502301" hreflang="en">Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security</a>

Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far.

"Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-as-un-peacekeeping-forces-open-fire-in-democratic-republic-of-congo-502364" hreflang="en">Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo</a>

As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately.

Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time.

The White House announced on Sunday that the United Stated President Joe Biden is “doing well” and “continuing his isolation” after he tested positive for Covid for the second time. According to an official statement released by the White House physician Dr Kevin O’Connor, Biden contracted a “rebound” case of COVID-19 which can be the result of an antiviral drug Paxlovid. "Given his rebound positivity which we reported yesterday, we continued daily monitoring. This morning, unsurprisingly, his SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing remained positive," the official memo read. Also read | Putin signs Russian naval doctrine, marks US, NATO as main threats to security Biden finished his isolation period on Wednesday after testing positive for the first time but the second positive means that he will have to stay in isolation once again. However, the doctors said that the situation is completely under control and the symptoms have been mild so far. "Biden will continue to conduct the business of the American people from the Executive Residence," the physician said on Sunday when asked about the plan of action going forward. Also read | Two dead as UN peacekeepers open fire in Democratic Republic of Congo As a result of testing positive for the second time, Biden had to cancel a number of official trips, including visits to key constituencies where the President’s popularity has taken a hit lately. Earlier, Biden tweeted a video of himself sitting outside the White House and video chatting with his family. He also posted on social media about the bipartisan bill to “expand healthcare access for those exposed to toxic burn pits” which saw a number of Republicans changing their votes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden 'feeling well and isolating' after testing positive for COVID-19 again

The pandemic disrupted tourism across the World. Destinations that rely on tourism struggled to cope as the steady flow visitors came to a grinding halt. The Dublin in Ireland was one of those cities but now industry experts say that the sector has bounced back.

Tourism bounces back in Ireland | Will this tourism recovery last?

Nearly a million people have been placed under a covid lockdown in the suburb of Wuhan in China. The government has asked residents to stay inside their homes for three days.

Chinese citizens frustrated of Beijing's covid-19 policy, Wuhan under another lockdown

Millions put under lockdown again in China; residents told to quarantine for 3 days

Vitamin D supplements, widely recommended by medics around the world to prevent bone fractures in older adults, may not be very helpful. A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine says Vitamin-D may not be the shield as it is thought to be.

WION Fineprint | Breaking the myth of Vitamin D

Recently conducted studies that focus on the Wuhan wet market as the origin of COVID-19 contradict the lab leak theory. Reports suggest 2 consecutive spillover events at the wet market.

Study: The COVID-19 virus originated from Wuhan wet market

In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus.

Vaccines that are available right now offer strong protection against Covid. But evolution of the virus is reducing their effectivness.

Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the efforts would be based on two pillars: "pan-coronavirus" vaccines that would stand up to variants and "mucosal" vaccines that are delivered nasally to stop the virus where it enters.

"The goal of that is not only to protect against disease, but to protect against acquisition, and by acquisition, transmission," he said of the intranasal vaccine.

It may be possible to make a pan-coronavirus vaccine by taking pieces of different coronavirus variants. This is called a 'mosaic' approach.

Nasal vaccines are being tested in mice, where they have shown promise, while vaccine developers Pfizer and BioNTech have announced they will work towards trials for universal coronavirus vaccines.

In a commentary for Science magazine, scientists Eric Topol and Akiko Iwasaki argued that a new funding program for next-generation vaccines was needed, along the lines of Operation Warp Speed, which funneled $10 billion into vaccine development early in the pandemic.

"The objective of breaking the chain of transmission at the individual and population level will put us in a far better position to achieve containment of the virus, no less reducing the toll of sickness and long Covid," they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus.

In a summit held with vaccine makers and scientists on Tuesday (July 26), the White House pushed for 'next generation' of Covid vaccines that would offer broder and more durable protection against the virus. Vaccines that are available right now offer strong protection against Covid. But evolution of the virus is reducing their effectivness. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the efforts would be based on two pillars: "pan-coronavirus" vaccines that would stand up to variants and "mucosal" vaccines that are delivered nasally to stop the virus where it enters. "The goal of that is not only to protect against disease, but to protect against acquisition, and by acquisition, transmission," he said of the intranasal vaccine. It may be possible to make a pan-coronavirus vaccine by taking pieces of different coronavirus variants. This is called a 'mosaic' approach. Nasal vaccines are being tested in mice, where they have shown promise, while vaccine developers Pfizer and BioNTech have announced they will work towards trials for universal coronavirus vaccines. In a commentary for Science magazine, scientists Eric Topol and Akiko Iwasaki argued that a new funding program for next-generation vaccines was needed, along the lines of Operation Warp Speed, which funneled $10 billion into vaccine development early in the pandemic. "The objective of breaking the chain of transmission at the individual and population level will put us in a far better position to achieve containment of the virus, no less reducing the toll of sickness and long Covid," they said. (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 ×

White House bats for next-gen Covid vaccines

The Chinese city of Wuhan has gained notoriety worldwide for being ‘ground zero’ of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the situation was extremely critical at the start, the region was able to bring down the cases over time. However, in the recent past, Wuhan has seen a steady rise in cases once again and the authorities have decided to close down businesses and public transport in order to stop the infection from spreading. As part of the “Covid zero” policy adopted by China, the city will be undergoing mass testing before a decision is taken over whether a total lockdown is required.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-liz-truss-debate-abandoned-after-tv-presenter-faints-on-air-500992" hreflang="en">Rishi Sunak-Liz Truss debate abandoned after TV presenter faints on air</a>

In the recent past, China has been quite strict when it comes to dealing with places showing rise in Covid numbers. Earlier, Shanghai and parts of Beijing went through hard measures as lockdown resulted in food shortages and unhygienic living conditions for the citizens of the city.

While a lockdown has not been declared in Wuhan as of now and the measures are mainly restricted to certain districts of the region, but it will still affect around a million people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-signs-deal-on-data-cable-with-greece-on-his-first-europe-trip-since-killing-of-khashoggi-500985" hreflang="en">Saudi prince meets Greek PM, signs deal for 'cheaper energy'</a>

In Jiangxia, the authorities found four cases after a long time as two were found in regular testing and two were believed to have been infected due to close proximity. This was a strong deviation from the trend that saw China maintain zero cases in most places around Wuhan.

The district will face a three-day restriction period as of now which will mean that no major gatherings will be allowed along with closure of restaurants, public entertainment venues, agricultural product marketplaces and small clinics along with public transport, according to Reuters.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese city of Wuhan has gained notoriety worldwide for being ‘ground zero’ of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the situation was extremely critical at the start, the region was able to bring down the cases over time.

The Chinese city of Wuhan has gained notoriety worldwide for being ‘ground zero’ of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the situation was extremely critical at the start, the region was able to bring down the cases over time. However, in the recent past, Wuhan has seen a steady rise in cases once again and the authorities have decided to close down businesses and public transport in order to stop the infection from spreading. As part of the “Covid zero” policy adopted by China, the city will be undergoing mass testing before a decision is taken over whether a total lockdown is required. Also read | Rishi Sunak-Liz Truss debate abandoned after TV presenter faints on air In the recent past, China has been quite strict when it comes to dealing with places showing rise in Covid numbers. Earlier, Shanghai and parts of Beijing went through hard measures as lockdown resulted in food shortages and unhygienic living conditions for the citizens of the city. While a lockdown has not been declared in Wuhan as of now and the measures are mainly restricted to certain districts of the region, but it will still affect around a million people. Also read | Saudi prince meets Greek PM, signs deal for 'cheaper energy' In Jiangxia, the authorities found four cases after a long time as two were found in regular testing and two were believed to have been infected due to close proximity. This was a strong deviation from the trend that saw China maintain zero cases in most places around Wuhan. The district will face a three-day restriction period as of now which will mean that no major gatherings will be allowed along with closure of restaurants, public entertainment venues, agricultural product marketplaces and small clinics along with public transport, according to Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Strict restrictions in place at Chinese city of Wuhan amid rise in Covid cases

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After the pandemic started in 2020, millions of workers began working from home. However, when more individuals start going back to work, they are met with considerably higher expenses for almost everything, including food, transportation, and daycare. Going back to work now costs more due to rising petrol prices and growing inflation. And if their wage increases aren't keeping up, this is reducing workers' salaries.

&nbsp;

Restaurant operators who must boost prices to pay for higher expenses are having challenges as a result of the trend. Now that people have returned to work following the pandemic, these costs are being passed on to the typical business lunch traveller, whose numbers have increased significantly. To determine how much consumers may anticipate paying following a pandemic, Square researchers examined sales information on popular lunch items in the United States. The findings supported what many working Americans already believed, which is that recent price increases in lunchtime meals had been significant.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Lunchflation, a recently created phrase, describes the specific inflation of lunchtime meal prices, such as sandwiches and wraps. This has received a lot of attention recently as more individuals start going back to work following the outbreak. Costs at restaurants and eateries have increased for a number of reasons, including issues with the supply chain and limitations on international delivery.

The dinner's purpose has been determined to be the rising costs faced by restaurant proprietors. Owners are hiking prices for the consumer to make up for rising costs for labour and food ingredients. This is happening&nbsp;not just in America but also in countries like South Korea, where the average meal price index increased 6.6% in April 2021. These consist of eateries that provide services including self-service via QR codes and online ordering, as well as local delivery at a set price through third-party partners. Restaurants can benefit from operational efficiency by saving money that they can then pass along to customers.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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× After the pandemic started in 2020, millions of workers began working from home. However, when more individuals start going back to work, they are met with considerably higher expenses for almost everything, including food, transportation, and daycare.

× After the pandemic started in 2020, millions of workers began working from home. However, when more individuals start going back to work, they are met with considerably higher expenses for almost everything, including food, transportation, and daycare. Going back to work now costs more due to rising petrol prices and growing inflation. And if their wage increases aren't keeping up, this is reducing workers' salaries. Restaurant operators who must boost prices to pay for higher expenses are having challenges as a result of the trend. Now that people have returned to work following the pandemic, these costs are being passed on to the typical business lunch traveller, whose numbers have increased significantly. To determine how much consumers may anticipate paying following a pandemic, Square researchers examined sales information on popular lunch items in the United States. The findings supported what many working Americans already believed, which is that recent price increases in lunchtime meals had been significant. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Lunchflation, a recently created phrase, describes the specific inflation of lunchtime meal prices, such as sandwiches and wraps. This has received a lot of attention recently as more individuals start going back to work following the outbreak. Costs at restaurants and eateries have increased for a number of reasons, including issues with the supply chain and limitations on international delivery. The dinner's purpose has been determined to be the rising costs faced by restaurant proprietors. Owners are hiking prices for the consumer to make up for rising costs for labour and food ingredients. This is happening not just in America but also in countries like South Korea, where the average meal price index increased 6.6% in April 2021. These consist of eateries that provide services including self-service via QR codes and online ordering, as well as local delivery at a set price through third-party partners. Restaurants can benefit from operational efficiency by saving money that they can then pass along to customers. (with inputs from agencies)

What is lunchflation? Why has lunching become expensive in Asia-Pacific?

Lufthansa, the German national carrier said that it will cancel almost all flight at its hubs in Munich and Frankfurt on Wednesday (July 27) due to a planned strike by ground crew. The one-day walkout has been called by Germany's powerful Verdi union. The airline said in a statement on Tuesday that the strike is likely to have a "massive impact"

The cancellation of flights is likely to affect around 134,000 passengers with more than 1000 flights getting cancelled.

"Lufthansa will have to call off almost the entire flight programme at its hubs in Frankfurt and Munich for Wednesday," the group said, adding that a knock-on effect on some flights scheduled for Thursday and Friday could not be ruled out.

The strike is scheduled to last from 0145 GMT on Wednesday to 0400 GMT on Thursday. The strike has been called to demand higher pay rise than the one offered by Lufthansa.

Cancellation of flights is sure to create disturbance in summer air travel across Europe. Travel volume has increased in Europe due to relaxation of Covid rules.

The Verdi union, representing around 20,000 Lufthansa ground staff, is seeking a 9.5-percent pay rise, or at least 350 euros ($360) per month. It also wants a minimum hourly wage of 13 euros.

The union has said management's offer so far "does not come close to compensating for inflation" which stood at 7.6 percent in Germany last month.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Lufthansa, the German national carrier said that it will cancel almost all flight at its hubs in Munich and Frankfurt on Wednesday (July 27) due to a planned strike by ground crew.

Lufthansa, the German national carrier said that it will cancel almost all flight at its hubs in Munich and Frankfurt on Wednesday (July 27) due to a planned strike by ground crew. The one-day walkout has been called by Germany's powerful Verdi union. The airline said in a statement on Tuesday that the strike is likely to have a "massive impact" The cancellation of flights is likely to affect around 134,000 passengers with more than 1000 flights getting cancelled. "Lufthansa will have to call off almost the entire flight programme at its hubs in Frankfurt and Munich for Wednesday," the group said, adding that a knock-on effect on some flights scheduled for Thursday and Friday could not be ruled out. The strike is scheduled to last from 0145 GMT on Wednesday to 0400 GMT on Thursday. The strike has been called to demand higher pay rise than the one offered by Lufthansa. Cancellation of flights is sure to create disturbance in summer air travel across Europe. Travel volume has increased in Europe due to relaxation of Covid rules. The Verdi union, representing around 20,000 Lufthansa ground staff, is seeking a 9.5-percent pay rise, or at least 350 euros ($360) per month. It also wants a minimum hourly wage of 13 euros. The union has said management's offer so far "does not come close to compensating for inflation" which stood at 7.6 percent in Germany last month. (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 ×

Nearly all Lufthansa flights to be cancelled on Wednesday in Germany

China's zero covid policy has affected many businesses especially the casino industry. Macau has reopened its casinos after some ease in the covid restrictions but the industry is not very hopeful about making profits.

Covid restrictions affect Casino businesses; Macau's Casino to operate with 50% staff

New Zealand is facing a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections. Now, the death rates are at a record level, with 186,246 active COVID cases being recorded in 24 hours.

New Zealand COVID death rates at record level with 186,246 active COVID cases recorded in 24 hours

Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus. On Thursday (July 21), more than 186,000 cases were recorded in the country. In capital Tokyo, the daily tally surpassed 30,000 cases for the first time. Thirty of country's 47 prefectures have recorded record highs.

According to public broadcaster NHK, people in Okinaka prefecture in southern Japan have been asked to avoid non-essential outings. In hotels, groups of maximum of four people will be allowed for maximum period of two hours.

In Japan, the number of serious cases and deaths is still low but officials have said that the number is increasing.

Residents in Tokyo have expressed concern.

"I think it’s a shocking state of affairs that it’s over 30,000 people. Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious," said 30-year-old office worker Ai Okamura.

Ai was quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno on Thursday warned that new infections had reached highest level ever and hospital occupancy rate is becoming higher.

Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them.

(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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Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus.

Japanese government has urged citizens to observe 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases spiked in the country. The fresh spike is due to BA.5 subvariant of coronavirus. On Thursday (July 21), more than 186,000 cases were recorded in the country. In capital Tokyo, the daily tally surpassed 30,000 cases for the first time. Thirty of country's 47 prefectures have recorded record highs. According to public broadcaster NHK, people in Okinaka prefecture in southern Japan have been asked to avoid non-essential outings. In hotels, groups of maximum of four people will be allowed for maximum period of two hours. In Japan, the number of serious cases and deaths is still low but officials have said that the number is increasing. Residents in Tokyo have expressed concern. "I think it’s a shocking state of affairs that it’s over 30,000 people. Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious," said 30-year-old office worker Ai Okamura. Ai was quoted by Reuters. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno on Thursday warned that new infections had reached highest level ever and hospital occupancy rate is becoming higher. Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them. (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 ×

Japan: Government calls for 'highest level of vigilance' as Covid cases rise

US President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19. Meanwhile taking to Twitter, Biden said that he was doing great and is keeping himself busy.

US President Joe Biden tests covid positive, 'his risk of serious illness is low,' says White House

As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60.

The Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection. When the population was largely immunised this year, the government abandoned its zero-Covid strategy. The virus has been permitted to spread since that time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Medical facilities, including emergency rooms, general practises, and clinics, are under stress. Hospitalization rates, according to data from the Health Ministry, are still below their peak in March. Some doctors are pressuring the government to reimpose restrictions on public meetings or to make masks mandatory in schools, but the administration is defying their demands. Iona Holsted, the director of the Education Ministry, stated on Thursday that when students returned from their holidays the following week, the ministry had instructed schools to enforce the use of masks as much as possible.

(with inputs from agencies)

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As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates.

As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60. The Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection. When the population was largely immunised this year, the government abandoned its zero-Covid strategy. The virus has been permitted to spread since that time. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Medical facilities, including emergency rooms, general practises, and clinics, are under stress. Hospitalization rates, according to data from the Health Ministry, are still below their peak in March. Some doctors are pressuring the government to reimpose restrictions on public meetings or to make masks mandatory in schools, but the administration is defying their demands. Iona Holsted, the director of the Education Ministry, stated on Thursday that when students returned from their holidays the following week, the ministry had instructed schools to enforce the use of masks as much as possible. (with inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: 26 people die of Covid in 24 hours, all above 60

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly wished his US counterpart Joe Biden a speedy recovery from coronavirus, according to Chinese state-owned media. According to a tweet posted by the Chinese mouthpiece China Daily, "President Xi Jinping has conveyed his best wishes for a speedy recovery to United States President Joe Biden, who has tested positive for #COVID_19.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly wished his US counterpart Joe Biden a speedy recovery from coronavirus, according to Chinese state-owned media. According to a tweet posted by the Chinese mouthpiece China Daily, "President Xi Jinping has conveyed his best wishes for a speedy recovery to United States President Joe Biden, who has tested positive for #COVID_19. In the message sent on Friday, Xi said he wished to convey his sympathies to Biden. #XiJinping" President Xi Jinping has conveyed his best wishes for a speedy recovery to United States President Joe Biden, who has tested positive for #COVID_19. In the message sent on Friday, Xi said he wished to convey his sympathies to Biden. #XiJinping pic.twitter.com/zch5P3LyP6 — China Daily (@ChinaDaily) July 22, 2022 × The two leaders had last spoken to each other in March about Russia's attack on Ukraine. Earlier this week, Biden had remarked that he was expected to speak to the Chinese President within 10 days. The US President, at the time, didn't specify any reason for the call. White House confirms President Biden tests positive As reported by WION, the American President had contracted COVID-19, as revealed by the White House on Thursday. The 79-year-old was showing minor symptoms while the White House physician reported that the President had a runny nose, dry cough and lethargy. Read more: US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms' According to press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the President is feeling "very mild symptoms" but will continue to perform all of his duties despite being completely immunised and having gotten two booster shots. She also said that the president was taking the antiviral drug Paxlovid. Before taking office, 79-year-old Biden received two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30. Even while the illness claimed close advisers and aides, he had avoided it thanks to strict White House safeguards. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese President Xi Jinping wishes a 'speedy recovery' to his US counterpart Joe Biden from Covid

US President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19. He released a video message and said that he is doing well.

US President Joe Biden releases a video message after testing positive for COVID-19

New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance.

Tokyo's 31,878 new infections far outstripped a previous high in February, and many other regions also reported highs. Thursday's national tally of 186,229 new infections was a record.

Despite few serious cases and deaths, officials warned hospitals were starting to feel the pressure from rising numbers.

"We need to keep a close eye on the infection situation, including the issue of access to medical services, with the highest vigilance," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference.

New COVID-19 infections nationwide were at their highest ever, he added.

Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them.

Tokyo residents said the surge was worrying.

"I think it's really shocking that it's more than 30,000," said Ai Okamura, a 30-year-old office worker. "Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious."

Others said they felt people had relaxed their vigilance in recent months as infections fell.

"Maybe since spring, everyone has calmed down and gone back to normal," said systems engineer Shimichi Koyama, aged 55.

"So it was predictable to a certain extent," he said, referring to the new surge.

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New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance.

New coronavirus cases in Japan's capital hit a record on Thursday, surging past 30,000 for the first time since the pandemic began, spurring officials to call for more vigilance. Tokyo's 31,878 new infections far outstripped a previous high in February, and many other regions also reported highs. Thursday's national tally of 186,229 new infections was a record. Despite few serious cases and deaths, officials warned hospitals were starting to feel the pressure from rising numbers. "We need to keep a close eye on the infection situation, including the issue of access to medical services, with the highest vigilance," Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a regular news conference. New COVID-19 infections nationwide were at their highest ever, he added. Despite the surge, officials, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have not called for new coronavirus curbs. Nearly all Japanese still wear masks indoors, and many use them outside as well, while most stores require them. Tokyo residents said the surge was worrying. "I think it's really shocking that it's more than 30,000," said Ai Okamura, a 30-year-old office worker. "Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious." Others said they felt people had relaxed their vigilance in recent months as infections fell. "Maybe since spring, everyone has calmed down and gone back to normal," said systems engineer Shimichi Koyama, aged 55. "So it was predictable to a certain extent," he said, referring to the new surge. 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 ×

Tokyo's daily COVID cases cross 30,000 for first time in pandemic

Droupadi Murmu, the presidential candidate of India's National Democratic Alliance has crossed the 50% threshold on Thursday following the third round of counting, defeating Yashwant Sinha to win the election. She will be 15th President of India. In other news US President Joe Biden has tested positive, but with mild symptoms. Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi has resigned. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News. &nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/droupadi-murmu-crosses-majority-mark-to-become-indias-15th-president-499425">Droupadi Murmu crosses majority mark, to become India's 15th President</a> 
 
After only three rounds of counting, Droupadi Murmu, the NDA's candidate, won more than 50% of the total vote value, becoming India's first tribal president. Yashwant Sinha of the opposition has formally accepted defeat. On July 25, there will be an oath ceremony.

<img alt="Murmu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c532f0eb-8bef-4958-a322-e639ee3db478" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Murmu.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-doing-fine-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19-499518">US President Joe Biden 'doing fine' after testing positive for Covid-19</a> 
 
Biden, 79, had two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine shortly before taking office. He received a first booster shot in September and a second on March 30. Stringent White House precautions meant he had avoided the virus, even as it laid low close aides and advisers.

<img alt="Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f71bca27-b9f4-4720-a922-6ad947216f8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Biden_0.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/natural-disasters-cost-china-1313-billion-in-2022-so-far-report-499479">Natural disasters cost China $13.13 billion in 2022 so far: Report</a> 
 
The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in south China has more than 3.75 million citizens who have been impacted by floods and heavy rainfall, according to local authorities. Floods in Jiangxi Province in East China caused direct economic losses of 470 million yuan (about 70.4 million US dollars).

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47183a20-bfef-4a2a-925f-fae0fd23662b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China_7.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/santhal-the-tribe-of-indian-presidential-race-top-runner-droupadi-murmu-has-a-great-history-499481">Santhal, the tribe of Indian President Droupadi Murmu, has a great history</a> 
 
After Gonds and Bhils, Santhals are India's third-largest scheduled tribe community. Most of the Santhali people live in Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. One of the districts with a significant Santhali population is Mayurbhanj, the home district of Indian President Droupadi Murmu.

<img alt="Santhal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01dc6922-887a-4e3d-bfd2-0c5d526e5467" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Santhal.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-is-india-building-a-new-spaceport-in-tamil-nadu-499495">Why is India building a new spaceport in Tamil Nadu?&nbsp;</a> 
 
Sriharikota offers various advantages as an ideal launch site. Situated on the East Coast and at a position nearer to the equator, rockets launched from here are aided by the additional velocity of Earth's West-East rotation. This effect of this rotation is felt closest to the equator and is almost nil at the earth's poles. This effect mainly benefits launches into equatorial orbits (orbits above the earth's equator).

<img alt="Spaceport" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3f1e1bae-2da5-4c7c-b845-220ca364169b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Spaceport.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-prime-minister-mario-draghi-resigns-as-the-crisis-worsens-499411">Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi resigns as crisis intensifies</a> 
 
On Wednesday, the Senate gave him a vote of confidence, but three members of his coalition boycotted the vote, effectively ending any chance of his government’s survival &nbsp;

<img alt="Draghi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd964f1b-c941-4219-92fd-86fd8a7a294a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Draghi.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ecb-goes-for-aggressive-rate-hike-a-surprise-move-499499">ECB goes for aggressive rate hike for first time since 2011</a> 
 
The ECB said its new "assessment of inflation risks" justified taking "a larger first step on its policy rate normalisation path than signalled at its previous meeting" in June when policymakers shared their intent to raise rates by a more modest 25 basis points or a quarter of a percentage point.

<img alt="ECB" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ddef482a-0f8e-4069-8ef8-3cf67e65c42a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ECB.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1-in-5-americans-believe-violence-is-justified-to-serve-political-ends-says-survey-499444">1 in 5 Americans believe violence is justified to serve political ends, says survey</a> 
 
&nbsp;'The prospect of large-scale violence in the near future is entirely plausible,' scientists have warned

<img alt="us" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="533b5b25-12d2-4cb1-8d52-fadd80830777" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capitol_1.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mark-zuckerberg-to-face-six-hour-deposition-over-cambridge-analytica-scandal-499435">Mark Zuckerberg to face six-hour deposition over Cambridge Analytica scandal</a> 
 
The lawsuit might shed new light on the Cambridge Analytica debacle, which has devasted the company’s reputation and resulted in congressional hearings where Mark Zuckerberg was interrogated about Facebook’s privacy practices.

<img alt="Zuckerberg" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="beaba234-d930-405b-906c-0a5dc2ca2f28" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/FB_2.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/environment-emergency-is-legacy-of-colonialism-greenpeace-uk-499483">Environment emergency is legacy of colonialism: Greenpeace UK</a> 
 
Colonialism “established a model through which the air and lands of the global south have been … used as places to dump waste the global north does not want,” says the report by Greenpeace UK

<img alt="Pollution" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d5b5a09-1d7e-4f54-99f7-7cf0eb05ac50" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pollution.jpg" />

Droupadi Murmu, the presidential candidate of India's National Democratic Alliance has crossed the 50% threshold on Thursday following the third round of counting, defeating Yashwant Sinha to win the election.

Droupadi Murmu, the presidential candidate of India's National Democratic Alliance has crossed the 50% threshold on Thursday following the third round of counting, defeating Yashwant Sinha to win the election. She will be 15th President of India. In other news US President Joe Biden has tested positive, but with mild symptoms. Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi has resigned. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News. Droupadi Murmu crosses majority mark, to become India's 15th President After only three rounds of counting, Droupadi Murmu, the NDA's candidate, won more than 50% of the total vote value, becoming India's first tribal president. Yashwant Sinha of the opposition has formally accepted defeat. On July 25, there will be an oath ceremony. US President Joe Biden 'doing fine' after testing positive for Covid-19 Biden, 79, had two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine shortly before taking office. He received a first booster shot in September and a second on March 30. Stringent White House precautions meant he had avoided the virus, even as it laid low close aides and advisers. Natural disasters cost China $13.13 billion in 2022 so far: Report The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in south China has more than 3.75 million citizens who have been impacted by floods and heavy rainfall, according to local authorities. Floods in Jiangxi Province in East China caused direct economic losses of 470 million yuan (about 70.4 million US dollars). Santhal, the tribe of Indian President Droupadi Murmu, has a great history After Gonds and Bhils, Santhals are India's third-largest scheduled tribe community. Most of the Santhali people live in Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. One of the districts with a significant Santhali population is Mayurbhanj, the home district of Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Why is India building a new spaceport in Tamil Nadu? Sriharikota offers various advantages as an ideal launch site. Situated on the East Coast and at a position nearer to the equator, rockets launched from here are aided by the additional velocity of Earth's West-East rotation. This effect of this rotation is felt closest to the equator and is almost nil at the earth's poles. This effect mainly benefits launches into equatorial orbits (orbits above the earth's equator). Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi resigns as crisis intensifies On Wednesday, the Senate gave him a vote of confidence, but three members of his coalition boycotted the vote, effectively ending any chance of his government’s survival ECB goes for aggressive rate hike for first time since 2011 The ECB said its new "assessment of inflation risks" justified taking "a larger first step on its policy rate normalisation path than signalled at its previous meeting" in June when policymakers shared their intent to raise rates by a more modest 25 basis points or a quarter of a percentage point. 1 in 5 Americans believe violence is justified to serve political ends, says survey 'The prospect of large-scale violence in the near future is entirely plausible,' scientists have warned Mark Zuckerberg to face six-hour deposition over Cambridge Analytica scandal The lawsuit might shed new light on the Cambridge Analytica debacle, which has devasted the company’s reputation and resulted in congressional hearings where Mark Zuckerberg was interrogated about Facebook’s privacy practices. Environment emergency is legacy of colonialism: Greenpeace UK Colonialism “established a model through which the air and lands of the global south have been … used as places to dump waste the global north does not want,” says the report by Greenpeace UK

Top 10 world news: Droupadi Murmu wins, Biden gets Covid, more news

The White House revealed on Thursday morning that US President Joe Biden has COVID-19, but he was only showing minor symptoms.His physician reported that he had a runny nose, a dry cough, and lethargy. Despite being in close contact, First Lady Jill Biden tested negative, but she stated that he was doing fine.

According to press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the 79-year-old is feeling "very mild symptoms" but will continue to perform all of his duties despite being completely immunised and having gotten two booster shots. She also said that the president was taking the antiviral drug Paxlovid. He is "doing good," according to First Lady Jill Biden, and she has tested negative. The president will continue to work in seclusion until his test results are negative, in accordance with White House practise. 
 
Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden received two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30. Even while the illness claimed close advisers and aides, he had avoided it thanks to strict White House safeguards.

Even with the testing measures in place for those anticipated to be in close contact with him, Biden's resistance to the virus up until this point seemed to defy the odds. The illness has already spread through the political class in Washington, infecting senators, Vice President Kamala Harris, Cabinet members, White House personnel, and others. Biden has increased his trip frequency and started doing sizable indoor events again where not everyone is put to the test.

Top White House officials have recently been frank about the president's chances of contracting COVID, a sign of how pervasive the disease has become and how little of a threat it poses to individuals who have access to treatment and are up to date on their vaccines.

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The White House revealed on Thursday morning that US President Joe Biden has COVID-19, but he was only showing minor symptoms.His physician reported that he had a runny nose, a dry cough, and lethargy.

The White House revealed on Thursday morning that US President Joe Biden has COVID-19, but he was only showing minor symptoms.His physician reported that he had a runny nose, a dry cough, and lethargy. Despite being in close contact, First Lady Jill Biden tested negative, but she stated that he was doing fine. According to press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the 79-year-old is feeling "very mild symptoms" but will continue to perform all of his duties despite being completely immunised and having gotten two booster shots. She also said that the president was taking the antiviral drug Paxlovid. He is "doing good," according to First Lady Jill Biden, and she has tested negative. The president will continue to work in seclusion until his test results are negative, in accordance with White House practise. Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden received two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30. Even while the illness claimed close advisers and aides, he had avoided it thanks to strict White House safeguards. Even with the testing measures in place for those anticipated to be in close contact with him, Biden's resistance to the virus up until this point seemed to defy the odds. The illness has already spread through the political class in Washington, infecting senators, Vice President Kamala Harris, Cabinet members, White House personnel, and others. Biden has increased his trip frequency and started doing sizable indoor events again where not everyone is put to the test. Top White House officials have recently been frank about the president's chances of contracting COVID, a sign of how pervasive the disease has become and how little of a threat it poses to individuals who have access to treatment and are up to date on their vaccines. 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.

US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms'

China is currently adhering to ‘zero-Covid policy’. Amid shutdowns due to Covid, these Chinese women are surfskating. Surfskating is a novice-friendly version of skateboarding. It uses a more flexible front-end wheel assembly. Duolan, a 31-year-old dancer, runs free weekly surfskating classes for women.

Amid Covid shutdowns, Chinese women are surfskating | WION Edge

In what can be a major hurdle in the way of Chinese aim of 'Zero Covid', around 500 people were found to be infected with Covid at a tourist resort, Chinese media said. The tourist resort is located in China's Guangxi region. China's Global Times reported that the outbreak has left over 2000 tourists stranded in Beihai city in the province. The Covid flare-up has hit the holiday report. &nbsp;

Beihai is located in the in the south in Guangxi. It is a popular tourist resorts in the region. First asymptomatic infection in Beihai was reported on July 12. After that, total of nine confirmed infections and 444 asymptomatic infections had been registered till Saturday (July 16), as per report in Global Times.&nbsp;

According to the local health commission of Guangxi, a number of cities including Beihai, Nanning, Guilin, Hezhou and Chongzuo have been affected by the outbreak.

30 asymptomatic infections have been detected in other cities in the region.

This new wave has been triggered by Omicron sub-variants.

In Guangxi, Beihai city has been hardest hit by Omicron.

As per Chinese health authorities, variant BA.2.38. This strain has strong transmissibility and its hard to detect it early.

China recently enforced a lockdown in Xian, a city home to 13 million people. Cases caused by new Omicron sub-variant were reported. From Saturday to Monday 19 COVID-19 infections were detected.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what can be a major hurdle in the way of Chinese aim of 'Zero Covid', around 500 people were found to be infected with Covid at a tourist resort, Chinese media said.

In what can be a major hurdle in the way of Chinese aim of 'Zero Covid', around 500 people were found to be infected with Covid at a tourist resort, Chinese media said. The tourist resort is located in China's Guangxi region. China's Global Times reported that the outbreak has left over 2000 tourists stranded in Beihai city in the province. The Covid flare-up has hit the holiday report. Beihai is located in the in the south in Guangxi. It is a popular tourist resorts in the region. First asymptomatic infection in Beihai was reported on July 12. After that, total of nine confirmed infections and 444 asymptomatic infections had been registered till Saturday (July 16), as per report in Global Times. According to the local health commission of Guangxi, a number of cities including Beihai, Nanning, Guilin, Hezhou and Chongzuo have been affected by the outbreak. 30 asymptomatic infections have been detected in other cities in the region. This new wave has been triggered by Omicron sub-variants. In Guangxi, Beihai city has been hardest hit by Omicron. As per Chinese health authorities, variant BA.2.38. This strain has strong transmissibility and its hard to detect it early. China recently enforced a lockdown in Xian, a city home to 13 million people. Cases caused by new Omicron sub-variant were reported. From Saturday to Monday 19 COVID-19 infections were detected. (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 ×

Covid wave hits resort in China, thousands stranded

India has crossed a big milestone of giving 2 billion vaccine doses in just 18 months. For more on this we're joined by Dr. Manohar Agnani - Additional Secretary & Chairperson Interim Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (ICAHP) - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

India's covid vaccination drive sets two billion dose-record in just 18 months

India's ambitious mass vaccination program hit a major milestone on Sunday (July 17). Reportedly, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data, India's cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage breached the two billion mark.

India's ambitious mass vaccination program hit a major milestone on Sunday (July 17). Reportedly, according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data, India's cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage breached the two billion mark. 14,800 sites conducting vaccinations on Sunday helped reach the landmark. Over 1bn first doses have been administered while over 920 million second doses have been inoculated. It is pertinent to note that India's vaccination program began on January 16 last year. Initially, only Oxford-AstraZeneca developed Covishield was used for the immunisation process before the government and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) approved indigenously developed Bharat Biotech's Covaxin vaccine. It was in mid-September last year that the centre reached the milestone of 100 crore doses; 277 days after the immunisation drive began. Up until now, 87 per cent of the country's population has been completely inoculated. To encourage the public to take the third shot, referred to as the Booster shot, the centre on Friday announced that all adults in the age group 18-75 will be able to receive free precaution dose at government Covid centres. The aforementioned campaign is being run as part of ‘COVID Vaccination Amrit Mahotsava’ as India gears to celebrate its 75th Independence Day. Such has been the effect of India's vaccination program that medical journal The Lancet released a report last month which revealed that 'Covid-19 vaccines prevented over 42 lakh potential deaths in India in 2021'. "For India, we estimate that 42,10,000 deaths were prevented by vaccination in this period. This is our central estimate, with the uncertainty in this estimate ranging between 36,65,000-43,70,000," Oliver Watson, the lead author of the report was quoted as saying by news wire agency PTI. A new study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal has revealed that Covid-19 vaccines prevented over 42 lakh potential deaths in India in 2021. The world’s largest vaccination drive undertaken by the Modi administration is the reason for it. https://t.co/CeFhJvoJFy — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) June 24, 2022 × India's vaccination drive has eclipsed that of several big, developed nations. Despite the caseload going up every few months, the rate of hospitalisation has been extremely low due to the vaccination programme. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India administers two billion COVID-19 doses, achieves a milestone

China is witnessing a fresh surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the Omicron variant. Despite taking a toll on the local economy, authorities are sticking to the 'Zero-COVID policy'.

China: Omicron variant driving fresh COVID-19 outbreaks

The world is reporting a fresh surge in COVID-19 outbreaks driven by the Omicron variant. China has recorded 450 local infections in a day. Meanwhile, Macao has decided to keep its casinos shut till Friday.

Omicron variant driving fresh COVID-19 outbreaks worldwide

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread.

According to reports, the variant was found in a sample from the Northeast Gelderland region. &nbsp;The sample was collected on June 26.

It 'has also now been identified in the Netherlands,' the&nbsp;Dutch&nbsp;National Institute of Public Health said in a statement on Wednesday, according to AFP.

The Centaurus subvariant first emerged in India in May and has since been detected in 14 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, according to WHO Covid-19 Technical Lead, Maria Van Kerkhove.&nbsp;

Though little is known about the new subvariant, there have been concerns about the contagious nature of the virus.

Last week, the World Health Organisation's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said that they are closely monitoring the situation, but there were "limited sequences to analyse".

"This sub-variant seems to have a few mutations on the receptor binding domain of the spike protein... so we have to watch that," she said in a tweeted video.

She further said that was "too early to know" how well the strain can evade immunity or how severe it was.

In an interview to AFP, Antoine Flahault, director of the Institute of Global Health at the University of Geneva said that BA.2.75 might be more contagious than BA.5 Omicron subvariant since it is driving up cases in India.

"It seems to be becoming the dominant strain in India - the question is will it become the dominant strain all over the world?"

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread.

A more contagious subvariant of COVID-19’s Omicron, BA.2.75 variant —nicknamed “Centaurus”—has now emerged in The Netherlands, alarming experts who are concerned over the strain’s rapid spread. According to reports, the variant was found in a sample from the Northeast Gelderland region. The sample was collected on June 26. It 'has also now been identified in the Netherlands,' the Dutch National Institute of Public Health said in a statement on Wednesday, according to AFP. The Centaurus subvariant first emerged in India in May and has since been detected in 14 other countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, according to WHO Covid-19 Technical Lead, Maria Van Kerkhove. Though little is known about the new subvariant, there have been concerns about the contagious nature of the virus. Last week, the World Health Organisation's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said that they are closely monitoring the situation, but there were "limited sequences to analyse". "This sub-variant seems to have a few mutations on the receptor binding domain of the spike protein... so we have to watch that," she said in a tweeted video. She further said that was "too early to know" how well the strain can evade immunity or how severe it was. In an interview to AFP, Antoine Flahault, director of the Institute of Global Health at the University of Geneva said that BA.2.75 might be more contagious than BA.5 Omicron subvariant since it is driving up cases in India. "It seems to be becoming the dominant strain in India - the question is will it become the dominant strain all over the world?" (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Netherlands detects first case of ‘more contagious’ Centaurus Covid subvariant

From supermoon in several cities to COVID-19 surge in Japan, here are some impactful images from around the world on July 12, 2022.

World in Pictures: Super moon spotted in cities; Covid-19 surge in Japan | WION Originals

In an attempt to understand the ‘worry gap’ between the sexes ever since the Covid pandemic, a study has found that women are twice as likely to be worried when compared to men.

According to the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), UK’s independent social research institute, women are now worrying more about work-life balance, parents, and having children, while a minuscule 9 per cent of men said that they worry about the same.

The research, published in January, found out that the ‘worry gap’ between males and females wasn’t as stark before the pandemic, reports Sky News.

The largest divide in levels of worry was seen in the health and wellbeing matrix, whereby three times more women than men expressed serious concern about their lives.

The same level of difference was observed in other spheres, whereby 43 per cent of women said they were experiencing "intergenerational worries" about their children and parents compared to 1 per cent of the men.

While 31 per cent of women said they were extremely worried about their work-life balance, compared with 20 per cent of men.

“While overall levels of worry appear to be the same in 2022 as they were pre-pandemic, this conceals a stark 'worry gap' that has opened up between women and men," the study's co-author Josefien Breedvelt was quoted as saying.

"Women may still be experiencing a greater impact from the ongoing legacy and stress that the pandemic brought about.

"If ongoing challenges from the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis fall disproportionately on women, we may see an even greater divergence in levels of worry between men and women in Britain."

The study is part of NatCen's annual Society Watch report which seeks to examine the kind of impact COVID-19 pandemic had on social lives by extrapolating a representative sample of their worry levels. It then compared the answers to those collected in 2018 and 2019 to arrive at their conclusion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an attempt to understand the ‘worry gap’ between the sexes ever since the Covid pandemic, a study has found that women are twice as likely to be worried when compared to men.

In an attempt to understand the ‘worry gap’ between the sexes ever since the Covid pandemic, a study has found that women are twice as likely to be worried when compared to men. According to the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), UK’s independent social research institute, women are now worrying more about work-life balance, parents, and having children, while a minuscule 9 per cent of men said that they worry about the same. The research, published in January, found out that the ‘worry gap’ between males and females wasn’t as stark before the pandemic, reports Sky News. The largest divide in levels of worry was seen in the health and wellbeing matrix, whereby three times more women than men expressed serious concern about their lives. The same level of difference was observed in other spheres, whereby 43 per cent of women said they were experiencing "intergenerational worries" about their children and parents compared to 1 per cent of the men. While 31 per cent of women said they were extremely worried about their work-life balance, compared with 20 per cent of men. “While overall levels of worry appear to be the same in 2022 as they were pre-pandemic, this conceals a stark 'worry gap' that has opened up between women and men," the study's co-author Josefien Breedvelt was quoted as saying. "Women may still be experiencing a greater impact from the ongoing legacy and stress that the pandemic brought about. "If ongoing challenges from the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis fall disproportionately on women, we may see an even greater divergence in levels of worry between men and women in Britain." The study is part of NatCen's annual Society Watch report which seeks to examine the kind of impact COVID-19 pandemic had on social lives by extrapolating a representative sample of their worry levels. It then compared the answers to those collected in 2018 and 2019 to arrive at their conclusion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Women worry twice as much as men about life, children, parents post Covid pandemic: Study

China's recreation hub Macau has shut all its casinos for the first time in more than two years, this as authorities struggle to contain worst Covid-19 outbreak.

China gaming shares plunge as Macau shuts all its Casinos to curb Covid spread

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP.

At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on&nbsp; whiteboard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent.

Watch |&nbsp;Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show

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Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion.

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP. At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on whiteboard. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent. Watch | Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security. Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea. (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.

Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory

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