Germany's health minister has warned that country must brace for a massive fifth wave due to the new Omicron variant. Germany has been battered by a recent rise in Covid-19 cases and has imposed restrictions following it.

Germany faces massive Omicron wave, health minister issues warning

Around 5.3 million people have died due to different strains of coronavirus, more than 27,000 cases of the new Omicron strain have also been recorded in almost 91 countries.

More than 27,000 Omicron cases in 91 countries: Reports

While 70% of Germans have already received double doses of vaccine, COVID-19 cases are still surging due to the spread of the Omicron variant. Berlin braces for a massive fifth wave as health restrictions have been re-imposed.

Germany faces massive fifth wave of COVID-19 due to Omicron variant

As the omicron coronavirus variant takes hold across the world, Israel has added the United States to its no-fly list. Canada, Germany, Turkey and Morocco are also added to the list.

Israel bans travel to US amid Omicron surge | Covid-19 News Updates

With the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 spreading its wings around the globe, the UK reports record-shattering cases amid festive season approaching.

Omicron variant spreads across the world, with UK COVID-19 cases surging to a record high

Omicron variant spreads across the world, scientists are now rewriting their expectations. In United Kingdom, the new variant is now all set to become the most dominant one.

UK witnesses highest ever daily Covid cases amid Omicron spread

South Africa reported its highest daily tally of new coronavirus cases ever, a few days after President Cyril Ramaphosa tested positive for the infection. South Africa was the first country to detect the new omicron strain.

Omicron variant | South Africa reports 26,976 covid-19 cases reported in 24 hours

The arrival of the Omicron variant in Britain has sent covid infection cases spiraling. Britain has recorded the highest daily cases since the pandemic hit the country last year. Over 78,000 new cases have been confirmed in the UK in just one day.

Omicron variant: UK confirms over 78,000 covid cases in last 24 hours

Pfizer Inc has said that its antiviral COVID-19 has about 90% efficacy in preventing hospitalizations and deaths in high-risk patients, and recent lab data suggests the drug retains its effectiveness against the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

Pfizer covid-19 pill nearly 90% effective against Omicron variant of Coronavirus

Netherlands began a lockdown on Sunday aimed at limiting an expected Covid-19 surge caused by the rise of the Omicron variant. Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the sudden shut-down on Saturday evening, ordering the closure of all but the most essential stores.

Netherlands imposes lockdown aimed at limiting an expected Covid-19 surge

The city of Xian in China's Shaanxi Province has been struck by incidences of deadly haemorrhagic fever and fresh COVID-19 outbreaks. The city located in northwestern China has ordered suspension of schools and has started citywide coronavirus tests, reported South China Morning Post citing local newspapers.

As per the report, the city detected 21 COVID-19 cases on Sunday. This has brought total number of infections during current wave to 57.

The city has also seen haemorrhagic fever epidemic since the start of the winter. It is a natural epidemic disease with high fatality rate.

Haemorrhagic fever is said to be a common infectious disease in the north. From October every year, some areas of Shaanxi Province enter the high incidence season of haemorrhagic fever.

In recent years, the virus institute of Shaanxi CDC confirmed the local infection of the virus in Xi`an city through a large number of field investigations and laboratory neutralization antibody detection and identification, the report said.

Experts said that haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, also known as epidemic haemorrhagic fever, is caused by Hantavirus, with rodents as the main source of infection.

It can be transmitted by a mouse bite, by eating food or water that a mouse has crawled over, or by contact with infected mouse blood, urine or faeces. The population is generally susceptible to the disease, and the incidence is high in farmers who often work in the field, or workers engaged in agricultural industry and food processing.

Hemorrhagic fever is an acute infectious disease characterised by fever, bleeding and renal damage, and can lead to death in serious cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

The city of Xian in China's Shaanxi Province has been struck by incidences of deadly haemorrhagic fever and fresh COVID-19 outbreaks. The city located in northwestern China has ordered suspension of schools and has started citywide coronavirus tests, reported South China Morning Post citing local newspapers.

The city of Xian in China's Shaanxi Province has been struck by incidences of deadly haemorrhagic fever and fresh COVID-19 outbreaks. The city located in northwestern China has ordered suspension of schools and has started citywide coronavirus tests, reported South China Morning Post citing local newspapers. As per the report, the city detected 21 COVID-19 cases on Sunday. This has brought total number of infections during current wave to 57. The city has also seen haemorrhagic fever epidemic since the start of the winter. It is a natural epidemic disease with high fatality rate. Haemorrhagic fever is said to be a common infectious disease in the north. From October every year, some areas of Shaanxi Province enter the high incidence season of haemorrhagic fever. In recent years, the virus institute of Shaanxi CDC confirmed the local infection of the virus in Xi`an city through a large number of field investigations and laboratory neutralization antibody detection and identification, the report said. Experts said that haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, also known as epidemic haemorrhagic fever, is caused by Hantavirus, with rodents as the main source of infection. It can be transmitted by a mouse bite, by eating food or water that a mouse has crawled over, or by contact with infected mouse blood, urine or faeces. The population is generally susceptible to the disease, and the incidence is high in farmers who often work in the field, or workers engaged in agricultural industry and food processing. Hemorrhagic fever is an acute infectious disease characterised by fever, bleeding and renal damage, and can lead to death in serious cases. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese city battles twin threats of Covid and haemorrhagic fever

Moderna Inc has claimed that its vaccine helps prevent the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. First discovered in South Africa, the new Covid variant has now spread into 89 countries in total. The company further said that the current version of the vaccine would &nbsp;be Moderna’s "first line of defence against Omicron."

The focus on mRNA-1273, which is the current vaccine, was based on how rapidly the Omicron variant is spreading.&nbsp;

Dr Paul Burton, Moderna's Chief Medical Officer, in an interview said, "It's highly effective, and it's extremely safe. I think it will protect people through the coming holiday period and through these winter months, when we're going to see the most severe pressure of Omicron."

However, the company still plans on making a vaccine specifically against the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

As per the company,&nbsp;a two-dose course of its vaccine generated low neutralising antibodies against the variant. However, a 50 microgram booster dose increased neutralising antibodies against the variant 37 fold. A 100 microgram booster dose of the same vaccine drove antibody over 80 times the pre-boost levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-travel-can-lead-to-doubling-of-omicron-cases-fauci-438291">Also read |&nbsp;Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci</a>

The company has assured that the 100 microgram dose is safe.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, a major real-world study suggested that the Pfizer Covid vaccine has weaker efficacy against the Omicron variant. The study revealed that the Pfizer vaccine had an efficacy of just 70 per cent against hospitalisation.

These findings are some of the earliest on protection against Omicron outside of lab studies, which have shown reduced neutralising activity against the variant.&nbsp;

As per the WHO, the number of Omicron cases is doubling in 1.5 to 3 days in areas with community transmission. However, researchers are still studying the variant and there is a lot that is to be analysed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Moderna Inc has claimed that its vaccine helps prevent the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. First discovered in South Africa, the new Covid variant has now spread into 89 countries in total.

Moderna Inc has claimed that its vaccine helps prevent the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. First discovered in South Africa, the new Covid variant has now spread into 89 countries in total. The company further said that the current version of the vaccine would be Moderna’s "first line of defence against Omicron." The focus on mRNA-1273, which is the current vaccine, was based on how rapidly the Omicron variant is spreading. Dr Paul Burton, Moderna's Chief Medical Officer, in an interview said, "It's highly effective, and it's extremely safe. I think it will protect people through the coming holiday period and through these winter months, when we're going to see the most severe pressure of Omicron." However, the company still plans on making a vaccine specifically against the Omicron variant. As per the company, a two-dose course of its vaccine generated low neutralising antibodies against the variant. However, a 50 microgram booster dose increased neutralising antibodies against the variant 37 fold. A 100 microgram booster dose of the same vaccine drove antibody over 80 times the pre-boost levels. Also read | Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci The company has assured that the 100 microgram dose is safe. Meanwhile, earlier this month, a major real-world study suggested that the Pfizer Covid vaccine has weaker efficacy against the Omicron variant. The study revealed that the Pfizer vaccine had an efficacy of just 70 per cent against hospitalisation. These findings are some of the earliest on protection against Omicron outside of lab studies, which have shown reduced neutralising activity against the variant. As per the WHO, the number of Omicron cases is doubling in 1.5 to 3 days in areas with community transmission. However, researchers are still studying the variant and there is a lot that is to be analysed. (With inputs from agencies)

Moderna says its booster shot is effective against Omicron variant

COVID alert raised to level 4 in the UK as it reports the first death from Omicron variant of coronavirus. PM Boris Johnson raised concerns about which the virus is accelerating.

COVID-19: UK reports first death from Omicron variant | Alert raised to level 4

The Omicron variant of coronavirus makes its way into China, as Asian country reports first such case. China orders stricter virus protocols.

After taking the world by storm, the Omicron variant of coronavirus makes its way into China

UK PM Boris Johnson warns of a tidal wave of Omicron cases in the country as the UK raises alert to level 4. UK is currently witnessing a steady rise in COVID cases.

A tidal wave of Omicron approaching says PM Boris Johnson as the UK raises alert to level 4

The number of Omicron cases rising in the United Kingdom has been enormously worrying for the authorities. Experts have warned that Omicron variant could become the dominant strain in the United Kingdom by the end of December.

United Kingdom reports rapid spread of the Omicron variant

COVID-19 cases in Omicron-hit South Africa more than double within a week as it reports around 20,000 new cases and 36 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours. However, it is still early to determine how many of these cases are because of the Omicron variant.

South Africa records 20,000 Covid cases of Omicron variant

Netherlands PM Mark Rutte announces lockdown in country

Omicron chaos: A list of countries that have reported cases of new variant

Over the coming days and weeks, scientists from around the world will be sharing early information about the new Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. We are two researchers who study the evolution of viruses, and we will be keeping a close eye on the data as it becomes public. This new research will range from laboratory studies investigating how the virus interacts with antibodies to observations of patient outcomes to large-scale data on infections and hospitalizations. The data will try to answer three key questions, all of which are important to understanding the risk of Omicron.

How well can Omicron dodge the antibodies we have from vaccines and prior infections?

Omicron has many mutations, especially in the spike protein that is the main target of the antibodies generated by vaccination and prior infection. This is why scientists were concerned it could evade the defenses built by vaccines or by having had Covid-19. Lab experiments have already shown that Omicron has mutations that reduce the infection-blocking ability of antibodies to about one-fortieth of their effectiveness against an earlier version of the virus.

There is solid evidence that this increased antibody resistance of Omicron will lead to more infections among the vaccinated and previously infected. A study from South Africa found a higher rate of people getting infected a second time with Omicron than with previous waves caused by the Beta and Delta variants. Omicron has also caused some mild to moderate infections in individuals who were both vaccinated and had received a booster shot. An early report from Britain estimates that vaccine effectiveness against disease with symptoms is lower against Omicron than against Delta.

These early findings suggest that vaccines may not protect as well against infections as they did previously. And there’s a chance Omicron-specific boosters may be needed in the future.

Will the immunity we have still protect us against severe disease?

Even if some antibodies fail to block infection by Omicron, T cells and other antibodies developed from vaccination or infection may provide some protection against severe illness. In other words, deaths and hospitalizations may not track cases as closely as they have in previous pandemic waves. Measuring this requires data from clinics, hospitals and epidemiological studies that follow infections and symptoms in people over time. Such studies take more time than experiments in a lab.

It typically takes several weeks for severe Covid-19 to develop, which is why deaths and hospitalizations are what scientists call a “lagging indicator.” So while it’s fine to be optimistic when we hear early anecdotal reports about vaccinated people having only mild symptoms, remember that it will take time to have reliable data on disease severity overall. For example, it’s possible that Omicron could cause milder disease in people who have been previously vaccinated or infected but cause severe disease in people with no immunity. This will have implications for the burden that might be placed on hospitals.

Is Omicron more contagious than Delta?

We know that Omicron transmits well because it is causing an increasing number of cases in many countries. There are two factors that could contribute to this: Omicron may have a strong ability to infect people with no immunity, and it may have an increased ability to infect people with prior immunity from vaccinations or previous infections.

The balance of these two factors will determine whether Omicron is more transmissible than Delta in all populations, or just in places like South Africa and other countries, where there is a lot of immunity from people being infected previously. To better understand Omicron’s transmissibility, scientists will need to measure its rate of growth relative to other variants among different groups of people. Answering this question could help predict the timing of potential hospital surges.

What the answers will tell us

There are a few different scenarios for Omicron.

One is that Omicron is so transmissible that it spreads around the world and outcompetes all other variants, including Delta, so that, in the future, all new viruses are descended from Omicron. This scenario happened in mid-2020 with a variant called D614G (this was before variants were given Greek names) from which all subsequent variants are descended.

Another scenario is that Omicron spreads in some locations but ultimately turns out to be less transmissible than other variants and eventually falls out of the picture. This happened with Alpha and Beta in the first part of 2021.

Regardless of whether Omicron fully displaces other variants, it appears likely to cause a surge in cases around the world. The extent of this surge will depend on the level of immunity in different populations, the public health measures in force and the effects of factors like seasonal changes in temperature and humidity on transmission, which so far are poorly understood.

If Omicron causes a rise in cases but less severe disease than Delta, that would certainly be good news. But if it spreads widely, it could still send a large number of people to the hospital. Also remember that it’s possible Omicron is at least as severe as Delta in people without immunity. We also don’t yet understand the long-term health consequences of having Covid-19, and it will take weeks to understand how Omicron affects groups of people with different levels of immunity.

The measures that control the spread of other variants are also expected to help against Omicron. This includes increasing vaccination coverage, supporting rapid mass testing, improving indoor ventilation, encouraging the use of masks (as well as upgrading to higher-quality masks) and helping people identify when they are infected, making it easier to isolate. There is evidence that getting a booster increases protection beyond that provided by just the primary vaccine series.

Given the extensive mutations in Omicron, it may also be necessary to make Omicron-specific vaccines.

Embracing these measures while monitoring the unknowns will help strike a balance between reducing risk while still enjoying our lives. That’s what scientists, like everyone else, are hoping for.

Over the coming days and weeks, scientists from around the world will be sharing early information about the new Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. We are two researchers who study the evolution of viruses, and we will be keeping a close eye on the data as it becomes public.

Over the coming days and weeks, scientists from around the world will be sharing early information about the new Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. We are two researchers who study the evolution of viruses, and we will be keeping a close eye on the data as it becomes public. This new research will range from laboratory studies investigating how the virus interacts with antibodies to observations of patient outcomes to large-scale data on infections and hospitalizations. The data will try to answer three key questions, all of which are important to understanding the risk of Omicron. How well can Omicron dodge the antibodies we have from vaccines and prior infections? Omicron has many mutations, especially in the spike protein that is the main target of the antibodies generated by vaccination and prior infection. This is why scientists were concerned it could evade the defenses built by vaccines or by having had Covid-19. Lab experiments have already shown that Omicron has mutations that reduce the infection-blocking ability of antibodies to about one-fortieth of their effectiveness against an earlier version of the virus. There is solid evidence that this increased antibody resistance of Omicron will lead to more infections among the vaccinated and previously infected. A study from South Africa found a higher rate of people getting infected a second time with Omicron than with previous waves caused by the Beta and Delta variants. Omicron has also caused some mild to moderate infections in individuals who were both vaccinated and had received a booster shot. An early report from Britain estimates that vaccine effectiveness against disease with symptoms is lower against Omicron than against Delta. These early findings suggest that vaccines may not protect as well against infections as they did previously. And there’s a chance Omicron-specific boosters may be needed in the future. Will the immunity we have still protect us against severe disease? Even if some antibodies fail to block infection by Omicron, T cells and other antibodies developed from vaccination or infection may provide some protection against severe illness. In other words, deaths and hospitalizations may not track cases as closely as they have in previous pandemic waves. Measuring this requires data from clinics, hospitals and epidemiological studies that follow infections and symptoms in people over time. Such studies take more time than experiments in a lab. It typically takes several weeks for severe Covid-19 to develop, which is why deaths and hospitalizations are what scientists call a “lagging indicator.” So while it’s fine to be optimistic when we hear early anecdotal reports about vaccinated people having only mild symptoms, remember that it will take time to have reliable data on disease severity overall. For example, it’s possible that Omicron could cause milder disease in people who have been previously vaccinated or infected but cause severe disease in people with no immunity. This will have implications for the burden that might be placed on hospitals. Is Omicron more contagious than Delta? We know that Omicron transmits well because it is causing an increasing number of cases in many countries. There are two factors that could contribute to this: Omicron may have a strong ability to infect people with no immunity, and it may have an increased ability to infect people with prior immunity from vaccinations or previous infections. The balance of these two factors will determine whether Omicron is more transmissible than Delta in all populations, or just in places like South Africa and other countries, where there is a lot of immunity from people being infected previously. To better understand Omicron’s transmissibility, scientists will need to measure its rate of growth relative to other variants among different groups of people. Answering this question could help predict the timing of potential hospital surges. What the answers will tell us There are a few different scenarios for Omicron. One is that Omicron is so transmissible that it spreads around the world and outcompetes all other variants, including Delta, so that, in the future, all new viruses are descended from Omicron. This scenario happened in mid-2020 with a variant called D614G (this was before variants were given Greek names) from which all subsequent variants are descended. Another scenario is that Omicron spreads in some locations but ultimately turns out to be less transmissible than other variants and eventually falls out of the picture. This happened with Alpha and Beta in the first part of 2021. Regardless of whether Omicron fully displaces other variants, it appears likely to cause a surge in cases around the world. The extent of this surge will depend on the level of immunity in different populations, the public health measures in force and the effects of factors like seasonal changes in temperature and humidity on transmission, which so far are poorly understood. If Omicron causes a rise in cases but less severe disease than Delta, that would certainly be good news. But if it spreads widely, it could still send a large number of people to the hospital. Also remember that it’s possible Omicron is at least as severe as Delta in people without immunity. We also don’t yet understand the long-term health consequences of having Covid-19, and it will take weeks to understand how Omicron affects groups of people with different levels of immunity. The measures that control the spread of other variants are also expected to help against Omicron. This includes increasing vaccination coverage, supporting rapid mass testing, improving indoor ventilation, encouraging the use of masks (as well as upgrading to higher-quality masks) and helping people identify when they are infected, making it easier to isolate. There is evidence that getting a booster increases protection beyond that provided by just the primary vaccine series. Given the extensive mutations in Omicron, it may also be necessary to make Omicron-specific vaccines. Embracing these measures while monitoring the unknowns will help strike a balance between reducing risk while still enjoying our lives. That’s what scientists, like everyone else, are hoping for.

A scientist’s guide to understanding Omicron

A major real-world study has suggested that Pfizer Covid vaccine has weaker efficacy against the Omicron variant. The study revealed that the Pfizer vaccine had efficacy of just 70 per cent against hospitalisation.

The study released on Tuesday by South Africa's largest private health insurance administrator, Discovery Health, was based on more than 211,000 positive COVID-19 test results. Around 78,000 of those results from Nov. 15 to Dec. 7 were attributed to Omicron.

The 78,000 results are not confirmed Omicron cases, meaning the study cannot offer conclusive findings about the variant labelled "of concern" by the World Health Organization and reported in more than 60 countries.

South African scientists have so far confirmed around 550 positive tests as being Omicron, with the variant accounting for 78% of sequences from November, more than the previously dominant Delta variant.

South Africa alerted the world to Omicron late last month, triggering alarm that it could cause another surge in global infections, and leading to the imposition of travel restrictions on southern Africa. South Africa's daily infections have since risen to around 20,000 in recent days.

The findings from a real-world analysis are some of the earliest on protection against Omicron outside of lab studies, which have shown reduced neutralising activity against the variant. read more

Based on analysis by Discovery's clinical research and actuarial teams, and in collaboration with the South African Medical Research Council, the study calculated that two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech offered 70% protection against hospitalisation compared with the unvaccinated during the recent surge in cases and 33% protection against infection.

It said this represents a drop from 80% protection against infection and compares with 93% efficacy against hospital admission during South Africa's outbreak of the Delta variant, which is the globally dominant variant and considered to be the most infectious to emerge during the pandemic.

Discovery cautioned that the study's findings should be considered preliminary.

(With inputs from agencies)

A major real-world study has suggested that Pfizer Covid vaccine has weaker efficacy against the Omicron variant. The study revealed that the Pfizer vaccine had efficacy of just 70 per cent against hospitalisation.

A major real-world study has suggested that Pfizer Covid vaccine has weaker efficacy against the Omicron variant. The study revealed that the Pfizer vaccine had efficacy of just 70 per cent against hospitalisation. The study released on Tuesday by South Africa's largest private health insurance administrator, Discovery Health, was based on more than 211,000 positive COVID-19 test results. Around 78,000 of those results from Nov. 15 to Dec. 7 were attributed to Omicron. The 78,000 results are not confirmed Omicron cases, meaning the study cannot offer conclusive findings about the variant labelled "of concern" by the World Health Organization and reported in more than 60 countries. South African scientists have so far confirmed around 550 positive tests as being Omicron, with the variant accounting for 78% of sequences from November, more than the previously dominant Delta variant. South Africa alerted the world to Omicron late last month, triggering alarm that it could cause another surge in global infections, and leading to the imposition of travel restrictions on southern Africa. South Africa's daily infections have since risen to around 20,000 in recent days. The findings from a real-world analysis are some of the earliest on protection against Omicron outside of lab studies, which have shown reduced neutralising activity against the variant. read more Based on analysis by Discovery's clinical research and actuarial teams, and in collaboration with the South African Medical Research Council, the study calculated that two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech offered 70% protection against hospitalisation compared with the unvaccinated during the recent surge in cases and 33% protection against infection. It said this represents a drop from 80% protection against infection and compares with 93% efficacy against hospital admission during South Africa's outbreak of the Delta variant, which is the globally dominant variant and considered to be the most infectious to emerge during the pandemic. Discovery cautioned that the study's findings should be considered preliminary. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer vaccine less effective against Omicron variant, claims study

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle.

The man had not taken any medical advice or treatment for his symptoms.&nbsp;

New Zealand’s Covid vaccine independent safety monitoring board in a statement said, "With the current available information, the board has considered that the myocarditis was probably due to vaccination in this individual."

In response, a Pfizer spokesperson said that the company was aware of the incident in New Zealand, and it had monitored all reports of possible adverse events. He further mentioned that it will continue to believe the benefit-risk profile for its vaccine was positive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-travel-can-lead-to-doubling-of-omicron-cases-fauci-438291">Also read |&nbsp;Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci</a>

Earlier, in August, a woman in New Zealand died after she was administered the Pfizer Covid vaccine.&nbsp;

The health ministry said, "This is the first case in New Zealand where a death in the days following vaccination has been linked to the Pfizer Covid vaccine."

The health ministry further added that the cause of death has not yet been determined while asserting that, "the benefits of vaccination with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine continue to greatly outweigh the risk of both Covid infection and vaccine side effects, including myocarditis."

Earlier, the World Health Organization had acknowledged that "a very rare signal of myocarditis" has been reported from some Covid vaccines. The organization further added that most myocarditis cases occur in young men aged between 16 to 24.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle.

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle. The man had not taken any medical advice or treatment for his symptoms. New Zealand’s Covid vaccine independent safety monitoring board in a statement said, "With the current available information, the board has considered that the myocarditis was probably due to vaccination in this individual." In response, a Pfizer spokesperson said that the company was aware of the incident in New Zealand, and it had monitored all reports of possible adverse events. He further mentioned that it will continue to believe the benefit-risk profile for its vaccine was positive. Also read | Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci Earlier, in August, a woman in New Zealand died after she was administered the Pfizer Covid vaccine. The health ministry said, "This is the first case in New Zealand where a death in the days following vaccination has been linked to the Pfizer Covid vaccine." The health ministry further added that the cause of death has not yet been determined while asserting that, "the benefits of vaccination with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine continue to greatly outweigh the risk of both Covid infection and vaccine side effects, including myocarditis." Earlier, the World Health Organization had acknowledged that "a very rare signal of myocarditis" has been reported from some Covid vaccines. The organization further added that most myocarditis cases occur in young men aged between 16 to 24. (With inputs from agencies)

Young man's death in New Zealand linked to Pfizer Covid vaccine after he suffered from myocarditis

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday.&nbsp;There was also an increase in the number of admissions to the hospital who were infected by the variant.&nbsp;

London Mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident," calling for closer coordination between public agencies and central government support.&nbsp;

This came in as Covid hospitalisations in the city surged by 30 per cent this week. He said health worker absences had also increased.

"This is a statement of how serious things are," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-more-infected-with-omicron-variant-than-reported-say-uk-scientists-438070">Also read |&nbsp;Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists</a>

Meanwhile, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.&nbsp;

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday.

The UK reported a massive surge in Omicron cases as the number has reached nearly 25,000. As per reports by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), seven people who were believed to have had the Omicron variant died on Thursday. There was also an increase in the number of admissions to the hospital who were infected by the variant. London Mayor Sadiq Khan declared a "major incident," calling for closer coordination between public agencies and central government support. This came in as Covid hospitalisations in the city surged by 30 per cent this week. He said health worker absences had also increased. "This is a statement of how serious things are," he said. Also read | Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists Meanwhile, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron cases surge in UK is hinting towards a new wave

The third edition of the Turkey-Africa Cooperation Summit concludes in Istanbul with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledging 15 Million COVID doses to Africa.

3rd Turkey-Africa Cooperation Summit concludes in Istanbul

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.&nbsp;Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron.

Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity."

“There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-has-doubling-time-of-15-to-3-days-will-outpace-delta-in-community-transmission-who-438010">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO</a>

Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant.

He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent.

The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days.

Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs.

In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both."

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant. Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron. Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity." “There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added. Also read | Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant. He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent. The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days. Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs. In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both." (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron has now spread to 89 countries: WHO

London has witnessed massive chaos on Saturday after the clashes broke out between the police and protesters at an anti-vaccine protests outside PM Boris Johnson's residence.

Thousands demonstrate against Covid-19 curbs in London

Governments have imposed vaccines mandates to fight the new Omicron variant surge, resulting in massive protests across the Europe. Here's a quick round-up.

Covid-19 Pandemic| Anti-vaccine protests in Spain, Germany protesters clash with police

CNN is closing its offices for all the non-essential workers in the United States amid a surge in Covid cases. Network President Jeff Zucker in a memo said, "Given the recent, sudden surge in Covid cases around the country, and within our teams at CNN, Turner Sports &amp; WarnerMedia Studios, as of tonight we are CLOSING our offices to all employees who do not have to be in the office to do their jobs."

He further said that people who are working from the office will require face masks all the time, except for eating and drinking or being in a room alone. As per Zucker, the network made this decision out of an "abundance of caution."

Infections have grown by 40 per cent across the US in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the deadly virus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-us-president-warns-of-winter-with-severe-illness-and-death-437546">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron: US President warns of winter with 'severe illness and death'</a>

Not just CNN, but many other organisations can be seen taking precautions. Many colleges have already declared a switch to online classes, while professional sports leagues and Broadway theatres have cancelled games and performances.&nbsp;

Keeping in mind the increasing cases, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. "For unvaccinated, we are looking at a winter of severe illness and death... for themselves, their families and the hospitals they’ll soon overwhelm," Biden said.&nbsp;

He added, "But there's good news. If you're vaccinated, and you have your booster shot, you’re protected from severe illness and death, period."

(With inputs from agencies)

CNN is closing its offices for all the non-essential workers in the United States amid a surge in Covid cases. Network President Jeff Zucker in a memo said, "Given the recent, sudden surge in Covid cases around the country, and within our teams at CNN, Turner Sports & WarnerMedia Studios, as of tonight we are CLOSING our offices to all employees who do not have to be in the office to do their jobs.

CNN is closing its offices for all the non-essential workers in the United States amid a surge in Covid cases. Network President Jeff Zucker in a memo said, "Given the recent, sudden surge in Covid cases around the country, and within our teams at CNN, Turner Sports & WarnerMedia Studios, as of tonight we are CLOSING our offices to all employees who do not have to be in the office to do their jobs." He further said that people who are working from the office will require face masks all the time, except for eating and drinking or being in a room alone. As per Zucker, the network made this decision out of an "abundance of caution." Infections have grown by 40 per cent across the US in the last two weeks, and deaths have soared by more than a third, with more than 1,300 Americans dying every day from the deadly virus. Also read | Omicron: US President warns of winter with 'severe illness and death' Not just CNN, but many other organisations can be seen taking precautions. Many colleges have already declared a switch to online classes, while professional sports leagues and Broadway theatres have cancelled games and performances. Keeping in mind the increasing cases, US President Biden warned of winter of "serious illness and death" for unvaccinated Americans. "For unvaccinated, we are looking at a winter of severe illness and death... for themselves, their families and the hospitals they’ll soon overwhelm," Biden said. He added, "But there's good news. If you're vaccinated, and you have your booster shot, you’re protected from severe illness and death, period." (With inputs from agencies)

'Abundance of caution': CNN closes US offices for non-essential workers amid a surge in Covid cases

Police clash with protesters over new COVID-19 restrictions in London

Clashes erupted between police and protesters during an Anti-Vaccine protest near Prime Minister Boris Johnson's residence in London.

London: Clashes erupt between police & protesters at an Anti-Vaccine demonstration

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time.&nbsp;

Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">Also read |&nbsp;No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.&nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time. Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists

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