Ireland will no longer require vaccinated travellers to present a negative COVID test report. The change will take effect today. Unvaccinated travellers will still be required to show a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

UK eases COVID testing rules

As Pakistan has been witnessing a huge surge in the number of coronavirus cases, President Arif Alvi has confirmed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 for the second time. &nbsp;

The president has also called on people to follow precautionary measures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) strictly. &nbsp;

On Twitter, the head of the state told that he had sore throat for four to five days and a mild fever. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/omicron-cases-on-the-rise-in-pakistan-government-advises-caution-442674" hreflang="en">Omicron cases on the rise in Pakistan, government advises caution</a>

"I have tested positive for COVID-19 again. Had a sore throat since four to five days and was getting better. Felt mildly feverish for a few hours two nights ago. No other symptoms," the President said. &nbsp;

"Friends, please resume precautions and follow SOPs," Alvi added. &nbsp;

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وازا مرضت فھوا یشفین 
 
اور جب میں بیمار ہوتا ہوں تو وہی شفا دیتا ہے 
 
I have tested +ive for Covid again. Had a sore throat since 4-5 days &amp; was getting better. Felt mildly feverish for a few hours two nights ago. No other symptoms. 
So friends plz resume precautions &amp; follow SOPs.
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArifAlvi/status/1479082811978047491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The president had first tested positive for Covid on March 29 last year, as per Dawn. At the time, he had received only the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sex-crime-corruption-plaguing-muslim-world-says-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-442131" hreflang="en">Sex crime, corruption plaguing Muslim world, says Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>

For the first time in nearly three months, the country has reported over 1,000 coronavirus infections, said reports in local media. &nbsp;

"Statistics 6 Jan 22: Total Tests in Last 24 Hours: 46,585, Positive Cases: 1085, Positivity %: 2.32%, Deaths :5, Patients on Critical Care: 636," Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre tweeted. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As Pakistan has been witnessing a huge surge in the number of coronavirus cases, President Arif Alvi has confirmed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 for the second time.

As Pakistan has been witnessing a huge surge in the number of coronavirus cases, President Arif Alvi has confirmed that he has tested positive for COVID-19 for the second time. The president has also called on people to follow precautionary measures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) strictly. On Twitter, the head of the state told that he had sore throat for four to five days and a mild fever. Also Read: Omicron cases on the rise in Pakistan, government advises caution "I have tested positive for COVID-19 again. Had a sore throat since four to five days and was getting better. Felt mildly feverish for a few hours two nights ago. No other symptoms," the President said. "Friends, please resume precautions and follow SOPs," Alvi added. وازا مرضت فھوا یشفین اور جب میں بیمار ہوتا ہوں تو وہی شفا دیتا ہے I have tested +ive for Covid again. Had a sore throat since 4-5 days & was getting better. Felt mildly feverish for a few hours two nights ago. No other symptoms. So friends plz resume precautions & follow SOPs. — Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) January 6, 2022 × The president had first tested positive for Covid on March 29 last year, as per Dawn. At the time, he had received only the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. Also Read: Sex crime, corruption plaguing Muslim world, says Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan For the first time in nearly three months, the country has reported over 1,000 coronavirus infections, said reports in local media. "Statistics 6 Jan 22: Total Tests in Last 24 Hours: 46,585, Positive Cases: 1085, Positivity %: 2.32%, Deaths :5, Patients on Critical Care: 636," Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

For second time, Pakistan President Arif Alvi contracts Covid  

As the spread of the Omicron variant accelerates in Sri Lanka, it has extended vaccinations to children aged between 12 and 15 years of age. According to the Lankan health officials the children will be administered with doses of Pfizer's MRNA vaccines, around 70 percent of Sri Lanka's adult population is fully inoculated.

Sri Lanka extends vaccination to kids, around 70% of Lankan population vaccinated

France's lower house of the Parliament has cleared plans for vaccine pass. All French citizens must be fully vaccinated to enjoy public needs.

French lower house passes vaccine pass plans

India is reporting a record surge in covet 19 infections fueled by the omicron variant in the last 24 hours India has reported over a 100,000 cases.

Omicron Scare: India crosses 100,000 mark in just 8 days

Amid the global spread of the Omicron mutant variant, Chile is all set to offer a fourth COVID-19 vaccination dose for people at high-risk.

Chile to offer a fourth COVID-19 shot for people at high-risk amid Omicron spread

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to &nbsp;Covid each day last week. This has become a worrying trend among the experts and they believe that the hospitalisations are triggered by low vaccination rates and the very easily transmissible omicron variant.&nbsp;

Dr Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, while speaking to Forbes said, "It’s not surprising to see cases and hospitalisations rise” among children."

Experts have said that there are several reasons for a surge in pediatric cases - including the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. A report by Forbes states that early data suggests the variant could be up to 3 times more infectious than delta and children being more vulnerable to infection.&nbsp;

Another reason can be the lower rate of vaccination among children in the US. The vaccination rate remains drastically low with just 25 per cent vaccinated among ages 5-11 and 64 per cent among ages 12-17.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-10-bodies-left-in-car-outside-a-state-governors-office-442919">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico: 10 bodies left in car outside a state governor's office</a>

Also, children under 5 are not eligible for vaccination at all.

Doctors say it is too early to determine whether Omicron causes more severe illness in children than other variants of the coronavirus.

“At my own hospital, where I work and practice here in DC at Children's National, about half of our hospitalisations ... are children under five,” Dr Lee Savio Beers, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, told CNN.

New York is among the worst-hit states where on average 109 people aged 18 and younger have been hospitalised between December 19 and December 23.

Other parts of the US are also seeing a spike in cases among children. Ohio has seen a 125 per cent increase in hospitalisations among children 17, according to data from the Ohio Hospital Association.

(With inputs from agencies)

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to Covid each day last week.

Covid hospitalisations among children are rising in the US as the country continues to battle against the pandemic. According to the latest CDC data, an average of 672 children were admitted to hospitals due to Covid each day last week. This has become a worrying trend among the experts and they believe that the hospitalisations are triggered by low vaccination rates and the very easily transmissible omicron variant. Dr Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, while speaking to Forbes said, "It’s not surprising to see cases and hospitalisations rise” among children." Experts have said that there are several reasons for a surge in pediatric cases - including the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. A report by Forbes states that early data suggests the variant could be up to 3 times more infectious than delta and children being more vulnerable to infection. Another reason can be the lower rate of vaccination among children in the US. The vaccination rate remains drastically low with just 25 per cent vaccinated among ages 5-11 and 64 per cent among ages 12-17. Also read | Mexico: 10 bodies left in car outside a state governor's office Also, children under 5 are not eligible for vaccination at all. Doctors say it is too early to determine whether Omicron causes more severe illness in children than other variants of the coronavirus. “At my own hospital, where I work and practice here in DC at Children's National, about half of our hospitalisations ... are children under five,” Dr Lee Savio Beers, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, told CNN. New York is among the worst-hit states where on average 109 people aged 18 and younger have been hospitalised between December 19 and December 23. Other parts of the US are also seeing a spike in cases among children. Ohio has seen a 125 per cent increase in hospitalisations among children 17, according to data from the Ohio Hospital Association. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron more infectious than Delta? Experts reveal why the variant is affecting kids

Australia has taken an embarrassing U-turn. It has barred Novak Djokovic from playing in Australian Open 2022. In just 24 hours, the world no. 1 has gone from being 'exempted' to facing the risk of being deported. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: 'Rules are Rules': Australia bars Novak Djokovic from Australian Open

Countries are reporting a record number of Covid-19 infections, fuelled by the Omicron variant. Governments are shortening quarantine time to simultaneously save lives & the economy. But in China, it's the same old 'infected fruit' debate. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Covid-19 in fruit? China shuts supermarkets

An anti-vaccine podcaster died after he was infected with COVID-19 while attending a conspiracy conference that eventually became a super-spreader.

Doug Kuzma, 61, died on Monday after being hospitalised for 10 days in Virginia, following a visit to the right-wing “ReAwaken America Tour” in Dallas, Texas on December 11.

Kuzma used to broadcast on the FROG News podcasting network, which stands for “Fully Rely On God.”

He used to peddle conspiracy theories ranging from hospitals intentionally killing patients, doctors inflating Covid numbers to claims such as vaccine was being used to kill seniors.

Also read |<a href="wionews.com/world/party-gone-wrong-canadian-passengers-stranded-in-mexico-after-airlines-refuse-to-fly-them-home-442907">&nbsp;Party gone wrong: Canadian passengers stranded in Mexico after airlines refuse to fly them home</a>

Earlier, Kuzma claimed that it was his chronic bronchitis. On December 15, he posted on Facebook that he had a fever and had to call a doctor.

After suffering from a fever for five days, he was forced to admit that he had likely contracted COVID-19 and was reportedly found unconscious at his home on Christmas Eve, following which he was rushed to hospital and placed on a ventilator.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wionews.com/world/omicron-surge-uk-to-deploy-troops-military-medics-to-help-hospital-staff-442887">Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff</a>

When someone commented that he should get a Covid test, Kuzma responded, “No way.” When the commenter said it was better to be “safe than sorry,” Kuzma once again lashed out, writing: “You must have lost your mind, so they can kill me, and try and give me the jab. I’ll die at the house before I go to the hospital.”

According to a member of FROG News, the final message Kuzma sent was a photo of himself with a “refill of ivermectin.”

The drug has not been approved for treating Covid and is best known as a horse dewormer.

(With inputs from agencies)

An anti-vaccine podcaster died after he was infected with COVID-19 while attending a conspiracy conference that eventually became a super-spreader. Doug Kuzma, 61, died on Monday after being hospitalised for 10 days in Virginia, following a visit to the right-wing “ReAwaken America Tour” in Dallas, Texas on December 11.

An anti-vaccine podcaster died after he was infected with COVID-19 while attending a conspiracy conference that eventually became a super-spreader. Doug Kuzma, 61, died on Monday after being hospitalised for 10 days in Virginia, following a visit to the right-wing “ReAwaken America Tour” in Dallas, Texas on December 11. Kuzma used to broadcast on the FROG News podcasting network, which stands for “Fully Rely On God.” He used to peddle conspiracy theories ranging from hospitals intentionally killing patients, doctors inflating Covid numbers to claims such as vaccine was being used to kill seniors. Also read | Party gone wrong: Canadian passengers stranded in Mexico after airlines refuse to fly them home Earlier, Kuzma claimed that it was his chronic bronchitis. On December 15, he posted on Facebook that he had a fever and had to call a doctor. After suffering from a fever for five days, he was forced to admit that he had likely contracted COVID-19 and was reportedly found unconscious at his home on Christmas Eve, following which he was rushed to hospital and placed on a ventilator. Also read | Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff When someone commented that he should get a Covid test, Kuzma responded, “No way.” When the commenter said it was better to be “safe than sorry,” Kuzma once again lashed out, writing: “You must have lost your mind, so they can kill me, and try and give me the jab. I’ll die at the house before I go to the hospital.” According to a member of FROG News, the final message Kuzma sent was a photo of himself with a “refill of ivermectin.” The drug has not been approved for treating Covid and is best known as a horse dewormer. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-vaccine podcaster dies of Covid after attending conspiracy conference in US

Philippines continues to witness the surge in coronavirus cases, president Rodrigo Duterte has issued a warning to the unvaccinated individuals. Duterte has said that the individuals will have to face arrests if they flout the stay-at-home orders.

'Obey the stay-at-home orders or face arrest,' Philippines president issues warning

China has successfully curbed the rising Covid-19 cases in Xi'an which is the country's latest Covid-19 hotspot. Despite the big win over the virus, China's human cost of the zero covid policy has come out to be quite distressing.

China: Women denied medical care in locked down Xi'an, suffers from miscarriage | World News

A group of passengers who were found partying and breaking several Covid norms aboard a chartered flight from Montreal to Mexico have been left stranded after three airlines declined to fly them home to Canada.

Several videos of the party, which is said to have taken place on December 30, were shared on social media, showing unmasked passengers in close proximity. In one video, a large bottle of vodka appears to be passed among passengers and a woman appears to be smoking an electronic cigarette.

According to Canadian media reports, some in the unruly crowd have also tested positive for COVID-19 since then.

Three airlines have refused to take them home. Sunwing Airlines cancelled the return charter flight from Cancun that had been scheduled for Wednesday while Air Transat and Air Canada have also declined to carry the passengers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/omicron-surge-uk-to-deploy-troops-military-medics-to-help-hospital-staff-442887">Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff</a>

The whole incident has caused outrage in Canada, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau saying that he was “extremely frustrated” with the incident.

“It’s a slap in the face to see people putting themselves, putting their fellow citizens, putting airline workers at risk by being completely irresponsible,” Trudeau said at a briefing.

Among those who tested positive include a 19-year-old student from Quebec who said she felt abandoned, not knowing how she’ll pay for her hotel room as her stay is extended indefinitely.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-chinas-zero-covid-strategy-what-it-is-how-it-functions-and-does-it-work-442865">Also Read |&nbsp;Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work?</a>

“The organizer just left everybody. I don’t know who’s still here. All the flights have been cancelled,” Rebecca St-Pierre, who is quarantined in a Mexico hotel, told The Canadian Press.

She estimated that about 30 others on the flight have tested positive.

(With inputs from agencies)

A group of passengers who were found partying and breaking several Covid norms aboard a chartered flight from Montreal to Mexico have been left stranded after three airlines declined to fly them home to Canada.

A group of passengers who were found partying and breaking several Covid norms aboard a chartered flight from Montreal to Mexico have been left stranded after three airlines declined to fly them home to Canada. Several videos of the party, which is said to have taken place on December 30, were shared on social media, showing unmasked passengers in close proximity. In one video, a large bottle of vodka appears to be passed among passengers and a woman appears to be smoking an electronic cigarette. According to Canadian media reports, some in the unruly crowd have also tested positive for COVID-19 since then. Three airlines have refused to take them home. Sunwing Airlines cancelled the return charter flight from Cancun that had been scheduled for Wednesday while Air Transat and Air Canada have also declined to carry the passengers. Also read | Omicron surge: UK to deploy troops, military medics to help hospital staff The whole incident has caused outrage in Canada, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau saying that he was “extremely frustrated” with the incident. “It’s a slap in the face to see people putting themselves, putting their fellow citizens, putting airline workers at risk by being completely irresponsible,” Trudeau said at a briefing. Among those who tested positive include a 19-year-old student from Quebec who said she felt abandoned, not knowing how she’ll pay for her hotel room as her stay is extended indefinitely. Also Read | Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work? “The organizer just left everybody. I don’t know who’s still here. All the flights have been cancelled,” Rebecca St-Pierre, who is quarantined in a Mexico hotel, told The Canadian Press. She estimated that about 30 others on the flight have tested positive. (With inputs from agencies)

Party gone wrong: Canadian passengers stranded in Mexico after airlines refuse to fly them home

India has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the number of coronavirus cases recently. The time taken&nbsp;to reach 1,00,000 mark&nbsp;in the third wave has surpassed the same in first wave (100 days) and second wave (47 days). &nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also expressed concern over the rise in Omicron cases at global level. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-gunfight-three-terrorists-killed-in-indias-jk-442806" hreflang="en">In gunfight, three terrorists killed in India’s J&amp;K</a>

This comes as several studies call the variant to be milder.&nbsp;But&nbsp;the rise&nbsp;shows that&nbsp;there is also a need to follow utmost precautions to keep a check on the spread of coronavirus cases. &nbsp;

On Friday, India witnessed the highest surge in coronavirus cases by recording 1,17,100 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. &nbsp;

The number of COVID-19 cases has increased by 28 per cent since Thursday. The country had recorded 90,928 coronavirus cases on January 6. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-directs-authorities-to-probe-pm-modis-security-breach-in-punjab-442880" hreflang="en">Supreme Court directs authorities to probe PM Modi's security breach in Punjab</a>

The number of Omicron cases has risen to 3,007 in the country and it has now spread to 27 states including union territories, the health ministry said. &nbsp;

Health authorities also recorded 302 fatalities taking the total death toll to 4,83,178 in the country. The number of active cases stands at 3,71,363 in India. &nbsp;

The health ministry informed the daily positivity rate has risen to 7.74 per cent. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the number of coronavirus cases recently. The time taken to reach 1,00,000 mark in the third wave has surpassed the same in first wave (100 days) and second wave (47 days).

India has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the number of coronavirus cases recently. The time taken to reach 1,00,000 mark in the third wave has surpassed the same in first wave (100 days) and second wave (47 days). The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also expressed concern over the rise in Omicron cases at global level. Also Read: In gunfight, three terrorists killed in India’s J&K This comes as several studies call the variant to be milder. But the rise shows that there is also a need to follow utmost precautions to keep a check on the spread of coronavirus cases. On Friday, India witnessed the highest surge in coronavirus cases by recording 1,17,100 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. The number of COVID-19 cases has increased by 28 per cent since Thursday. The country had recorded 90,928 coronavirus cases on January 6. Also Read: Supreme Court directs authorities to probe PM Modi's security breach in Punjab The number of Omicron cases has risen to 3,007 in the country and it has now spread to 27 states including union territories, the health ministry said. Health authorities also recorded 302 fatalities taking the total death toll to 4,83,178 in the country. The number of active cases stands at 3,71,363 in India. The health ministry informed the daily positivity rate has risen to 7.74 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: India’s third wave surpasses first, second to reach 1,00,000 mark in just 8 days

Amid a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases worldwide, the WHO has now warned that dismissing the Omicron variant as a mild infection will be a monumental mistake.

WHO: Dismissing the Omicron variant as a mild infection will be a monumental mistake

The United Kingdom continues to report nearly about 200,000 cases of infections per day. The British Prime Minister is resisting imposing some stringent lockdown measures. In the latest, the United Kingdom has eased travel rules for anyone who wants to get into England after pressure from the travel industry.

UK eases testing rules for travel despite reporting nearly 200,000 COVID-19 cases per day

Amid the rising cases of Covid-19, Prabhas and Pooja Hegde starrer 'Radhe Shyam', has joined an array of films that have been recently postponed. 
The film was supposed to release on January 14.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meghan-markle-wins-token-damages-from-uk-media-group-442574" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle wins token damages from UK media group</a> 
 
After much buzz around the movie release, the makers on Wednesday, (6 January), UV Creations released a statement that read, "We have been trying our best for the past few days but considering the growing cases of omicron variant it looks like we will have to wait for our labour of love to get to the big screens. Radhe Shyam is a story about love vs destiny and we are sure that your love will help us rise&nbsp;over these tough times together. Will see you in the cinemas soon!!!"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rrr-to-ozark-s4-movies-and-shows-to-look-out-for-in-january-2022-441436" hreflang="en">RRR to Ozark S4: Movies and shows to look out for in January 2022</a> 
 
The new release date has not been announced yet.&nbsp;

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We have to postpone the release of our film <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RadheShyam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RadheShyam</a> due to the ongoing covid situation. Our sincere thanks to all the fans for your unconditional love and support. <a href="https://t.co/cC18q8jmOz">pic.twitter.com/cC18q8jmOz</a>
— Radhe Shyam (@RadheShyamFilm) <a href="https://twitter.com/RadheShyamFilm/status/1478618795136585731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The film is written and directed by Radha Krishna Kumar. It also stars Sachin Khedekar, Priyadarshi Pulikonda, Bhagyashree, Murli Sharma, Kunaal Roy Kapoor, Riddhi Kumar, Sasha Chettri and Sathyan.&nbsp; 
 
After teasing fans with scintillating posters and mysterious short clips, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-radhe-shyam-trailer-prabhas--pooja-hegdes-love-saga-is-full-of-mysteries-439492">much-awaited trailer </a>of the movie was released on December 24. 
 
The short trailer is set in Europe in the late 1970s where Prabhas is playing the role of a future teller/Palmist and have some extraordinary abilities and is only interested in a flirtationship, but her life dynamics changes as Prerna, played by Pooja enters in her life and later falls in love with her.&nbsp;

Amid the rising cases of Covid-19, Prabhas and Pooja Hegde starrer 'Radhe Shyam', has joined an array of films that have been recently postponed. The film was supposed to release on January 14.

Amid the rising cases of Covid-19, Prabhas and Pooja Hegde starrer 'Radhe Shyam', has joined an array of films that have been recently postponed. The film was supposed to release on January 14. Meghan Markle wins token damages from UK media group After much buzz around the movie release, the makers on Wednesday, (6 January), UV Creations released a statement that read, "We have been trying our best for the past few days but considering the growing cases of omicron variant it looks like we will have to wait for our labour of love to get to the big screens. Radhe Shyam is a story about love vs destiny and we are sure that your love will help us rise over these tough times together. Will see you in the cinemas soon!!!" RRR to Ozark S4: Movies and shows to look out for in January 2022 The new release date has not been announced yet. We have to postpone the release of our film #RadheShyam due to the ongoing covid situation. Our sincere thanks to all the fans for your unconditional love and support. pic.twitter.com/cC18q8jmOz — Radhe Shyam (@RadheShyamFilm) January 5, 2022 × The film is written and directed by Radha Krishna Kumar. It also stars Sachin Khedekar, Priyadarshi Pulikonda, Bhagyashree, Murli Sharma, Kunaal Roy Kapoor, Riddhi Kumar, Sasha Chettri and Sathyan. After teasing fans with scintillating posters and mysterious short clips, the much-awaited trailer of the movie was released on December 24. The short trailer is set in Europe in the late 1970s where Prabhas is playing the role of a future teller/Palmist and have some extraordinary abilities and is only interested in a flirtationship, but her life dynamics changes as Prerna, played by Pooja enters in her life and later falls in love with her.

Prabhas starrer 'Radhe Shyam' postponed amid surge in Covid-19 cases

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths.

Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.&nbsp;

Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID.&nbsp;

In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-fda-amends-emergency-use-of-pfizer-booster-dose-for-more-teens-442035">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens</a>

She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide.

Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer.

In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron

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According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability."

According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks.

While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories.

Globally, about 294 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, with more than 5.8 million deaths. Since the first cases were discovered in central China in December 2019, infections have been reported in over 210 countries and territories. Now, a South African scientist believes she and her colleagues have discovered a crucial answer to the enigma of long COVID. In an op-ed published Wednesday, Resia Pretorius, the head of the science department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, wrote, "A recent investigation in my lab found that there is significant microclot formation in the blood of both acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients." Also read | Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens She discovered a correlation between microclots and lengthy COVID, which she believes is a critical step toward better understanding the disease that affects 100 million people worldwide. Resia Pretorius and her team discovered large quantities of inflammatory chemicals "locked" in the persistent microclots seen in extended COVID patients during the summer. In June, the Department of Human and Health Services issued new guidelines that define some long-term COVID symptoms as an impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Watch | China shuts market due to virus found in fruits | Dragon fruit | Omicron According to the Pretorius's op-ed "Patients with long Covid complain of numerous symptoms, the main ones being recurring fatigue and brain fog, muscle weakness, being out of breath and having low oxygen levels, sleep difficulties and anxiety or depression. Some patients are so sick that they cannot work or even walk a few steps. There is possibly also an elevated risk of stroke and heart attacks. One of the biggest sources of concern is that even mild and sometimes asymptomatic initial Covid-19 infection may lead to debilitating, long-term disability." According to a study published in November by researchers at the University of Michigan, as many as 100 million people worldwide have or have had lengthy COVID. According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient is diagnosed with protracted COVID when the consequences of a COVID-19 infection last for longer than four weeks. While elderly persons and those with major medical issues are more prone to have protracted COVID, many young and healthy people have reported feeling ill for weeks or even months after being diagnosed with COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mystery of long COVID-19 is solved! This scientist believes so

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases.

The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa.&nbsp;

The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned.

Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis.&nbsp;

Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid."

Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled.

Even as Covid cases due to Omicron variant have surged, global as well as India's own domestic diplomatic engagements have been impacted. Several events have been postponed and cancelled. The biennial investor mega-summit, Vibrant Gujarat was postponed due to increasing number of Covid cases. The summit initially due to take place from January 10th to 12th was also expected to be a major diplomatic event involving participation from 5 heads of government--Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Nepal's new Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi, Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth and Slovenia's PM Janez Jansa. The summit was to see a special session of PM Narendra Modi with governors and heads of Far Eastern Federal Districts of the Russian Federation. Country sessions for Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mozambique, UK, Japan, Sweden, Norway, South Korea were also planned. Earlier, PM Modi's visit to United Arab Emirates initially slated for January 6th was postponed due to increase in number of cases caused by Omicron variant in Dubai. He was to visit India pavillion at Dubai Expo during the one-day visit. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's planned visit to Dubai on January 2nd was also called off due to Covid crisis. Globally, Japan PM Fumio Kishida has had to cancel his US and Australia visit in new year due to Covid crisis. Both Japanese, Australian PM later held a virtual summit. During the opening statement at the virtual summit, Australian PM said, "I’m sorry we could not be doing this in person, as I’m sure you are also, here in Australia, but I very much respect and understand the need for us both to be also very focused on the challenges that we are facing domestically to deal with the Omicron variant of Covid." Covid was first reported from China's Wuhan in 2019 and it has been more than 2 years since the crisis has ravaged the world. In last 2 years, many global engagements have gone in virtual or hybrid mode. The first Quad summit between India, US, Australia and Japan took place virtually. 2020 saw the G20 Summit happening virtually for the very first time. The BRICS Summit has been taking place virtually for last 2 years, SCO summit was held in hybrid mode in 2021.

Omicron crisis: Indian as well as global diplomatic engagements impacted

Pakistan is dealing with the rising Covid-19 cases, the country's positivity rate has doubled in a week. On Wednesday, the highest number of people in the country tested positive since the 14th of October, 898 cases were recorded, the positivity rate reached 1.8 percent, the omicron variant is the reason behind this latest surge.

Pakistan witnesses rise in covid-19 cases, Lahore and Karachi accounts for 60% surge

India has reported its biggest surge since June 2021. The Omicron fuelled surge added 10 million new cases worldwide last week. The UK is restricting testing. Lockdown in China's Xi'an has led to chaos. Palki Sharma brings you the 10 big developments.

Gravitas: Omicron: Why India is preparing for a big surge

Omicron variant is rampant in Europe. France has set the record for new covid cases, more than 300,000 new infections were recorded over the last 24 hours. 66,000 people received their first jab in a single day.

Omicron variant surges across Europe, France recorded 300,000 new covid-19 infections

The United Kingdom continues to report nearly 200,000 cases of Covid 19 infections pretty much on a day-to-day basis. But what is interesting is that British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is resisting calls to impose a stringent lockdown.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson resists imposing a stringent lockdown

After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age. "It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 infection and the complications of severe disease," CDC Director said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This booster dose will provide optimised protection against COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. I encourage all parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations," she further added.&nbsp;

The booster shot will be given at least five months after the two doses have been given. The decision was taken after a CDC advisory panel voted 13-1 in favour of booster dose.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-fda-amends-emergency-use-of-pfizer-booster-dose-for-more-teens-442035">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens</a>

The vaccine made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech is the only US option for children of any age. According to the CDC, about 13.5 million 12- to 17-year-olds, just over half that age group, have received two Pfizer shots.

The FDA approved the same booster shot for teens earlier this week. According to Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock,

“Throughout the pandemic, as the virus that causes COVID-19 has continuously evolved, the need for the FDA to quickly adapt has meant using the best available science to make informed decisions with the health and safety of the American public in mind.”&nbsp;

Global Covid cases experiencing a surge due to the Omicron variant. The health authorities have warned that its extremely high transmissibility could overwhelm many health systems all across the globe.

(With inputs from agencies)

After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age.

After FDA, Centers for Disease Control Director Dr Rochelle Walensky has suggested the use of Pfizer booster doses for teenagers from 12 through 15 years of age. "It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 infection and the complications of severe disease," CDC Director said in a statement. "This booster dose will provide optimised protection against COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. I encourage all parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations," she further added. The booster shot will be given at least five months after the two doses have been given. The decision was taken after a CDC advisory panel voted 13-1 in favour of booster dose. Also read | Omicron update: FDA amends emergency use of Pfizer booster dose for more teens The vaccine made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech is the only US option for children of any age. According to the CDC, about 13.5 million 12- to 17-year-olds, just over half that age group, have received two Pfizer shots. The FDA approved the same booster shot for teens earlier this week. According to Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, “Throughout the pandemic, as the virus that causes COVID-19 has continuously evolved, the need for the FDA to quickly adapt has meant using the best available science to make informed decisions with the health and safety of the American public in mind.” Global Covid cases experiencing a surge due to the Omicron variant. The health authorities have warned that its extremely high transmissibility could overwhelm many health systems all across the globe. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron update: CDC suggests Pfizer booster shot for kids aged 12 and above

After a relatively stable trend in the COVID-19 cases, India is recording a rise in the number of infections dominated by the omicron variant. A total of 90,928 COVID-19 cases were reported in India in the last 24 hours this is a 56 per cent increase in cases in just one day.

India records 90,928 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

The Karnataka government on Tuesday decided to impose weekend curfew and extend the night curfew for two weeks in the state in view of the alarming rise in the number of COVID-19 cases.

The government also decided to shut schools and pre-university colleges except for 10th and 12th standard students for two weeks. 
It announced the weekend curfew and also the decision to extend the night curfew for two weeks in the state.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in which senior ministers including Revenue Minister Ashoka, Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar and Higher Education Minister Dr C N Ashwath Narayan, medical experts and senior officials participated.

The meeting was held in view of the sudden jump in number of COVID cases in the state. Karnataka logged 2,479 cases on Tuesday and four fatalities. Since January 1, the city has been logging over 1,000 cases daily.

"We have decided that barring 10th and 12th classes, schools will be shut for rest of the classes in Bengaluru. These COVID rules will come into effect from Wednesday night," Ashoka told reporters.

He said there will be a weekend curfew for two weeks from 10 PM on Friday to 5 AM on Monday. All essential services will continue, he added.

Further, the government decided to extend the night curfew, which ends on January 7, for two weeks.

The Minister also said that there should not be a congregation of more than 200 people in marriages in open places and 100 in marriage halls. There should also be 50 per cent occupancy in pubs, bars, cinema halls and malls and those working in and visiting these places should have taken both doses of the COVID vaccine.

Also, the government decided to make a negative RT-PCR test report mandatory for those coming to the state from Maharashtra, Kerala and Goa, the minister said.

Government offices will have to follow the Government of India guidelines, he explained.

Ashoka told reporters that no rallies or political events with large congregation will be allowed in the city.

His statement came as the Congress plans to organise a march from Mekedatu in Ramanagara district to Bengaluru on January 9 to urge the government to start work on the Mekedatu balancing reservoir across the Cauvery river to supply drinking water in Bengaluru and neighbouring districts.

Speaking to reporters, Sudhakar said those coming from high-risk nations will be sent for institutional quarantine if they test positive for COVID.

The travellers can choose hotels of their choice to stay in quarantine which can be a budget or a star hotel.

"We cannot send the foreigners home who test positive," Sudhakar said.

Sudhakar said there were discussions about the availability of medicines, hospitals, ICU beds and other necessary arrangements.

He also said that the government decided to treat Bengaluru as a 'state' while dealing with COVID-19 cases.

"We are treating Bengaluru as a state because it has become an epicentre of COVID just like any other metropolitan city. Almost 80 to 90 per cent cases are coming from Bengaluru only in Karnataka," the Health minister explained.

Further, Sudhakar said that teams led by IAS officers have been assigned different roles in COVID management to handle the pandemic at a micro level.

The Karnataka government on Tuesday decided to impose weekend curfew and extend the night curfew for two weeks in the state in view of the alarming rise in the number of COVID-19 cases.

The Karnataka government on Tuesday decided to impose weekend curfew and extend the night curfew for two weeks in the state in view of the alarming rise in the number of COVID-19 cases. The government also decided to shut schools and pre-university colleges except for 10th and 12th standard students for two weeks. It announced the weekend curfew and also the decision to extend the night curfew for two weeks in the state. The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in which senior ministers including Revenue Minister Ashoka, Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar and Higher Education Minister Dr C N Ashwath Narayan, medical experts and senior officials participated. The meeting was held in view of the sudden jump in number of COVID cases in the state. Karnataka logged 2,479 cases on Tuesday and four fatalities. Since January 1, the city has been logging over 1,000 cases daily. "We have decided that barring 10th and 12th classes, schools will be shut for rest of the classes in Bengaluru. These COVID rules will come into effect from Wednesday night," Ashoka told reporters. He said there will be a weekend curfew for two weeks from 10 PM on Friday to 5 AM on Monday. All essential services will continue, he added. Further, the government decided to extend the night curfew, which ends on January 7, for two weeks. The Minister also said that there should not be a congregation of more than 200 people in marriages in open places and 100 in marriage halls. There should also be 50 per cent occupancy in pubs, bars, cinema halls and malls and those working in and visiting these places should have taken both doses of the COVID vaccine. Also, the government decided to make a negative RT-PCR test report mandatory for those coming to the state from Maharashtra, Kerala and Goa, the minister said. Government offices will have to follow the Government of India guidelines, he explained. Ashoka told reporters that no rallies or political events with large congregation will be allowed in the city. His statement came as the Congress plans to organise a march from Mekedatu in Ramanagara district to Bengaluru on January 9 to urge the government to start work on the Mekedatu balancing reservoir across the Cauvery river to supply drinking water in Bengaluru and neighbouring districts. Speaking to reporters, Sudhakar said those coming from high-risk nations will be sent for institutional quarantine if they test positive for COVID. The travellers can choose hotels of their choice to stay in quarantine which can be a budget or a star hotel. "We cannot send the foreigners home who test positive," Sudhakar said. Sudhakar said there were discussions about the availability of medicines, hospitals, ICU beds and other necessary arrangements. He also said that the government decided to treat Bengaluru as a 'state' while dealing with COVID-19 cases. "We are treating Bengaluru as a state because it has become an epicentre of COVID just like any other metropolitan city. Almost 80 to 90 per cent cases are coming from Bengaluru only in Karnataka," the Health minister explained. Further, Sudhakar said that teams led by IAS officers have been assigned different roles in COVID management to handle the pandemic at a micro level.

India's southern Karnataka state imposes weekend curfew

Amid a rapid surge in COVID-19 cases across the US, the authorities have reopened schools in New York City for children.

India reports over 37,000 people testing positive in the last 24 hours amid the Omicron threat

India today reported its highest daily tally of Covid-19 cases since September 2021 with over 37,000 people testing positive in the last 24 hours. The country has also recorded over 1,800 Omicron cases and the country has also reported 124 deaths in the past 24 hours.

India reports over 37,000 people testing positive in the last 24 hours amid Omicron threat

The UK is currently witnessing one of the most severe omicron surges. However, UK PM resists lockdown plans for now.

UK PM resists another lockdown, insists 'Plan B' is working amid record surge in COVID-19 cases

As countries across the world tackle an Omicron surge, the World Health Organization has said that more and more evidence is emerging that points at the new variant being milder than the previous ones.

WHO: Evidences suggest that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is milder than previous variants

Citing preliminary findings of a study conducted in Israel, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has said that the fourth dose of the COVID vaccine boosts antibodies fivefold a week after the shot is administered.

Israel PM Naftali Bennett: the 4th dose of the COVID vaccine boosts antibodies fivefold

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