<p>A Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan, detained for her coverage of the Covid outbreak in Wuhan, was slated for release on Monday (May 13)&nbsp;after serving a four-year prison sentence.&nbsp;However, the day was shrouded in secrecy by authorities. The 40-year-old former lawyer was convicted of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite calls from media watchdogs and human rights groups advocating for her release due to deteriorating health, concerns loomed over her safety post-release.</p>

<p>Aleksandra Bielakowska, an advocacy officer at Reporters Without Borders said that there is a 'huge concern' about the safety of Zhang. Speculation is rife that authorities might detain her in secrecy or keep her away from public view. Zhang's journey to Wuhan in February 2020 to document the unfolding crisis led to her detention.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flip-flop-seen-over-us-stance-on-chabahar-port-721239">Flip-flop seen over US stance on Chabahar port</a></p>

<p>Despite warnings and threats from authorities, she persisted in her reporting, documenting what she witnessed on the ground. "I won't stop what I'm doing, because this country can't go backwards," Zhang said in one of her last interviews before her detention where she expressed her determination to continue shedding light on the situation.</p>

<p>During her incarceration, Zhang went on a hunger strike, resulting in severe health deterioration. She was force-fed through a tube, and her weight reportedly plummeted to a critical low.</p>

<h2><strong>'Constant&nbsp;harassment'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Zhang's case underscored&nbsp;the challenges faced by independent journalists in China. Amnesty International highlighted the "constant&nbsp;harassment" faced by citizen journalists for exposing information the government sought to suppress.</p>

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<p>In the early days of the pandemic, voices critical of the government's response proliferated online. China has been known for its strict control over information, especially regarding sensitive topics such as public health crises.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-forces-press-gaza-offensive-from-north-south-721271">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces press Gaza offensive from North &amp; South</a></strong></p>

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<p>The case of whistleblower Dr Li Wenliang, who succumbed to COVID-19 after sounding the alarm, drew international attention.&nbsp;In the case of COVID-19, there were reports of censorship on social media platforms like Weibo, where posts discussing the outbreak and its origins were deleted or heavily monitored.</p>

<p>In addition to this, there were allegations that the Chinese government underreported cases and deaths related to COVID-19, which further fueled speculation about the extent of censorship and control over information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan, detained for her coverage of the Covid outbreak in Wuhan, was slated for release on Monday (May 13) after serving a four-year prison sentence.

A Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan, detained for her coverage of the Covid outbreak in Wuhan, was slated for release on Monday (May 13) after serving a four-year prison sentence. However, the day was shrouded in secrecy by authorities. The 40-year-old former lawyer was convicted of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," media reports said. Despite calls from media watchdogs and human rights groups advocating for her release due to deteriorating health, concerns loomed over her safety post-release. Aleksandra Bielakowska, an advocacy officer at Reporters Without Borders said that there is a 'huge concern' about the safety of Zhang. Speculation is rife that authorities might detain her in secrecy or keep her away from public view. Zhang's journey to Wuhan in February 2020 to document the unfolding crisis led to her detention. Also Read | Flip-flop seen over US stance on Chabahar port Despite warnings and threats from authorities, she persisted in her reporting, documenting what she witnessed on the ground. "I won't stop what I'm doing, because this country can't go backwards," Zhang said in one of her last interviews before her detention where she expressed her determination to continue shedding light on the situation. During her incarceration, Zhang went on a hunger strike, resulting in severe health deterioration. She was force-fed through a tube, and her weight reportedly plummeted to a critical low. 'Constant harassment' Zhang's case underscored the challenges faced by independent journalists in China. Amnesty International highlighted the "constant harassment" faced by citizen journalists for exposing information the government sought to suppress. Also Read | New Caledonia unrest turns violent, shots fired at security forces In the early days of the pandemic, voices critical of the government's response proliferated online. China has been known for its strict control over information, especially regarding sensitive topics such as public health crises. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli forces press Gaza offensive from North & South × The case of whistleblower Dr Li Wenliang, who succumbed to COVID-19 after sounding the alarm, drew international attention. In the case of COVID-19, there were reports of censorship on social media platforms like Weibo, where posts discussing the outbreak and its origins were deleted or heavily monitored. In addition to this, there were allegations that the Chinese government underreported cases and deaths related to COVID-19, which further fueled speculation about the extent of censorship and control over information. (With inputs from agencies)

Secrecy shrouds release of Chinese journalist jailed for COVID-19 reporting

<p>Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan who was jailed over her reporting on the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was expected to be released on Monday. She spent around four years in prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 40-year-old was in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in February 2020 to cover the growing outbreak. She was also focussed on the government's effort to contain the pandemic, which remains&nbsp;a controversial matter even today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zhang, who is a former lawyer from Shanghai, was posting first-hand accounts from crowded hospitals and empty streets in China. She was detained in May 2020 after weeks of reporting that included videos.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-marine-pilot-arrested-in-australia-worked-with-chinese-hacker-unknowingly-lawyer-says-721022">Ex-US Marine pilot arrested in Australia worked with Chinese hacker unknowingly, lawyer says</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the court documents seen by the news agency Reuters, she also went on a hunger strike in late June. Her lawyers said at the time that the hunger strike prompted police to strap her hands and force-feed her with a tube.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was convicted by a Shanghai court of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" and sentenced to four years imprisonment in December 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An indictment for Zhang's case published by human rights activists indicated she would be released on Monday, but so far, there's no update on whether or not she was released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zhang Keke, who is one of her lawyers, also told the news agency that he couldn't yet confirm whether she had been released. "Zhang Zhan's relatives and family haven't yet responded to me," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-ratchet-up-ai-arms-race-amid-growing-strategic-concerns-720970">US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2>What did Chinese authorities say?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Wang Wenbin, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, told reporters he had no "relevant information" on the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jane Wang, who is a UK-based advocate for Zhang Zhan's release, said Zhang's family was pressured by the authorities and warned not to engage with the media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is totally unacceptable that the Chinese government subjects many human rights defenders and their families to this kind of cruelty. Even after their release from prison, they are still deprived of their basic rights," Wang told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>COVID-19 pandemic</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Coronavirus spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, but ever since, several claims and counterclaims have been made over its origin. Many assumed that it spread in a live animal market in China before spreading throughout the world. China has been accused of hiding information regarding the origin of the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan who was jailed over her reporting on the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was expected to be released on Monday. She spent around four years in prison.

Chinese citizen journalist Zhang Zhan who was jailed over her reporting on the early days of the coronavirus pandemic was expected to be released on Monday. She spent around four years in prison. The 40-year-old was in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in February 2020 to cover the growing outbreak. She was also focussed on the government's effort to contain the pandemic, which remains a controversial matter even today. Zhang, who is a former lawyer from Shanghai, was posting first-hand accounts from crowded hospitals and empty streets in China. She was detained in May 2020 after weeks of reporting that included videos. Also read: Ex-US Marine pilot arrested in Australia worked with Chinese hacker unknowingly, lawyer says According to the court documents seen by the news agency Reuters, she also went on a hunger strike in late June. Her lawyers said at the time that the hunger strike prompted police to strap her hands and force-feed her with a tube. She was convicted by a Shanghai court of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" and sentenced to four years imprisonment in December 2020. An indictment for Zhang's case published by human rights activists indicated she would be released on Monday, but so far, there's no update on whether or not she was released. Zhang Keke, who is one of her lawyers, also told the news agency that he couldn't yet confirm whether she had been released. "Zhang Zhan's relatives and family haven't yet responded to me," he said. Also read: US and China ratchet up AI arms race amid growing strategic concerns Watch: AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines × What did Chinese authorities say? Wang Wenbin, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, told reporters he had no "relevant information" on the matter. Jane Wang, who is a UK-based advocate for Zhang Zhan's release, said Zhang's family was pressured by the authorities and warned not to engage with the media. "It is totally unacceptable that the Chinese government subjects many human rights defenders and their families to this kind of cruelty. Even after their release from prison, they are still deprived of their basic rights," Wang told Reuters. COVID-19 pandemic Coronavirus spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, but ever since, several claims and counterclaims have been made over its origin. Many assumed that it spread in a live animal market in China before spreading throughout the world. China has been accused of hiding information regarding the origin of the virus. The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Covid whistleblower due to be released after 4 years in prison

The COVID-19 pandemic touched our lives in many ways but one of its lasting legacies has been the rise of the TWAT trend. WION decodes this legacy for you.

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British pharma giant Oxford-Astrazeneca is withdrawing its Covid-19 vaccines globally. According to a report in the Telegraph, the vaccine can no longer be used in the european union. The company says the decision has been taken for purely commercial reasons.

Astrazeneca's big post-Covid move, company voluntarily withdraws 'marketing authorisation' for EU

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AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines | Brazil floods leave 150,000 homeless

AstraZeneca withdrew its COVID-19 vaccine globally. The decision comes days after the company admitted that the vaccine can cause dangerous side effect. The application to withdraw the vaccine was made on March 5.

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The US has shared astonishing evidence along with the UK - it indicated a strong possibility that the Covid virus originated from a Chinese lab in January 2021.

US shared Covid lab leak intel with UK, Mike Pompeo presented info: Reports

US shared Covid lab leak information with UK, Mike Pompeo presented info; say reports

<p>In the thick of Covid pandemic, the United States told leaders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom that there was "high likelihood" that the pandemic-causing virus had leaked from a Chinese lab, The Telegraph reported.</p>

<p>Washington, London, Ottawa, Canberra and Wellington form Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network. In January 2021, a meeting of these Five Eyes nations was convened to discuss if or not Covid leaked from a Chinese lab.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to The Telegraph, in a previously unreported phone call that month, Mike Pompeo, the then US secretary of state in Trump administration, presented evidence that supported the lab leak theory to Dominic Raab, then the UK Foreign Secretary in Prime Minister Boris Johnson's cabinet, as well as to the representatives of Canada, New Zealand and Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: CIA helped China cover up Covid lab leak finding? Whistleblower unearths bribery scandal</strong></p>

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<p>Pompeo reportedly gave a summary of classified American intelligence reports collected&nbsp;and compiled by the State Department&nbsp;in the initial days of the Covid pandemic.</p>

<p>"We saw several pieces of information and thought that they were, frankly, gobsmacking," one former official who worked on the intelligence that informed Pompeo's report was quoted as saying by The Telegraph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They obviously pointed to the high likelihood that this was indeed a lab leak."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-institute-involved-in-creation-cover-up-of-covid-pandemic-report-603061">Wuhan institute involved in creation, cover-up of Covid pandemic: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, it was reported that the Chinese military officials worked with the Wuhan Institute of Virology in the years leading up to the Covid pandemic. Additionally, some researchers at the Wuhan lab became sick shortly before the first cases emerged elsewhere in Wuhan and Hubei province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese scientists also carried out "gain of function" research at the institute, which is being cited as a key piece of evidence for the lab leak theory.</p>

<p>China has been accused of obstructing World Health Organisation investigations over Lab leak theory, already a divisive topic among the scientists and governments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The FBI as well as the US Department of Energy say they believe a lab leak is the most likely cause of Covid.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the thick of Covid pandemic, the United States told leaders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom that there was "high likelihood" that the pandemic-causing virus had leaked from a Chinese lab, The Telegraph reported.

In the thick of Covid pandemic, the United States told leaders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom that there was "high likelihood" that the pandemic-causing virus had leaked from a Chinese lab, The Telegraph reported. Washington, London, Ottawa, Canberra and Wellington form Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network. In January 2021, a meeting of these Five Eyes nations was convened to discuss if or not Covid leaked from a Chinese lab. According to The Telegraph, in a previously unreported phone call that month, Mike Pompeo, the then US secretary of state in Trump administration, presented evidence that supported the lab leak theory to Dominic Raab, then the UK Foreign Secretary in Prime Minister Boris Johnson's cabinet, as well as to the representatives of Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Also watch | Gravitas: CIA helped China cover up Covid lab leak finding? Whistleblower unearths bribery scandal × Pompeo reportedly gave a summary of classified American intelligence reports collected and compiled by the State Department in the initial days of the Covid pandemic. "We saw several pieces of information and thought that they were, frankly, gobsmacking," one former official who worked on the intelligence that informed Pompeo's report was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. "They obviously pointed to the high likelihood that this was indeed a lab leak." Also read | Wuhan institute involved in creation, cover-up of Covid pandemic: Report Earlier, it was reported that the Chinese military officials worked with the Wuhan Institute of Virology in the years leading up to the Covid pandemic. Additionally, some researchers at the Wuhan lab became sick shortly before the first cases emerged elsewhere in Wuhan and Hubei province. Chinese scientists also carried out "gain of function" research at the institute, which is being cited as a key piece of evidence for the lab leak theory. China has been accused of obstructing World Health Organisation investigations over Lab leak theory, already a divisive topic among the scientists and governments. The FBI as well as the US Department of Energy say they believe a lab leak is the most likely cause of Covid. (With inputs from agencies)

'High likelihood' Covid leaked from Wuhan Lab: US told UK, three other allies at height of pandemic

Days after the British pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca acknowledged that its Covid vaccination can have uncommon adverse effects, Bharat Biotech, the developer of Covaxin, stated on Thursday that the drug's development was done with a single-minded concentration on safety.

No side effects from our vaccine: Bharat biotech amid AstraZeneca row

Saudi Arabia’s economy contracted for a third straight quarter, following the kingdom’s decision to cut petroleum production. The non-oil economy, on the other hand, grew at its slowest pace since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Non-oil economy grows at its slowest pace since Covid pandemic

Zhang Yongzhen, the first scientist to publish a sequence of the COVID-19 virus in China had been evicted from his lab. Zhang wrote the post on Chinese social media platform Weibo but it was later deleted. Watch in for more details!

China: Zhang Yongzhen, scientist who published Covid sequence evicted from lab

<p>Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS".</p>

<p>TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet&nbsp;serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels.</p>

<p>The revelation can potentially pave the way for&nbsp;AstraZeneca to cough up millions of dollars in legal payout.<br />
<br />
Here's all you need to know about the issue.</p>

<h2><strong>Covishield and rare side effects</strong></h2>

<p>British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, in conjunction with Oxford, developed its Covid vaccine that is sold under brand names 'Covishield' and 'Vaxzevria' among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vaccine was initially rolled out in 2021, as hundreds and thousands of deaths from the dangerous virus were being reported from across the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazaneca-admits-in-court-document-its-covid-vaccine-can-in-very-rare-cases-cause-complications-716218">AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’</a></strong></p>

<p>At the time, the rushed rollout was criticised by many in the scientific community and questions were raised about how safe it is to rush vaccine administration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, three years down the line, the question is back as AstraZeneca faces class action suits over claims that its vaccine caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases.</p>

<h2><strong>A confession?</strong></h2>

<p>In legal documents submitted to the UK High Court in February, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".</p>

<p>"It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known," said the company in the document that is making headlines months after it was submitted.</p>

<p>"Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a></strong></p>

<p>Previously, lawyers for the pharma giant, in a letter of response sent in May last year, had contended "We do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level".</p>

<h2><strong>Medical claims against the company</strong></h2>

<p>The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT).</p>

<p>He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury.</p>

<p>Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million).</p>

<p>Lawyers for the victims argue that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims.</p>

<h2><strong>AstraZeneca vaccine side effects</strong></h2>

<p>As per the World Health Organization, side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine include typically short-term and self-limiting mild-to-moderate symptoms.</p>

<p>The AstraZeneca vaccine has been associated with a range of common side effects, as reported by those who received it.</p>

<p>These side effects include discomfort at the injection site, a general feeling of being unwell, fatigue, fever, headaches, nausea, muscle and joint pain, swelling, redness at the site of injection, dizziness, sleepiness, excessive sweating, abdominal pain, and instances of fainting.</p>

<p>These, however, happen in less than 1 in 100 people.</p>

<h2><strong>Did nobody realise the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine's dangerous side effects earlier?</strong></h2>

<p>Amid reports of adverse effects, including blood clots due to the vaccine, several countries suspended the COVID-19 vaccine's use.</p>

<p>In March 2021, Austria suspended the use of one batch after two people developed blood clots after the vaccine jab and one of them died.</p>

<p>Over time, dozens of nations, many of them in Europe, suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine.</p>

<p>This includes Denmark, Ireland, Thailand, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Congo, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Canada, Sweden, Latvia, Slovenia, Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS". TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels.

Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, in a damning revelation, has admitted that its Covid-19 vaccine 'Covishield' can, in "very rare cases, cause TTS". TTS or Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is a rare yet serious condition suffered by some vaccine takers, with symptoms including blood clots and platelet levels. The revelation can potentially pave the way for AstraZeneca to cough up millions of dollars in legal payout. Here's all you need to know about the issue. Covishield and rare side effects British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, in conjunction with Oxford, developed its Covid vaccine that is sold under brand names 'Covishield' and 'Vaxzevria' among others. The vaccine was initially rolled out in 2021, as hundreds and thousands of deaths from the dangerous virus were being reported from across the world. Also read | AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’ At the time, the rushed rollout was criticised by many in the scientific community and questions were raised about how safe it is to rush vaccine administration. Now, three years down the line, the question is back as AstraZeneca faces class action suits over claims that its vaccine caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases. A confession? In legal documents submitted to the UK High Court in February, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS". "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known," said the company in the document that is making headlines months after it was submitted. "Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence," it added. Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami Previously, lawyers for the pharma giant, in a letter of response sent in May last year, had contended "We do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level". Medical claims against the company The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT). He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury. Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million). Lawyers for the victims argue that the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims. AstraZeneca vaccine side effects As per the World Health Organization, side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine include typically short-term and self-limiting mild-to-moderate symptoms. The AstraZeneca vaccine has been associated with a range of common side effects, as reported by those who received it. These side effects include discomfort at the injection site, a general feeling of being unwell, fatigue, fever, headaches, nausea, muscle and joint pain, swelling, redness at the site of injection, dizziness, sleepiness, excessive sweating, abdominal pain, and instances of fainting. These, however, happen in less than 1 in 100 people. Did nobody realise the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine's dangerous side effects earlier? Amid reports of adverse effects, including blood clots due to the vaccine, several countries suspended the COVID-19 vaccine's use. In March 2021, Austria suspended the use of one batch after two people developed blood clots after the vaccine jab and one of them died. Over time, dozens of nations, many of them in Europe, suspended the use of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine. This includes Denmark, Ireland, Thailand, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, Congo, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Canada, Sweden, Latvia, Slovenia, Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Court case, rare side effects, admission of guilt, and more. All you need to know

<p>For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".</p>

<p>Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count.</p>

<p>The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout.</p>

<h2><strong>Medical claims against company</strong></h2>

<p>AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-50-of-us-voters-dont-like-trump-for-president-but-more-would-prefer-him-over-biden-poll-716147">Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll</a></strong></p>

<p>The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT).</p>

<p>He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury.</p>

<p>Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million).</p>

<p>Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level".</p>

<p>However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known."</p>

<p>"Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a></strong></p>

<p>However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims.</p>

<p>Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab."</p>

<p>She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress".</p>

<p>"But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added.</p>

<p>"I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS".

For the first time since its COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out, AstraZeneca has admitted that it can cause a rare side effect. In legal documents submitted to the United Kingdom High Court, the pharmaceutical giant accepted that its COVID-19 vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS". Here, TTS stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, which can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count. The admittance, as per the Telegraph, could pave the way for a multi-million-pound legal payout. Medical claims against company AstraZeneca is facing class action suits over claims that its COVID-19 vaccine, developed in conjunction with Oxford, caused serious injury or death in dozens of cases. Also read | Over 50% of US voters don't like Trump for president, but more would prefer him over Biden: Poll The first case against the company was lodged by Jamie Scott, father of two, who was 44 when he received the vaccine. Ten days after the jab, Scott complained of tiredness and started vomiting. Soon after, his speech got impaired, and he had to be taken to the hospital, where physicians diagnosed him with a suspected case of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT). He survived the ordeal but was left with a permanent brain injury. Alongside Scott, 51 cases have been lodged against the company, with victims and grieving relatives seeking damages estimated to be worth up to £100 million ($125.36 million). Lawyers for the pharma giant, however, in a letter of response sent in May last year contended "we do not accept that TTS is caused by the vaccine at a generic level". However, in the document submitted in February this year, AstraZeneca said, "It is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known." "Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence." Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami However, lawyers for the victims argue that AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is "defective" and that its efficacy has been "vastly overstated". AstraZeneca has strongly denied these claims. Jamie Scott's wife, in a statement to The Telegraph, said, "The medical world has acknowledged for a long time that VITT was caused by the vaccine. It's only AstraZeneca who have questioned whether Jamie’s condition was caused by the jab." She said while it has "taken three years for this admission to come…it is progress". "But we would like to see more from them and the Government. It's time for things to move more quickly," she added. "I hope their admission means we will be able to sort this out sooner rather than later. We need an apology, fair compensation for our family and other families who have been affected. We have the truth on our side, and we are not going to give up." (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca admits in court that its Covid vaccine can ‘in very rare cases, cause TTS’

<p>State and federal prisons emerged as hotbeds for the COVID-19 virus in the wake of its outbreak in the US as there was a heightened risk faced by incarcerated individuals. Research&nbsp;from the University of California, Irvine, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital highlighted the staggering toll and revealed that at the pandemic's zenith in 2020, those inside prisons were nearly three-and-a-half times more likely to have died from the virus compared to the general population outside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, drawn&nbsp;from state prison systems and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, documented over 6,000 deaths among incarcerated individuals in the first year of the pandemic. The analysis illustrated a stark increase of at least 50 percent in the overall prison mortality rate, with potentially over 75 per cent spike.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The impact was particularly severe on older prisoners, with death rates among those aged 50 and above soaring. Lead author of the study, Naomi Sugie, pointed out this disparity and noted how older inmates faced greater risks.</p>

<p>The data revealed that there was a reduction in prison admissions even when there was no increase in releases. This reduction inadvertently shielded younger individuals from COVID-19 exposure, as incarcerated populations tend to be older.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-escalates-hijab-crackdown-victims-speak-out-against-morality-police-abuse-712574">Iran escalates hijab crackdown, victims speak out against morality police abuse</a></p>

<p>Governors, vested with the power to release prisoners, hesitated to take decisive action, with concerns over potential backlash over decision-making. Only a handful of parole boards saw notable increases in releases, with Iowa standing out for more releases.</p>

<p>Mitigation efforts varied widely across states, with some implementing aggressive testing and lockdown measures, while others lagged behind and resorted to calling in external support as deaths surged. Illinois, for instance, struggled to swiftly implement protective measures amid escalating fatalities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-chief-raises-alarm-over-increasing-chinese-military-presence-in-space-712618">NASA chief raises alarm over increasing Chinese military presence in space</a></strong></p>

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<p>Speaking over the Bureau of Justice Statistics that has yet to publish the&nbsp;mortality data,&nbsp;Sugie, the study’s author said, “this is really both to have an accounting of what happened... but also, really importantly, to learn from what happened, so we don’t do this again in the future when we have another pandemic, another crisis.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


State and federal prisons emerged as hotbeds for the COVID-19 virus in the wake of its outbreak in the US as there was a heightened risk faced by incarcerated individuals.

State and federal prisons emerged as hotbeds for the COVID-19 virus in the wake of its outbreak in the US as there was a heightened risk faced by incarcerated individuals. Research from the University of California, Irvine, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital highlighted the staggering toll and revealed that at the pandemic's zenith in 2020, those inside prisons were nearly three-and-a-half times more likely to have died from the virus compared to the general population outside. The study, drawn from state prison systems and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, documented over 6,000 deaths among incarcerated individuals in the first year of the pandemic. The analysis illustrated a stark increase of at least 50 percent in the overall prison mortality rate, with potentially over 75 per cent spike. WATCH | Biden mixes up Rafah with Israeli city Haifa, says 'don’t move...' The impact was particularly severe on older prisoners, with death rates among those aged 50 and above soaring. Lead author of the study, Naomi Sugie, pointed out this disparity and noted how older inmates faced greater risks. The data revealed that there was a reduction in prison admissions even when there was no increase in releases. This reduction inadvertently shielded younger individuals from COVID-19 exposure, as incarcerated populations tend to be older. Also Read | Iran escalates hijab crackdown, victims speak out against morality police abuse Governors, vested with the power to release prisoners, hesitated to take decisive action, with concerns over potential backlash over decision-making. Only a handful of parole boards saw notable increases in releases, with Iowa standing out for more releases. Mitigation efforts varied widely across states, with some implementing aggressive testing and lockdown measures, while others lagged behind and resorted to calling in external support as deaths surged. Illinois, for instance, struggled to swiftly implement protective measures amid escalating fatalities. Watch | NASA chief raises alarm over increasing Chinese military presence in space × Speaking over the Bureau of Justice Statistics that has yet to publish the mortality data, Sugie, the study’s author said, “this is really both to have an accounting of what happened... but also, really importantly, to learn from what happened, so we don’t do this again in the future when we have another pandemic, another crisis.” (With inputs from agencies)

US prisons were Covid hotbeds, inmates died nearly 3.5 times more than those outside

The United States and 50 other nations are gearing up to prevent future pandemics. The US will work with 50 countries to develop better response mechanisms.

United States to work with 50 countries to prevent future pandemics

<p>Experts have warned that a potential bird flue pandemic could be '100 times worse than Covid' as it could lead to deaths up to half of those infected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers raised concerns during a recent briefing over H5N1 strain of the bird flu. They pointed out that the virus may be nearing a critical threshold that could spark a global epidemic, Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Suresh Kuchipudi, a bird flu researcher warned that H5N1 has potential to cause a pandemic due to its ability to infect a range of mammalian hosts, including humans.</p>

<p>"We are getting dangerously close to this virus potentially causing a pandemic," he said.</p>

<p>"We are not really talking about a virus that is yet to make a jump, we are talking about a virus that is globally present, already infecting a range of mammals and is circulating… It is really high time that we are prepared," he added.</p>

<p>John Fulton, a pharmaceutical industry consultant, said: "This appears to be 100 times worse than Covid, or it could be if it mutates and maintains its high case fatality rate. Once it’s mutated to infect humans, we can only hope that the [fatality rate] drops."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-human-case-of-bird-flu-detected-in-texas-the-patients-symptom-was-weirdly-shocking-706726">Rare human case of bird flu detected in Texas. The patient's symptom was weirdly shocking</a></strong></p>

<p>Over 50 out of 100 people diagnosed with H5n1 bird flu have died since 2003, with a total of 462 deaths out of 887 cases, according to the World Health Organization.</p>

<p>The H5N1 is a subtype of avian influenza A. It is a group of related bird flu viruses. The H5N1 is considered highly pathogenic because of its ability to cause severe and often fatal illness in poultry.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Chile detects bird flu in a 53-year-old man; Why is this matter of concern?</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>While it mainly affects birds, H5N1 can also infect wild birds and occasionally mammals, including humans. In non-bird species, the disease can be fatal.</p>

<p>But some infected creatures may be mild or show no symptoms.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Experts have warned that a potential bird flue pandemic could be '100 times worse than Covid' as it could lead to deaths up to half of those infected. Researchers raised concerns during a recent briefing over H5N1 strain of the bird flu.

Experts have warned that a potential bird flue pandemic could be '100 times worse than Covid' as it could lead to deaths up to half of those infected. Researchers raised concerns during a recent briefing over H5N1 strain of the bird flu. They pointed out that the virus may be nearing a critical threshold that could spark a global epidemic, Daily Mail reported. Dr Suresh Kuchipudi, a bird flu researcher warned that H5N1 has potential to cause a pandemic due to its ability to infect a range of mammalian hosts, including humans. "We are getting dangerously close to this virus potentially causing a pandemic," he said. "We are not really talking about a virus that is yet to make a jump, we are talking about a virus that is globally present, already infecting a range of mammals and is circulating… It is really high time that we are prepared," he added. John Fulton, a pharmaceutical industry consultant, said: "This appears to be 100 times worse than Covid, or it could be if it mutates and maintains its high case fatality rate. Once it’s mutated to infect humans, we can only hope that the [fatality rate] drops." Also read | Rare human case of bird flu detected in Texas. The patient's symptom was weirdly shocking Over 50 out of 100 people diagnosed with H5n1 bird flu have died since 2003, with a total of 462 deaths out of 887 cases, according to the World Health Organization. The H5N1 is a subtype of avian influenza A. It is a group of related bird flu viruses. The H5N1 is considered highly pathogenic because of its ability to cause severe and often fatal illness in poultry. Also watch | Chile detects bird flu in a 53-year-old man; Why is this matter of concern? × While it mainly affects birds, H5N1 can also infect wild birds and occasionally mammals, including humans. In non-bird species, the disease can be fatal. But some infected creatures may be mild or show no symptoms. (With inputs from agencies)

Experts flag potential Bird Flu epidemic as '100 times worse than Covid'

In a world where Covid-19 still exists, AI tools play a key role in assisting and analysing lung ultrasound images. However, if not properly trained, these tools might misdiagnose Covid-19 cases.

AI-driven medical diagnostics for Covid in lungs, detects Covid-19 in ultrasound images

<p>A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and Jiangnan University in Wuxi, China, have created nanoparticles that can fight against different strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.</p>

<p>This discovery has the potential to improve the efficacy of existing COVID-19 treatments. The results of the study were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal.</p>

<h2>Why need a new treatment? Current challenges with COVID-19 treatments</h2>

<p>Despite being effective, mRNA vaccines do not give total protection from COVID-19 as it can still affect vaccinated individuals, especially the elderly. Emerging strains of the virus pose ongoing challenges, necessitating frequent updates to vaccines to maintain their efficacy. Professor Nicholas Kotov from the University of Michigan told Phys Org, "Our immune system needs time to generate antibodies, which may be too late for some people."&nbsp;While Pfizer's Paxlovid antiviral pill has shown promising results, it may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with cardiovascular issues.</p>

<h2>How do nanoparticles work against COVID variants?</h2>

<p>The nanoparticles target the twist in spike proteins, known as chirality, allowing them to interact with various coronaviruses. The nanoparticles' left-handed twist matches the left-handed twist of virus proteins, enhancing their binding and reducing the ability of&nbsp;virus to infect cells.</p>

<h2>How did nanoparticle treatment do in initial testing?</h2>

<p>Tests on mice infected with different strains of pseudoviruses showed promising results, with the treatment clearing 95 per cent of the viruses from their lungs.<br />
<br />
Researchers aim to investigate the safety and longevity of these nanoparticles in humans through further studies. Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, as well as the Brazilian Centre for Research in Energy and Materials, were also a part of this research.<br />
<br />
This study is a breakthrough in the field of medical science as it presents a promising avenue for combating COVID-19. With further research and enhancements, nanoparticles can contribute significantly to global efforts in managing and preventing the spread of COVID-19.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and Jiangnan University in Wuxi, China, have created nanoparticles that can fight against different strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and Jiangnan University in Wuxi, China, have created nanoparticles that can fight against different strains of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This discovery has the potential to improve the efficacy of existing COVID-19 treatments. The results of the study were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal. Why need a new treatment? Current challenges with COVID-19 treatments Despite being effective, mRNA vaccines do not give total protection from COVID-19 as it can still affect vaccinated individuals, especially the elderly. Emerging strains of the virus pose ongoing challenges, necessitating frequent updates to vaccines to maintain their efficacy. Professor Nicholas Kotov from the University of Michigan told Phys Org, "Our immune system needs time to generate antibodies, which may be too late for some people." While Pfizer's Paxlovid antiviral pill has shown promising results, it may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with cardiovascular issues. How do nanoparticles work against COVID variants? The nanoparticles target the twist in spike proteins, known as chirality, allowing them to interact with various coronaviruses. The nanoparticles' left-handed twist matches the left-handed twist of virus proteins, enhancing their binding and reducing the ability of virus to infect cells. How did nanoparticle treatment do in initial testing? Tests on mice infected with different strains of pseudoviruses showed promising results, with the treatment clearing 95 per cent of the viruses from their lungs. Researchers aim to investigate the safety and longevity of these nanoparticles in humans through further studies. Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, as well as the Brazilian Centre for Research in Energy and Materials, were also a part of this research. This study is a breakthrough in the field of medical science as it presents a promising avenue for combating COVID-19. With further research and enhancements, nanoparticles can contribute significantly to global efforts in managing and preventing the spread of COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers develop nanoparticles that target multiple COVID variants: A breakthrough in fighting the virus

<p>Research published in The Lancet journal has revealed that life expectancy had plummeted in 84 percent of countries and territories during the COVID-19 pandemic period. From 2019 to 2021, global life expectancy witnessed a stark decrease by an average of 1.6 years. From 2000 to 2019, life expectancy on a global scale had surged by over six years, climbing from 66.8 years in 2000 to 73.4 years in 2019.</p>

<p>The study incorporated thousands of new data points sourced from vital registration systems, censuses, surveys, and other vital sources.</p>

<p>Utilising refined methodologies, the report offered a comprehensive view of the pandemic's toll on global health.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-first-ai-software-engineer-devin-writes-codes-and-creates-with-a-single-prompt-699751">World’s first AI software engineer Devin can write, code, and create with a single prompt</a></p>

<p>However, amidst the somber statistics,&nbsp;child mortality continued its downward trajectory, with half a million fewer deaths among children under five recorded in 2021 compared to 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet, stark regional disparities remained apparent in the report "in the number of deaths that occur in children under 5 years persist between regions. Population growth rates continued to decline during the COVID-19 pandemic."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Acting Assistant Professor of Health Metrics Sciences at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington Dr Austin E. Schumacher said, "For adults worldwide, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a more profound impact than any event seen in half a century, including conflicts and natural disasters."</p>

<p>South African provinces like KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo witnessed significant declines in life expectancy.&nbsp;Conversely, regions like Barbados, New Zealand, and Antigua and Barbuda fared comparatively better, boasting some of the lowest age-adjusted excess mortality rates during the pandemic, the report pointed out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-poses-extinction-level-threat-699809">AI poses extinction-level threat</a></strong></p>

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<p>The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in millions of deaths worldwide and disruptions to economies, societies, and daily life.</p>

<p>Efforts to combat the pandemic saw widespread vaccination campaigns, implementation of public health measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing, and various degrees of lockdowns and restrictions in different countries.</p>

<p>By 2022, several vaccines had been developed and were being distributed globally, offering hope for controlling the spread of the virus. However, challenges such as vaccine distribution inequalities, emergence of new variants, and vaccine hesitancy persisted for a long time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Research published in The Lancet journal has revealed that life expectancy had plummeted in 84 percent of countries and territories during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Research published in The Lancet journal has revealed that life expectancy had plummeted in 84 percent of countries and territories during the COVID-19 pandemic period. From 2019 to 2021, global life expectancy witnessed a stark decrease by an average of 1.6 years. From 2000 to 2019, life expectancy on a global scale had surged by over six years, climbing from 66.8 years in 2000 to 73.4 years in 2019. The study incorporated thousands of new data points sourced from vital registration systems, censuses, surveys, and other vital sources. Utilising refined methodologies, the report offered a comprehensive view of the pandemic's toll on global health. Also Read | World’s first AI software engineer Devin can write, code, and create with a single prompt However, amidst the somber statistics, child mortality continued its downward trajectory, with half a million fewer deaths among children under five recorded in 2021 compared to 2019. Yet, stark regional disparities remained apparent in the report "in the number of deaths that occur in children under 5 years persist between regions. Population growth rates continued to decline during the COVID-19 pandemic." Also Read | Rats swarming New Orleans Police HQ, getting high on marijuana in evidence room: Police chief Acting Assistant Professor of Health Metrics Sciences at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington Dr Austin E. Schumacher said, "For adults worldwide, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a more profound impact than any event seen in half a century, including conflicts and natural disasters." South African provinces like KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo witnessed significant declines in life expectancy. Conversely, regions like Barbados, New Zealand, and Antigua and Barbuda fared comparatively better, boasting some of the lowest age-adjusted excess mortality rates during the pandemic, the report pointed out. Watch | AI poses extinction-level threat × The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in millions of deaths worldwide and disruptions to economies, societies, and daily life. Efforts to combat the pandemic saw widespread vaccination campaigns, implementation of public health measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing, and various degrees of lockdowns and restrictions in different countries. By 2022, several vaccines had been developed and were being distributed globally, offering hope for controlling the spread of the virus. However, challenges such as vaccine distribution inequalities, emergence of new variants, and vaccine hesitancy persisted for a long time. (With inputs from agencies)

Know how much global life expectancy dropped during COVID-19 pandemic

<p>As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives. From its initial emergence to the ongoing battle against its variants, COVID-19 has reshaped societies, economies, and healthcare systems worldwide.</p>

<p><strong>Origins and emergence of the pandemic</strong></p>

<p>Four years ago, the world was thrust into uncertainty as reports of a novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China began to emerge. Little did we know then that this virus would rapidly evolve into a pandemic, causing widespread illness, death, and disruption on an unprecedented scale. As the virus spread across borders, governments implemented lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures to contain its spread.</p>

<p><strong>Challenges faced in the initial phase</strong></p>

<p>In the years that followed, the world witnessed remarkable acts of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Healthcare workers emerged as heroes, risking their lives on the front lines to care for the sick and vulnerable. Scientists worked tirelessly to develop vaccines at an unprecedented pace, offering hope for a way out of the crisis. Communities came together to support one another, whether through mutual aid networks, food drives, or simply checking in on neighbours.</p>

<p>However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Disparities in access to healthcare and vaccines widened existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Misinformation and conspiracy theories&nbsp;sowed doubt and confusion hindering efforts in&nbsp;combating the virus effectively. And as new variants continue to emerge, the threat of future waves looms large, reminding us that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-flooded-with-ai-powered-news-sites-that-push-propaganda-false-stories-report-698876">Internet flooded with AI-powered ‘news’ sites that push propaganda, false stories: Report</a></p>

<p><strong>Hope on the horizon: Vaccines and progress</strong></p>

<p>As we reflect on the past four years, it's important to acknowledge both the progress we've made and the work that lies ahead. While vaccines offer hope for a return to normalcy, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus. We must also address the root causes of health inequities and work towards building more resilient and equitable societies.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-to-mobilise-military-public-doctors-to-aid-strike-hit-hospitals-698865">South Korea to mobilise military, public doctors to aid strike-hit hospitals</a></p>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our collective resolve in ways we could never have imagined. Yet, amid the darkness there have been moments of solidarity, compassion, and hope that remind us of the strength of the human spirit. As we look towards the future, let us honour the sacrifices made and the lessons learned and let us strive to build a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives.

As the world marks the fourth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a moment to reflect on the profound impact this global health crisis has had on our lives. From its initial emergence to the ongoing battle against its variants, COVID-19 has reshaped societies, economies, and healthcare systems worldwide. Origins and emergence of the pandemic Four years ago, the world was thrust into uncertainty as reports of a novel coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, China began to emerge. Little did we know then that this virus would rapidly evolve into a pandemic, causing widespread illness, death, and disruption on an unprecedented scale. As the virus spread across borders, governments implemented lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures to contain its spread. Challenges faced in the initial phase In the years that followed, the world witnessed remarkable acts of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Healthcare workers emerged as heroes, risking their lives on the front lines to care for the sick and vulnerable. Scientists worked tirelessly to develop vaccines at an unprecedented pace, offering hope for a way out of the crisis. Communities came together to support one another, whether through mutual aid networks, food drives, or simply checking in on neighbours. However, the journey has not been without its challenges. Disparities in access to healthcare and vaccines widened existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities. Misinformation and conspiracy theories sowed doubt and confusion hindering efforts in combating the virus effectively. And as new variants continue to emerge, the threat of future waves looms large, reminding us that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. Also read | Internet flooded with AI-powered ‘news’ sites that push propaganda, false stories: Report Hope on the horizon: Vaccines and progress As we reflect on the past four years, it's important to acknowledge both the progress we've made and the work that lies ahead. While vaccines offer hope for a return to normalcy, we must remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus. We must also address the root causes of health inequities and work towards building more resilient and equitable societies. Also read | South Korea to mobilise military, public doctors to aid strike-hit hospitals The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our collective resolve in ways we could never have imagined. Yet, amid the darkness there have been moments of solidarity, compassion, and hope that remind us of the strength of the human spirit. As we look towards the future, let us honour the sacrifices made and the lessons learned and let us strive to build a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come. (With inputs from agencies)

Four Years of COVID-19: A journey of resilience and adaptation

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidnfaaUdQMzdNT" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Friday (March 1) that Americans who test positive for Covid would no longer need to stay in isolation for five days. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the CDC said that people can return to work or regular activities if their symptoms are mild and improving and it’s been a day since they’ve had&nbsp;fever.</p>

<p>The decision comes as the pandemic is no longer a public health menace it was earlier. The US had been one of the worst-affected countries. The report said that most citizens have some degree of immunity to the virus from vaccinations or infections. Experts said that many people were not following the five-day isolation guidance anyway.</p>

<p>CDC's Director Dr Mandy Cohen said, "Our goal here is to continue to protect those at risk for severe illness while also reassuring folks that these recommendations are simple, clear, easy to understand, and can be followed."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-finds-connection-between-long-covid-brain-fog-and-leaky-blood-vessels-692837">Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels</a></strong></p>

<p>The CDC originally advised 10 days of isolation, but in late 2021 cut it to five days for people who were infected and had no symptoms or only brief illnesses.</p>

<h2><strong>A look at the new guidelines</strong></h2>

<p>As per the CDC, if you have symptoms, stay home until they&nbsp;are mild and improving and it’s been a day since you’ve had&nbsp;fever. You can remain cautious by wearing a mask and keeping a distance from others.</p>

<p>The CDC has emphasised that people should still try to prevent getting infected with Covid in the first place, by getting vaccinated, washing hands, and taking steps to bring in more outdoor fresh air.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions</strong></p>

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<p>The agency's guidelines for workers at nursing homes and other healthcare facilities have not changed, the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>The concerns</strong></h2>

<p>Some experts have expressed concerns about the CDC's decision. They worry that a change in isolation rules may increase the risk of infection for older people and others who are more vulnerable to getting seriously ill.</p>

<p>Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University’s School of Public Health, said, "My biggest worry in all of this is that employers will take this change in guidance to require employees to come back to work ... before they are ready to before they feel well enough, and before they are not likely to pose harm to their co-workers."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Friday (March 1) that Americans who test positive for Covid would no longer need to stay in isolation for five days.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Friday (March 1) that Americans who test positive for Covid would no longer need to stay in isolation for five days. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the CDC said that people can return to work or regular activities if their symptoms are mild and improving and it’s been a day since they’ve had fever. The decision comes as the pandemic is no longer a public health menace it was earlier. The US had been one of the worst-affected countries. The report said that most citizens have some degree of immunity to the virus from vaccinations or infections. Experts said that many people were not following the five-day isolation guidance anyway. CDC's Director Dr Mandy Cohen said, "Our goal here is to continue to protect those at risk for severe illness while also reassuring folks that these recommendations are simple, clear, easy to understand, and can be followed." Also read | Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels The CDC originally advised 10 days of isolation, but in late 2021 cut it to five days for people who were infected and had no symptoms or only brief illnesses. A look at the new guidelines As per the CDC, if you have symptoms, stay home until they are mild and improving and it’s been a day since you’ve had fever. You can remain cautious by wearing a mask and keeping a distance from others. The CDC has emphasised that people should still try to prevent getting infected with Covid in the first place, by getting vaccinated, washing hands, and taking steps to bring in more outdoor fresh air. Also watch | New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions × The agency's guidelines for workers at nursing homes and other healthcare facilities have not changed, the report added. The concerns Some experts have expressed concerns about the CDC's decision. They worry that a change in isolation rules may increase the risk of infection for older people and others who are more vulnerable to getting seriously ill. Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University’s School of Public Health, said, "My biggest worry in all of this is that employers will take this change in guidance to require employees to come back to work ... before they are ready to before they feel well enough, and before they are not likely to pose harm to their co-workers." (With inputs from agencies)

Americans who test Covid positive don't need to isolate for five days anymore: US CDC

Covid-19 may have an impact on people's cognitive and memory abilities that lasts a year or more after infection. A new study reveals small deficits in the performance of cognitive and memory tasks in people who had recovered from Covid-19 compared with those who had not had the virus.

Covid-19 causes lasting damage to cognition and memory, research finds

<p>A study suggests that individuals enduring long-term effects of Covid-19 exhibit measurable memory and cognitive impairments comparable to a discrepancy of approximately six IQ points.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/rising-cases-of-silent-heart-attacks-linked-to-long-covid-wion-decodes-687662" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/rising-cases-of-silent-heart-attacks-linked-to-long-covid-wion-decodes-687662&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjSht2ZsdCEAxUKSWwGHRSFDCUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw34Ok4z_DxgU4DsUrrTXk5p" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/rising-cases-of-silent-heart-attacks-linked-to-long-covid-wion-decodes-687662" target="_blank">Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long&nbsp;<b>Covid</b>?</a></p>

<p>A study involving over 140,000 participants conducted in the summer of 2022&nbsp;suggests that the repercussions of Covid-19 on cognitive and memory functions may persist for a year or more post-infection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, individuals with persistent symptoms lasting over 12 weeks displayed significant deficits in tasks related to memory, reasoning, and executive function. Scientists assert that these findings provide concrete evidence of the tangible impact of brain fog.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-experimenting-with-deadly-covid-like-virus-that-is-fatal-to-mice-report-680390" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-experimenting-with-deadly-covid-like-virus-that-is-fatal-to-mice-report-680390&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjSht2ZsdCEAxUKSWwGHRSFDCUQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw37wPfbA9VlAfLqFqEM5iqA" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-experimenting-with-deadly-covid-like-virus-that-is-fatal-to-mice-report-680390" target="_blank">China experimenting with deadly&nbsp;<b>Covid</b>-like virus</a></p>

<p>Professor Adam Hampshire, a cognitive neuroscientist at Imperial College London and the study's lead author, highlighted the significance of the study, stating that while the concept of brain fog has been widely reported, this research demonstrates its correlation with objectively measurable impairments.</p>

<p>The study, conducted on participants from the React cohort, revealed that even after a year or more, individuals who had previously been infected but were symptom-free still exhibited detectable cognitive deficits, equivalent to around three IQ points.</p>

<p>For those with unresolved symptoms lasting beyond 12 weeks, the deficit was more pronounced, amounting to approximately six IQ points.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-scare-returns-with-jn1-rearing-its-head-do-you-need-to-worry-experts-speak-671776" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-scare-returns-with-jn1-rearing-its-head-do-you-need-to-worry-experts-speak-671776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj28N_JsdCEAxVwS2wGHQg7DqAQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw20sm4ItGibZH3ygFxX9XwI" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-scare-returns-with-jn1-rearing-its-head-do-you-need-to-worry-experts-speak-671776" target="_blank"><b>Covid</b>&nbsp;scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry</a></p>

<p>Dr. Maxime Taquet from the University of Oxford, not involved in the study, emphasised that while the average cognitive deficits may be small, a considerable minority could experience more significant impairments affecting their daily functioning and work capacity.</p>

<p>Encouragingly, individuals with longer-lasting symptoms that eventually resolved demonstrated deficits comparable to those who experienced a mild, short-duration illness. On the other hand, individuals with unresolved symptoms lasting 12 weeks or more (indicative of long Covid) and those who had been hospitalised for Covid-19 exhibited more noticeable and broader-ranging cognitive deficits.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj28N_JsdCEAxVwS2wGHQg7DqAQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1TViFS_DYCOIPWYANjNpCQ" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" target="_blank">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for&nbsp;<b>COVID</b></a></p>

<p>Variations were also observed among those infected with early virus variants, though attributing these differences to vaccine introduction and improved treatment during the pandemic's progression was inconclusive.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A study suggests that individuals enduring long-term effects of Covid-19 exhibit measurable memory and cognitive impairments comparable to a discrepancy of approximately six IQ points.

A study suggests that individuals enduring long-term effects of Covid-19 exhibit measurable memory and cognitive impairments comparable to a discrepancy of approximately six IQ points. Also read: Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? A study involving over 140,000 participants conducted in the summer of 2022 suggests that the repercussions of Covid-19 on cognitive and memory functions may persist for a year or more post-infection. Notably, individuals with persistent symptoms lasting over 12 weeks displayed significant deficits in tasks related to memory, reasoning, and executive function. Scientists assert that these findings provide concrete evidence of the tangible impact of brain fog. Also read: China experimenting with deadly Covid-like virus Professor Adam Hampshire, a cognitive neuroscientist at Imperial College London and the study's lead author, highlighted the significance of the study, stating that while the concept of brain fog has been widely reported, this research demonstrates its correlation with objectively measurable impairments. The study, conducted on participants from the React cohort, revealed that even after a year or more, individuals who had previously been infected but were symptom-free still exhibited detectable cognitive deficits, equivalent to around three IQ points. For those with unresolved symptoms lasting beyond 12 weeks, the deficit was more pronounced, amounting to approximately six IQ points. Also read: Covid scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry Dr. Maxime Taquet from the University of Oxford, not involved in the study, emphasised that while the average cognitive deficits may be small, a considerable minority could experience more significant impairments affecting their daily functioning and work capacity. Encouragingly, individuals with longer-lasting symptoms that eventually resolved demonstrated deficits comparable to those who experienced a mild, short-duration illness. On the other hand, individuals with unresolved symptoms lasting 12 weeks or more (indicative of long Covid) and those who had been hospitalised for Covid-19 exhibited more noticeable and broader-ranging cognitive deficits. Also read: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID Variations were also observed among those infected with early virus variants, though attributing these differences to vaccine introduction and improved treatment during the pandemic's progression was inconclusive. (With inputs from agencies)

Measurable impact of 'brain fog' linked to long Covid: Study

The Covid pandemic has ended but its effects have not left us. A new study says the Covid-19 infection can cause lasting damage to cognition and memory.

Covid-19 infection associated with cognitive deficits, brain fog not permanent problems

<p>Some chemicals present in e-cigarettes and vapes might increase the vulnerability of vapers to Covid infection, said a new study that highlights potential risks associated with vaping.</p>

<p>Components such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, commonly found in e-liquids, could enhance susceptibility to COVID-19, said the study published in the American Journal of Physiology.<br />
<br />
“Users who vape aerosols produced from propylene glycol/vegetable glycerin alone or e-liquids with a neutral to basic pH are more likely to be infected by the virus, while users who vape aerosols made from e-liquids with benzoic acid — an acidic pH — will have the same viral susceptibility as individuals who do not vape," said&nbsp;Rattapol Phandthong,&nbsp; the lead author of the study conducted by researchers from the University of California (UC), Riverside.</p>

<p>&nbsp;<strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603">Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' began retreat in 1940s by El Nino: New study</a></p>

<p>The research, which utilised airway stem cells to generate a three-dimensional tissue model of human bronchial epithelium, revealed a notable increase in ACE2 levels, a crucial receptor for SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid, across all exposed tissues.</p>

<p>Additionally, tissues exposed to aerosols containing nicotine exhibited heightened activity of TMPRSS2, an enzyme essential for viral cell infection.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-applying-physical-pressure-on-cells-diminishes-pain-new-study-reveals-694575">How applying physical pressure on cells diminishes pain? New study reveals</a></p>

<p>Professor Prue Talbot cautioned e-cigarette users to exercise prudence, saying, “It would probably be best for vapers to quit vaping for the protection of their health and to stop nicotine dependency."</p>

<p>Alternatively, she suggested opting for e-liquids with an acidic pH or containing benzoic acid to mitigate the risk of enhanced SARS-CoV-2 infection.</p>

<p>“If they cannot stop vaping, it is better to vape aerosols produced from an e-liquid with acidic pH or with benzoic acid to prevent the enhancedS-CoV-2 infection caused by nicotine, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin. However, inhalation of benzoic acid has its own risk, and data is still limited on this topic,” she added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | New research aims to improve climate &amp; ocean observation</strong></p>

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<p>The researchers underscored the complexity of the relationship between e-cigarettes and COVID-19 susceptibility, attributing it to various e-liquid compositions and e-cigarette models.</p>

<p>Phandthong noted, “Our findings could also help improve the design of clinical trials involving the use of tobacco products andS-CoV-2 infection."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Some chemicals present in e-cigarettes and vapes might increase the vulnerability of vapers to Covid infection, said a new study that highlights potential risks associated with vaping.

Some chemicals present in e-cigarettes and vapes might increase the vulnerability of vapers to Covid infection, said a new study that highlights potential risks associated with vaping. Components such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, commonly found in e-liquids, could enhance susceptibility to COVID-19, said the study published in the American Journal of Physiology. “Users who vape aerosols produced from propylene glycol/vegetable glycerin alone or e-liquids with a neutral to basic pH are more likely to be infected by the virus, while users who vape aerosols made from e-liquids with benzoic acid — an acidic pH — will have the same viral susceptibility as individuals who do not vape," said Rattapol Phandthong, the lead author of the study conducted by researchers from the University of California (UC), Riverside. Also Read | Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' began retreat in 1940s by El Nino: New study The research, which utilised airway stem cells to generate a three-dimensional tissue model of human bronchial epithelium, revealed a notable increase in ACE2 levels, a crucial receptor for SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid, across all exposed tissues. Additionally, tissues exposed to aerosols containing nicotine exhibited heightened activity of TMPRSS2, an enzyme essential for viral cell infection. Also Read | How applying physical pressure on cells diminishes pain? New study reveals Professor Prue Talbot cautioned e-cigarette users to exercise prudence, saying, “It would probably be best for vapers to quit vaping for the protection of their health and to stop nicotine dependency." Alternatively, she suggested opting for e-liquids with an acidic pH or containing benzoic acid to mitigate the risk of enhanced SARS-CoV-2 infection. “If they cannot stop vaping, it is better to vape aerosols produced from an e-liquid with acidic pH or with benzoic acid to prevent the enhancedS-CoV-2 infection caused by nicotine, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin. However, inhalation of benzoic acid has its own risk, and data is still limited on this topic,” she added. Watch | New research aims to improve climate & ocean observation × The researchers underscored the complexity of the relationship between e-cigarettes and COVID-19 susceptibility, attributing it to various e-liquid compositions and e-cigarette models. Phandthong noted, “Our findings could also help improve the design of clinical trials involving the use of tobacco products andS-CoV-2 infection." (With inputs from agencies)

Are you vaping? E-cigarette chemicals may increase risk of Covid infection, says new study

<p>New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid.</p>

<h2><strong>The research</strong></h2>

<p>A team from Trinity College Dublin and FutureNeuro, a research centre, examined serum and plasma samples from 76 individuals hospitalised with COVID-19 in March or April 2020. In addition, they analysed the samples from 25 people before the pandemic.</p>

<p>Their findings, which have been published in Nature Neuroscience, revealed that individuals with long COVID who exhibited blood-brain barrier leaks experienced brain fog. On the other hand, those without the said disruptions did not.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/rising-cases-of-silent-heart-attacks-linked-to-long-covid-wion-decodes-687662">Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? WION decodes</a></strong></p>

<p>Professor Matthew Campbell, a geneticist and head of genetics at Trinity, who contributed to the study said that "for the first time...we have been able to show that leaky blood vessels in the human brain, in tandem with a hyperactive immune system, may be the key drivers of brain fog associated with long COVID."</p>

<p>"This is critically important, as understanding the underlying cause of these conditions will allow us to develop targeted therapies for patients in the future," he added, as quoted by Sky News.</p>

<p>In their report, the researchers highlighted that "disruption" is apparent during "acute infection and in patients with long COVID with cognitive impairment." Still, they noted that it remains unclear how function is affected in these conditions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-long-covid-shouldnt-undertake-intense-exercise-study-676565">People with long Covid shouldn't undertake intense exercise: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Previously, a study from University College London noted that blood vessel leakage into surrounding tissues is common in numerous inflammatory diseases.</p>

<p>Professor Colin Doherty, a neurology expert and head of the school of medicine at Trinity, who was not part of the study, suggests that the study results will "now likely change the landscape of how we understand and treat post-viral neurological conditions".</p>

<p>"It also confirms that the neurological symptoms of long COVID are measurable with real and demonstrable metabolic and vascular changes in the brain," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Covid study: Indians suffer more lung damage post recovery, worst-hit by Covid after-effects</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What is long covid?</strong></h2>

<p>Individuals with persistent symptoms such as tiredness, difficulty breathing, memory and cognitive issues, as well as joint and muscle pain lasting more than 12 weeks after infection, can be classified as having long COVID.</p>

<p>According to the Office for National Statistics, as of March last year, an estimated 1.9 million people in the UK living in private households, accounting for 2.9 per cent of the population, were experiencing self-reported long COVID.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid.

New research suggests that brain fog experienced by individuals with long Covid may be linked to leaky blood vessels. Scientists suggest that coronavirus disrupts a person's blood-brain barrier, which could be a potential cause of the cognitive issues seen in those with long Covid. The research A team from Trinity College Dublin and FutureNeuro, a research centre, examined serum and plasma samples from 76 individuals hospitalised with COVID-19 in March or April 2020. In addition, they analysed the samples from 25 people before the pandemic. Their findings, which have been published in Nature Neuroscience, revealed that individuals with long COVID who exhibited blood-brain barrier leaks experienced brain fog. On the other hand, those without the said disruptions did not. Also read | Rising cases of silent heart attacks linked to long Covid? WION decodes Professor Matthew Campbell, a geneticist and head of genetics at Trinity, who contributed to the study said that "for the first time...we have been able to show that leaky blood vessels in the human brain, in tandem with a hyperactive immune system, may be the key drivers of brain fog associated with long COVID." "This is critically important, as understanding the underlying cause of these conditions will allow us to develop targeted therapies for patients in the future," he added, as quoted by Sky News. In their report, the researchers highlighted that "disruption" is apparent during "acute infection and in patients with long COVID with cognitive impairment." Still, they noted that it remains unclear how function is affected in these conditions. Also read | People with long Covid shouldn't undertake intense exercise: Study Previously, a study from University College London noted that blood vessel leakage into surrounding tissues is common in numerous inflammatory diseases. Professor Colin Doherty, a neurology expert and head of the school of medicine at Trinity, who was not part of the study, suggests that the study results will "now likely change the landscape of how we understand and treat post-viral neurological conditions". "It also confirms that the neurological symptoms of long COVID are measurable with real and demonstrable metabolic and vascular changes in the brain," he added. Watch | Covid study: Indians suffer more lung damage post recovery, worst-hit by Covid after-effects × What is long covid? Individuals with persistent symptoms such as tiredness, difficulty breathing, memory and cognitive issues, as well as joint and muscle pain lasting more than 12 weeks after infection, can be classified as having long COVID. According to the Office for National Statistics, as of March last year, an estimated 1.9 million people in the UK living in private households, accounting for 2.9 per cent of the population, were experiencing self-reported long COVID. (With inputs from agencies)

Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels

Largest-ever covid vaccine study links shot to small increase in heart and brain conditions. Researchers from the global vaccine data network analyzed data from 99 million vaccinated individuals.

New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions

How are Covid vaccines affecting our health?

covid

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