As the Omicron variant continues to wreak havoc around the globe, different countries have started to offer booster shots to try and improve the resistance that people have in their immunity. Israel has now announced that it will be offering not just a third but a fourth doze of covid-19 vaccine.

Israel offers fourth dose of Covid-19 vaccine

Israel approves the 4th COVID jab as a booster dose amid rapidly rising COVID-19 cases fueled by the Omicron variant.

Israel approves 2nd booster dose for elderly, health workers against Omicron

WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis and brings you a quick round-up of all the top headlines and breakings from all across the world.

WION Speed News: Vaccination for 15-18 age group in India

K-pop band BTS member Suga has fully recovered from covid-19 and is doing well now. He was tested positive on December 24 following his return from the USA on December 23.&nbsp; 
 
The band's agency, Big Hit released the statement and announced that the rapper would be returning to his daily activities soon. 
 
Big Hit's statement read, "Hello, this is Big Hit Music. We would like to inform you that BTS member SUGA has made a full recovery from COVID-19, and his quarantine has concluded as of today (January 3) at noon. Suga, who had been receiving treatment from home for the past 10 days from Friday, December 24, is now able to return to his daily activities." 
 
The statement continued, "Suga did not exhibit any particular symptoms during his quarantine and is currently recuperating while resting at home. We would like to thank all fans who have shown concern for the artist’s health as well as those in the medical field who are doing their best to overcome COVID-19." 
 
"We will continue to place the health of the artists as our top priority and vigilantly follow health care guidelines. Thank you, " Big Hit concluded the statement.&nbsp; 
 
The other two members of the famous group RM (Kim Nam-Joon) and Jin (Kim Seok-jin) had also tested covid positive after coming back from the US. They are currently quarantined at their home.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

K-pop band BTS member Suga has fully recovered from covid-19 and is doing well now. He was tested positive on December 24 following his return from the USA on December 23.

K-pop band BTS member Suga has fully recovered from covid-19 and is doing well now. He was tested positive on December 24 following his return from the USA on December 23. The band's agency, Big Hit released the statement and announced that the rapper would be returning to his daily activities soon. Big Hit's statement read, "Hello, this is Big Hit Music. We would like to inform you that BTS member SUGA has made a full recovery from COVID-19, and his quarantine has concluded as of today (January 3) at noon. Suga, who had been receiving treatment from home for the past 10 days from Friday, December 24, is now able to return to his daily activities." The statement continued, "Suga did not exhibit any particular symptoms during his quarantine and is currently recuperating while resting at home. We would like to thank all fans who have shown concern for the artist’s health as well as those in the medical field who are doing their best to overcome COVID-19." "We will continue to place the health of the artists as our top priority and vigilantly follow health care guidelines. Thank you, " Big Hit concluded the statement. The other two members of the famous group RM (Kim Nam-Joon) and Jin (Kim Seok-jin) had also tested covid positive after coming back from the US. They are currently quarantined at their home.

K-pop band BTS member Suga recovers from Covid-19

As COVID-19 cases once again start to rise, India has opened vaccination for children aged 15 to 18. Over 12 lakh teens have registered in the government's CoWIN portal.

India has opened vaccination for children aged 15 to 18 amid a surge in COVID-19 cases

India records 33,750 fresh cases of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours. And around 1,700 cases of Omicron variant have been detected in the country till now. &nbsp;

Covid tally of the country has spiked to 3,49,22,882. The active cases have also risen to 1,45,582, as per the Union health ministry's data updated on Monday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccination-for-15-18-age-group-in-india-starts-amid-covid-19-surge-441852" hreflang="en">Vaccination for 15-18 age group in India starts amid COVID-19 surge</a>

Around 639 patients of Omicron have either recovered or migrated. The new variant of coronavirus has come up in 23 states and union territories so far. &nbsp;

The maximum number of Omicron cases have come up in Maharashtra (510), followed by Delhi (351), Kerala (156), Gujarat (136), Tamil Nadu (121) and Rajasthan (120). &nbsp;

With 123 more fatalities, the death toll climbed to 4,81,893, the data updated at 8 am showed. Of the new fatalities, 78 have come from Kerala and nine from Maharashtra. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-india-covid-omicron-vaccine-travel-updates-440325" hreflang="en">LIVE | Children are excited to take the vaccine, says vaccinator</a>

The number of active cases has also increased to 1,45,582. In the active COVID-19 caseload, a hike of 22,781 cases has been recorded in 24 hours. &nbsp;

The tally of people, who have recovered from the disease, increased to 3,42,95,407. &nbsp;

In the country, a total of 4,81,893 deaths have been reported till now. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India records 33,750 fresh cases of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours. And around 1,700 cases of Omicron variant have been detected in the country till now. Covid tally of the country has spiked to 3,49,22,882.

India records 33,750 fresh cases of coronavirus in a span of 24 hours. And around 1,700 cases of Omicron variant have been detected in the country till now. Covid tally of the country has spiked to 3,49,22,882. The active cases have also risen to 1,45,582, as per the Union health ministry's data updated on Monday. Also Read: Vaccination for 15-18 age group in India starts amid COVID-19 surge Around 639 patients of Omicron have either recovered or migrated. The new variant of coronavirus has come up in 23 states and union territories so far. The maximum number of Omicron cases have come up in Maharashtra (510), followed by Delhi (351), Kerala (156), Gujarat (136), Tamil Nadu (121) and Rajasthan (120). With 123 more fatalities, the death toll climbed to 4,81,893, the data updated at 8 am showed. Of the new fatalities, 78 have come from Kerala and nine from Maharashtra. Also Read: LIVE | Children are excited to take the vaccine, says vaccinator The number of active cases has also increased to 1,45,582. In the active COVID-19 caseload, a hike of 22,781 cases has been recorded in 24 hours. The tally of people, who have recovered from the disease, increased to 3,42,95,407. In the country, a total of 4,81,893 deaths have been reported till now. (With inputs from agencies)

India records 33,750 new Covid cases in 24 hours as Omicron tally reaches 1,700

Thousands of people took to the streets in Amsterdam to protest against the restrictions imposed due to Covid. This led to clashes and nearly 30 people were arrested for offences including assault, public disorder, possession of a forbidden weapon and not respecting security forces, said police. In several videos which have emerged on social media, the majority of protestors can be seen without a face mask.&nbsp;

As per police, the anti-riot officers had to use force after protesters refused to leave despite a warning. Nearly four officers were injured in the clashes.&nbsp;

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The people of Amsterdam begin the new year in defiance of their government’s ban on protests, with tens of thousands taking to the streets in a massive protest against ongoing lockdowns, vaccine passes and COVID tyranny despite a vaccination rate over 75%.<a href="https://t.co/qvYAJTDb9b">pic.twitter.com/qvYAJTDb9b</a>
— Michael P Senger (@MichaelPSenger) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelPSenger/status/1477692411660832768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"This is Holland! Power to the people!" a protestor said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/americans-think-violence-against-government-can-be-justified-new-polls-find-441854">Also read |&nbsp;Americans think violence against government can be justified, new polls find</a>

The Netherlands began lockdown to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant just before the Christmas season. Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places from until at least January 14.

"Closing all bars and restaurants in such an important month is incredibly painful and dramatic. We need compensation and an exit strategy", the Dutch association for hospitality services said.

All schools were closed a week early for the Christmas break while households were recommended to receive no more than two visitors and the gatherings outside were also limited to a maximum of two people.

As a result, the hospitality workers demanded compensation for lost income in the holiday season, while gym owners stressed the importance of exercise during a health crisis.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-of-people-took-to-the-streets-of-amsterdam-to-protest-against-covid-restrictions-441882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of people took to the streets in Amsterdam to protest against the restrictions imposed due to Covid. This led to clashes and nearly 30 people were arrested for offences including assault, public disorder, possession of a forbidden weapon and not respecting security forces, said police.

Thousands of people took to the streets in Amsterdam to protest against the restrictions imposed due to Covid. This led to clashes and nearly 30 people were arrested for offences including assault, public disorder, possession of a forbidden weapon and not respecting security forces, said police. In several videos which have emerged on social media, the majority of protestors can be seen without a face mask. As per police, the anti-riot officers had to use force after protesters refused to leave despite a warning. Nearly four officers were injured in the clashes. The people of Amsterdam begin the new year in defiance of their government’s ban on protests, with tens of thousands taking to the streets in a massive protest against ongoing lockdowns, vaccine passes and COVID tyranny despite a vaccination rate over 75%.pic.twitter.com/qvYAJTDb9b — Michael P Senger (@MichaelPSenger) January 2, 2022 × #BreakingNews #Amsterdam. Protest against covid restrictions #COVID19 #Covid_19 #VaccinePassport #healthpass #Demonstrations #protests #museumplein pic.twitter.com/7XUoLHTZl4 — Aleksander Onishchuk (@Brave_spirit81) January 2, 2022 × "This is Holland! Power to the people!" a protestor said. Also read | Americans think violence against government can be justified, new polls find The Netherlands began lockdown to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant just before the Christmas season. Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places from until at least January 14. "Closing all bars and restaurants in such an important month is incredibly painful and dramatic. We need compensation and an exit strategy", the Dutch association for hospitality services said. All schools were closed a week early for the Christmas break while households were recommended to receive no more than two visitors and the gatherings outside were also limited to a maximum of two people. As a result, the hospitality workers demanded compensation for lost income in the holiday season, while gym owners stressed the importance of exercise during a health crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Thousands protest in Amsterdam against Covid restrictions

When omicron was first detected in South Africa, countries all over the world were swung into action. Travel restrictions were announced. In no time, experts across the world are studying the variant, and several studies highlight various characteristics of omicron.

Making sense of the Omicron: Several studies highlight various characteristics of Omicron

The UK is currently witnessing one of the most severe omicron surges, with England reporting a record daily spike of over 162,500 new cases on Saturday.

The UK is currently witnessing one of the most severe Omicron surges

A UK study done on Omicron mutant variant's hospitalisation rates claim that Hospitalisation risk is one-third of Delta in Omicron.

UK Study on Omicron hospitalisation rates: Hospitalisation risk one-third of Delta

COVID-19 deaths have surpassed the 1 million mark with the ongoing surge in infections across Europe. Now, the Omicron mutant variant threatens to batter the region.

Europe: COVID-19 deaths surpass 1 million mark as Omicron variant threatens to batter the region

Israel's top health official said on Sunday that a surge of Omicron infections in the country may help the country develop herd immunity. His comment came as daily cases in Israel are climbing. b

The highly transmissible Omicron variant has brought a surge in coronavirus cases across the globe. Worldwide infections have hit a record high, with an average of just over a million cases detected a day between Dec. 24 and 30, according to Reuters data. Deaths, however, have not risen in kind, bringing hope the new variant is less lethal.

Israel has managed to stave off Omicron to some degree till late December but infection rates are now gaining pace. It is expected that daily cases would reach record highs in coming three weeks.

Nachman Ash, Director General of Israel's health ministry said that this may result in herd immunity.

"The cost will be a great many infections," Ash told 103FM Radio. "The numbers will have to be very high in order to reach herd immunity. This is possible but we don't want to reach it by means of infections, we want it to happen as a result of many people vaccinating," he said.

Herd immunity is the point at which a population is protected from a virus, either through vaccination or by people having developed antibodies by contracting the disease.

Around 60% of Israel's 9.4 million population are fully vaccinated - almost all with Pfizer /BioNTech'S vaccine - according to the health ministry, which means they have either received three doses or have had their second dose recently. But hundreds of thousands of those eligible for a third inoculation have so far not taken it.

Around 1.3 million coronavirus cases have been documented in Israel since the start of the pandemic. But between two to four million people may well be infected by the end of January when the Omicron wave could subside, according to Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government.

Head of the health ministry's coronavirus taskforce, Salman Zarka, said herd immunity was far from guaranteed.

"We have to be very cautious with this particularly in light of our experience over the past two years in which we saw people who have recovered (from coronavirus) be re-infected," Zarka told Ynet TV.

Over the past ten days, daily infections have more than quadrupled. Severe cases have also climbed but at a far lower rate, rising from about 80 to around 100.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's top health official said on Sunday that a surge of Omicron infections in the country may help the country develop herd immunity. His comment came as daily cases in Israel are climbing.

Israel's top health official said on Sunday that a surge of Omicron infections in the country may help the country develop herd immunity. His comment came as daily cases in Israel are climbing. b The highly transmissible Omicron variant has brought a surge in coronavirus cases across the globe. Worldwide infections have hit a record high, with an average of just over a million cases detected a day between Dec. 24 and 30, according to Reuters data. Deaths, however, have not risen in kind, bringing hope the new variant is less lethal. Israel has managed to stave off Omicron to some degree till late December but infection rates are now gaining pace. It is expected that daily cases would reach record highs in coming three weeks. Nachman Ash, Director General of Israel's health ministry said that this may result in herd immunity. "The cost will be a great many infections," Ash told 103FM Radio. "The numbers will have to be very high in order to reach herd immunity. This is possible but we don't want to reach it by means of infections, we want it to happen as a result of many people vaccinating," he said. Herd immunity is the point at which a population is protected from a virus, either through vaccination or by people having developed antibodies by contracting the disease. Around 60% of Israel's 9.4 million population are fully vaccinated - almost all with Pfizer /BioNTech'S vaccine - according to the health ministry, which means they have either received three doses or have had their second dose recently. But hundreds of thousands of those eligible for a third inoculation have so far not taken it. Around 1.3 million coronavirus cases have been documented in Israel since the start of the pandemic. But between two to four million people may well be infected by the end of January when the Omicron wave could subside, according to Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government. Head of the health ministry's coronavirus taskforce, Salman Zarka, said herd immunity was far from guaranteed. "We have to be very cautious with this particularly in light of our experience over the past two years in which we saw people who have recovered (from coronavirus) be re-infected," Zarka told Ynet TV. Over the past ten days, daily infections have more than quadrupled. Severe cases have also climbed but at a far lower rate, rising from about 80 to around 100. (With inputs from agencies)

Increase in Omicron cases may help Israel gain herd immunity: Health official

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has expressed optimism that the COVID-19 pandemic can end in 2022, provided countries stop hoarding vaccines and ensure equitable access.

Ghebreyesus on Friday warned against “narrow nationalism and vaccine hoarding” in a new year statement, reports the BBC.

His comments come two years since the WHO was first notified of cases of an unknown pneumonia strain in China.

“Narrow nationalism and vaccine hoarding by some countries have undermined equity and created the ideal conditions for the emergence of the Omicron variant, and the longer inequity continues, the higher the risks of the virus evolving in ways we can't prevent or predict," he said.

"If we end inequity, we end the pandemic," he added.

Highlighting that COVID-19 is not the only health threat the world's people will face next year, he said that millions of people have missed out on routine vaccination, services for family planning, treatment for communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/85-of-omicron-hospitalisations-did-not-have-booster-vax-in-england-report-441622">85% of Omicron hospitalisations did not have booster vax in England: Report</a>

“While no country is out of the woods from the pandemic, we have many new tools to prevent and treat COVID-19.&nbsp;The longer inequity continues, the higher the risks of this virus evolving in ways we can't prevent or predict. If we end inequity, we end the pandemic,” he said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-less-severe-than-other-variants-find-out-why-441594" hreflang="en">Omicron less severe than other variants: Find out why?</a>

“As we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, I'm confident that this will be the year we end it —but only if we do it together,” he said.

He further said that WHO recommended broad use of the world's first malaria vaccine, which if introduced widely and urgently, could save tens of thousands of lives every year.

“The eradication of polio has never been closer, with just five cases recorded in the two remaining endemic countries. And tobacco use continues to decline. Meanwhile, WHO and our partners responded to crises around the world, including stopping new outbreaks of Ebola and Marburg," WHO chief said.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has expressed optimism that the COVID-19 pandemic can end in 2022, provided countries stop hoarding vaccines and ensure equitable access.

World Health Organisation (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has expressed optimism that the COVID-19 pandemic can end in 2022, provided countries stop hoarding vaccines and ensure equitable access. Ghebreyesus on Friday warned against “narrow nationalism and vaccine hoarding” in a new year statement, reports the BBC. His comments come two years since the WHO was first notified of cases of an unknown pneumonia strain in China. “Narrow nationalism and vaccine hoarding by some countries have undermined equity and created the ideal conditions for the emergence of the Omicron variant, and the longer inequity continues, the higher the risks of the virus evolving in ways we can't prevent or predict," he said. "If we end inequity, we end the pandemic," he added. Highlighting that COVID-19 is not the only health threat the world's people will face next year, he said that millions of people have missed out on routine vaccination, services for family planning, treatment for communicable and non-communicable diseases. Also read | 85% of Omicron hospitalisations did not have booster vax in England: Report “While no country is out of the woods from the pandemic, we have many new tools to prevent and treat COVID-19. The longer inequity continues, the higher the risks of this virus evolving in ways we can't prevent or predict. If we end inequity, we end the pandemic,” he said. Also read | Omicron less severe than other variants: Find out why? “As we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, I'm confident that this will be the year we end it —but only if we do it together,” he said. He further said that WHO recommended broad use of the world's first malaria vaccine, which if introduced widely and urgently, could save tens of thousands of lives every year. “The eradication of polio has never been closer, with just five cases recorded in the two remaining endemic countries. And tobacco use continues to decline. Meanwhile, WHO and our partners responded to crises around the world, including stopping new outbreaks of Ebola and Marburg," WHO chief said. (With inputs from agencies)

'COVID-19 can end in 2022, if…', says WHO chief Ghebreyesus amid Omicron spread

A Pakistan SC Judge's wife, Serena Isa alleges that she was harassed and abused at her home by goons posing as intelligence officials.

A Pakistan SC Judge's wife harassed & abused at home by goons posing as intelligence officials

A recent study has predicted that the US COVID-19 cases, that are surging because of the Omicron mutant variant could top during the week of Jan 9th.

The US COVID-19 cases that are driven by the Omicron variant to hit a peak soon

In sort of a rerun of a horror flick, around two thirds of a total of 25 polar researchers in Antarctica have contracted COVID-19, a report said. &nbsp;

These researchers, who are based at Belgium’s Princess Elisabeth Polar Station, were not just fully vaccinated but have also been living miles away from civilization, the Le Soir newspaper reported. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-daily-covid-cases-rise-by-22775-omicron-tally-stands-at-1431-441547" hreflang="en">India’s daily Covid cases rise by 22,775, Omicron tally stands at 1,431</a>&nbsp;

The situation seems to be similar to the plot of John Carpenter’s 1982 horror movie ‘The Thing’. &nbsp;

Before leaving for the station in Antarctica, these experts went for PCR tests in Belgium two hours before flying to South Africa. In Cape Town, they quarantined for 10 days and took another PCR test again. &nbsp;

Before leaving for Antarctica, a further test was needed and a final one was done five days after that. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-delmicron-its-flurona-israel-reports-first-double-infection-of-covid-and-flu-441504" hreflang="en">‘Flurona’? Israel reports first double infection of Covid and flu</a>&nbsp;

Even after these multiple tests, a person tested positive for coronavirus seven days after arriving at the station. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As the individual was placed in isolation, two others had caught the virus. Even after these three left the station, the virus continued to spread. It seems to be the Omicron variant. &nbsp;

The station is not allowing any new arrivals for now. At present, there are two emergency doctors at the station. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In sort of a rerun of a horror flick, around two thirds of a total of 25 polar researchers in Antarctica have contracted COVID-19, a report said. These researchers, who are based at Belgium’s Princess Elisabeth Polar Station, were not just fully vaccinated but have also been living miles away from civilization, the Le Soir newspaper reported.

In sort of a rerun of a horror flick, around two thirds of a total of 25 polar researchers in Antarctica have contracted COVID-19, a report said. These researchers, who are based at Belgium’s Princess Elisabeth Polar Station, were not just fully vaccinated but have also been living miles away from civilization, the Le Soir newspaper reported. Also Read: India’s daily Covid cases rise by 22,775, Omicron tally stands at 1,431 The situation seems to be similar to the plot of John Carpenter’s 1982 horror movie ‘The Thing’. Before leaving for the station in Antarctica, these experts went for PCR tests in Belgium two hours before flying to South Africa. In Cape Town, they quarantined for 10 days and took another PCR test again. Before leaving for Antarctica, a further test was needed and a final one was done five days after that. Also Read: ‘Flurona’? Israel reports first double infection of Covid and flu Even after these multiple tests, a person tested positive for coronavirus seven days after arriving at the station. As the individual was placed in isolation, two others had caught the virus. Even after these three left the station, the virus continued to spread. It seems to be the Omicron variant. The station is not allowing any new arrivals for now. At present, there are two emergency doctors at the station. (With inputs from agencies)

A horror flick rerun? Two third researchers at Antarctica station contract Covid, says report

Omicron is driving France's latest surge in infections, the French health agency stated that over 62% of people tested positive for the Omicron variant at the start of this week.

COVID News: Cases soar in France fueled by Omicron variant

The United States remains the hardest-hit country in the world by the Coronavirus, and the Omicron variant has already started to overwhelm some hospitals in the US.

The US reports almost half a million cases per day as Omicron variant starts to overwhelm hospitals

Fans wait for SS Rajamouli's magnum opus 'RRR' is getting longer and longer. As the cinema industry is going through many uncertainties and now owing to rise in Covid-19 cases and concerns over the new Omicron variant, one of the most awaited movies 'RRR' &nbsp;has been postponed again!.&nbsp; 
 
The 'RRR' team, including SS Rajamouli, Jr NTR and Ram Charan, were busy promoting the film, that was supposed to hit the theatres on January 7, 2022.&nbsp; 
 
After a lot of buzz regarding its postponement, the makers of the film have finally confirmed that the film's release has been deferred yet again.&nbsp; 
The release date has been postponed multiple times due to the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
The makers announced the news with a special note. The caption reads, "Keeping the best interests of all the parties involved in mind, we are forced to postpone our film. Our sincere thanks to all the fans and audience for their unconditional love. #RRRPostponed #RRRMovie (sic)." 
 
Their statement read, " In spite of our relentless efforts, some situations are beyond our control. As many Indian states are closing theatres, we are left with no choice but to ask you to hold on to your excitement. We promised to bring back The Glory of Indian Cinema, and at the right time, WE WILL (sic)." 
 
Here's the post:

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Keeping the best interests of all the involved parties in mind, we are forced to postpone our film. Our sincere thanks to all the fans and audience for their unconditional love. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRRPostponed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRRPostponed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRRMovie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRRMovie</a> <a href="https://t.co/JlYsgNwpUO">pic.twitter.com/JlYsgNwpUO</a>
— RRR Movie (@RRRMovie) <a href="https://twitter.com/RRRMovie/status/1477240677767401474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The magnum opus marks the comeback of SS Rajamouli as a director post 'Bahubali' and stars Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Samuthirakani, Olivia Morris, Alison Doody and Ray Stevenson. 
 
The movie is set in the backdrop of 1920s north India under the colonial rule of Britain. It is a fictionalised account of Telugu tribal leaders Alluri Sitarama Raju (played by Ram Charan) and Komaram Bheem (played by Jr NTR).&nbsp; 
 
Before 'RRR', Shahid Kapoor-starrer 'Jersey' was pulled from its scheduled release date of December 31.

Fans wait for SS Rajamouli's magnum opus 'RRR' is getting longer and longer. As the cinema industry is going through many uncertainties and now owing to rise in Covid-19 cases and concerns over the new Omicron variant, one of the most awaited movies 'RRR' has been postponed again!

Fans wait for SS Rajamouli's magnum opus 'RRR' is getting longer and longer. As the cinema industry is going through many uncertainties and now owing to rise in Covid-19 cases and concerns over the new Omicron variant, one of the most awaited movies 'RRR' has been postponed again!. The 'RRR' team, including SS Rajamouli, Jr NTR and Ram Charan, were busy promoting the film, that was supposed to hit the theatres on January 7, 2022. After a lot of buzz regarding its postponement, the makers of the film have finally confirmed that the film's release has been deferred yet again. The release date has been postponed multiple times due to the coronavirus pandemic. The makers announced the news with a special note. The caption reads, "Keeping the best interests of all the parties involved in mind, we are forced to postpone our film. Our sincere thanks to all the fans and audience for their unconditional love. #RRRPostponed #RRRMovie (sic)." Their statement read, " In spite of our relentless efforts, some situations are beyond our control. As many Indian states are closing theatres, we are left with no choice but to ask you to hold on to your excitement. We promised to bring back The Glory of Indian Cinema, and at the right time, WE WILL (sic)." Here's the post: Keeping the best interests of all the involved parties in mind, we are forced to postpone our film. Our sincere thanks to all the fans and audience for their unconditional love. #RRRPostponed #RRRMovie pic.twitter.com/JlYsgNwpUO — RRR Movie (@RRRMovie) January 1, 2022 × The magnum opus marks the comeback of SS Rajamouli as a director post 'Bahubali' and stars Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Samuthirakani, Olivia Morris, Alison Doody and Ray Stevenson. The movie is set in the backdrop of 1920s north India under the colonial rule of Britain. It is a fictionalised account of Telugu tribal leaders Alluri Sitarama Raju (played by Ram Charan) and Komaram Bheem (played by Jr NTR). Before 'RRR', Shahid Kapoor-starrer 'Jersey' was pulled from its scheduled release date of December 31.

RRR release postponed again! Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt starrer pushed indefinitely

The Philippines will tighten restrictions in the capital city of Manila with an exponential surge in the COVID-19 infections led by the omicron mutant variant.

COVID-19 updates from around the world amid Omicron scare

The Chinese city of Xi'an, where 13 million residents are currently confined to their homes, announced tightened restrictions as the country recorded its biggest COVID-19 infection numbers in 21 months.

Report: Authorities link Xi'an COVID-19 outbreak to a flight from Pakistan

A new study conducted in South Africa claims that Johnson & Johnson's booster jab is 85% effective in slashing Omicron hospitalizations.

South African study: J&J's booster jab 85% effective in slashing Omicron hospitalizations

The year 2021 began with hope for the aviation sector because the lockdowns were ending, but the same cannot be said about its end.

Aviation sector in the year 2021: wait continues for the international holidays

At a time when the world is grappling with Delta and Omicron variants, and the combination of both called ‘Delmicron’ variant of coronavirus, Israel has reported its first case of 'flurona'— a simultaneous coronavirus and flu infection.

The first 'flurona' virus was found in a woman who recently gave birth in a hospital in Petah Tikva city, in central Israel, Ynet news portal reported on Thursday.

According to reports, the young woman was unvaccinated and results from the hospital detected the co-presence of both the flu and the COVID-19 pathogens.

The woman has presented with relatively mild symptoms of the disease and will be discharged soon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-hospitalisation-among-us-children-sees-sharp-uptick-as-omicron-fuels-new-wave-of-infections-441465">Covid hospitalisation among US children sees sharp uptick as Omicron fuels new wave of infections</a>

The Israeli Health Ministry is presently examining the case, having yet to determine whether the two viruses combined may cause more severe illness.

Meanwhile, Israel has announced that the country is in the midst of a “fifth wave”, with the country logging more cases due to the Omicron variant.

On Thursday, the health authorities reported more than 4,000 new cases, a high not seen since September.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-omicron-cases-could-peak-by-january-end-says-top-medical-chief-fauci-441062">US Omicron cases could peak by January-end, says top medical chief Fauci</a>

Anticipating more cases, the country authorised a fourth vaccine shot as a booster dose for people with weakened immune systems to help confront rising Covid cases.

Prime minister Naftali Bennett said Israel, which was among the first countries in the world to offer a booster shot to the public, would “lead the way” in offering a fourth jab.

Booster shots have been administered to 4.2 million people out of a population of 9.4m Israelis.

Till Tuesday, 1,741 Omicron cases have been detected in Israel, of which 1,004 of the carriers recently returned from abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)

At a time when the world is grappling with Delta and Omicron variants, and the combination of both called ‘Delmicron’ variant of coronavirus, Israel has reported its first case of 'flurona'— a simultaneous coronavirus and flu infection.

At a time when the world is grappling with Delta and Omicron variants, and the combination of both called ‘Delmicron’ variant of coronavirus, Israel has reported its first case of 'flurona'— a simultaneous coronavirus and flu infection. The first 'flurona' virus was found in a woman who recently gave birth in a hospital in Petah Tikva city, in central Israel, Ynet news portal reported on Thursday. According to reports, the young woman was unvaccinated and results from the hospital detected the co-presence of both the flu and the COVID-19 pathogens. The woman has presented with relatively mild symptoms of the disease and will be discharged soon. Also read | Covid hospitalisation among US children sees sharp uptick as Omicron fuels new wave of infections The Israeli Health Ministry is presently examining the case, having yet to determine whether the two viruses combined may cause more severe illness. Meanwhile, Israel has announced that the country is in the midst of a “fifth wave”, with the country logging more cases due to the Omicron variant. On Thursday, the health authorities reported more than 4,000 new cases, a high not seen since September. Also read | US Omicron cases could peak by January-end, says top medical chief Fauci Anticipating more cases, the country authorised a fourth vaccine shot as a booster dose for people with weakened immune systems to help confront rising Covid cases. Prime minister Naftali Bennett said Israel, which was among the first countries in the world to offer a booster shot to the public, would “lead the way” in offering a fourth jab. Booster shots have been administered to 4.2 million people out of a population of 9.4m Israelis. Till Tuesday, 1,741 Omicron cases have been detected in Israel, of which 1,004 of the carriers recently returned from abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

After ‘Delmicron’, it's ‘flurona’: Israel reports first double infection of Covid and flu

Amid rising COVID-19 cases due to Omicron variant, Israel approves 4th COVID shot as a booster

After 33 days, India has reported over 10,000 daily 'Wuhan Virus' cases. Is this the beginning of the third wave? How should the world respond to the Omicron fuelled surge: Panic or caution? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: India's Covid Surge - Should the world panic over Omicron?

Bloomberg is blaming India for delaying genome sequencing during the Delta wave and extending the pandemic. How quickly did other countries flag their variants? Is India being targeted because of Western bias? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Bloomberg blames India for extending the pandemic

In what seems like an optimistic end to 2021 in South Africa, where the Omicron variant was first detected, It has been declared that the infection peak is over.

South Africa: Omicron peak is over without increase in mortality rate

In a commendable effort, a woman school teacher, who was travelling from Chicago to Iceland onboard a trans-Atlantic flight, locked herself in the bathroom for five hours after she learned that she had contracted COVID-19 midair. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The teacher from Michigan, Marisa Fotieo, was flying on December 20 when she started complaining about sore throat, a report said. &nbsp;

She was able to find a rapid test kit and “within what felt like two seconds” learnt that she had contracted Covid, as per Fotieo. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-administer-fourth-dose-of-vaccine-to-most-vulnerable-to-covid-19-441307">Israel to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19</a>

"There's 150 people on the flight, and my biggest fear was giving it to them," Fotieo said. &nbsp;

As there were still five hours left for the flight to touch down, Fotieo said that she thought it was the best option to hide in a plane's bathroom until it lands to ensure others stay safe. &nbsp;

The woman captured her experience on camera and posted it to TikTok. The video has got over 1.5 million likes already. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-omicron-death-registered-in-indias-maharashtra-state-441335" hreflang="en">First ‘Omicron death’ registered in India’s Maharashtra state</a>

"Shout out to @Icelandair for my VIP quarantine quarters.." she gave the caption to the post. &nbsp;

As per Fotieo, Ragnhildur "Rocky" Eiríksdóttir, a flight attendant, brought her snacks and drinks while checking for her in the bathroom. &nbsp;

After getting down of the plane, she exchanged information with the flight attendant and went for isolation at the Red Cross hotel in Iceland. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a commendable effort, a woman school teacher, who was travelling from Chicago to Iceland onboard a trans-Atlantic flight, locked herself in the bathroom for five hours after she learned that she had contracted COVID-19 midair.

In a commendable effort, a woman school teacher, who was travelling from Chicago to Iceland onboard a trans-Atlantic flight, locked herself in the bathroom for five hours after she learned that she had contracted COVID-19 midair. The teacher from Michigan, Marisa Fotieo, was flying on December 20 when she started complaining about sore throat, a report said. She was able to find a rapid test kit and “within what felt like two seconds” learnt that she had contracted Covid, as per Fotieo. Also Read: Israel to administer fourth dose of vaccine to most vulnerable to COVID-19 "There's 150 people on the flight, and my biggest fear was giving it to them," Fotieo said. As there were still five hours left for the flight to touch down, Fotieo said that she thought it was the best option to hide in a plane's bathroom until it lands to ensure others stay safe. The woman captured her experience on camera and posted it to TikTok. The video has got over 1.5 million likes already. Also Read: First ‘Omicron death’ registered in India’s Maharashtra state "Shout out to @Icelandair for my VIP quarantine quarters.." she gave the caption to the post. As per Fotieo, Ragnhildur "Rocky" Eiríksdóttir, a flight attendant, brought her snacks and drinks while checking for her in the bathroom. After getting down of the plane, she exchanged information with the flight attendant and went for isolation at the Red Cross hotel in Iceland. (With inputs from agencies)

US woman locks self in airplane bathroom midair for five hours. Want to know why?

South Africans have queued up on Thursday outside the Saint George's Cathedral in Cape Town as Archbishop Desmond Tutu's body arrives for the funeral.

A queue outside Saint George's Cathedral as Archbishop Desmond Tutu's body arrives for the funeral

Israel approves 4th COVID dose as a booster against Omicron wave

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