A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak

Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base. It has ordered the residents to work from home.&nbsp; 
As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities."

As per the health commission, China will be introducing&nbsp;rapid antigen tests for first time as Covid outbreaks spread.&nbsp;

Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases. Recently, Shanghai ordered its schools to close and shift to online instruction.

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The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020.&nbsp;

As of March 10, in mainland China, there were 112,940 confirmed cases, including those who had arrived from abroad as well as those from within the country.

"Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong.

(With inputs from agencies)

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base.

A lockdown has been imposed in the northeastern Chinese city of nine million people Changchun as Covid cases continue to surge. For the first time in two years, China's daily Covid cases are over 10,000 as the highly contagious Omicron variant has triggered outbreaks on a scale only seen during the Wuhan outbreak Changchun is the capital of Jilin province and an important industrial base. It has ordered the residents to work from home. As per the new rules, only one person will be allowed out every two days to buy "daily necessities." As per the health commission, China will be introducing rapid antigen tests for first time as Covid outbreaks spread. Several Chinese cities have been recording a surge in cases. Recently, Shanghai ordered its schools to close and shift to online instruction. Also read | Islamic State confirms its leader was killed in Syria, names new chief The asymptomatic infections caused by the Omicron variant have driven Beijing's daily count to an all-time high since it contained the first national outbreak in early 2020. As of March 10, in mainland China, there were 112,940 confirmed cases, including those who had arrived from abroad as well as those from within the country. "Infections in vaccinated individuals are more likely to be asymptomatic than infections in unvaccinated individuals, and vaccine coverage is now very high in China," explains Ben Cowling, an epidemiology professor at the University of Hong Kong. (With inputs from agencies)

China locks down city of 9 million as Covid cases surge

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. &nbsp;

In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. &nbsp;

Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-pandemic-may-be-three-times-deadlier-than-reported-says-study-461157" hreflang="en">Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study</a>

The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. &nbsp;

It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. &nbsp;

The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-uk-sees-a-surge-in-cases-for-people-aged-55-and-above-460980" hreflang="en">COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above</a>

Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." &nbsp;&nbsp;

In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults.

Coronavirus is not over yet. The rise in the number of infections in different parts of the world seem to be a reminder for everyone. In England, the number of Covid cases have spiked among older adults. Although there has been a broad decline since a peak in January, the cases among the elderly remain at a high level, as per a government-commissioned study published on Thursday. Also Read: Covid pandemic deaths may be thrice than reported, claims study The REACT COVID-19 monitoring programme found that around 1 in 35 people in England got infected with Covid. It was also revealed that infections were rising among people aged 55 and above. It looked at almost 95,000 home swab tests taken in February. The hike in the number could have been due to rise in socialisation as all coronavirus restrictions have been lifted in late February and as the protection from the vaccine booster has been declining, researchers said. Also Read | COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above Paul Elliott, director, study, said there was an uptick in hospitalisations and infections in old people. “But we don't know where it's going to go. We really need to be monitoring closely the infection data through surveys, such as REACT, and we need to monitor the hospitalisation.” Jenny Harries, head, UK Health Security Agency, said the data showed that "the pandemic is not over and we can expect to see COVID-19 circulating at high levels." In last 7 days, more than 346,000 people have tested positive as per official figures. This is a 46% jump from the previous week. (With inputs from agencies)

In England, number of Covid cases witness rise among older adults, says study  

Experts have warned that there can be a resurgence of the virus as cases among older people are increasing. The warning came after nearly 100,000 swabs were collected from people all across England.&nbsp;

It was concluded that 1 in 35 people tested positive between February 8 to March 1.&nbsp;

Professor Paul Elliot, the director of Imperial College London's React programme, said that the data shows an "uptick" in hospital admissions.

Chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Dr Jenny Harries said, "These data confirm that cases have declined substantially following the peak of the Omicron wave.

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"However, the increasing presence of the BA.2 sub-lineage of Omicron and the recent slight increase in infections in those over 55 show that the pandemic is not over and that we can expect to see COVID circulating at high levels."

The findings come at a time when the latest government figures showed a rise of 46 per cent in cases.

The experts also believe that the hospitalisation rates are being driven by "unshielding," meaning that the people who have been careful for two years have now emerged into a world where infections are still widespread.&nbsp;

World Health Organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday warned that the pandemic is 'far from over.'

He further said that even after two years, the virus is still evolving and even surging in some parts of the world. "Two years later, more than six million people have died," Tedros told a press conference.

"Although reported cases and deaths are declining globally, and several countries have lifted restrictions, the pandemic is far from over -- and it will not be over anywhere until it's over everywhere."

(With inputs from agencies)

Experts have warned that there can be a resurgence of the virus as cases among older people are increasing. The warning came after nearly 100,000 swabs were collected from people all across England.

Experts have warned that there can be a resurgence of the virus as cases among older people are increasing. The warning came after nearly 100,000 swabs were collected from people all across England. It was concluded that 1 in 35 people tested positive between February 8 to March 1. Professor Paul Elliot, the director of Imperial College London's React programme, said that the data shows an "uptick" in hospital admissions. Chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Dr Jenny Harries said, "These data confirm that cases have declined substantially following the peak of the Omicron wave. Also read | WHO warns pandemic 'far from over' as Covid death toll reaches 6 million "However, the increasing presence of the BA.2 sub-lineage of Omicron and the recent slight increase in infections in those over 55 show that the pandemic is not over and that we can expect to see COVID circulating at high levels." The findings come at a time when the latest government figures showed a rise of 46 per cent in cases. The experts also believe that the hospitalisation rates are being driven by "unshielding," meaning that the people who have been careful for two years have now emerged into a world where infections are still widespread. World Health Organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday warned that the pandemic is 'far from over.' He further said that even after two years, the virus is still evolving and even surging in some parts of the world. "Two years later, more than six million people have died," Tedros told a press conference. "Although reported cases and deaths are declining globally, and several countries have lifted restrictions, the pandemic is far from over -- and it will not be over anywhere until it's over everywhere." (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: UK sees a surge in cases for people aged 55 and above

Niue becomes the second island in the Pacific to lose its Covid-zero status after reporting its first case of Covid. As per the government, the case arrived from New Zealand.&nbsp;

The island has a population of under 2,000 people. It also has a high vaccination rate. Nearly 97 per cent of those aged 16 and over are vaccinated, and 98 per cent of those aged between 12-16.

As per WHO, there are just eight countries that are Covid-free. These include Tuvalu, Tokelau, Saint Helena, Pitcairn Islands, Nauru, and the Federated states of Micronesia.&nbsp;

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Premier Dalton Tagelagi said, "The positive case is currently in quarantine and will be monitored closely by Niue’s health officials.

We understand at this stage that the positive case is double vaccinated and boosted and had returned a negative PCR test 72 hours and RATs before boarding their flight from New Zealand.”

On a flight of over 25 passengers, one tested positive for the virus while all the others tested negative.&nbsp;

Tagelagi urged Niueans to remain vigilant.&nbsp;

Niue happens to be the second island to record its first case this week. Earlier, Chatham islands also reported its first case over the weekend.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/commercial-satellites-are-shaping-ukraine-russia-conflict-here-is-how-460678/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Niue becomes the second island in the Pacific to lose its Covid-zero status after reporting its first case of Covid. As per the government, the case arrived from New Zealand.

Niue becomes the second island in the Pacific to lose its Covid-zero status after reporting its first case of Covid. As per the government, the case arrived from New Zealand. The island has a population of under 2,000 people. It also has a high vaccination rate. Nearly 97 per cent of those aged 16 and over are vaccinated, and 98 per cent of those aged between 12-16. As per WHO, there are just eight countries that are Covid-free. These include Tuvalu, Tokelau, Saint Helena, Pitcairn Islands, Nauru, and the Federated states of Micronesia. Also read | Taiwan Zoo puts two fat pandas on special diet, exercise routine Premier Dalton Tagelagi said, "The positive case is currently in quarantine and will be monitored closely by Niue’s health officials. We understand at this stage that the positive case is double vaccinated and boosted and had returned a negative PCR test 72 hours and RATs before boarding their flight from New Zealand.” On a flight of over 25 passengers, one tested positive for the virus while all the others tested negative. Tagelagi urged Niueans to remain vigilant. Niue happens to be the second island to record its first case this week. Earlier, Chatham islands also reported its first case over the weekend. (With inputs from agencies)

Second Pacific island reports its first Covid case in a week

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines. &nbsp;

Even “conservative” media outlets were also engaged, The Desert Review claimed in a report. &nbsp;

It said documents gathered through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by Blaze Media showed that the government purchased advertising on TV, radio, in print, and on social media to build “vaccine confidence.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-condemns-airstrike-at-childrens-hospital-in-ukraine-zelensky-describes-it-as-war-crime-460757">US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime'</a>

Media networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, CNN, Newsmax, MSNBC, New York Post, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, BuzzFeed News and hundreds of local newspapers and TV stations were collectively responsible for publishing countless articles and video segments promoting the COVID shots as effective and safe.&nbsp;

The report alleged that the government used taxpayer money to censor any kind of negative information. &nbsp;

In fiscal year 2021, US Congress sanctioned $1 billion for the secretary of health to be spent on activities to “strengthen vaccine confidence in the United States.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laughable-us-denies-russian-accusations-of-biowarfare-labs-in-ukraine-460758" hreflang="en">'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine</a>

The federal government paid hundreds of news organisations to advertise the shots as part of a comprehensive media campaign by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The 'COVID-19 Public Education Campaign’, a “national initiative to increase public confidence in and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines,” was created with the goal of having “trusted messengers and influencers” speak to news organisations to “provide factual, timely information and steps people can take to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines.

If media reports from the US are to be believed, the Biden administration allegedly paid nearly the entire corporate media a total of around $1 billion as part of a huge campaign to push only positive coverage about Covid vaccines. Even “conservative” media outlets were also engaged, The Desert Review claimed in a report. It said documents gathered through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by Blaze Media showed that the government purchased advertising on TV, radio, in print, and on social media to build “vaccine confidence.” Also Read: US slams strike at kids' hospital in Ukraine; Zelensky calls it 'war crime' Media networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, CNN, Newsmax, MSNBC, New York Post, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, BuzzFeed News and hundreds of local newspapers and TV stations were collectively responsible for publishing countless articles and video segments promoting the COVID shots as effective and safe. The report alleged that the government used taxpayer money to censor any kind of negative information. In fiscal year 2021, US Congress sanctioned $1 billion for the secretary of health to be spent on activities to “strengthen vaccine confidence in the United States.” Also Read | 'Laughable': US denies Russian accusations of biowarfare labs in Ukraine The federal government paid hundreds of news organisations to advertise the shots as part of a comprehensive media campaign by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The 'COVID-19 Public Education Campaign’, a “national initiative to increase public confidence in and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines,” was created with the goal of having “trusted messengers and influencers” speak to news organisations to “provide factual, timely information and steps people can take to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.” (With inputs from agencies)

To promote Covid shot propaganda, Biden administration paid $1 billion to media, says report

Pokemon has a cult status. Fans all overworld swear by the cartoon series and games and merchandise it has spawned. But how crazy a person can get to fulfill the need to revel in the fandom? Well it seems there's no limit.

An American man used USD 57,000&nbsp;from the coronavirus relief loan on a collectible Pokemon card. Moreover, he had obtained the loan illegally. The man by the name Vinath Oudomsine, who bought the expensive card is resident of Georgia in the USA. David Estes, the acting US attorney of the southern district of Georgia said in a news release that Oudomsine agreed to forfeit the extremely costly card as a plea agreement.&nbsp;

The card had the Pokemon Charizard on it.

31-year-old Oudomsine pleaded guilty in October. The charges against him were of wire fraud. Prosecutors reportedly said that he submitted false information to US Small Business Administration. Vinath Oudomsine had applied for a Covid-19 relief loan. He sought the loan for what he called "entertainment service". He claimed that he owned such a business.

Prosecutors also said that Vinath Oudomsine lied about how many people he employed as he did for his business' annual revenue.

He received USD 85,000 from the loan program. Prosecutors say that he used USD 57,789 to buy a Charizard Pokemon card. 
Oudomsine has been handed a jail sentence of three years.

Pokemon has a cult status. Fans all overworld swear by the cartoon series and games and merchandise it has spawned. But how crazy a person can get to fulfill the need to revel in the fandom?

Pokemon has a cult status. Fans all overworld swear by the cartoon series and games and merchandise it has spawned. But how crazy a person can get to fulfill the need to revel in the fandom? Well it seems there's no limit. An American man used USD 57,000 from the coronavirus relief loan on a collectible Pokemon card. Moreover, he had obtained the loan illegally. The man by the name Vinath Oudomsine, who bought the expensive card is resident of Georgia in the USA. David Estes, the acting US attorney of the southern district of Georgia said in a news release that Oudomsine agreed to forfeit the extremely costly card as a plea agreement. The card had the Pokemon Charizard on it. 31-year-old Oudomsine pleaded guilty in October. The charges against him were of wire fraud. Prosecutors reportedly said that he submitted false information to US Small Business Administration. Vinath Oudomsine had applied for a Covid-19 relief loan. He sought the loan for what he called "entertainment service". He claimed that he owned such a business. Prosecutors also said that Vinath Oudomsine lied about how many people he employed as he did for his business' annual revenue. He received USD 85,000 from the loan program. Prosecutors say that he used USD 57,789 to buy a Charizard Pokemon card. Oudomsine has been handed a jail sentence of three years.

American man uses Covid relief loan to buy $57k Pokemon card, jailed

World Health Organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday warned that the pandemic is 'far from over.'

He further said that even after two years, the virus is still evolving and even surging in some parts of the world. "Two years later, more than six million people have died," Tedros told a press conference.

"Although reported cases and deaths are declining globally, and several countries have lifted restrictions, the pandemic is far from over -- and it will not be over anywhere until it's over everywhere." 
444 million cases have been registered so far.&nbsp;

"The virus continues to evolve, and we continue to face major obstacles in distributing vaccines, tests and treatments everywhere they are needed," Tedros said.

While remote Pacific islands are struggling with their first-ever Covid outbreak, several European nations have removed all Covid-related restrictions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-pandemic-enters-third-year-covid-related-deaths-to-soon-reach-6-million-459928">Also read |&nbsp;As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million</a>

Top US officials, on the other hand, recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world.&nbsp;

Hong Kong is struggling with another wave of cases. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day.

The US has the biggest official death toll in the world. However, the numbers have been seeing a downward trend over the last month.

Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's Covid-19 technical lead said, "The virus is still spreading at far too intensive a level, three years into this pandemic."

"Even though we are seeing declining trends... there were still more than 10 million reported cases reported at a global level last week. We have to remain vigilant."

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday warned that the pandemic is 'far from over.' He further said that even after two years, the virus is still evolving and even surging in some parts of the world.

World Health Organisation's director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday warned that the pandemic is 'far from over.' He further said that even after two years, the virus is still evolving and even surging in some parts of the world. "Two years later, more than six million people have died," Tedros told a press conference. "Although reported cases and deaths are declining globally, and several countries have lifted restrictions, the pandemic is far from over -- and it will not be over anywhere until it's over everywhere." 444 million cases have been registered so far. "The virus continues to evolve, and we continue to face major obstacles in distributing vaccines, tests and treatments everywhere they are needed," Tedros said. While remote Pacific islands are struggling with their first-ever Covid outbreak, several European nations have removed all Covid-related restrictions. Also read | As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million Top US officials, on the other hand, recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world. Hong Kong is struggling with another wave of cases. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day. The US has the biggest official death toll in the world. However, the numbers have been seeing a downward trend over the last month. Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's Covid-19 technical lead said, "The virus is still spreading at far too intensive a level, three years into this pandemic." "Even though we are seeing declining trends... there were still more than 10 million reported cases reported at a global level last week. We have to remain vigilant." (With inputs from agencies)

WHO warns pandemic 'far from over' as Covid death toll reaches 6 million

A new study has made a shocking revelation. Covid-19 severely impacts the body. However, a new study states that it may shrink the brain's gray matter, specifically in areas of the brain involved in smell and memory processing.&nbsp;

As a part of the study, researchers looked at brain alterations in 785 UK Biobank people aged 51-81 years. All these people had their brain scanned twice. Out of these, 401 cases tested positive for Covid between their two scans, with an average of 141 days between diagnosis and second scan.&nbsp;

The remaining 384 participants had no sign of Covid. However, they closely matched the infected participants in terms of age, sex and Covid risk factors.

These participants tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.&nbsp;

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All these participants had to also go through a second brain scan for the study.&nbsp;This was done so that the researchers could pinpoint how and where their brains differed.

The study has been published in the journal Nature.

Dr Serena Spudich, chief of neurological infections and global neurology at the Yale School of Medicine, in a report said, "To me, this is pretty convincing evidence that something changes in brains of this overall group of people with Covid."

She further added, “To make a conclusion that this has some long-term clinical implications for the patients I think is a stretch. We don’t want to scare the public and have them think, ‘Oh, this is proof that everyone’s going to have brain damage and not be able to function."

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study has made a shocking revelation. Covid-19 severely impacts the body. However, a new study states that it may shrink the brain's gray matter, specifically in areas of the brain involved in smell and memory processing.

A new study has made a shocking revelation. Covid-19 severely impacts the body. However, a new study states that it may shrink the brain's gray matter, specifically in areas of the brain involved in smell and memory processing. As a part of the study, researchers looked at brain alterations in 785 UK Biobank people aged 51-81 years. All these people had their brain scanned twice. Out of these, 401 cases tested positive for Covid between their two scans, with an average of 141 days between diagnosis and second scan. The remaining 384 participants had no sign of Covid. However, they closely matched the infected participants in terms of age, sex and Covid risk factors. These participants tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Also read | Spain to ban influencers promoting unhealthy foods to children All these participants had to also go through a second brain scan for the study. This was done so that the researchers could pinpoint how and where their brains differed. The study has been published in the journal Nature. Dr Serena Spudich, chief of neurological infections and global neurology at the Yale School of Medicine, in a report said, "To me, this is pretty convincing evidence that something changes in brains of this overall group of people with Covid." She further added, “To make a conclusion that this has some long-term clinical implications for the patients I think is a stretch. We don’t want to scare the public and have them think, ‘Oh, this is proof that everyone’s going to have brain damage and not be able to function." (With inputs from agencies)

Study reveals how Covid causes shrinkage in brain

A temporary bridge has been built in Hong Kong to help bring in material from the mainland for the Covid-19 makeshift hospital. Nearly 2,000 Chinese contractors from the China State Construction Engineering are in Hong Kong for this project.&nbsp;

This hospital is expected to provide 1,000 more hospital beds and quarantine rooms for up to 10,000 people.

The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said that China aims to ensure that Hong Kong has enough food and other supplies during the outbreak.&nbsp;

To battle the surge in cases, doctors and nurses from the mainland have also been allowed to work in the city. 
Beijing, on the other hand, has provided 29m rapid antigen tests and 54m masks as of Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-fight-covid-abroad-us-aims-to-contribute-to-vaccines-for-next-disease-460501">Also read |&nbsp;To fight Covid abroad, US aims to contribute to vaccines for next disease</a>

China’s national health Commission’s Liang Wannian told Chinese state media Xinhua, "Reducing infection, severe cases and deaths is Hong Kong’s most urgent and top priority at the current stage."

Earlier, Lam had said that all Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus testing. "The coming one to three months are crucial in fighting the pandemic," Lam told a press briefing.

Lam reiterated the city's "dynamic zero COVID" strategy similar to mainland China, aiming to eradicate any outbreaks at all costs. She repeatedly thanked mainland authorities for their "staunch support."

(With inputs from agencies)

A temporary bridge has been built in Hong Kong to help bring in material from the mainland for the Covid-19 makeshift hospital. Nearly 2,000 Chinese contractors from the China State Construction Engineering are in Hong Kong for this project.

A temporary bridge has been built in Hong Kong to help bring in material from the mainland for the Covid-19 makeshift hospital. Nearly 2,000 Chinese contractors from the China State Construction Engineering are in Hong Kong for this project. This hospital is expected to provide 1,000 more hospital beds and quarantine rooms for up to 10,000 people. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day. Chief Executive Carrie Lam said that China aims to ensure that Hong Kong has enough food and other supplies during the outbreak. To battle the surge in cases, doctors and nurses from the mainland have also been allowed to work in the city. Beijing, on the other hand, has provided 29m rapid antigen tests and 54m masks as of Tuesday. Also read | To fight Covid abroad, US aims to contribute to vaccines for next disease China’s national health Commission’s Liang Wannian told Chinese state media Xinhua, "Reducing infection, severe cases and deaths is Hong Kong’s most urgent and top priority at the current stage." Earlier, Lam had said that all Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus testing. "The coming one to three months are crucial in fighting the pandemic," Lam told a press briefing. Lam reiterated the city's "dynamic zero COVID" strategy similar to mainland China, aiming to eradicate any outbreaks at all costs. She repeatedly thanked mainland authorities for their "staunch support." (With inputs from agencies)

China builds new bridge to Hong Kong amid Covid surge

On March 21, the majority of mask laws in Ontario would be repealed, including those in stores and restaurants, as well as in all elementary and secondary schools.

The announcement, which is due on Wednesday, marks another step in the province's efforts to get back to normal as soon as possible after the COVID-19 pandemic lasted two years.

The move will be announced at 11 a.m. at Queen's Park by Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health, according to people familiar with the situation.&nbsp;

Because of existing trends, such as decreasing hospitalisation and ICU rates, as well as booster shot use, the shift is possible.

On the other hand, Moore, on the other hand, said last week that masking in hospitals, nursing homes, and public transportation would likely continue, and that people with other risk factors should continue to wear face masks.

Despite the fact that a new sub-variant has emerged that is more contagious than Omicron, hospitalizations have not increased as a result.

Moore has warned that case loads are likely to be ten times higher than the limited PCR testing suggests, implying that Tuesday's case count of 1,208 is probably closer to 20,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On March 21, the majority of mask laws in Ontario would be repealed, including those in stores and restaurants, as well as in all elementary and secondary schools.

On March 21, the majority of mask laws in Ontario would be repealed, including those in stores and restaurants, as well as in all elementary and secondary schools. The announcement, which is due on Wednesday, marks another step in the province's efforts to get back to normal as soon as possible after the COVID-19 pandemic lasted two years. The move will be announced at 11 a.m. at Queen's Park by Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health, according to people familiar with the situation. Because of existing trends, such as decreasing hospitalisation and ICU rates, as well as booster shot use, the shift is possible. On the other hand, Moore, on the other hand, said last week that masking in hospitals, nursing homes, and public transportation would likely continue, and that people with other risk factors should continue to wear face masks. Despite the fact that a new sub-variant has emerged that is more contagious than Omicron, hospitalizations have not increased as a result. Moore has warned that case loads are likely to be ten times higher than the limited PCR testing suggests, implying that Tuesday's case count of 1,208 is probably closer to 20,000. (With inputs from agencies)

Ontario to drop most mask mandates on March 21

COVID-19 in the United States seems to be slowly fading away New York City has lifted major COVID-19 precautions and has made masks optional in city schools, but masks will still be needed on public transport.

NYC lifts COVID mandates: Masks made optional for schools with the reduction of cases in US

As the US is experiencing a downward trend in cases, states and cities are lifting remaining restrictions. However, several public health experts are urging leaders to prepare for future outbreaks. This comes in as the &nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new guidelines for judging community risk.

The US is now seeing an average of 54,000 cases and 1,300 deaths each day. However, only 65 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

As per the CDC, over 90 per cent of the US is now at low risk of overwhelming the health systems, meaning that requirements for masks and other precautions will be decreased.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-pandemic-enters-third-year-covid-related-deaths-to-soon-reach-6-million-459928">Also read |&nbsp;As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million</a>

This comes in as the world is very close to recording its six millionth official death due to the deadly virus. As per Johns Hopkins University, the death toll stood at 59,99,158 as of March 7.&nbsp;

Top US officials recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world.&nbsp;

The US has the biggest official death toll in the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the US is experiencing a downward trend in cases, states and cities are lifting remaining restrictions. However, several public health experts are urging leaders to prepare for future outbreaks.

As the US is experiencing a downward trend in cases, states and cities are lifting remaining restrictions. However, several public health experts are urging leaders to prepare for future outbreaks. This comes in as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new guidelines for judging community risk. The US is now seeing an average of 54,000 cases and 1,300 deaths each day. However, only 65 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated. As per the CDC, over 90 per cent of the US is now at low risk of overwhelming the health systems, meaning that requirements for masks and other precautions will be decreased. Also read | As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million This comes in as the world is very close to recording its six millionth official death due to the deadly virus. As per Johns Hopkins University, the death toll stood at 59,99,158 as of March 7. Top US officials recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world. The US has the biggest official death toll in the world. (With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases decrease, experts urge US to prepare for future outbreaks

As the Covid-19 pandemic enters its third year, the world is very close to recording its six millionth official death due to the deadly virus. As per Johns Hopkins University, the death toll stood at 59,99,158 as of March 7.&nbsp;

This comes as a tragic reminder as to how the pandemic is far from over.&nbsp;

While remote Pacific islands are struggling with their first-ever Covid outbreak, several European nations have removed all Covid-related restrictions.&nbsp;

Top US officials, on the other hand, recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world.&nbsp;

Hong Kong is struggling with another wave of cases. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-china-daily-local-virus-cases-at-two-year-high-459760">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: China daily local virus cases at two-year high</a>

Mr Pang, the former director of research policy and cooperation with the World Health Organization said, "This is a disease of the unvaccinated — look what is happening in Hong Kong right now, the health system is being overwhelmed. The large majority of the deaths and the severe cases are in the unvaccinated, vulnerable segment of the population.”

The US has the biggest official death toll in the world. However, the numbers have been seeing a downward trend over the last month.

As per WHO, the world has seen over 445 million confirmed Covid cases, and new weekly cases have been declining recently in almost all regions except for the Western Pacific, which includes China, Japan and South Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Covid-19 pandemic enters its third year, the world is very close to recording its six millionth official death due to the deadly virus. As per Johns Hopkins University, the death toll stood at 59,99,158 as of March 7.

As the Covid-19 pandemic enters its third year, the world is very close to recording its six millionth official death due to the deadly virus. As per Johns Hopkins University, the death toll stood at 59,99,158 as of March 7. This comes as a tragic reminder as to how the pandemic is far from over. While remote Pacific islands are struggling with their first-ever Covid outbreak, several European nations have removed all Covid-related restrictions. Top US officials, on the other hand, recently laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world. Hong Kong is struggling with another wave of cases. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day. Also read | COVID-19: China daily local virus cases at two-year high Mr Pang, the former director of research policy and cooperation with the World Health Organization said, "This is a disease of the unvaccinated — look what is happening in Hong Kong right now, the health system is being overwhelmed. The large majority of the deaths and the severe cases are in the unvaccinated, vulnerable segment of the population.” The US has the biggest official death toll in the world. However, the numbers have been seeing a downward trend over the last month. As per WHO, the world has seen over 445 million confirmed Covid cases, and new weekly cases have been declining recently in almost all regions except for the Western Pacific, which includes China, Japan and South Korea. (With inputs from agencies)

As pandemic enters third year, Covid related deaths to soon reach 6 million

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General Balram Bhargava on Thursday said that the unvaccinated people accounted for nearly 92 per cent of Covid deaths.&nbsp;

He further said that the first dose of the Covid vaccine is 98.9 per cent effective in the fight against Covid. Also, if both doses are given, it is 99.3 per cent effective.&nbsp;

VK Paul, member (health) of the government's think tank NITI Aayog while speaking to the reporters said, "It is evident that vaccines and the wide vaccination coverage have played a very important role in protecting hundreds of lives. The vaccine has protected the nation from a surge in the number of Covid cases."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-discusses-ukraine-situation-with-quad-leaders-458707">Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi discusses Ukraine situation with Quad leaders</a>

The cases in India are currently on a downward graph as only 6,561 cases were reported in the last 24 hours. Also, the average weekly Covid positivity rate in India is 0.99 per cent. The total number of active cases are 77,000.

Covid deaths, also, have seen a sharp decline in India.&nbsp;

Cases from South Indian states including Kerala, Maharashtra and Mizoram account for 50 per cent of all Covid cases in India.&nbsp;Only one state has over 10,000 active cases. Other states have less than 5,000 active cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General Balram Bhargava on Thursday said that the unvaccinated people accounted for nearly 92 per cent of Covid deaths.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director-General Balram Bhargava on Thursday said that the unvaccinated people accounted for nearly 92 per cent of Covid deaths. He further said that the first dose of the Covid vaccine is 98.9 per cent effective in the fight against Covid. Also, if both doses are given, it is 99.3 per cent effective. VK Paul, member (health) of the government's think tank NITI Aayog while speaking to the reporters said, "It is evident that vaccines and the wide vaccination coverage have played a very important role in protecting hundreds of lives. The vaccine has protected the nation from a surge in the number of Covid cases." Also read | PM Modi discusses Ukraine situation with Quad leaders The cases in India are currently on a downward graph as only 6,561 cases were reported in the last 24 hours. Also, the average weekly Covid positivity rate in India is 0.99 per cent. The total number of active cases are 77,000. Covid deaths, also, have seen a sharp decline in India. Cases from South Indian states including Kerala, Maharashtra and Mizoram account for 50 per cent of all Covid cases in India. Only one state has over 10,000 active cases. Other states have less than 5,000 active cases. (With inputs from agencies)

In India, unvaccinated people account for 92% of Covid deaths in 2022

A recent research by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington has revealed that women have experienced greater negative social and economic impacts of Covid than men. The ongoing pandemic possess a serious threat of reversing all the progress which has been made towards gender equality.

A massive gender gap was seen in employment and uncompensated labour. Globally, nearly 26 per cent of women reported a loss of work compared with 20 per cent of men in September 2021.&nbsp;

Not just this but women and girls were also more likely to drop out of school and more likely to report an increase in gender-based violence. Senior author Prof Emmanuela Gakidou, in a report by The Guardian, said, "This study provides the first comprehensive global evidence on gender disparities for a wide range of health-related, social and economic indicators throughout the pandemic."

“The evidence suggests that Covid-19 has tended to exacerbate previously existing social and economic disparities rather than create new inequalities."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anxiety-and-depression-cases-surged-by-over-25-due-to-covid-who-458266">Also read |&nbsp;Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO</a>

As a part of the study, publicly available datasets were analysed from 193 countries. Surveys were taken from March 2020 to September 2021 on health and wellbeing during the pandemic.&nbsp;

It was then concluded that everywhere, women experienced higher rates of employment loss than men.&nbsp;

Dr Luisa Flor, the study’s co-lead author was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Economic impacts have affected women more than men in some countries because they tend to be employed disproportionately in sectors harder-hit by Covid-19, such as the hospitality industry or as domestic workers."

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally as Covid has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people.&nbsp;

During a scientific brief, the organisation revealed that there was a 25.6 per cent hike in cases of anxiety disorders all across the globe.&nbsp;

Here as well, women have been the worst affected.&nbsp;

There have been 374 million cases of anxiety disorders around the world in 2020. Out of these, nearly 76 million were new cases caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent research by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington has revealed that women have experienced greater negative social and economic impacts of Covid than men.

A recent research by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington has revealed that women have experienced greater negative social and economic impacts of Covid than men. The ongoing pandemic possess a serious threat of reversing all the progress which has been made towards gender equality. A massive gender gap was seen in employment and uncompensated labour. Globally, nearly 26 per cent of women reported a loss of work compared with 20 per cent of men in September 2021. Not just this but women and girls were also more likely to drop out of school and more likely to report an increase in gender-based violence. Senior author Prof Emmanuela Gakidou, in a report by The Guardian, said, "This study provides the first comprehensive global evidence on gender disparities for a wide range of health-related, social and economic indicators throughout the pandemic." “The evidence suggests that Covid-19 has tended to exacerbate previously existing social and economic disparities rather than create new inequalities." Also read | Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO As a part of the study, publicly available datasets were analysed from 193 countries. Surveys were taken from March 2020 to September 2021 on health and wellbeing during the pandemic. It was then concluded that everywhere, women experienced higher rates of employment loss than men. Dr Luisa Flor, the study’s co-lead author was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Economic impacts have affected women more than men in some countries because they tend to be employed disproportionately in sectors harder-hit by Covid-19, such as the hospitality industry or as domestic workers." Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally as Covid has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people. During a scientific brief, the organisation revealed that there was a 25.6 per cent hike in cases of anxiety disorders all across the globe. Here as well, women have been the worst affected. There have been 374 million cases of anxiety disorders around the world in 2020. Out of these, nearly 76 million were new cases caused by the coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

This is how Covid could reverse all the progress made towards gender equality

Top US officials on Wednesday laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world.&nbsp;

The White House claimed, "This plan lays out the road map to help us fight Covid-19 in the future as we move America from crisis to a time when Covid-19 does not disrupt our daily lives and is something we prevent, protect against and treat."

“America must maintain the tools — vaccines, boosters, treatments, tests and masks — to protect against Covid-19 and dramatically decrease the risk of the most severe outcomes. We must be prepared to respond to a new variant quickly and keep our schools and businesses open," the plan read.&nbsp;

The plan further aims to give schools and businesses the tools they need to prevent economic and educational shutdowns. This is being done so that the students can remain safe in school and workers can be safe at work. Also, this will help the economy to grow.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-says-russia-already-guilty-of-war-crime-in-ukraine-458224">Also read |&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson says Russia already guilty of 'war crime' in Ukraine</a>

"The path forward in the fight against COVID-19 is clear: schools, workers, and workplaces have resources and guidance to prevent shutdowns," said the White House.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, reports state that nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service.&nbsp;

The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Top US officials on Wednesday laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely.

Top US officials on Wednesday laid out a plan to move the nation to a new stage of the pandemic. The new plan focuses on four goals, to help the nation move forward safely. This includes protection against COVID, preparing for new variants, preventing shutdowns and continuing to vaccinate the world. The White House claimed, "This plan lays out the road map to help us fight Covid-19 in the future as we move America from crisis to a time when Covid-19 does not disrupt our daily lives and is something we prevent, protect against and treat." “America must maintain the tools — vaccines, boosters, treatments, tests and masks — to protect against Covid-19 and dramatically decrease the risk of the most severe outcomes. We must be prepared to respond to a new variant quickly and keep our schools and businesses open," the plan read. The plan further aims to give schools and businesses the tools they need to prevent economic and educational shutdowns. This is being done so that the students can remain safe in school and workers can be safe at work. Also, this will help the economy to grow. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson says Russia already guilty of 'war crime' in Ukraine "The path forward in the fight against COVID-19 is clear: schools, workers, and workplaces have resources and guidance to prevent shutdowns," said the White House. Meanwhile, reports state that nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service. The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. (With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to help the nation move forward, White house unveils its Covid preparedness plan

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive for Covid-19 but says he will carry on working from isolation at home as Australia's east coast battles huge floods.

The prime minister said he was suffering from "flu-like" symptoms after a PCR test came back positive on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"While in isolation I will continue to discharge all my responsibilities as prime minister," he said in a statement late Tuesday.

Morrison said he would be working on the response to deadly floods in Queensland and New South Wales, "ensuring we stand with each and every one of the affected communities".

"I will also be focused on our urgent response to the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine and Russia's senseless aggression, staying in regular contact with our security and intelligence officials and our international partners."

Morrison said he had tested himself for Covid-19 on the mornings of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, all with negative results.&nbsp; 
But he developed a fever late on Tuesday and tested himself again, with "inconclusive" results. A more precise PCR test then showed he was infected with Covid-19.

The prime minister said his wife and two daughters had so far tested negative but would be isolating with him at home as close contacts.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive for Covid-19 but says he will carry on working from isolation at home as Australia's east coast battles huge floods.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive for Covid-19 but says he will carry on working from isolation at home as Australia's east coast battles huge floods. The prime minister said he was suffering from "flu-like" symptoms after a PCR test came back positive on Tuesday. "While in isolation I will continue to discharge all my responsibilities as prime minister," he said in a statement late Tuesday. Morrison said he would be working on the response to deadly floods in Queensland and New South Wales, "ensuring we stand with each and every one of the affected communities". "I will also be focused on our urgent response to the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine and Russia's senseless aggression, staying in regular contact with our security and intelligence officials and our international partners." Morrison said he had tested himself for Covid-19 on the mornings of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, all with negative results. But he developed a fever late on Tuesday and tested himself again, with "inconclusive" results. A more precise PCR test then showed he was infected with Covid-19. The prime minister said his wife and two daughters had so far tested negative but would be isolating with him at home as close contacts.

Australian PM tests positive for Covid, isolates

The World Health Organisation on Wednesday said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally as Covid has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people. During a scientific brief, the organisation revealed that there was a 25.6 per cent hike in cases of anxiety disorders all across the globe.&nbsp;

Also, there was a 27.6 per cent increase in cases of major depressive disorder in the year 2020.&nbsp;

Brandon Gray of WHO's mental health and substance use department said, "In terms of scale, this is a very large increase." He told AFP that the briefing "shows that Covid-19 has had a large impact on people's mental health and wellbeing."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womens-mental-health-deteriorated-more-in-covid-pandemic-study-419561">Also read |&nbsp;Women's mental health deteriorated more in Covid pandemic: Study</a>

A massive surge was seen in places that were heavily affected by Covid, in terms of high daily infection rates. Also, women and girls were more affected than males.&nbsp;

Earlier in October, a report stated that women have been the worst affected population in the pandemic. A Lancet study reported that cases of depression and anxiety have increased by more than a quarter in just the initial year of the coronavirus pandemic.

There have been 374 million cases of anxiety disorders around the world in 2020. Out of these, nearly 76 million were new cases caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organisation on Wednesday said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally as Covid has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people.

The World Health Organisation on Wednesday said that cases of anxiety and depression have surged by over 25 per cent globally as Covid has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people. During a scientific brief, the organisation revealed that there was a 25.6 per cent hike in cases of anxiety disorders all across the globe. Also, there was a 27.6 per cent increase in cases of major depressive disorder in the year 2020. Brandon Gray of WHO's mental health and substance use department said, "In terms of scale, this is a very large increase." He told AFP that the briefing "shows that Covid-19 has had a large impact on people's mental health and wellbeing." Also read | Women's mental health deteriorated more in Covid pandemic: Study A massive surge was seen in places that were heavily affected by Covid, in terms of high daily infection rates. Also, women and girls were more affected than males. Earlier in October, a report stated that women have been the worst affected population in the pandemic. A Lancet study reported that cases of depression and anxiety have increased by more than a quarter in just the initial year of the coronavirus pandemic. There have been 374 million cases of anxiety disorders around the world in 2020. Out of these, nearly 76 million were new cases caused by the coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO

Local media reports state that Hong Kong is all set to report a new record of over 50,000 daily new infections on Wednesday. This comes in as Chief Executive Carrie Lam sought to reassure residents during a television interview from a railroad yard just after the first bundle of goods arrived from China to the city.&nbsp;

The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day. China's aim is to ensure that Hong Kong has enough food and other supplies during the outbreak, said Lam.&nbsp;

She further urged the residents to stop their panicked purchasing.&nbsp;

Acknowledging the fact that there won’t be enough beds to isolate everyone, she vowed to make the process as quick and comprehensive as possible.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-hong-kongers-must-undergo-three-rounds-of-compulsory-coronavirus-tests-carrie-lam-455392">Also read |&nbsp;All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam</a>

Earlier, Lam had said that all Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus testing. "The coming one to three months are crucial in fighting the pandemic," Lam told a press briefing.

Lam reiterated the city's "dynamic zero COVID" strategy similar to mainland China, aiming to eradicate any outbreaks at all costs. She repeatedly thanked mainland authorities for their "staunch support."

The order for citywide testing comes after mainland Chinese authorities dispatched epidemiologists, health workers and other medical resources last week to help contain the outbreak in the semi-autonomous Chinese city.

(With inputs from agencies)

Local media reports state that Hong Kong is all set to report a new record of over 50,000 daily new infections on Wednesday. This comes in as Chief Executive Carrie Lam sought to reassure residents during a television interview from a railroad yard just after the first bundle of goods arrived from China to the city.

Local media reports state that Hong Kong is all set to report a new record of over 50,000 daily new infections on Wednesday. This comes in as Chief Executive Carrie Lam sought to reassure residents during a television interview from a railroad yard just after the first bundle of goods arrived from China to the city. The densely populated metropolis is in the throes of a record virus surge with thousands of confirmed cases every day. China's aim is to ensure that Hong Kong has enough food and other supplies during the outbreak, said Lam. She further urged the residents to stop their panicked purchasing. Acknowledging the fact that there won’t be enough beds to isolate everyone, she vowed to make the process as quick and comprehensive as possible. Also read | All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam Earlier, Lam had said that all Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus testing. "The coming one to three months are crucial in fighting the pandemic," Lam told a press briefing. Lam reiterated the city's "dynamic zero COVID" strategy similar to mainland China, aiming to eradicate any outbreaks at all costs. She repeatedly thanked mainland authorities for their "staunch support." The order for citywide testing comes after mainland Chinese authorities dispatched epidemiologists, health workers and other medical resources last week to help contain the outbreak in the semi-autonomous Chinese city. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong records 50,000 Covid cases as first bundle of goods arrive from China

School in Kashmir Valley opened on Wednesday after a gap of 32 months. Children were seen donning school uniforms and rushing for classes early in the morning. The happiness on their faces was apparent.

The schools were shut after the abrogation of Article 370 on 5th August 2019 and later due to the Covid pandemic. Students were reunited with their friends and teachers after a long gap.&nbsp;

"I am extremely happy and excited that the schools have finally opened again. We missed it so much. The online classes were not as good as offline classes. I am so happy to be back in our classrooms. Meeting my friends and teachers after months is a feeling I can't explain," said Aayat, a student.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir has made it mandatory for all students to follow Covid protocols. Masks are important in the school premises and thermal scanners have been put at the school gates. Sanitisers have been provided in every classroom and other facilities. There would be a health team in every school monitoring the health of students, teachers, and administrative staff.

"Everyone is happy to be back in school. The students, teachers, and parents are so excited for the opening of schools. You can see for yourself how happy these children look today. The schools were completely sanitised before the opening, and we are taking care of all Covid protocols. Today during the assembly, we explained to all the students about what to do and how to maintain social distance, wearing masks, and using sanitisers," said Sumaiya, A teacher.&nbsp;

Moreover, the students at colleges and universities have been asked to carry their vaccination certificates with them. The long closure of institutions in Kashmir Valley has badly affected education. Parents and teachers are expecting situation to improve.

School in Kashmir Valley opened on Wednesday after a gap of 32 months. Children were seen donning school uniforms and rushing for classes early in the morning. The happiness on their faces was apparent.

School in Kashmir Valley opened on Wednesday after a gap of 32 months. Children were seen donning school uniforms and rushing for classes early in the morning. The happiness on their faces was apparent. The schools were shut after the abrogation of Article 370 on 5th August 2019 and later due to the Covid pandemic. Students were reunited with their friends and teachers after a long gap. "I am extremely happy and excited that the schools have finally opened again. We missed it so much. The online classes were not as good as offline classes. I am so happy to be back in our classrooms. Meeting my friends and teachers after months is a feeling I can't explain," said Aayat, a student. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has made it mandatory for all students to follow Covid protocols. Masks are important in the school premises and thermal scanners have been put at the school gates. Sanitisers have been provided in every classroom and other facilities. There would be a health team in every school monitoring the health of students, teachers, and administrative staff. "Everyone is happy to be back in school. The students, teachers, and parents are so excited for the opening of schools. You can see for yourself how happy these children look today. The schools were completely sanitised before the opening, and we are taking care of all Covid protocols. Today during the assembly, we explained to all the students about what to do and how to maintain social distance, wearing masks, and using sanitisers," said Sumaiya, A teacher. Moreover, the students at colleges and universities have been asked to carry their vaccination certificates with them. The long closure of institutions in Kashmir Valley has badly affected education. Parents and teachers are expecting situation to improve.

Schools re-open after a gap of 32 months in Kashmir Valley

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. &nbsp;

As the situation of the virus is easing, it seems people feel less urgency to go for the test. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/57-year-old-woman-gets-hit-in-head-with-hammer-several-times-at-new-york-subway-station-457007" hreflang="en">57-year-old woman gets hit in head with hammer several times at New York subway station</a>

In the pandemic, wild demand swings have been witnessed, many a time. It has happened with vaccines, hand sanitiser and tests. &nbsp;

COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drugs-or-onions-3-million-worth-methamphetamine-seized-in-us-456994" hreflang="en">Drugs or onions? $3 million worth methamphetamine seized in US</a>

The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We totally intend to sustain this market. We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants," Dr Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed.

With the fall in the number of new cases of coronavirus in the US, nearly half of the 500 million free Covid tests made available to the public recently by the Biden administration remain unclaimed. As the situation of the virus is easing, it seems people feel less urgency to go for the test. Also Read: 57-year-old woman gets hit in head with hammer several times at New York subway station In the pandemic, wild demand swings have been witnessed, many a time. It has happened with vaccines, hand sanitiser and tests. COVIDtests.Gov had received over 45 million orders on the first day of the White House test giveaway in January. Now, the officials say that less than 100,000 orders a day are being witnessed for the packages of four free rapid tests per household, which are being delivered by the US Postal Service. Also Read: Drugs or onions? $3 million worth methamphetamine seized in US The White House views the programme as a step towards a deeper testing infrastructure, which will accommodate the demand surges and remain on standby when cases wane. "We totally intend to sustain this market. We know the market is volatile and will come up and down with surges in variants," Dr Tom Inglesby, testing adviser to the COVID-19 response team, told The Associated Press. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly half of Biden admin’s 500 million free Covid tests for public remain unclaimed in US

After being severely affected by the Omicron variant, cases in India are finally on a downhill. However, as per a recent study by IIT Kanpur, this will not be the case for a long time.&nbsp;

A team of scientists from IIT Kanpur have said that India will witness a new Covid wave in June. The peak may start around June 22 and will peak from mid to late August.

The study is yet-to-be peer-reviewed.&nbsp;

Led by Sabara Parshad Rajeshbhai, Subhra Sankar Dhar and Shalabh of IIT Kanpur’s mathematics department, the study is based on the data on Zimbabwe. It has been published as a pre-print in MedRxiv.

The scientists have claimed that there is a fair chance that a new variant of this virus may have an intense impact on the findings.

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/india-to-send-humanitarian-aid-to-ukraine-evacuation-efforts-on-says-mea-457500">Also read |&nbsp;India to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine, 'evacuation efforts on,' says MEA</a>

The authors of the study wrote, "The data indicates that the fourth wave of Covid-19 in India will arrive after 936 days from the initial data availability date, which is January 30, 2020. Therefore, the fourth wave starts from June 22, 2022, reaching its peak on August 23, 2022, and ends on October 24, 2022."

“Apart from this fact, the effect of vaccinations — first, second or booster dosage may also play a significant role on the possibility of infection, degree of infection and various issues related to the fourth wave,” they further claimed.

The researchers also highlighted that many countries have already witnessed the third wave of Covid. Also, a few countries like South Africa and Zimbabwe have started to face the fourth and higher waves of the pandemic.

“The third wave of Covid-19 was predicted for India using the data of Zimbabwe, and when the third wave in India is finishing, it is now clear that the forecast was correct,” the authors added.

(With inputs from agencies)

After being severely affected by the Omicron variant, cases in India are finally on a downhill. However, as per a recent study by IIT Kanpur, this will not be the case for a long time.

After being severely affected by the Omicron variant, cases in India are finally on a downhill. However, as per a recent study by IIT Kanpur, this will not be the case for a long time. A team of scientists from IIT Kanpur have said that India will witness a new Covid wave in June. The peak may start around June 22 and will peak from mid to late August. The study is yet-to-be peer-reviewed. Led by Sabara Parshad Rajeshbhai, Subhra Sankar Dhar and Shalabh of IIT Kanpur’s mathematics department, the study is based on the data on Zimbabwe. It has been published as a pre-print in MedRxiv. The scientists have claimed that there is a fair chance that a new variant of this virus may have an intense impact on the findings. Also read | India to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine, 'evacuation efforts on,' says MEA The authors of the study wrote, "The data indicates that the fourth wave of Covid-19 in India will arrive after 936 days from the initial data availability date, which is January 30, 2020. Therefore, the fourth wave starts from June 22, 2022, reaching its peak on August 23, 2022, and ends on October 24, 2022." “Apart from this fact, the effect of vaccinations — first, second or booster dosage may also play a significant role on the possibility of infection, degree of infection and various issues related to the fourth wave,” they further claimed. The researchers also highlighted that many countries have already witnessed the third wave of Covid. Also, a few countries like South Africa and Zimbabwe have started to face the fourth and higher waves of the pandemic. “The third wave of Covid-19 was predicted for India using the data of Zimbabwe, and when the third wave in India is finishing, it is now clear that the forecast was correct,” the authors added. (With inputs from agencies)

India to be hit by fourth Covid wave in June, this is what a study says

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;reported a record 26,026 daily COVID-19 infections on Sunday and 83 deaths, as an outbreak of the highly transmissible Omicron variant overwhelms healthcare facilities and proves hard to control.

The global financial hub has imposed some of the most stringent COVID restrictions in the world to cope with the coronavirus spike, leading some executives to leave and frustrating some residents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-hong-kongers-must-undergo-three-rounds-of-compulsory-coronavirus-tests-carrie-lam-455392">All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam</a>

While most major cities seek to live with the virus,&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;has imposed its harshest rules yet, following the mainland with a "dynamic zero-COVID" strategy aiming to eradicate the disease. This proved largely successful until the Omicron spike overwhelmed the city's tracking and isolation processes.

At the start of a sensitive political year for Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing is deeply invested in the city's response. Xi says fighting the pandemic is the city's "overriding mission".

Hong&nbsp;Kong's outbreak has inundated its public health system, triggering a raft of measures including the construction of more isolation and treatment units.

“We are very worried,” Albert Au of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's department of health told a news conference. "Case numbers are still on the rise, and we expect that there will be a rising trend for the foreseeable future."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-a-surge-in-cases-hong-kong-to-ramp-up-isolation-facilities-454688">Amid a surge in cases, Hong Kong to ramp up isolation facilities</a>

Some experts predict the city of 7.4 million will have up to 180,000 cases daily next month.

The most vulnerable are particularly at risk, with 67 of the 83 deaths reported on Sunday at nursing homes. Vaccination rates among the elderly have been relatively low and many suffer from chronic illnesses.

Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is hiring 1,000 temporary workers from mainland China to care for elderly COVID patients at its isolation and treatment facilities, said Law Chi-kwong, secretary for labour and welfare.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Covid-19 surge brings Hong Kong to its knees

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-covid-19-surge-brings-hong-kong-to-its-knees-454147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Officials have said the mainland would help provide testing, treatment and quarantine capacity. Last week city leader Carrie Lam used emergency powers granted under British colonial-era laws to exempt mainland Chinese staff and projects from any licensing or other legal requirements.

Hong Kong reported a record 26,026 daily COVID-19 infections on Sunday and 83 deaths, as an outbreak of the highly transmissible Omicron variant overwhelms healthcare facilities and proves hard to control.

Hong Kong reported a record 26,026 daily COVID-19 infections on Sunday and 83 deaths, as an outbreak of the highly transmissible Omicron variant overwhelms healthcare facilities and proves hard to control. The global financial hub has imposed some of the most stringent COVID restrictions in the world to cope with the coronavirus spike, leading some executives to leave and frustrating some residents. Also read | All Hong Kongers must undergo three rounds of compulsory coronavirus tests: Carrie Lam While most major cities seek to live with the virus, Hong Kong has imposed its harshest rules yet, following the mainland with a "dynamic zero-COVID" strategy aiming to eradicate the disease. This proved largely successful until the Omicron spike overwhelmed the city's tracking and isolation processes. At the start of a sensitive political year for Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing is deeply invested in the city's response. Xi says fighting the pandemic is the city's "overriding mission". Hong Kong's outbreak has inundated its public health system, triggering a raft of measures including the construction of more isolation and treatment units. “We are very worried,” Albert Au of Hong Kong's department of health told a news conference. "Case numbers are still on the rise, and we expect that there will be a rising trend for the foreseeable future." Also read | Amid a surge in cases, Hong Kong to ramp up isolation facilities Some experts predict the city of 7.4 million will have up to 180,000 cases daily next month. The most vulnerable are particularly at risk, with 67 of the 83 deaths reported on Sunday at nursing homes. Vaccination rates among the elderly have been relatively low and many suffer from chronic illnesses. Hong Kong is hiring 1,000 temporary workers from mainland China to care for elderly COVID patients at its isolation and treatment facilities, said Law Chi-kwong, secretary for labour and welfare. Watch | Gravitas: Covid-19 surge brings Hong Kong to its knees Officials have said the mainland would help provide testing, treatment and quarantine capacity. Last week city leader Carrie Lam used emergency powers granted under British colonial-era laws to exempt mainland Chinese staff and projects from any licensing or other legal requirements.

Hong Kong reports record daily COVID cases and 83 deaths

The United Arab Emirates, the Middle East tourism and commercial hub, over the weekend ended a requirement to wear face masks outdoors and obligatory quarantine for COVID-19 contact cases.

Fully-vaccinated passengers arriving in the country will no longer require PCR tests, said the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority in updated guidance that went into effect on Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archaeologists-dig-out-uaes-oldest-buildings-dating-back-8500-years-454418">Archaeologists dig out UAE’s oldest buildings, dating back 8,500 years</a>

"For economic and tourist sectors, physical distancing has been cancelled while mask-wearing in closed places is still mandatory," it said.

The capital Abu Dhabi also dropped a border entry requirement for a negative PCR test for those coming from other&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;emirates.

Watch |&nbsp;India-UAE landmark trade deal: First comprehensive trade deal in 10 years

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-uae-landmark-trade-deal-first-comprehensive-trade-deal-in-10-years-454620/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Daily coronavirus cases in the country have fallen to some 600 from close to 3,000 in January.

The United Arab Emirates, the Middle East tourism and commercial hub, over the weekend ended a requirement to wear face masks outdoors and obligatory quarantine for COVID-19 contact cases.

The United Arab Emirates, the Middle East tourism and commercial hub, over the weekend ended a requirement to wear face masks outdoors and obligatory quarantine for COVID-19 contact cases. Fully-vaccinated passengers arriving in the country will no longer require PCR tests, said the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority in updated guidance that went into effect on Saturday. Also read | Archaeologists dig out UAE’s oldest buildings, dating back 8,500 years "For economic and tourist sectors, physical distancing has been cancelled while mask-wearing in closed places is still mandatory," it said. The capital Abu Dhabi also dropped a border entry requirement for a negative PCR test for those coming from other UAE emirates. Watch | India-UAE landmark trade deal: First comprehensive trade deal in 10 years Daily coronavirus cases in the country have fallen to some 600 from close to 3,000 in January.

UAE drops face masks outdoors, quarantine for Covid contact cases

In the stores and buses of&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;masks are rare even as Covid-19 spreads widely, vaccines are viewed with suspicion and the sick see hospitals as a last resort.

At Al-Shifaa Hospital in the capital Baghdad, the ramifications are clear.&nbsp;

"More than 95 percent of those sick with Covid-19 in intensive care are unvaccinated," said Ali Abdel Hussein Kazem, assistant director of the facility.

Half of the 40 intensive care beds are occupied in the department, where&nbsp;irregular beeping from monitors and IV machines is constantly heard.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-thousands-mark-2020-killing-of-iran-general-qassem-soleimani-441653">Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani</a>

Al-Shifaa hospital has been turned into a Covid treatment centre since the start of the pandemic and can treat 175 patients.

Linked to breathing devices, an old man and a young woman share a large room, where a family member is allowed to monitor them -- masked and in a white protective outfit.

Next door, a man in his 60s fidgets, pushing away his blanket. An asthmatic, he is also hooked up to a ventilator.

"He says he is suffocating," an alarmed relative said, summoning a doctor.

Iraq's public health system, already worn down by decades of war, under-investment and corruption, has struggled to cope with the coronavirus.

Since January,&nbsp;Iraq's 40 million people have been confronted with a fourth coronavirus wave, but -- unlike other countries -- the government has not imposed any restrictions.

Iraq&nbsp;has recorded more than 2.2 million infections and 24,000 deaths since the pandemic began two years ago, but data released by the authorities indicates that infections are now declining to around 2,000 new cases per day.

Despite 1,400 vaccination centres, officials struggle to overcome scepticism about the jabs, which health experts around the world say are saving lives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-uk-minister-resigns-iraq-rocket-attack-and-more-438084">Morning news brief: UK minister resigns, Iraq rocket attack and more</a>

Help from abroad

Fewer than 10 million people in&nbsp;Iraq, about a quarter of the population, have been vaccinated, said health ministry spokesman Seif al-Badr.

Among them, not even seven million have received two doses, and those with a booster number less than 100,000.

In neighbouring Iran, 66 percent of the 83-million population have received two doses.

"About 90 percent of the sick are older than 60," said Al-Shifaa's intensive care director Mohammed Salih, as he made his morning rounds, checking X-rays and giving instructions.

"Most have chronic conditions: diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease," Salih said, accompanied by doctors and nurses from Doctors Without Borders (MSF), a charity which is assisting the hospital.

Along with training that aims to "sustain the care", the MSF programme begun in November provides physiotherapy and mental health care, said Daniel Uche, a physician who heads the project.

Countering misinformation is another priority.

"Most of the pregnant women we admitted in our facility are not vaccinated because they are afraid for their precious babies, that maybe if they take the vaccine it will have an effect" on the infant, said Uche.&nbsp;

Salih said he noticed another trend: "Most of the patients come in only after reaching a critical stage."

They prefer to stay at home because of "social media" and "rumours" which minimise the gravity of the coronavirus or which raise suspicions about the vaccines, he added.

Those are the latest challenges for a health system crippled by decades of war and especially an international embargo under the dictator Saddam Hussein, who was toppled in a US-led 2003 invasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-new-zealand-police-clash-with-anti-vaccine-demonstrators-455231">COVID-19: New Zealand police clash with anti-vaccine demonstrators</a>

"People are afraid of hospital because of rumours that say they won't get proper care, and that we won't be interested in looking after them," a nurse said, requesting anonymity.

Two deadly fires at public hospital Covid-19 units last year sparked outrage among the population. One blaze killed more than 80 people in Baghdad in April and three months later another claimed at least 60 lives in Nasiriyah, southern&nbsp;Iraq.

Be careful

Authorities acknowledge that challenges abound for a sector dealing with ageing equipment and shortages.

Badr, the ministry spokesman, said the health infrastructure in some provinces "was entirely destroyed" in the war against the Islamic State group jihadists from 2014-2017.&nbsp;

The health budget of the oil-rich country does not even receive two percent of state expenditures.

"For previous governments health care was not a priority," said Badr, adding that even though the system is challenged it is ready to help those who are sick with Covid-19.

"We have thousands of beds available for people who would have breathing difficulties. We also have medicine and the necessary equipment, as well as vaccines," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: From Iraq to Afghanistan: America's trail of deaths

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-from-iraq-to-afghanistan-americas-trail-of-deaths-437226/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At Al-Shifaa, Farouk Naoum, 75, is leaving hospital after his recovery. He was among the minority of Iraqis vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine but despite the protection it offered, he still got infected.

"You have to be careful, very careful," he said after his 31 days of treatment.

In the stores and buses of Iraq masks are rare even as Covid-19 spreads widely, vaccines are viewed with suspicion and the sick see hospitals as a last resort. At Al-Shifaa Hospital in the capital Baghdad, the ramifications are clear.

In the stores and buses of Iraq masks are rare even as Covid-19 spreads widely, vaccines are viewed with suspicion and the sick see hospitals as a last resort. At Al-Shifaa Hospital in the capital Baghdad, the ramifications are clear. "More than 95 percent of those sick with Covid-19 in intensive care are unvaccinated," said Ali Abdel Hussein Kazem, assistant director of the facility. Half of the 40 intensive care beds are occupied in the department, where irregular beeping from monitors and IV machines is constantly heard. Also read | Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani Al-Shifaa hospital has been turned into a Covid treatment centre since the start of the pandemic and can treat 175 patients. Linked to breathing devices, an old man and a young woman share a large room, where a family member is allowed to monitor them -- masked and in a white protective outfit. Next door, a man in his 60s fidgets, pushing away his blanket. An asthmatic, he is also hooked up to a ventilator. "He says he is suffocating," an alarmed relative said, summoning a doctor. Iraq's public health system, already worn down by decades of war, under-investment and corruption, has struggled to cope with the coronavirus. Since January, Iraq's 40 million people have been confronted with a fourth coronavirus wave, but -- unlike other countries -- the government has not imposed any restrictions. Iraq has recorded more than 2.2 million infections and 24,000 deaths since the pandemic began two years ago, but data released by the authorities indicates that infections are now declining to around 2,000 new cases per day. Despite 1,400 vaccination centres, officials struggle to overcome scepticism about the jabs, which health experts around the world say are saving lives. Also read | Morning news brief: UK minister resigns, Iraq rocket attack and more Help from abroad Fewer than 10 million people in Iraq, about a quarter of the population, have been vaccinated, said health ministry spokesman Seif al-Badr. Among them, not even seven million have received two doses, and those with a booster number less than 100,000. In neighbouring Iran, 66 percent of the 83-million population have received two doses. "About 90 percent of the sick are older than 60," said Al-Shifaa's intensive care director Mohammed Salih, as he made his morning rounds, checking X-rays and giving instructions. "Most have chronic conditions: diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease," Salih said, accompanied by doctors and nurses from Doctors Without Borders (MSF), a charity which is assisting the hospital. Along with training that aims to "sustain the care", the MSF programme begun in November provides physiotherapy and mental health care, said Daniel Uche, a physician who heads the project. Countering misinformation is another priority. "Most of the pregnant women we admitted in our facility are not vaccinated because they are afraid for their precious babies, that maybe if they take the vaccine it will have an effect" on the infant, said Uche. Salih said he noticed another trend: "Most of the patients come in only after reaching a critical stage." They prefer to stay at home because of "social media" and "rumours" which minimise the gravity of the coronavirus or which raise suspicions about the vaccines, he added. Those are the latest challenges for a health system crippled by decades of war and especially an international embargo under the dictator Saddam Hussein, who was toppled in a US-led 2003 invasion. Also read | COVID-19: New Zealand police clash with anti-vaccine demonstrators "People are afraid of hospital because of rumours that say they won't get proper care, and that we won't be interested in looking after them," a nurse said, requesting anonymity. Two deadly fires at public hospital Covid-19 units last year sparked outrage among the population. One blaze killed more than 80 people in Baghdad in April and three months later another claimed at least 60 lives in Nasiriyah, southern Iraq. Be careful Authorities acknowledge that challenges abound for a sector dealing with ageing equipment and shortages. Badr, the ministry spokesman, said the health infrastructure in some provinces "was entirely destroyed" in the war against the Islamic State group jihadists from 2014-2017. The health budget of the oil-rich country does not even receive two percent of state expenditures. "For previous governments health care was not a priority," said Badr, adding that even though the system is challenged it is ready to help those who are sick with Covid-19. "We have thousands of beds available for people who would have breathing difficulties. We also have medicine and the necessary equipment, as well as vaccines," he said. Watch | Gravitas: From Iraq to Afghanistan: America's trail of deaths At Al-Shifaa, Farouk Naoum, 75, is leaving hospital after his recovery. He was among the minority of Iraqis vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine but despite the protection it offered, he still got infected. "You have to be careful, very careful," he said after his 31 days of treatment.

Even as Covid rages in Iraq, vaccines viewed with suspicion

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick. He went to Tate Modern, but on an early weekday morning. He would cook for friends, but only a small group who had all taken COVID tests.

Those accommodations allowed Riley to maintain something of a normal life as the virus roared through Britain, even though his condition meant that his immune system was compromised.

But now, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Monday that he was scrapping the coronavirus restrictions in England, Riley and other vulnerable people are afraid that even scaled-back activities will be too risky, leaving them further isolated even as the country opens up for most people.

“Now I can’t see how we can move forward into a sort of normality,” he said, adding that the new approach will push him more into his house. “There is nothing there to protect us.”

A return to regular life was at the heart of Johnson’s decision to roll back the remainder of England’s legally enforceable coronavirus restrictions, in what has been described as an effort to live with the virus. People who are infected will no longer have to isolate, and most testing will no longer be free.

“We must chart a course back towards normality as rapidly as possible,” Johnson said during a news conference Monday.

For Clare Dawson, that path had just been interrupted.

“If there was someone walking around the streets whom you knew might kill you, would you go out?” said Dawson, 41, who lives in London and has a chronic lung disease that puts her at greater risk of severe consequences from COVID-19.

Gemma Peters, CEO of Blood Cancer U.K., a charity that funds research into blood cancer, said that after the prime minister’s announcement, its hotline was overwhelmed with calls from cancer patients asking what the new rules meant for them and whether it would be safe for them to go out.

“We can’t answer all the calls,” Peters said. “People use language like, ‘Society doesn’t care if I die,’ and I think that is the feeling — that they are kind of collateral damage.”

The British government said in a news conference that it would continue to protect the most vulnerable with targeted vaccinations and treatments and that free tests would still be available for vulnerable people, but it acknowledged that lifting the remaining legal curbs would most likely cause a rise in cases.

“Keeping free testing for the vulnerable? That’s too late,” said Trishna Bharadia, 42, who has multiple sclerosis and has been largely isolating at home in Buckinghamshire, England, for the past two years. “The aim should be to prevent the vulnerable from getting COVID in the first place.”

Bharadia said she and her family watched Johnson’s news conference Monday in the living room from where they have watched virtual weddings, funerals and birthday parties they have not been able to attend for the past two years.

“We can only live with the virus if those protection measures continue,” said Bharadia. “Just because I have a health condition, it doesn’t mean that I matter less.”

Still, the trend for fewer restrictions seems clear. On Tuesday, Scotland — which is part of Britain but sets its own COVID policies — also moved to roll back its legal coronavirus restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister there, announced plans to lift mask mandates in March and said the country’s COVID certification scheme, which requires people to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test in order to attend large events, would end this month.

And the British government has also withdrawn its guidance in England for staff and students at most schools and nurseries to test twice a week, even if they do not have symptoms. Infected children, just like the adults, will also no longer be legally required to self-isolate, but will be advised to do so.

Experts warned that this could lead children who have a weak immune system or live with vulnerable family members to be excluded from school.

Ceinwen Giles, 47, who developed an immune deficiency after her cancer treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, said that her 12-year-old daughter would continue to go to school but is anxious about the likelihood that she may be sitting next to children who might be infected.

“This is how we have to live,” said Giles, who is also joint CEO of Shine Cancer Support, a charity for young adults with cancer. “And no one seems to care.”

In England and Wales, only 16.8% of people who died of COVID from October to December last year did not have a preexisting health condition, according to the British government. For people who have a weaker immune system because of a disease or a treatment, COVID-19 can be more deadly, and vaccines often offer less protection.

Whether or not their condition forced them to take health precautions even before the pandemic, in the last two years many clinically vulnerable people have been forced into nearly total isolation, and even more so as mandates and restrictions have dropped around them. In the United States, many immunocompromised and higher-risk people have also felt left behind by the flurry of lifted restrictions.

“You feel different again,” said Dawson, adding that the new approach from the government had made her feel more alone in the face of the virus and forced to adopt her own precautions, stripped of the equalizing effect of rules.

Ultimately, people with health conditions understand the desire for life to return to normal and say they are not asking for draconian restrictions.

Instead, they say that modest restrictions — like mask mandates in transportation and supermarkets, and isolation requirements for infected people — would make a big difference for the more vulnerable without causing a major disruption to everyone else.

“The mask is just such a small thing,” said Riley, 53. “I can’t wrap my head around how it’s such an issue for people.”

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick.

The coronavirus forced Christopher Riley, a 53-year-old with blood cancer who lives in London, to strike a balance in the pursuit of normalcy. He would grab flowers from the buckets next to the entrance of a supermarket, but keep it quick. He went to Tate Modern, but on an early weekday morning. He would cook for friends, but only a small group who had all taken COVID tests. Those accommodations allowed Riley to maintain something of a normal life as the virus roared through Britain, even though his condition meant that his immune system was compromised. But now, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Monday that he was scrapping the coronavirus restrictions in England, Riley and other vulnerable people are afraid that even scaled-back activities will be too risky, leaving them further isolated even as the country opens up for most people. “Now I can’t see how we can move forward into a sort of normality,” he said, adding that the new approach will push him more into his house. “There is nothing there to protect us.” A return to regular life was at the heart of Johnson’s decision to roll back the remainder of England’s legally enforceable coronavirus restrictions, in what has been described as an effort to live with the virus. People who are infected will no longer have to isolate, and most testing will no longer be free. “We must chart a course back towards normality as rapidly as possible,” Johnson said during a news conference Monday. For Clare Dawson, that path had just been interrupted. “If there was someone walking around the streets whom you knew might kill you, would you go out?” said Dawson, 41, who lives in London and has a chronic lung disease that puts her at greater risk of severe consequences from COVID-19. Gemma Peters, CEO of Blood Cancer U.K., a charity that funds research into blood cancer, said that after the prime minister’s announcement, its hotline was overwhelmed with calls from cancer patients asking what the new rules meant for them and whether it would be safe for them to go out. “We can’t answer all the calls,” Peters said. “People use language like, ‘Society doesn’t care if I die,’ and I think that is the feeling — that they are kind of collateral damage.” The British government said in a news conference that it would continue to protect the most vulnerable with targeted vaccinations and treatments and that free tests would still be available for vulnerable people, but it acknowledged that lifting the remaining legal curbs would most likely cause a rise in cases. “Keeping free testing for the vulnerable? That’s too late,” said Trishna Bharadia, 42, who has multiple sclerosis and has been largely isolating at home in Buckinghamshire, England, for the past two years. “The aim should be to prevent the vulnerable from getting COVID in the first place.” Bharadia said she and her family watched Johnson’s news conference Monday in the living room from where they have watched virtual weddings, funerals and birthday parties they have not been able to attend for the past two years. “We can only live with the virus if those protection measures continue,” said Bharadia. “Just because I have a health condition, it doesn’t mean that I matter less.” Still, the trend for fewer restrictions seems clear. On Tuesday, Scotland — which is part of Britain but sets its own COVID policies — also moved to roll back its legal coronavirus restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister there, announced plans to lift mask mandates in March and said the country’s COVID certification scheme, which requires people to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test in order to attend large events, would end this month. And the British government has also withdrawn its guidance in England for staff and students at most schools and nurseries to test twice a week, even if they do not have symptoms. Infected children, just like the adults, will also no longer be legally required to self-isolate, but will be advised to do so. Experts warned that this could lead children who have a weak immune system or live with vulnerable family members to be excluded from school. Ceinwen Giles, 47, who developed an immune deficiency after her cancer treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, said that her 12-year-old daughter would continue to go to school but is anxious about the likelihood that she may be sitting next to children who might be infected. “This is how we have to live,” said Giles, who is also joint CEO of Shine Cancer Support, a charity for young adults with cancer. “And no one seems to care.” In England and Wales, only 16.8% of people who died of COVID from October to December last year did not have a preexisting health condition, according to the British government. For people who have a weaker immune system because of a disease or a treatment, COVID-19 can be more deadly, and vaccines often offer less protection. Whether or not their condition forced them to take health precautions even before the pandemic, in the last two years many clinically vulnerable people have been forced into nearly total isolation, and even more so as mandates and restrictions have dropped around them. In the United States, many immunocompromised and higher-risk people have also felt left behind by the flurry of lifted restrictions. “You feel different again,” said Dawson, adding that the new approach from the government had made her feel more alone in the face of the virus and forced to adopt her own precautions, stripped of the equalizing effect of rules. Ultimately, people with health conditions understand the desire for life to return to normal and say they are not asking for draconian restrictions. Instead, they say that modest restrictions — like mask mandates in transportation and supermarkets, and isolation requirements for infected people — would make a big difference for the more vulnerable without causing a major disruption to everyone else. “The mask is just such a small thing,” said Riley, 53. “I can’t wrap my head around how it’s such an issue for people.”

For some in England, end of virus rules threatens more isolation

Hong Kong is reeling under the fifth Covid-19 wave led by the Omicron variant. Elections in the country have been postponed and nearly 7.4 million people have been put under strict mandates as Covid cases rise in the country.

Hong Kong to enforce mass testing amid Fifth wave of COVID-19 led by the Omicron variant

Volunteer teacher found a way to reach students in Southern Philippines amid the Covid-19 pandemic. These students were not missing out on in-person classes since the pandemic began.

Philippines: Watch how teachers use trolleys as mobile classrooms for kids amid Covid-19

Through the Covid pandemic, it has been observed that children were less susceptible to the infection. It was also noted that they were least likely to spread the infection.&nbsp;

A study has shed more light on this and tried to find a reason behind this. The study revealed that children emitting fewer aerosol particles while speaking may be the reason why they are less likely to spread the infection than adults.&nbsp;

Smaller size of their lungs means that children emit fewer aerosol particles.

The study in this regard has been published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface

In the study, it was found that the particle emission rate was about four times lower for children than the same measurements taken from adults participating in the study.

“More precisely, children emitted [particle rates and emissions] during speaking of the same order of magnitude as adults breathing, and while singing, they emitted similar [particle rates and volumes] to the adults while speaking,” said Dr Mario Fleischer from Charité University Medicine Berlin. He was quoted by The Guardian.

“Especially in constellations with high vocal loudness, which are common in the everyday life of children and adolescents, the aerosol emission could be similar for different age groups, as the measurements for the shouting condition show,” said Fleischer. “On the other hand, singing and talking at volumes typical for children might be less restricted if the time frame is limited, like in common school and extracurricular settings.”

Through the Covid pandemic, it has been observed that children were less susceptible to the infection. It was also noted that they were least likely to spread the infection.

Through the Covid pandemic, it has been observed that children were less susceptible to the infection. It was also noted that they were least likely to spread the infection. A study has shed more light on this and tried to find a reason behind this. The study revealed that children emitting fewer aerosol particles while speaking may be the reason why they are less likely to spread the infection than adults. Smaller size of their lungs means that children emit fewer aerosol particles. The study in this regard has been published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface In the study, it was found that the particle emission rate was about four times lower for children than the same measurements taken from adults participating in the study. “More precisely, children emitted [particle rates and emissions] during speaking of the same order of magnitude as adults breathing, and while singing, they emitted similar [particle rates and volumes] to the adults while speaking,” said Dr Mario Fleischer from Charité University Medicine Berlin. He was quoted by The Guardian. “Especially in constellations with high vocal loudness, which are common in the everyday life of children and adolescents, the aerosol emission could be similar for different age groups, as the measurements for the shouting condition show,” said Fleischer. “On the other hand, singing and talking at volumes typical for children might be less restricted if the time frame is limited, like in common school and extracurricular settings.”

Children have low risk of Covid, this study may explain why

Nearly two years of covid-19 restrictions have been brought to an end. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the parliament announced details of his government's plan for living with covid-19 by treating it like any other transmissible illness such as flu.

England ends covid-19 restrictions, Boris Johnson announces details of 'living with covid' plan

Protest against covid-19 mandates continue in New Zealand, police has arrested eight individuals following an operation of installing concrete barriers around the country's parliament.

New Zealand police arrests 8 people as covid-19 vaccine mandate protest escalates

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