India is once again reported a significant decline in covid-19 cases. With over 300,000 cases reported in the last 24 hours, the drop is being witnessed for for the fifth consecutive day.

India witnesses decline in daily covid-19 cases

Speaking at a meeting with health officials, Carrie Lam said that there was only a slim chance the city-wide restrictions to be lifted on the 4th of February.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam warns of worsening COVID outbreak

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported.

The cases, in the South Island town of Nelson, are the first omicron infections detected outside of workers connected to the international airport or the country’s hotel quarantine facilities. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said some of the infected people had attended a large wedding in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city.

“That means omicron is now circulating in Auckland and possibly the Nelson-Marlborough region, if not elsewhere,” Ardern said at a news conference announcing the restrictions.

New Zealand was pursuing a zero-COVID strategy until last year, when a major outbreak of the delta variant forced it to give up those aspirations. But its numbers have remained low. Over the past two months, New Zealand has reported just a few dozen new cases per day.

It was unclear how the people in Nelson — members of a single, multigenerational family — had contracted the virus, though Ardern said they had recently flown on the same Air New Zealand flight as an air steward who later tested positive with omicron.

Ardern said the new measures, classified as “Red” under the country’s traffic-light-based system, were “not lockdown.”

“At Red, businesses stay open and you can do most of things that you normally do, including visiting family and friends and traveling around the country,” she said.

But people who are not vaccinated will face significant restrictions, including being barred from worship services and from businesses that serve food or drinks. Schools will stay open, but all pupils from third grade up must wear masks. Events like weddings and funerals will be limited to 100 people, all of whom must be vaccinated. (If unvaccinated people attend, the limit is reduced to 25.)

More than 93% of New Zealand’s population ages 12 and older are considered fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, but only 23% have received a booster shot. The new restrictions are expected to be kept in place for a number of weeks as more booster shots are distributed.

On Friday, New Zealand announced that people who test positive for the virus would need to isolate for 14 days, up from 10. Their close contacts must now isolate for 10 days, instead of a week.

The omicron variant has brought the pandemic to some of the most remote regions of the world this past week. Some island nations in the Pacific recorded their first cases, prompting the first lockdowns of the pandemic in Kiribati and Samoa.

At the news conference, Ardern said that her wedding to her partner, television host Clarke Gayford, would not be held in the coming weeks as planned.

“I am no different to, dare I say it, thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts from the pandemic,” she said of the postponement. “The most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one when they are gravely ill — that will far, far outstrip any sadness I experience.”

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported.

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported. The cases, in the South Island town of Nelson, are the first omicron infections detected outside of workers connected to the international airport or the country’s hotel quarantine facilities. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said some of the infected people had attended a large wedding in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. “That means omicron is now circulating in Auckland and possibly the Nelson-Marlborough region, if not elsewhere,” Ardern said at a news conference announcing the restrictions. New Zealand was pursuing a zero-COVID strategy until last year, when a major outbreak of the delta variant forced it to give up those aspirations. But its numbers have remained low. Over the past two months, New Zealand has reported just a few dozen new cases per day. It was unclear how the people in Nelson — members of a single, multigenerational family — had contracted the virus, though Ardern said they had recently flown on the same Air New Zealand flight as an air steward who later tested positive with omicron. Ardern said the new measures, classified as “Red” under the country’s traffic-light-based system, were “not lockdown.” “At Red, businesses stay open and you can do most of things that you normally do, including visiting family and friends and traveling around the country,” she said. But people who are not vaccinated will face significant restrictions, including being barred from worship services and from businesses that serve food or drinks. Schools will stay open, but all pupils from third grade up must wear masks. Events like weddings and funerals will be limited to 100 people, all of whom must be vaccinated. (If unvaccinated people attend, the limit is reduced to 25.) More than 93% of New Zealand’s population ages 12 and older are considered fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, but only 23% have received a booster shot. The new restrictions are expected to be kept in place for a number of weeks as more booster shots are distributed. On Friday, New Zealand announced that people who test positive for the virus would need to isolate for 14 days, up from 10. Their close contacts must now isolate for 10 days, instead of a week. The omicron variant has brought the pandemic to some of the most remote regions of the world this past week. Some island nations in the Pacific recorded their first cases, prompting the first lockdowns of the pandemic in Kiribati and Samoa. At the news conference, Ardern said that her wedding to her partner, television host Clarke Gayford, would not be held in the coming weeks as planned. “I am no different to, dare I say it, thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts from the pandemic,” she said of the postponement. “The most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one when they are gravely ill — that will far, far outstrip any sadness I experience.”

With Omicron circulating, New Zealand imposes its toughest restrictions

The number of omicron-lead infections across the world is showing no signs of respite, but protests have intensified against vaccination mandates that have been set by different governments around the world.

Mass protests intensify against vaccination mandates despite Omicron surge

A UK scientist who helped shape the lockdown strategy has claimed that Britain is past the worst phase of the pandemic but it should be prepared for some “possible bumps on the road.

A UK scientist who helped shape the lockdown strategy has claimed that Britain is past the worst phase of the pandemic but it should be prepared for some “possible bumps on the road.” Professor Neil Ferguson is an epidemiologist at Imperial College London. In a report by The Guardian, he said, "I am optimistic that the bulk of the pandemic, in terms of deaths and hospitalisations, is behind us. Though we should still be prepared for some possible bumps on the road." He further added that if any new variants arise, which is highly likely, they may have a lesser impact than Omicron. “The very high level of immunity in the UK population – acquired via both vaccination and infection – means that the risk of a new variant causing unmanageable levels of healthcare demand is much reduced,” he said. Also read | As UK battles Omicron wave, 1 in 15 infected with COVID-19 in England Omicron variant of coronavirus had badly hit the nation. In early January, Britain's Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that one in 15 people were estimated to have been infected with Covid until December 31 in England. "COVID-19 infection rates continued to increase across all age groups in England with the highest rates still seen in school-age children and young adults," ONS said. Prime Minister Boris Johnson had recently announced that Plan B measures in the UK would be lifted as cases were dipping. Speaking about the same Ferguson said, “Restrictions are always a trade-off between infection control and economic cost. However, given that case numbers are in decline in all regions and that hospitalisations are starting to drop, I don’t think lifting restrictions poses a large risk of causing a major resurgence. Though obviously trends will need to continue to be monitored closely.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK is done with the worst of Covid but 'possible bumps on road,' expert warns

Booze parties at 10 downing street during the COVID-19 lockdown in Britain are likely to prove very costly for Boris Johnson. A Member of Parliament from Boris Johnson's Tory party William Wragg will meet with the metropolitan police.

Boris Johnson's Tory party MP William Wragg to meet with the metropolitan police for 'booze parties'

Four of the eight major cities in India appeared to have crossed the peak infection rate. Using the seven-day average researchers are pointing out that cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai are witnessing a clear decline in the infection rates.

Four of the eight major cities in India cross peak infection rate

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has cancelled her wedding as the country imposed new restrictions to slow the spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding as COVID cases rise due to Omicron

Booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are not just preventing infections with the contagious omicron variant — they are also keeping infected Americans from ending up in the hospital, according to data published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The extra doses are 90% effective against hospitalization with the variant, the agency reported. Booster shots also reduced the likelihood of a visit to an emergency department or urgent care clinic. The extra doses were most effective against infection and death among Americans 50 and older, the data showed.

Overall, the new data show that the vaccines were more protective against the delta variant than against omicron, which lab studies have found is partially able to sidestep the body’s immune response.

It is generally accepted that booster shots keep people from becoming infected, at least for a while. Data from Israel and other countries have also suggested that boosters can help prevent severe illness and hospitalization, especially in older adults.

“Data from other countries have also shown significant benefit of getting the booster, but this is really showing it in the U.S.,” Akiko Iwasaki, an immunologist at Yale University, said of the figures released Friday. “These numbers should be very convincing.”

On Thursday night, the CDC published additional data showing that in December, unvaccinated Americans 50 and older were about 45 times more likely to be hospitalized than those who were vaccinated and got a third shot.

Yet less than 40% of fully vaccinated Americans who are eligible for a booster shot have received one.

Friday’s results are based on three new studies led by the CDC. In one study, researchers analyzed hospitalizations and visits to emergency departments and urgent care clinics in 10 states from Aug. 26, 2021 to Jan. 5, 2022.

Vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization with the omicron variant fell to just 57% in people who had received their second dose more than six months earlier, the authors found. A third shot restored that protection to 90%.

It is unclear whether protection from the boosters might also wane as it did after two shots, noted Natalie Dean, a biostatistician at Emory University.

“We just have to recognize that all these estimates of omicron third-dose protection are going to be people who are pretty recently boosted,” she said. “We do wonder the durability of boosters themselves.”

When debating booster shot recommendations for all American adults, scientific advisers to the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC repeatedly bemoaned the lack of booster shot data that was specific to the United States.

There are differences between Israel and the United States — for example, in the way Israel defines severe illness — that made it challenging to interpret the relevance of Israeli data for Americans, they said.

Some members of the Biden administration supported the use of booster doses even before the scientific advisers of the agencies had a chance to review the data from Israel. Federal health officials intensified their boosters-for-all campaign after the arrival of the omicron variant.

The CDC now recommends booster shots for everyone 12 and older, five months after getting two doses of the mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, or two months after a single dose of the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine.

The usefulness of booster shots in Americans younger than 50 was a topic of vigorous debate in the fall. Several experts argued at the time that third shots were unnecessary for younger adults because two doses of the vaccine were holding up well.

Some of those experts remained unconvinced by the new data.

It was clear even months ago that older adults and those with weakened immune systems would benefit from extra doses of the vaccine, said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee.

But “where is the evidence that a third dose benefits a healthy young person?” he asked.

“If you’re trying to stop the spread of this virus, vaccinate the unvaccinated,” he said. “We keep trying to further protect the already protected.”

But other experts changed their minds in favor of boosters because of the highly contagious omicron variant. Even if two doses were enough to keep young people out of hospitals, they said, a third dose could limit virus spread by preventing infections.

“They’re both data-driven, legitimate positions,” said John Moore, a virus expert at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York. But at this point, the debate is over: “We are using boosters in everyone and that’s what’s happening.”

Booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are not just preventing infections with the contagious omicron variant — they are also keeping infected Americans from ending up in the hospital, according to data published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are not just preventing infections with the contagious omicron variant — they are also keeping infected Americans from ending up in the hospital, according to data published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The extra doses are 90% effective against hospitalization with the variant, the agency reported. Booster shots also reduced the likelihood of a visit to an emergency department or urgent care clinic. The extra doses were most effective against infection and death among Americans 50 and older, the data showed. Overall, the new data show that the vaccines were more protective against the delta variant than against omicron, which lab studies have found is partially able to sidestep the body’s immune response. It is generally accepted that booster shots keep people from becoming infected, at least for a while. Data from Israel and other countries have also suggested that boosters can help prevent severe illness and hospitalization, especially in older adults. “Data from other countries have also shown significant benefit of getting the booster, but this is really showing it in the U.S.,” Akiko Iwasaki, an immunologist at Yale University, said of the figures released Friday. “These numbers should be very convincing.” On Thursday night, the CDC published additional data showing that in December, unvaccinated Americans 50 and older were about 45 times more likely to be hospitalized than those who were vaccinated and got a third shot. Yet less than 40% of fully vaccinated Americans who are eligible for a booster shot have received one. Friday’s results are based on three new studies led by the CDC. In one study, researchers analyzed hospitalizations and visits to emergency departments and urgent care clinics in 10 states from Aug. 26, 2021 to Jan. 5, 2022. Vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization with the omicron variant fell to just 57% in people who had received their second dose more than six months earlier, the authors found. A third shot restored that protection to 90%. It is unclear whether protection from the boosters might also wane as it did after two shots, noted Natalie Dean, a biostatistician at Emory University. “We just have to recognize that all these estimates of omicron third-dose protection are going to be people who are pretty recently boosted,” she said. “We do wonder the durability of boosters themselves.” When debating booster shot recommendations for all American adults, scientific advisers to the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC repeatedly bemoaned the lack of booster shot data that was specific to the United States. There are differences between Israel and the United States — for example, in the way Israel defines severe illness — that made it challenging to interpret the relevance of Israeli data for Americans, they said. Some members of the Biden administration supported the use of booster doses even before the scientific advisers of the agencies had a chance to review the data from Israel. Federal health officials intensified their boosters-for-all campaign after the arrival of the omicron variant. The CDC now recommends booster shots for everyone 12 and older, five months after getting two doses of the mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, or two months after a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The usefulness of booster shots in Americans younger than 50 was a topic of vigorous debate in the fall. Several experts argued at the time that third shots were unnecessary for younger adults because two doses of the vaccine were holding up well. Some of those experts remained unconvinced by the new data. It was clear even months ago that older adults and those with weakened immune systems would benefit from extra doses of the vaccine, said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and a member of the FDA’s vaccine advisory committee. But “where is the evidence that a third dose benefits a healthy young person?” he asked. “If you’re trying to stop the spread of this virus, vaccinate the unvaccinated,” he said. “We keep trying to further protect the already protected.” But other experts changed their minds in favor of boosters because of the highly contagious omicron variant. Even if two doses were enough to keep young people out of hospitals, they said, a third dose could limit virus spread by preventing infections. “They’re both data-driven, legitimate positions,” said John Moore, a virus expert at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York. But at this point, the debate is over: “We are using boosters in everyone and that’s what’s happening.”

Booster shots are instrumental in fighting Omicron, CDC data show

Studies highlight the effectiveness of the Third dose against the Omicron variant of COVID-19. They claim that the booster dose is 90% effective in preventing hospitalisations.

Studies highlight the effectiveness of booster dose against the Omicron variant of COVID-19

Two years since Covid, several in-person gatherings mark a return in Europe, here is a list

COVID-19 cases continue to soar with each passing day. As per the latest data, the number of infections recorded is nearly 3 million globally this week only.

Global COVID cases continue to soar due to the Omicron variant

In a bid to contain the spike in COVID cases in the capital city of Japan which is now witnessing a record surge in daily cases the government has now started administering booster doses to the elderly citizens. Tokyo has recorded more than 11,000 COVID cases in the last 24 hours.

Japan: Govt starts administering booster shots to elderly citizens

The pacific island of Kiribati, which mostly kept the Coronavirus infection at bay, has announced fresh lockdown measures after passengers on the first international flight in 10 months tested positive.

The government detected four new cases from community transmission a day after 36 people on the flight from Fiji tested positive.

Until last week, Kiribati had recorded only two Covid cases.

Kiribati is one of the most isolated islands in the world. It is some 5,000km (3,100 miles) from its nearest continent, North America.

Under the lockdown rules, all essential service providers, including wholesale and retail food providers, will remain open to the public from 6 am to 2 pm.

All government offices have been ordered to closed and the staff have been told to work from home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-covid-free-island-gets-36-positive-cases-on-its-first-international-flight-446558">This COVID-free island gets 36 positive cases on its first international flight</a>

This does not apply to essential and emergency services such as hospitals, police, banking, the Kiribati Port Authority, Kiribati Oil Company and gas stations, key government ministries and agencies such as broadcasting.

"The only way that we can fight this virus is through complete vaccination," the office of President Taneti Maamau said on Facebook.

"The public is urged to complete their vaccination doses in order to protect themselves and families."

On Tuesday, the government confirmed that 36 of the 54 passengers had tested positive. In a Facebook post, the government said that all passengers are being monitored by health officials.

All of the passengers on the flight are fully vaccinated, the government said.

However, three members of the quarantine facility's security team have since tested positive. Another person who does not work at the facility has also contracted the virus, the government said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The pacific island of Kiribati, which mostly kept the Coronavirus infection at bay, has announced fresh lockdown measures after passengers on the first international flight in 10 months tested positive.

The pacific island of Kiribati, which mostly kept the Coronavirus infection at bay, has announced fresh lockdown measures after passengers on the first international flight in 10 months tested positive. The government detected four new cases from community transmission a day after 36 people on the flight from Fiji tested positive. Until last week, Kiribati had recorded only two Covid cases. Kiribati is one of the most isolated islands in the world. It is some 5,000km (3,100 miles) from its nearest continent, North America. Under the lockdown rules, all essential service providers, including wholesale and retail food providers, will remain open to the public from 6 am to 2 pm. All government offices have been ordered to closed and the staff have been told to work from home. Also read | This COVID-free island gets 36 positive cases on its first international flight This does not apply to essential and emergency services such as hospitals, police, banking, the Kiribati Port Authority, Kiribati Oil Company and gas stations, key government ministries and agencies such as broadcasting. "The only way that we can fight this virus is through complete vaccination," the office of President Taneti Maamau said on Facebook. "The public is urged to complete their vaccination doses in order to protect themselves and families." On Tuesday, the government confirmed that 36 of the 54 passengers had tested positive. In a Facebook post, the government said that all passengers are being monitored by health officials. All of the passengers on the flight are fully vaccinated, the government said. However, three members of the quarantine facility's security team have since tested positive. Another person who does not work at the facility has also contracted the virus, the government said. (With inputs from agencies)

Remote Pacific island which had only 2 two cases until now goes into lockdown

As coronavirus cases are increasing in Brazil, the carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro have been postponed. They will now be held in late April and not the final weekend of February.&nbsp;

Rio and Sao Paulo, in a statement, said, "The decision was made respecting for the current situation of the Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil and the need, at this time, to preserve lives and join forces to drive vaccination throughout the country."

The parade is a major tourist attraction for Rio. Tens of thousands of audience watch the parade live while tens of millions of people watch it from home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/addictive-behaviour-woman-sues-meta-snapchat-over-her-daughters-suicide-446653">Also read |&nbsp;'Addictive behaviour': Woman sues Meta, Snapchat over her daughter's suicide</a>

Earlier, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro had downplayed the Omicron coronavirus variant amid a rise in hard-hit Brazil. He further ruled out containment measures while defending herd immunity through widespread illness.

Bolsonaro said the Omicron strain that is causing a surge in Covid cases at home and abroad could be called a "vaccine virus" and is a "welcome" variant. Even when the Omicron variant made landfall in the country, causing cases to spike above 70,000 per day, he swore not to allow his daughter to take the shot and promised to continue fighting lockdowns.

(With inputs from agencies)

As coronavirus cases are increasing in Brazil, the carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro have been postponed. They will now be held in late April and not the final weekend of February.

As coronavirus cases are increasing in Brazil, the carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro have been postponed. They will now be held in late April and not the final weekend of February. Rio and Sao Paulo, in a statement, said, "The decision was made respecting for the current situation of the Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil and the need, at this time, to preserve lives and join forces to drive vaccination throughout the country." The parade is a major tourist attraction for Rio. Tens of thousands of audience watch the parade live while tens of millions of people watch it from home. Also read | 'Addictive behaviour': Woman sues Meta, Snapchat over her daughter's suicide Earlier, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro had downplayed the Omicron coronavirus variant amid a rise in hard-hit Brazil. He further ruled out containment measures while defending herd immunity through widespread illness. Bolsonaro said the Omicron strain that is causing a surge in Covid cases at home and abroad could be called a "vaccine virus" and is a "welcome" variant. Even when the Omicron variant made landfall in the country, causing cases to spike above 70,000 per day, he swore not to allow his daughter to take the shot and promised to continue fighting lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies)

Rio de Janeiro postpones Carnival parades as Omicron cases spike

Taiwan is reporting a surge in Covid cases just ahead of the Lunar New Year. The region has reported several clusters as the Omicron variant of coronavirus is leading a new wave.

Taiwan is reporting a surge in Covid cases just ahead of the Lunar New Year. The region has reported several clusters as the Omicron variant of coronavirus is leading a new wave. Taiwan’s centre for disease control, on Saturday, reported 82 domestic cases. Out of this, 63 were found at the Taoyuan factory in the first round of testing. Health and welfare minister Chen Shih-Chung said that most of those who are sick are migrant workers. In recent weeks there have been reports of the authorities responding to clusters in Taoyuan connected to the international airport. There have also been reports of cases in the southern city of Kaohsiung. Taiwan, in early December, detected the first case of the Omicron variant. It was detected in three people who arrived from abroad. Also read | Chinese company linked to government installs security scanners across Europe: Report Taiwan ramped up its vaccination drive during last year with 62 per cent of the population fully vaccinated in a country of 23.41 million. Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) had announced citizens who had earlier taken both doses of the vaccine five months ago are now eligible for the booster dose in order to stop chances of community transmission. CECC added that vaccine immunity reduces over time amid the threat of new variants. The command centre said frontline health workers including those over 65 were at high risk and should take the booster dose. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan sees a surge in Covid cases ahead of Lunar New Year

Lauren Terry, 23, thought she would know what to do if she contracted COVID-19. After all, she manages a lab in Tucson, Arizona, that processes COVID tests.

But when she developed symptoms on Christmas Eve, she quickly realized she had no inside information.

“I first tried to take whatever rapid tests I could get my hands on,” Terry said. “I bought some over the counter. I got a free kit from my county library. A friend gave me a box. I think I tried five different brands.” When they all turned up negative, she took a PCR test, but that too, was negative.

With clear symptoms, she didn’t believe the results. So she turned to Twitter. “I was searching for the omicron rapid test efficacy and trying to figure out what brand works on this variant and what doesn’t and how long they take to produce results,” she said. (The Food and Drug Administration has said that rapid antigen tests may be less sensitive to the omicron variant but has not identified any specific tests that outright fail to detect it.) “I started seeing people on Twitter say they were having symptoms and only testing positive days later. I decided not to see anybody for the holidays when I read that.”

She kept testing, and a few days after Christmas she received the result she had expected all along.

Though it’s been almost two years since the onset of the pandemic, this phase can feel more confusing than its start, in March 2020. Even PCR tests, the gold standard, don’t always detect every case, especially early in the course of infection, and there is some doubt among scientists about whether rapid antigen tests perform as well with omicron. And, the need for a 10-day isolation period was thrown into question after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that some people could leave their homes after only five days.

“The information is more confusing because the threat itself is more confusing,” said David Abramson, who directs the Center for Public Health Disaster Science at the NYU School of Global Public Health. “We used to know there was a hurricane coming at us from 50 miles away. Now we have this storm that is not well defined that could maybe create flood or some wind damage, but there are so many uncertainties, and we just aren’t sure.”

Many people are now coming to their own conclusions about COVID and how they should behave. After not contracting the virus after multiple exposures, they may conclude they can take more risks. Or if they have COVID they may choose to stay in isolation longer than the CDC recommends.

And they aren’t necessarily embracing conspiracy theories. People are forming opinions after reading mainstream news articles and tweets from public health researchers; they are looking at real-life experiences of people in their networks.

Still, this isn’t the same as following scientifically tested advice from experts, Abramson said. “A lot of it is anecdotal, and to say, ‘My brother-in-law did this and it worked for him, so I’m going to do it too,’ that is a poor use of probabilistic thinking,” he said.

And the people cobbling together their own guidance aren’t always looking for shortcuts. Reagan Ross, 26, who lives in San Jose, California, and is completing her doctorate in the department of communication at Stanford University, was recently asked on a date.

She had been isolating for 13 days after getting the virus, longer than the CDC’s guidelines, and no longer has any symptoms. But she decided she wouldn’t go on the date until she gets a negative antigen test.

“Some of my family members think I’m crazy,” she said. “But my date understands. He is not interested in getting COVID.”

(Abramson said you can’t go wrong by being too cautious. “If you are very cautious the odds are with you,” he said.)

Alexa Winter, 18, who works for Nordstrom Rack and lives in Minneapolis, wanted to stay home for the correct number of days, but she was confused about what that was after reading the CDC website. “I looked at the official CDC guidelines, but it was so muddled,” she said. “I couldn’t tell if it was five days or 10 days.”

Abramson said the five-day guidance “has too much ambiguity.” “I would have preferred much clearer guidance,” he said.

Winter turned to other sources. “I asked people who I communicate with on Twitter who did lockdowns what they did and what they thought I should do,” she said. “I asked my mom and dad what they thought. I asked friends of mine who had COVID before.”

Vince Hulett, 35, who works in digital marketing and lives in Ballwin, Missouri, believes it is his combination of vaccines — two Pfizer shots and a Moderna booster — that has protected him against COVID thus far. He decided to get a different booster vaccine after reading early studies that suggest the mixture may offer more protection than getting three shots of the same vaccine.

When most of his family contracted COVID over Christmas, it only made him more confident in his decision.

“I had a huge COVID outbreak in my family over Christmas. My dad and mom got it, my two daughters, my brother, his wife and their two kids,” he said. He and his wife, he said, were among the few who didn’t get it. “I 100% think my vaccine combo protected me.”

Syl Tang, a futurist, said almost everyone she knows has come to her with theories about what they think is happening right now in the pandemic.

“Everybody just wants to find a way to feel good about their choices and make sense about this world we live in right now,” she said.

Lauren Terry, 23, thought she would know what to do if she contracted COVID-19. After all, she manages a lab in Tucson, Arizona, that processes COVID tests. But when she developed symptoms on Christmas Eve, she quickly realized she had no inside information.

Lauren Terry, 23, thought she would know what to do if she contracted COVID-19. After all, she manages a lab in Tucson, Arizona, that processes COVID tests. But when she developed symptoms on Christmas Eve, she quickly realized she had no inside information. “I first tried to take whatever rapid tests I could get my hands on,” Terry said. “I bought some over the counter. I got a free kit from my county library. A friend gave me a box. I think I tried five different brands.” When they all turned up negative, she took a PCR test, but that too, was negative. With clear symptoms, she didn’t believe the results. So she turned to Twitter. “I was searching for the omicron rapid test efficacy and trying to figure out what brand works on this variant and what doesn’t and how long they take to produce results,” she said. (The Food and Drug Administration has said that rapid antigen tests may be less sensitive to the omicron variant but has not identified any specific tests that outright fail to detect it.) “I started seeing people on Twitter say they were having symptoms and only testing positive days later. I decided not to see anybody for the holidays when I read that.” She kept testing, and a few days after Christmas she received the result she had expected all along. Though it’s been almost two years since the onset of the pandemic, this phase can feel more confusing than its start, in March 2020. Even PCR tests, the gold standard, don’t always detect every case, especially early in the course of infection, and there is some doubt among scientists about whether rapid antigen tests perform as well with omicron. And, the need for a 10-day isolation period was thrown into question after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that some people could leave their homes after only five days. “The information is more confusing because the threat itself is more confusing,” said David Abramson, who directs the Center for Public Health Disaster Science at the NYU School of Global Public Health. “We used to know there was a hurricane coming at us from 50 miles away. Now we have this storm that is not well defined that could maybe create flood or some wind damage, but there are so many uncertainties, and we just aren’t sure.” Many people are now coming to their own conclusions about COVID and how they should behave. After not contracting the virus after multiple exposures, they may conclude they can take more risks. Or if they have COVID they may choose to stay in isolation longer than the CDC recommends. And they aren’t necessarily embracing conspiracy theories. People are forming opinions after reading mainstream news articles and tweets from public health researchers; they are looking at real-life experiences of people in their networks. Still, this isn’t the same as following scientifically tested advice from experts, Abramson said. “A lot of it is anecdotal, and to say, ‘My brother-in-law did this and it worked for him, so I’m going to do it too,’ that is a poor use of probabilistic thinking,” he said. And the people cobbling together their own guidance aren’t always looking for shortcuts. Reagan Ross, 26, who lives in San Jose, California, and is completing her doctorate in the department of communication at Stanford University, was recently asked on a date. She had been isolating for 13 days after getting the virus, longer than the CDC’s guidelines, and no longer has any symptoms. But she decided she wouldn’t go on the date until she gets a negative antigen test. “Some of my family members think I’m crazy,” she said. “But my date understands. He is not interested in getting COVID.” (Abramson said you can’t go wrong by being too cautious. “If you are very cautious the odds are with you,” he said.) Alexa Winter, 18, who works for Nordstrom Rack and lives in Minneapolis, wanted to stay home for the correct number of days, but she was confused about what that was after reading the CDC website. “I looked at the official CDC guidelines, but it was so muddled,” she said. “I couldn’t tell if it was five days or 10 days.” Abramson said the five-day guidance “has too much ambiguity.” “I would have preferred much clearer guidance,” he said. Winter turned to other sources. “I asked people who I communicate with on Twitter who did lockdowns what they did and what they thought I should do,” she said. “I asked my mom and dad what they thought. I asked friends of mine who had COVID before.” Vince Hulett, 35, who works in digital marketing and lives in Ballwin, Missouri, believes it is his combination of vaccines — two Pfizer shots and a Moderna booster — that has protected him against COVID thus far. He decided to get a different booster vaccine after reading early studies that suggest the mixture may offer more protection than getting three shots of the same vaccine. When most of his family contracted COVID over Christmas, it only made him more confident in his decision. “I had a huge COVID outbreak in my family over Christmas. My dad and mom got it, my two daughters, my brother, his wife and their two kids,” he said. He and his wife, he said, were among the few who didn’t get it. “I 100% think my vaccine combo protected me.” Syl Tang, a futurist, said almost everyone she knows has come to her with theories about what they think is happening right now in the pandemic. “Everybody just wants to find a way to feel good about their choices and make sense about this world we live in right now,” she said.

So you think you’re a Covid expert (but are you?) 

India is currently witnessing a record surge in COVID-19 infections fueled by the fast-spreading omicron variant. With an upward move in cases every day, the country is under the grip of an aggressive third wave.

India reports 337,704 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours amid a surge due to Omicron variant

Hong Kong is culling 2000 hamsters after traces of the COVID were found in 11 of them. Residents are being forced to surrender their pets; Pet shops are being raided. Hamsters testing negative are being put to sleep too.

Hong Kong is culling scores of hamsters after races of the COVID-19 were found in 11 of them

Ireland on Saturday will drop all Covid related restrictions. This comes after a major surge in cases did not cause any increase in ICU numbers.

According to a report by Reuters, after advice from public health officials, the government decided that bars and restaurants will no longer need to close at 8pm. Also, the capacity in indoor and outdoor venues is set to return to full.

However, measures like wearing a mask on public transport and in shops will remain in place for now.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee in a video said, "I am so pleased to be able to say that as of 6 am tomorrow, the vast majority of restrictions that have been in place for almost two years now, on and off, will be lifted."

"I don't think any of us thought we'd actually be getting to this point as quickly as we are now," she added.&nbsp;

These changes are introduced at a time when several governments are coming around to the idea that Covid may be endemic like the flu and asking people to live with it.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-we-ready-to-treat-covid-like-the-flu-some-nations-are-increasingly-thinking-so-444834">Also read |&nbsp;Are we ready to treat Covid like the flu? Some nations are increasingly thinking so</a>

Switzerland’s interior minister Alain Berset has said that the transition from pandemic to a stage like the flu may be considered. While speaking at a media conference, he said, “We may be on the eve of a watershed, the transition from a pandemic phase to an endemic phase."

Britain’s Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi, told the BBC that the UK is “on a path towards transitioning from pandemic to endemic."&nbsp;

Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days.

Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days.&nbsp;

Norway, also, is looking forward to relaxing some Covid restrictions. The Scandinavian country will partly reverse a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants, reports Reuters.

Restrictions in the Netherlands have also been eased. Non-essential stores, hairdressers and gyms will now be allowed to reopen. However, only a limited number of customers will be permitted.

Ireland on Saturday will drop all Covid related restrictions. This comes after a major surge in cases did not cause any increase in ICU numbers. According to a report by Reuters, after advice from public health officials, the government decided that bars and restaurants will no longer need to close at 8pm.

Ireland on Saturday will drop all Covid related restrictions. This comes after a major surge in cases did not cause any increase in ICU numbers. According to a report by Reuters, after advice from public health officials, the government decided that bars and restaurants will no longer need to close at 8pm. Also, the capacity in indoor and outdoor venues is set to return to full. However, measures like wearing a mask on public transport and in shops will remain in place for now. Justice Minister Helen McEntee in a video said, "I am so pleased to be able to say that as of 6 am tomorrow, the vast majority of restrictions that have been in place for almost two years now, on and off, will be lifted." "I don't think any of us thought we'd actually be getting to this point as quickly as we are now," she added. These changes are introduced at a time when several governments are coming around to the idea that Covid may be endemic like the flu and asking people to live with it. Also read | Are we ready to treat Covid like the flu? Some nations are increasingly thinking so Switzerland’s interior minister Alain Berset has said that the transition from pandemic to a stage like the flu may be considered. While speaking at a media conference, he said, “We may be on the eve of a watershed, the transition from a pandemic phase to an endemic phase." Britain’s Education Secretary, Nadhim Zahawi, told the BBC that the UK is “on a path towards transitioning from pandemic to endemic." Travel restrictions may also be eased in several European nations. Many countries have shortened their quarantine time. In Estonia and Iceland, quarantine time has been reduced to seven days. Slovenia has also shortened its quarantine time to five days. Norway, also, is looking forward to relaxing some Covid restrictions. The Scandinavian country will partly reverse a ban on serving alcohol in bars and restaurants, reports Reuters. Restrictions in the Netherlands have also been eased. Non-essential stores, hairdressers and gyms will now be allowed to reopen. However, only a limited number of customers will be permitted.

Ireland to scrap almost all Covid restrictions, bars allowed to open till late

A latest preliminary study has revealed that Russia's Covid vaccine, Sputnik V, shows higher Omicron-antibody levels than the Pfizer Covid vaccine. The joint Russian-Italian study was conducted by scientists from the Spallanzani Institute in Italy and Gamaleya Institute in Moscow, which also happens to be the developer of the Sputnik V vaccine.

"Today the necessity of third booster vaccination is obvious," the preliminary study.&nbsp;

The study involved 51 people vaccinated with Sputnik V and 17 people who were vaccinated with two shots of the Pfizer vaccine.

As a part of the study, the researchers compared the blood serum of people who had received the different vaccines. They elaborated that the samples which were taken 3-6 months after the second dose of a vaccine have shown that the levels of antibodies in people who have taken two doses of Sputnik V were more resistant to Omicron than those vaccinated with Pfizer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-urges-countries-to-lift-travel-bans-and-not-ask-for-vaccination-proof-for-entry-446291">Also read |&nbsp;WHO urges countries to lift travel bans and not ask for vaccination proof for entry</a>

Head of RDIF Kirill Dmitriev, in a statement, said, "Partnership of different platforms is the key...boosting with Sputnik Light will help strengthen efficacy of other vaccines in light of combined Delta and Omicron challenge."

The study will soon seek certification by peer review.&nbsp;

Study's findings revealed that Omicron-specific neutralising antibodies were detected in the blood serum of 74.2 per cent of the people vaccinated with Sputnik while for Pfizer it was 56.9 per cent.

The Omicron variant of coronavirus has driven a surge of cases all across the world. While most countries have imposed travel restrictions, WHO has urged nations to lift travel bans and mandatory vaccination for entry into countries.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned global leaders that the Covid pandemic “is nowhere near over” adding that the Omicron variant is causing hospitalisations and deaths the world over.

(With inputs from agencies)

A latest preliminary study has revealed that Russia's Covid vaccine, Sputnik V, shows higher Omicron-antibody levels than the Pfizer Covid vaccine. The joint Russian-Italian study was conducted by scientists from the Spallanzani Institute in Italy and Gamaleya Institute in Moscow, which also happens to be the developer of the Sputnik V vaccine.

A latest preliminary study has revealed that Russia's Covid vaccine, Sputnik V, shows higher Omicron-antibody levels than the Pfizer Covid vaccine. The joint Russian-Italian study was conducted by scientists from the Spallanzani Institute in Italy and Gamaleya Institute in Moscow, which also happens to be the developer of the Sputnik V vaccine. "Today the necessity of third booster vaccination is obvious," the preliminary study. The study involved 51 people vaccinated with Sputnik V and 17 people who were vaccinated with two shots of the Pfizer vaccine. As a part of the study, the researchers compared the blood serum of people who had received the different vaccines. They elaborated that the samples which were taken 3-6 months after the second dose of a vaccine have shown that the levels of antibodies in people who have taken two doses of Sputnik V were more resistant to Omicron than those vaccinated with Pfizer. Also read | WHO urges countries to lift travel bans and not ask for vaccination proof for entry Head of RDIF Kirill Dmitriev, in a statement, said, "Partnership of different platforms is the key...boosting with Sputnik Light will help strengthen efficacy of other vaccines in light of combined Delta and Omicron challenge." The study will soon seek certification by peer review. Study's findings revealed that Omicron-specific neutralising antibodies were detected in the blood serum of 74.2 per cent of the people vaccinated with Sputnik while for Pfizer it was 56.9 per cent. The Omicron variant of coronavirus has driven a surge of cases all across the world. While most countries have imposed travel restrictions, WHO has urged nations to lift travel bans and mandatory vaccination for entry into countries. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had earlier warned global leaders that the Covid pandemic “is nowhere near over” adding that the Omicron variant is causing hospitalisations and deaths the world over. (With inputs from agencies)

Sputnik V shows higher Omicron-antibody levels than Pfizer: Study

COVID-19 infections in South Africa are diminishing after the country saw a massive surge in cases during the fourth wave. According to UN, COVID cases and related deaths have reduced in multiple parts of Africa. The newly reported cases have fallen by almost 20 per cent.

Coronavirus cases lower in South Africa after period of massive surge in infections

After months of massive surge in COVID infection rates, mainly driven by the fast spreading Omicron variant, cases are now plummeting in Africa. According to UN, COVID cases have dropped in Africa and Coronavirus related deaths have also declined since the fourth wave of the virus reached its peak.

COVID cases plummet in Africa after fourth Coronavirus wave

UK PM Boris Johnson is facing a lot of heat over the parties that are alleged to have been taken place flouting Covid rules. WION's Jodie Cohen spoke with Jonathan Oates, a British Liberal Democrat politician and member of House of Lords.

He was formerly chief of staff to Nick Clegg former deputy prime minister of the United Kingdom. He weighed in on the situation Borish Johnson finds himself in.&nbsp;

WION: Lord Oates, in the latest, former secretary of state and chairman of the Conservative Party David Davis, has called for Prime Minister Johnson to go. How damaging is this, as well as the defection of MP Christian Wakeford to the Labour Party?

Lord Oates: Clearly is not helpful. Although paradoxically the decision of Christian Wakeford to defect has brought at least temporary coming together of the Tory tribe, making them feel perhaps that Labour is the real threat in the long term. I think David Davis' intervention clearly had a big impact. Cetainly in my household there was a big gasp as he delivered those words.&nbsp;

But he doesn't have a huge following in the Conservative Party to be honest. He is known to be a bit of a narcissist. He has got rather a big ego. I think there was a bit of a feeling that he was grandstanding.

So I think, to some extent, yesterday's events helped in short term Prime Minister Johnson. I am not sure whether in the long-term that would prove to be true.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As former cabinet minister David Davis joins calls for Boris Johnson's resignation, WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/JodieCohen613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JodieCohen613</a> speaks with UK lawmaker Lord Oates on the mounting trouble for the British prime minister. Take a listen in 
 
For more videos, visit: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb">https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb</a> <a href="https://t.co/au5hZklDVj">pic.twitter.com/au5hZklDVj</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1484182680333860864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

WION: In Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Johnson said that people must wait for the results of Sue Gray’s probe. What is the scope of the probe, and what do you think the results will show?

Lord Oates: Scope of the probe has grown day by day as more and more evidence emerges of events in No 10 Downing Street... It's expanded. It's really looking into the breach of Covid rules. Of course, Sue Gray is a civil servant who ultimately reports to the cabinet secretary and ultimately to the prime minister. Both the Cabinet secretary and PM are deeply implicated in these alleged parties. Ultimately, she has a very difficult job. I have worked with her in the past during the coalition govt.

She is somebody of integrity. She is a tough person. I'm sure she will be willing to take tough decisions. If she finds the facts are that the rules were broken, I think the prime minister could be in a lot of trouble. Particularly if she finds evidence that he was told as his former advisor Dominic Cummings says, that it was a party and it should not go ahead.

UK PM Boris Johnson is facing a lot of heat over the parties that are alleged to have been taken place flouting Covid rules. WION's Jodie Cohen spoke with Jonathan Oates, a British Liberal Democrat politician and member of House of Lords.

UK PM Boris Johnson is facing a lot of heat over the parties that are alleged to have been taken place flouting Covid rules. WION's Jodie Cohen spoke with Jonathan Oates, a British Liberal Democrat politician and member of House of Lords. He was formerly chief of staff to Nick Clegg former deputy prime minister of the United Kingdom. He weighed in on the situation Borish Johnson finds himself in. WION: Lord Oates, in the latest, former secretary of state and chairman of the Conservative Party David Davis, has called for Prime Minister Johnson to go. How damaging is this, as well as the defection of MP Christian Wakeford to the Labour Party? Lord Oates: Clearly is not helpful. Although paradoxically the decision of Christian Wakeford to defect has brought at least temporary coming together of the Tory tribe, making them feel perhaps that Labour is the real threat in the long term. I think David Davis' intervention clearly had a big impact. Cetainly in my household there was a big gasp as he delivered those words. But he doesn't have a huge following in the Conservative Party to be honest. He is known to be a bit of a narcissist. He has got rather a big ego. I think there was a bit of a feeling that he was grandstanding. So I think, to some extent, yesterday's events helped in short term Prime Minister Johnson. I am not sure whether in the long-term that would prove to be true. As former cabinet minister David Davis joins calls for Boris Johnson's resignation, WION's @JodieCohen613 speaks with UK lawmaker Lord Oates on the mounting trouble for the British prime minister. Take a listen in For more videos, visit: https://t.co/AXC5qRugeb pic.twitter.com/au5hZklDVj — WION (@WIONews) January 20, 2022 × WION: In Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Johnson said that people must wait for the results of Sue Gray’s probe. What is the scope of the probe, and what do you think the results will show? Lord Oates: Scope of the probe has grown day by day as more and more evidence emerges of events in No 10 Downing Street... It's expanded. It's really looking into the breach of Covid rules. Of course, Sue Gray is a civil servant who ultimately reports to the cabinet secretary and ultimately to the prime minister. Both the Cabinet secretary and PM are deeply implicated in these alleged parties. Ultimately, she has a very difficult job. I have worked with her in the past during the coalition govt. She is somebody of integrity. She is a tough person. I'm sure she will be willing to take tough decisions. If she finds the facts are that the rules were broken, I think the prime minister could be in a lot of trouble. Particularly if she finds evidence that he was told as his former advisor Dominic Cummings says, that it was a party and it should not go ahead.

Scope of probe has clearly grown: UK lawmaker on Downing Street parties

The world is slowly coming to terms with covid despite the rising number of infections. A study from South Africa shows the extent of the spread not even Lions are spared from the virus, three of them were infected with covid-19.

Study: Human to animal transmission of covid-19 possible, three lions tested positive

New Mexico has asked National Guard members and state employees to volunteer as substitute teachers. This is being done to keep schools and daycare centres open amid a surge in Covid cases.&nbsp;

According to a report by Reuters, nearly 60 schools in New Mexico have switched to remote learning since the winter break. Also, 75 child daycare centres have partially or completely closed as most of the staff members tested positive for Covid.&nbsp;

According to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, guard members who help in teaching will get their usual pay. Also, they will be considered on administrative leave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-deploys-military-medical-teams-to-hospitals-in-six-states-444522">Also read |&nbsp;Biden deploys military medical teams to hospitals in six states</a>

New Mexico Public Education Secretary Kurt Steinhaus, in a statement, said, "We've heard from multiple districts that a lack of substitute teachers is among the most critical staffing issues right now."

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden announced that the federal government will send military medical teams to six states — New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, Michigan, and New Mexico—to assist hospitals swamped by COVID-19.

The deployments were disclosed by Biden while describing new efforts the administration is making to combat an outbreak of diseases caused by the omicron variety.&nbsp;

Since Thanksgiving, the US has deployed around 800 military and emergency workers, according to Biden.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Mexico has asked National Guard members and state employees to volunteer as substitute teachers. This is being done to keep schools and daycare centres open amid a surge in Covid cases.

New Mexico has asked National Guard members and state employees to volunteer as substitute teachers. This is being done to keep schools and daycare centres open amid a surge in Covid cases. According to a report by Reuters, nearly 60 schools in New Mexico have switched to remote learning since the winter break. Also, 75 child daycare centres have partially or completely closed as most of the staff members tested positive for Covid. According to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, guard members who help in teaching will get their usual pay. Also, they will be considered on administrative leave. Also read | Biden deploys military medical teams to hospitals in six states New Mexico Public Education Secretary Kurt Steinhaus, in a statement, said, "We've heard from multiple districts that a lack of substitute teachers is among the most critical staffing issues right now." Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden announced that the federal government will send military medical teams to six states — New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, Michigan, and New Mexico—to assist hospitals swamped by COVID-19. The deployments were disclosed by Biden while describing new efforts the administration is making to combat an outbreak of diseases caused by the omicron variety. Since Thanksgiving, the US has deployed around 800 military and emergency workers, according to Biden. (With inputs from agencies)

New Mexico: National guard members asked to volunteer as substitute teachers

We have been telling you about the devastation in the Pacific island nation of Tonga, the 750 square kilometer region suffered an undersea volcanic eruption and then a tsunami crashed ashore but now the region is facing another major challenge that of a possible covid-19 outbreak. Tonga has reported just one case of the virus but with relief workers and aid shipments on their way to the island it has been feared that solving one crisis could give rise to a covid outbreak.

Volcanic eruption, tsunami and now Covid outbreak fears loom over Tonga island

American president Joe Biden has held a formal press briefing marking his very first year in office. Speaking of the country's fight against covid-19, president Biden said that the United States is now in a better place to fight the virus than it was when he had become president exactly a year ago but Biden has also admitted that more could have of course been done earlier to try and boost the covid-19 testing when the omicron variant emerged.

One year of presidency, US President Joe Biden hails his response to Covid pandemic

Meanwhile, the world is witnessing a new wave of covid-19 pandemic infections while Omicron is considered a relatively mild variant, but the rising name of cases shows that the new variant shouldn't be dealt lightly.

Omicron is mild but serious, Here's why Covid-19 variant shouldn't be neglected

India reports 317,532 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours amid a surge due to Omicron variant

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week.&nbsp;Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24). However, he warned that Omicron variant of coronavirus was not mild and those not vaccinated should especially take care.

He announced the lifting of Plan B Covid restrictions and a switch back to Plan A

Johnson also told the British parliament that people would not have to wear masks in closed spaces, while working from home and would not have to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;vaccination proof while&nbsp;entering public spaces such as nightclubs, shops or while using public transport.

Moreover, he said that masks will not be mandatory in UK schools Thursday onwards.

Johnson said that these steps were&nbsp;being taken after a successful&nbsp;mass booster jab programme in the country.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/opposition-mocks-downing-street-parties-calls-for-pm-boris-johnsons-resignation-grows-louder-446091/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Many nations across Europe have endured further winter lockdowns... but this government took a different path," Johnson told lawmakers, saying the government had got the toughest decisions right and that numbers going into intensive care were falling.

"Our scientists believe it is likely that the Omicron wave has now peaked nationally... because of the extraordinary booster campaign, together with the way the public have responded to the Plan B measures, we can return to Plan A."

Boris Johnson is currently facing a lot of political heat over 'partygate'. British people, as well as lawmakers, have Johnson under pressure over the 'BYOB' party held at his residence 10, Downing Street.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-year-old-girl-hilariously-trolls-johnson-over-partygate-netizens-hail-future-uk-pm-445878">5-year-old girl hilariously trolls Johnson over ‘partygate’, netizens hail 'future UK PM’</a> 
 
The anger is palpable as common citizens were under strict lockdown last year when the party took place on the lavish garden of the prime ministerial residence. About 100 people were in attendance.

Boris Johnson has apologised in the parliament but has explicitly refused to step down.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week. Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24).

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (January 19) made a major announcement and said that most Covid restrictions in UK would be lifted next week. Additionally, he said that Covid isolation period would reduce to 5 days from Monday (January 24). However, he warned that Omicron variant of coronavirus was not mild and those not vaccinated should especially take care. He announced the lifting of Plan B Covid restrictions and a switch back to Plan A Johnson also told the British parliament that people would not have to wear masks in closed spaces, while working from home and would not have to provide vaccination proof while entering public spaces such as nightclubs, shops or while using public transport. Moreover, he said that masks will not be mandatory in UK schools Thursday onwards. Johnson said that these steps were being taken after a successful mass booster jab programme in the country. × "Many nations across Europe have endured further winter lockdowns... but this government took a different path," Johnson told lawmakers, saying the government had got the toughest decisions right and that numbers going into intensive care were falling. "Our scientists believe it is likely that the Omicron wave has now peaked nationally... because of the extraordinary booster campaign, together with the way the public have responded to the Plan B measures, we can return to Plan A." Boris Johnson is currently facing a lot of political heat over 'partygate'. British people, as well as lawmakers, have Johnson under pressure over the 'BYOB' party held at his residence 10, Downing Street. Also Read | 5-year-old girl hilariously trolls Johnson over ‘partygate’, netizens hail 'future UK PM’ The anger is palpable as common citizens were under strict lockdown last year when the party took place on the lavish garden of the prime ministerial residence. About 100 people were in attendance. Boris Johnson has apologised in the parliament but has explicitly refused to step down. (With inputs from agencies)

Most Covid restrictions in UK to be lifted next week, says PM Boris Johnson

covid

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