China's Zero-tolerance COVID policies is facing wrath from its own people. The residents of Shanghai are protesting against the month-long lockdown and difficulties in obtaining provisions by banging pots and pans.

People in Shanghai bang pans and pots against China's COVID policy

South Africa has warned of 5th COVID wave as it sees a spike in COVID cases. It has also reported over 100,000 deaths due to COVID so far.

South Africa COVID update: South Africa warns of 5th COVID wave amid spike in cases

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus. The recent outbreak had paralysed the city of 25 million.

Outbreak in Shaghai has kept Beijing on edge. At the start of the five-day Labour Day break, street were eerily quiet.

"You look at a city that used to be crowded and now is void. You wonder how these people manage to survive," said Li, 35, who works in the finance sector in Beijing, breaking into tears.

In the eastern commercial capital of Shanghai, scenes of houses and buildings ringed with fences to prevent residents from leaving have grabbed headlines at a time when most other countries in the world are learning to live with COVID.

China maintains a zero-COVID policy aimed at eradicating the disease, leading to frustration, especially in Shanghai, where many residents have been cooped up for more than a month. Some, struggling to find food and other daily necessities, have shown rare public opposition to the government's stringent controls.

If the zero-tolerance campaign works, however, it would be a victory for President Xi Jinping's approach in a year when he is expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term.

Shanghai officials did not discuss the break in COVID transmission at their daily news conference, but social media cheered the news.

Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Euro zone inflation rises to 7.5%

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-conflict-euro-zone-inflation-rises-to-75-475135/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Shanghai has finally reached zero at the community level!!! May Shanghai wake up as soon as possible!!," said one post on the Weibo platform.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus.

In a positive sign for the city, Shanghai on Saturday said that no new daily Covid cases outside quarantine areas had been found. This has marked a milestone in Shanghai's battle to contain the virus. The recent outbreak had paralysed the city of 25 million. Outbreak in Shaghai has kept Beijing on edge. At the start of the five-day Labour Day break, street were eerily quiet. "You look at a city that used to be crowded and now is void. You wonder how these people manage to survive," said Li, 35, who works in the finance sector in Beijing, breaking into tears. In the eastern commercial capital of Shanghai, scenes of houses and buildings ringed with fences to prevent residents from leaving have grabbed headlines at a time when most other countries in the world are learning to live with COVID. China maintains a zero-COVID policy aimed at eradicating the disease, leading to frustration, especially in Shanghai, where many residents have been cooped up for more than a month. Some, struggling to find food and other daily necessities, have shown rare public opposition to the government's stringent controls. If the zero-tolerance campaign works, however, it would be a victory for President Xi Jinping's approach in a year when he is expected to secure a precedent-breaking third term. Shanghai officials did not discuss the break in COVID transmission at their daily news conference, but social media cheered the news. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: Euro zone inflation rises to 7.5% × "Shanghai has finally reached zero at the community level!!! May Shanghai wake up as soon as possible!!," said one post on the Weibo platform. (With inputs from agencies)

Shanghai hits Covid milestone, Beijing still wary

China has finally allowed Indian students to return to China to complete their studies after COVID-19 pandemic forced them to leave China.

China allows Indian students to return on conditional basis after pandemic forced them to leave

China has sharpened COVID-19 screening in Beijing to prevent Shanghai-like chaos but the commuter workers are not happy about the restrictions, find out why in this next report.

Beijing prevents Shanghai-like chaos, commuter workers upset with restrictions

As China is reeling under the Covid-19 wave, with its cities facing strict restrictions, this couple’s plan was put on hold due to Covid. The couple in Shanghai went ahead with what they had in mind with a different approach.

Love during Covid: What this Shanghai coupled did during lockdown

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different. There has been an increase in cases lately and officials fear that the African nation may be entering the fifth wave of the pandemic.

According to the scientists in South Africa, the country has seen a huge rise in case due to the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants and that can result into the beginning of the fifth wave. There has been some variation to Omicron, but the experts are not worried with the slight changes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-guyana-is-looking-towards-india-as-a-global-leader-says-foreign-minister-hugh-hilton-todd-474928">Exclusive | Guyana is looking towards India as a global leader, says FM</a>

In an official health briefing, health minister Joe Phaahla said that the experts have not found any new variant and although hospitalisation has gone up, the death rate has remained constant.

South Africa had the worst case and death numbers in Africa during the fourth wave of COVID-19 and the experts are fearing a similar issue if they experience the fifth wave around May-June.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-regulatory-crackdown-china-to-hold-symposium-with-the-countrys-big-tech-firms-474875">End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms</a>

Overall, around 3.7 million Covid cases have been reported in South Africa till now with the death toll crossing 100,000. It was pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that South Africa was partly responsible for the surge of COVID-19 cases in the African continent.

The last few months have seen a resurgence of COVID-19 cases all around the world. China and South Korea have reported record number of cases with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going into lockdown and the government conducting mass testing in various parts of the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different.

The COVID-19 cases are rising all around the world and South Africa, a country where the delta and Omicron variants of the virus caused a major issue, is no different. There has been an increase in cases lately and officials fear that the African nation may be entering the fifth wave of the pandemic. According to the scientists in South Africa, the country has seen a huge rise in case due to the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants and that can result into the beginning of the fifth wave. There has been some variation to Omicron, but the experts are not worried with the slight changes. Also read | Exclusive | Guyana is looking towards India as a global leader, says FM In an official health briefing, health minister Joe Phaahla said that the experts have not found any new variant and although hospitalisation has gone up, the death rate has remained constant. South Africa had the worst case and death numbers in Africa during the fourth wave of COVID-19 and the experts are fearing a similar issue if they experience the fifth wave around May-June. Also read | End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms Overall, around 3.7 million Covid cases have been reported in South Africa till now with the death toll crossing 100,000. It was pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that South Africa was partly responsible for the surge of COVID-19 cases in the African continent. The last few months have seen a resurgence of COVID-19 cases all around the world. China and South Korea have reported record number of cases with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going into lockdown and the government conducting mass testing in various parts of the country. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa on the verge of COVID-19 fifth wave as cases and hospitalisations continue to rise

Covid cases around the world are rising yet again. Amidst this India has also started seeing as new surge in daily infections. India reported 3,377 new cases in the last 24 hours, this is the highest single day spike since mid-March.

India reports 3,377 fresh covid-19 cases, positivity jumps to 4.6%

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further

Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population.

As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-guangzhou-city-orders-flight-cancellation-mass-testing-after-suspected-covid-19-case-474576">China's Guangzhou city orders flight cancellation, mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case</a>

Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park.

Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative.

On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school.

(With inputs from agencies)

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown.

Some schools and public spaces in Chinese capital Beijing were closed on Thursday as moof the Chinese capital's 22 million residents turned up for more mass COVID-19 testing aimed at averting a Shanghai-like lockdown. Most citizens in Shanghai have been one month into stressful home isolation. They struggled to meet basic needs. The situation improved as number of new cases declined further Fears were growing, however, that China would be trapped in a whack-a-mole game in coming months, lifting lockdowns in some places, while imposing others elsewhere, causing severe economic damage and exasperating its population. As Beijing rolled out three rounds of mass testing this week across most of the city, it locked down a number of residential compounds, offices and a university. Also Read | China's Guangzhou city orders flight cancellation, mass testing after suspected COVID-19 case Some schools, entertainment venues and tourist sites were also shut. Universal Studios in Beijing said it would require visitors from Friday to show negative test results before they could enter the theme park. Andrew Ward, 36, a Canadian living in one of Beijing's narrow lanes of courtyard houses known as hutongs, was sent to quarantine in a hotel on Thursday even though his test results were negative. On Wednesday, people in hazmat suits tested Ward at home after he was identified as a close contact of a COVID case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × "I'm a little bit annoyed, because I spent all that money and time stockpiling food for being locked down at home," said Ward, who works at an international school. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing steps up Covid screening to avoid Shanghai-like fate

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693.

The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-three-arrested-for-trafficking-arms-for-terrorists-474521" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists</a>

Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab.

According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-fight-against-cybercrime-indian-govt-makes-strenuous-efforts-to-spread-awareness-474445" hreflang="en">In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness</a>

Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts.

However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours.

WATCH |&nbsp;LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lic-ipo-indias-insurance-giant-has-biggest-stock-sale-in-india-474516/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health.

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693. The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab. According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April. Also read | In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts. However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. WATCH | LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases

Cash filled suitcases were seized at the border in the UK. Seized money is suspected from COVID 'bounce back loans'. Watch this report to know more.

Billions lost to UK's COVID loan fraud: Another controversy hits Rishi Sunak

As Israel lifts its mask mandate and covid cases rises in some parts of the world, a first of its kind study has now revealed that covid patients with a serious psychiatric record have double the risk.

Israeli study highlights link between mental illness and covid-19 | EXCLUSIVE

Coronavirus cases are on the rise in United States. In the latest, US Vice President Kamala Harris has tested positive for Covid, according to a White House statement on Tuesday.

Kamala Harris, US vice-president, tests positive for Covid-19: White House

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-through-taiwan-strait-china-calls-it-provocative-action-474306">US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action'</a>

There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population.

"This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-putin-unwell-videos-of-russian-prez-appearing-fidgety-at-easter-cathedral-service-sparks-health-rumours-474293">Videos of Putin appearing fidgety at Easter service sparks health rumours</a>

The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms.

Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases.

WATCH |&nbsp;China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-surge-mandatory-mass-testing-enters-3rd-day-in-beijing-474308/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters. The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population. "This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters. Also read | Videos of Putin appearing fidgety at Easter service sparks health rumours The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms. Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases. WATCH | China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing (With inputs from agencies)

EU set to embrace new COVID-19 pandemic phase with steady decrease in cases - Report

China's Beiijing has expanded its mass COVID testing drive amid the ongoing surge in cases. The mandatory mass testing entered 3rd day today.

China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing

According to a COVID antibody survey by US CDC, 58% of US population had COVID by February. It also suggest that majority of the cases remained undetected.

58% of US population had COVID by February says COVID antibody survey by US CDC

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public.

The decision was taken after a review meeting chaired by the state’s health minister Veena George on Monday advised that the state needs to increase vigilance when it comes to social distancing and also put special emphasis on people wearing masks in public as the number of cases continue to rise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-shows-key-ingredients-needed-for-life-on-earth-may-have-arrived-from-outer-space-474239" hreflang="en">Study shows key ingredients needed for life on earth may have arrived from outer space</a>

An order was passed by the government which said that the mask mandate will be compulsory, and anyone found flouting the rules will be punished under the Disaster Management Act of India.

India has experienced a huge surge of cases and states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab have already passed mask mandates.

The Kerala government decided to lift most of its existing measures which were implemented to combat COVID-19 as cases fell massively. However, with the change in situation, all the rules are expected to come back and a fine on not wearing masks in public is also expected in the future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-11-electrocuted-during-temple-chariot-procession-in-tamil-nadu-474176" hreflang="en">At least 11 electrocuted during temple chariot procession in Tamil Nadu</a>

According to the official date provided by the Indian Health Ministry, 2927 cases were reported on Tuesday taking the total number of active patients in the country to 16,279.

The booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are available to the public and the country is looking to get a majority of their population vaccinated with the booster dose before the rumoured ‘fourth wave’ of the pandemic.

WATCH |&nbsp;India's fight against COVID: Covaxin &amp; Corbevax gets green light

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-fight-against-covid-covaxin-corbevax-gets-green-light-474065/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public.

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public. The decision was taken after a review meeting chaired by the state’s health minister Veena George on Monday advised that the state needs to increase vigilance when it comes to social distancing and also put special emphasis on people wearing masks in public as the number of cases continue to rise. Also read | Study shows key ingredients needed for life on earth may have arrived from outer space An order was passed by the government which said that the mask mandate will be compulsory, and anyone found flouting the rules will be punished under the Disaster Management Act of India. India has experienced a huge surge of cases and states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab have already passed mask mandates. The Kerala government decided to lift most of its existing measures which were implemented to combat COVID-19 as cases fell massively. However, with the change in situation, all the rules are expected to come back and a fine on not wearing masks in public is also expected in the future. Also read | At least 11 electrocuted during temple chariot procession in Tamil Nadu According to the official date provided by the Indian Health Ministry, 2927 cases were reported on Tuesday taking the total number of active patients in the country to 16,279. The booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are available to the public and the country is looking to get a majority of their population vaccinated with the booster dose before the rumoured ‘fourth wave’ of the pandemic. WATCH | India's fight against COVID: Covaxin & Corbevax gets green light

Kerala becomes latest Indian state to make wearing masks in public mandatory amid surge in COVID-19 cases

According to a new study, unvaccinated people are a threat to the safety of those who are vaccinated against coronavirus (COVID-19). Researchers explored the effect of mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated people to understand the dynamics of an infectious disease. When vaccinated and unvaccinated people were mixed, a substantial number of new infections would occur in the vaccinated people. Read details here: https://www.wionews.com/science/unvaccinated-people-pose-a-threat-to-those-inoculated-against-covid-19-study-473685

If you are unvaccinated for COVID, you are a threat to those who're jabbed

After the Shanghai lockdown jitters hit the capital city Beijing, the city of about 22 million residents has expanded its COVID-19 mass testing drive. Beijing has already started mass testing residents of its most populous district Chaoyang.

China's coronavirus crisis worsens, fears of lockdown loom over Beijing

After the Shanghai lockdown jitters hit the capital city Beijing, the city of about 20 million residents has expanded its COVID-19 mass testing drive. Beijing has already started mass testing residents of its most populous district Chaoyang.

Beijing to test 20 million people for COVID, sparks panic buying

North Korea has remained unvaccinated even after 2 years of the COVID-19 Pandemic. It now demands American jabs against COVID-19.

North Korea remains unvaccinated as it demands American jabs against COVID-19

As covid-19 cases once again start to rise, India has opened vaccinations for children. Now, Covaxin & Corbevax vaccines gets green light for use.

India's fight against COVID: Covaxin & Corbevax gets green light

China's latest Wuhan Virus outbreak has turned into a nightmare. In Shanghai, residents are being caged. While an outbreak in Beijing has led to panic buying. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Inside China's Wuhan Virus Nightmare

After Shanghai, now Beijing may implement strict restrictions due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases. Residents in the Chinese capital were seen panic buying as long queues were seen outside grocery shops. People also lined up for mass tested. Reportedly, around 20 million people will be screened for Covid-19 in Beijing.

After Shanghai, Beijing to close? Residents start panic buying as 20 mn to be tested for Covid

China is witnessing its worst COVID outbreak in over two years. After Shanghai, Beijing is now under threat as the cases in the capital city have also started to increase. Beijing reported 22 new cases on Sunday, the outbreak along with the news of supply shortages in Shanghai has now triggered a massive panic amongst the citizens of Beijing

China: Beijing on alert as COVID cases rise in the city

China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens.

Earlier, Shanghai went through a tough lockdown and on Monday, Beijing saw a lot of panic buying in the supermarkets as the start of mass testing sparked rumours of a similar lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/apple-supplier-foxconn-suspends-production-at-two-china-plants-amid-covid-19-scare-473568">WATCH | Foxconn suspends production at 2 China plants amid COVID scare</a>

Chaoyang, the biggest district of Beijing, became the first place to undergo mass testing as around 3.5 million citizens were asked to report for three COVID-19 tests in a week. The decision was taken after the area accounted for more than half of Beijing’s asymptomatic cases since Friday.

“The current outbreak in Beijing is spreading stealthily from sources that remained unknown yet and is developing rapidly,” a municipality official said on Sunday according to a report on The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/fourth-covid-19-wave-in-india-list-of-states-where-cases-are-rising-473608" hreflang="en">Fourth COVID-19 wave in India? List of states where cases are rising</a>

There was a partial lockdown in Chaoyang after the rise in COVID-19 as around 12-14 residential buildings were put under observation. “Chaoyang district is now the topmost focus for pandemic prevention,” said the city’s Communist party head, Cai Qi, according to the New York Times.

“Important pandemic measures cannot be left waiting till the next day … All at-risk sites and individuals involved in these cases must be checked that day,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-another-blast-33-killed-43-injured-at-mosque-in-kunduz-province-of-afghanistan-says-taliban-official-473090" hreflang="en">In blast, 33 killed, 43 injured at mosque in Kunduz province of Afghanistan</a>

The authorities have made it clear that they do not want to implement the lockdown immediately as they fear a repeat of the situation in Shanghai where people suffered from food shortages.

A number of supermarket chains confirmed that they have stocked their shops and they will be increasing their working hours to meet the demands. Meituan, a grocery delivery platform, also said that they will have more number of staffers in the coming days according to Beijing Daily.

WATCH |&nbsp;Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-crisis-situation-worsens-in-china-beijing-on-alert-as-covid-numbers-increase-473590/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens.

China has been experiencing a huge surge in COVID-19 cases for quite some time now and the restrictions placed by the authorities are not making life easy for the citizens. Earlier, Shanghai went through a tough lockdown and on Monday, Beijing saw a lot of panic buying in the supermarkets as the start of mass testing sparked rumours of a similar lockdown. Also read | WATCH | Foxconn suspends production at 2 China plants amid COVID scare Chaoyang, the biggest district of Beijing, became the first place to undergo mass testing as around 3.5 million citizens were asked to report for three COVID-19 tests in a week. The decision was taken after the area accounted for more than half of Beijing’s asymptomatic cases since Friday. “The current outbreak in Beijing is spreading stealthily from sources that remained unknown yet and is developing rapidly,” a municipality official said on Sunday according to a report on The Guardian. Also read | Fourth COVID-19 wave in India? List of states where cases are rising There was a partial lockdown in Chaoyang after the rise in COVID-19 as around 12-14 residential buildings were put under observation. “Chaoyang district is now the topmost focus for pandemic prevention,” said the city’s Communist party head, Cai Qi, according to the New York Times. “Important pandemic measures cannot be left waiting till the next day … All at-risk sites and individuals involved in these cases must be checked that day,” he added. Also read | In blast, 33 killed, 43 injured at mosque in Kunduz province of Afghanistan The authorities have made it clear that they do not want to implement the lockdown immediately as they fear a repeat of the situation in Shanghai where people suffered from food shortages. A number of supermarket chains confirmed that they have stocked their shops and they will be increasing their working hours to meet the demands. Meituan, a grocery delivery platform, also said that they will have more number of staffers in the coming days according to Beijing Daily. WATCH | Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

Citizens rush to supermarkets in Beijing as COVID-19 mass testing sparks rumours of lockdown

As China continues to struggle with the spread of the virus despite the implementation of stringent measures, Apple Inc's prime supplier Foxconn Technology Group halted operations at two of its factories in eastern China's Kunshan after new Covid-19 cases were reported on site

Apple supplier Foxconn suspends production at two China plants amid Covid-19 scare

COVID crisis: Situation worsens in China, Beijing on alert as COVID numbers increase

China's battle with COVID-19 is on and Shanghai is in its fifth week of lockdown despite strict measures cases continue to rise. The ongoing COVID curbs and growing economic concerns have started to take a toll on the residents

COVID woes continue in Shanghai, over 21,000 cases reported in 24 hours

Rio de Janeiro's carnival, a glittering, sequin-studded festival of the flesh, exploded back to life Friday with the first famed samba school parades since Covid-19 started devastating Brazil.

After two long years, a flood of dancers and drummers reclaimed the iconic beach city's "Sambadrome," its dedicated carnival parade venue, which had been turned into a drive-through vaccination center at the height of the health crisis.

The all-night parades by the city's top samba schools Friday and Saturday nights are the first since February 2020, marking a turning point for hard-hit Brazil, where Covid-19 has claimed more than 660,000 lives, second only to the United States.

<img alt="n" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ba4fd9e-0253-4905-8d55-ad3b3cfadb60" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_78.jpg" />

"I'm just so happy. I think a lot of people are going to cry when the parades start, including me," said Ana Vieira, a 48-year-old geography teacher, who was dressed in a giant, sparkling white costume awaiting her turn to parade for the Imperatriz samba school.

"Carnival is life. You can see the happiness on people's faces after two long years staying home and missing it," Vieira, who has been parading for 20 years, told AFP.

But the festivities took a tragic turn before they began, when an 11-year-old girl died after being injured in a horrific float accident during a lower-level samba school parade contest Wednesday night, a preview of the main event.

She was rushed to the hospital, but died Friday of her wounds, city officials said.

<img alt="jjj" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="56634863-aba4-456d-8aa0-f8543380516a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_126.jpg" />

The tragedy also struck Rio's carnival in 2017, when two freak float accidents killed one person and injured dozens.

- 'Couldn't sleep' -

There were fears the carnival party would be axed again in 2022, after Rio authorities canceled it last year, then postponed it by two months this year from the traditional dates -- just before the Catholic season of Lent -- over fears of the omicron variant.

But with more than 75 percent of the South American country's 213 million people now fully vaccinated, the average weekly Covid-19 death toll has plunged from more than 3,000 a year ago to around 100 now -- allowing the show to go on.

All participants and the 75,000 attendees expected each night are required to present proof of vaccination.

City officials have not authorized the massive carnival street parties known as "blocos," but several smaller ones are still being held.

The pandemic left Brazilians full of "saudades" -- Portuguese for "longing" -- for carnival, a free-for-all of dancing, singing and partying at close quarters that is essentially the opposite of social distancing.

<img alt="ccZX" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1618204a-57c9-49f4-9dea-89cda949e25b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_154.jpg" />

"I couldn't sleep last night, I was so excited," said Rita Marcelino, who was dancing the samba as she prepared to parade in an elaborate African costume.

"I was waking up every two minutes," said the 62-year-old domestic worker, who lost her job and "many" friends and family members to the pandemic.

'Two years of darkness' -

Each samba school in the competition has 60 to 70 minutes to tell a story in music and dance, to be evaluated on nine criteria by the jury.

The reigning champions, Viradouro, chose as their theme Rio's epic 1919 carnival -- the first celebrated after the devastation of another pandemic, the Spanish flu.

"No sadness can withstand so much joy," says their samba theme song.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-a-brief-history-of-amber-heard-elon-musk-romance-473065" hreflang="en">A brief history of Amber Heard-Elon Musk romance</a>

Other schools picked themes charged with social messages, with Brazil facing divisive elections in October expected to pit far-right President Jair Bolsonaro against leftist ex-leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Of the 12 schools, eight chose themes dealing with racism or Afro-Brazilian history, loaded issues in a country where the current president has faced frequent accusations of racism.

<img alt="nhhc " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e452fdf5-595d-4f18-80aa-e26ad733b3e6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_63.jpg" />

Their samba songs include treatments of the Black Lives Matter protests; tributes to two "orixas," or deities, of Afro-Brazilian religion; and celebrations of black samba singers.

Carnival should also provide some needed relief for the pandemic-battered economy.

Beyond the swirl of floats, feathers and barely covered flesh, the carnival is big business, moving some four billion reais ($800 million) and creating at least 45,000 jobs, according to official figures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/missing-fingerprint-to-rotten-corpse-shocking-revelation-from-johnny-depp">Missing fingertip to 'threesome' with Elon Musk: Shocking revelations made in Johnny Depp-Amber Heard case</a>

Participants were just happy the party was back.

"We've had two years of so much darkness in the world," said Latino Suarez, 45, who traveled from Sao Paulo to parade.

"Brazil without carnival isn't Brazil. It's part of who we are."

Rio de Janeiro's carnival, a glittering, sequin-studded festival of the flesh, exploded back to life Friday with the first famed samba school parades since Covid-19 started devastating Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro's carnival, a glittering, sequin-studded festival of the flesh, exploded back to life Friday with the first famed samba school parades since Covid-19 started devastating Brazil. After two long years, a flood of dancers and drummers reclaimed the iconic beach city's "Sambadrome," its dedicated carnival parade venue, which had been turned into a drive-through vaccination center at the height of the health crisis. The all-night parades by the city's top samba schools Friday and Saturday nights are the first since February 2020, marking a turning point for hard-hit Brazil, where Covid-19 has claimed more than 660,000 lives, second only to the United States. "I'm just so happy. I think a lot of people are going to cry when the parades start, including me," said Ana Vieira, a 48-year-old geography teacher, who was dressed in a giant, sparkling white costume awaiting her turn to parade for the Imperatriz samba school. "Carnival is life. You can see the happiness on people's faces after two long years staying home and missing it," Vieira, who has been parading for 20 years, told AFP. But the festivities took a tragic turn before they began, when an 11-year-old girl died after being injured in a horrific float accident during a lower-level samba school parade contest Wednesday night, a preview of the main event. She was rushed to the hospital, but died Friday of her wounds, city officials said. The tragedy also struck Rio's carnival in 2017, when two freak float accidents killed one person and injured dozens. - 'Couldn't sleep' - There were fears the carnival party would be axed again in 2022, after Rio authorities canceled it last year, then postponed it by two months this year from the traditional dates -- just before the Catholic season of Lent -- over fears of the omicron variant. But with more than 75 percent of the South American country's 213 million people now fully vaccinated, the average weekly Covid-19 death toll has plunged from more than 3,000 a year ago to around 100 now -- allowing the show to go on. All participants and the 75,000 attendees expected each night are required to present proof of vaccination. City officials have not authorized the massive carnival street parties known as "blocos," but several smaller ones are still being held. The pandemic left Brazilians full of "saudades" -- Portuguese for "longing" -- for carnival, a free-for-all of dancing, singing and partying at close quarters that is essentially the opposite of social distancing. "I couldn't sleep last night, I was so excited," said Rita Marcelino, who was dancing the samba as she prepared to parade in an elaborate African costume. "I was waking up every two minutes," said the 62-year-old domestic worker, who lost her job and "many" friends and family members to the pandemic. 'Two years of darkness' - Each samba school in the competition has 60 to 70 minutes to tell a story in music and dance, to be evaluated on nine criteria by the jury. The reigning champions, Viradouro, chose as their theme Rio's epic 1919 carnival -- the first celebrated after the devastation of another pandemic, the Spanish flu. "No sadness can withstand so much joy," says their samba theme song. A brief history of Amber Heard-Elon Musk romance Other schools picked themes charged with social messages, with Brazil facing divisive elections in October expected to pit far-right President Jair Bolsonaro against leftist ex-leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Of the 12 schools, eight chose themes dealing with racism or Afro-Brazilian history, loaded issues in a country where the current president has faced frequent accusations of racism. Their samba songs include treatments of the Black Lives Matter protests; tributes to two "orixas," or deities, of Afro-Brazilian religion; and celebrations of black samba singers. Carnival should also provide some needed relief for the pandemic-battered economy. Beyond the swirl of floats, feathers and barely covered flesh, the carnival is big business, moving some four billion reais ($800 million) and creating at least 45,000 jobs, according to official figures. Missing fingertip to 'threesome' with Elon Musk: Shocking revelations made in Johnny Depp-Amber Heard case Participants were just happy the party was back. "We've had two years of so much darkness in the world," said Latino Suarez, 45, who traveled from Sao Paulo to parade. "Brazil without carnival isn't Brazil. It's part of who we are."

'So much joy': Brazil holds first carnival since Covid, see pics

South Africa is witnessing yet another spike in the COVID-19 cases. It reported one new death because of the virus.

COVID-19 case spike in South Africa: One new death reported

covid

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