In what is being described as an unprecedented ruling, a county judge in US’ Illinois state has prohibited a mother from visiting her 11-year-old son, who lives with her estranged husband, because she refused to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Cook County judge James Shapiro said Rebecca Firlit, 39, could not see the boy again until she had taken the jab.

“I’ve had adverse reactions to vaccines in the past and was advised not to get vaccinated by my doctor. It poses a risk,” Firlit told ta local media about the virtual court hearing, which took place earlier this month.

“I was confused because it was just supposed to be about expenses and child support. One of the first things he asked me when I got on the Zoom call was whether or not I was vaccinated, which threw me off because I asked him what it had to do with the hearing.”

“He said: I am the judge, and I make the decisions for your case.”

Firlit’s lawyer Annette Fernholz said she and her ex-husband have been divorced for seven years and that her former husband did not seek a ruling on the vaccination issue.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-throwing-porn-collection-judge-orders-couple-to-pay-30441-to-son-in-us-408965">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-throwing-porn-collection-judge-orders-couple-to-pay-30441-to-son-in-us-408965">For throwing porn collection, judge orders couple to pay $30,441 to son in US</a>

“The trial court clearly exceeded its authority in suspending the mother’s parenting time when the issue before the court was child support,” Fernholz said in a statement.

“The mother did not know her parenting time was being discussed when she went to Zoom court. The judge deprived her of notice and a full hearing on the issue,” he added

The father’s attorney, Jeffery M&nbsp;Leving, said he supported the judge’s decision. “There are children who have died because of COVID,” he told The Washington Post

Meanwhile, Filirt’s lawyer said they have filed a legal challenge to the state appellate court.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being described as an unprecedented ruling, a county judge in US’ Illinois state has prohibited a mother from visiting her 11-year-old son, who lives with her estranged husband, because she refused to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

In what is being described as an unprecedented ruling, a county judge in US’ Illinois state has prohibited a mother from visiting her 11-year-old son, who lives with her estranged husband, because she refused to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Cook County judge James Shapiro said Rebecca Firlit, 39, could not see the boy again until she had taken the jab. “I’ve had adverse reactions to vaccines in the past and was advised not to get vaccinated by my doctor. It poses a risk,” Firlit told ta local media about the virtual court hearing, which took place earlier this month. “I was confused because it was just supposed to be about expenses and child support. One of the first things he asked me when I got on the Zoom call was whether or not I was vaccinated, which threw me off because I asked him what it had to do with the hearing.” “He said: I am the judge, and I make the decisions for your case.” Firlit’s lawyer Annette Fernholz said she and her ex-husband have been divorced for seven years and that her former husband did not seek a ruling on the vaccination issue. Also read | For throwing porn collection, judge orders couple to pay $30,441 to son in US “The trial court clearly exceeded its authority in suspending the mother’s parenting time when the issue before the court was child support,” Fernholz said in a statement. “The mother did not know her parenting time was being discussed when she went to Zoom court. The judge deprived her of notice and a full hearing on the issue,” he added The father’s attorney, Jeffery M Leving, said he supported the judge’s decision. “There are children who have died because of COVID,” he told The Washington Post Meanwhile, Filirt’s lawyer said they have filed a legal challenge to the state appellate court. (With inputs from agencies)

US judge revokes mother’s custody of son after she refused to take Covid vaccine

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself".

In a video statement posted on Twitter, Leyen welcomed the “great achievement”, saying, “Today, we reached an important milestone in our vaccination campaign. 70 per cent of adults in the EU are now fully vaccinated and that means 250 million people are fully immunised.”

The European Commission, which is the executive organ of the European Union, is responsible for ordering vaccines for the EU states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccine-passport-the-european-covid-certificate-a-users-guide-386729">Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide</a>

The EU's COVID-19 vaccination campaign got off to a slow start due to supply shortages and delays but is now among the most successful worldwide. They had already announced in July that 70 per cent of the adult population in the region had received at least one dose.

Leyen said the union was also a “lead contributor” to the COVAX initiative, which aims to deliver vaccines to low-income nations.

The rate of fully vaccinated adults is about 20 per cent in Bulgaria, 32.8 per cent in Romania, 49 per cent in Slovakia and 58.1 per cent in Poland.

(With inputs from agencies)

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself".

President of the European Commission Von der Leyen on Tuesday said 70 per cent of adults in the 27-nation bloc have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. She said they have achieved the "end-of-summer target in January itself". In a video statement posted on Twitter, Leyen welcomed the “great achievement”, saying, “Today, we reached an important milestone in our vaccination campaign. 70 per cent of adults in the EU are now fully vaccinated and that means 250 million people are fully immunised.” The European Commission, which is the executive organ of the European Union, is responsible for ordering vaccines for the EU states. Also read | Vaccine Passport: The European Covid certificate, a user's guide The EU's COVID-19 vaccination campaign got off to a slow start due to supply shortages and delays but is now among the most successful worldwide. They had already announced in July that 70 per cent of the adult population in the region had received at least one dose. Leyen said the union was also a “lead contributor” to the COVAX initiative, which aims to deliver vaccines to low-income nations. The rate of fully vaccinated adults is about 20 per cent in Bulgaria, 32.8 per cent in Romania, 49 per cent in Slovakia and 58.1 per cent in Poland. (With inputs from agencies)

70% of Europeans fully vaccinated against COVID-19, says EU chief Von der Leyen

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a&nbsp;surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity.

According to data from the department of health and human services, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Florida and Arkansas are left with less than 10% of their ICU bed capacity.

On Monday, data shared by a vaccine adviser from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a hospitalization rate 16 times higher in the unvaccinated population than in those vaccinated.

“This to me seems to be a strong indication that the current epidemiologic curve that we're seeing is really a reflection of failure to vaccinate, not vaccine failure," Dr Matthew F Daley at the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting told the CNN.

In Georgia, CEO of Northeast Georgia Health Systems Carol Burrell said it had 287 Covid patients on Monday, which is more than the hospital has had since January.

“So, in essence, our hospitals are full," she said, adding, “We're looking to add space in hallways and conference rooms in waiting areas. Our emergency rooms and our urgent care centres are seeing higher volume than they've seen throughout this pandemic."

Kentucky governor Andy Beshear the effect of low vaccination rates are being witnessed in his states where hospitals are overwhelmed with record numbers of COVID-19 patients and 58 of the 96 hospitals are reporting critical staffing shortages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-recorded-highest-new-covid-19-cases-worldwide-in-past-week-who-401286">US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO</a>

"We're living in a reality where some Covid patients who are sick are being treated in their cars when there isn't room for them inside the ER or inside the hospital," CNN quoted Beshear as saying.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the number of rising cases has also been reported among children, with the number of kids testing positive for Covid-19 earlier this month reaching higher levels than last year.

In Florida's 15 largest school districts, at least 21,869 students and 4,481 employees have tested positive for Covid-19 since the start of school, according to a CNN analysis.

In Texas, after just the first two weeks of school in the Fort Worth Independent School District, more than 3,000 students have been quarantined due to close contact with individuals who tested positive for Covid-19.

On Monday, the US reported 2,80,403 coronavirus cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity.

Five states in the US are nearly out of ICU beds as a surge in COVID-19 cases, especially among unvaccinated people, pose a fresh set of problems for the hospitals who are already stretched to their maximum capacity. According to data from the department of health and human services, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Florida and Arkansas are left with less than 10% of their ICU bed capacity. On Monday, data shared by a vaccine adviser from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a hospitalization rate 16 times higher in the unvaccinated population than in those vaccinated. “This to me seems to be a strong indication that the current epidemiologic curve that we're seeing is really a reflection of failure to vaccinate, not vaccine failure," Dr Matthew F Daley at the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices meeting told the CNN. In Georgia, CEO of Northeast Georgia Health Systems Carol Burrell said it had 287 Covid patients on Monday, which is more than the hospital has had since January. “So, in essence, our hospitals are full," she said, adding, “We're looking to add space in hallways and conference rooms in waiting areas. Our emergency rooms and our urgent care centres are seeing higher volume than they've seen throughout this pandemic." Kentucky governor Andy Beshear the effect of low vaccination rates are being witnessed in his states where hospitals are overwhelmed with record numbers of COVID-19 patients and 58 of the 96 hospitals are reporting critical staffing shortages. Also read | US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO "We're living in a reality where some Covid patients who are sick are being treated in their cars when there isn't room for them inside the ER or inside the hospital," CNN quoted Beshear as saying. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the number of rising cases has also been reported among children, with the number of kids testing positive for Covid-19 earlier this month reaching higher levels than last year. In Florida's 15 largest school districts, at least 21,869 students and 4,481 employees have tested positive for Covid-19 since the start of school, according to a CNN analysis. In Texas, after just the first two weeks of school in the Fort Worth Independent School District, more than 3,000 students have been quarantined due to close contact with individuals who tested positive for Covid-19. On Monday, the US reported 2,80,403 coronavirus cases. (With inputs from agencies)

5 US states nearly out of ICU beds as fresh surge of COVID-19 cases stretch hospitals

South African scientists have detected a new COVID variant. The new variant, C.1.2 has unusually high mutation rate.

South African scientists detect new COVID variant

Pandemic has not been kind to every worker working from home. Many of them are facing mental issues. With a view to give its employees an opportunity to focus on their mental health, Nike has given staff at its head office a week's break before ahead of their return to office in September.

Nike's head of insights Mark Marazzo made the announcement on LinkedIn a week ago.

"Take the time to unwind, destress and spend time with your loved ones," he told the staff in his announcement.

Marazzo told Nike staff: "Do not work". He said that the past year has been "rough" and that everyone was living through a "traumatic event"&nbsp;

"It's not just a 'week off' for the team... it's an acknowledgment that we can prioritize mental health and still get work done." he said in his announcement.

This is not a first time a corporate company has told its staff to take it easy. Dating app Bumble had told its staff to take a step back to focus on themselves back in June.

Pandemic has not been kind to every worker working from home. Many of them are facing mental issues. With a view to give its employees an opportunity to focus on their mental health, Nike has given staff at its head office a week's break before ahead of their return to office in September.

Pandemic has not been kind to every worker working from home. Many of them are facing mental issues. With a view to give its employees an opportunity to focus on their mental health, Nike has given staff at its head office a week's break before ahead of their return to office in September. Nike's head of insights Mark Marazzo made the announcement on LinkedIn a week ago. "Take the time to unwind, destress and spend time with your loved ones," he told the staff in his announcement. Marazzo told Nike staff: "Do not work". He said that the past year has been "rough" and that everyone was living through a "traumatic event" "It's not just a 'week off' for the team... it's an acknowledgment that we can prioritize mental health and still get work done." he said in his announcement. This is not a first time a corporate company has told its staff to take it easy. Dating app Bumble had told its staff to take a step back to focus on themselves back in June.

Just don't do it: Nike gives its head office staff a week's break

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic. In order to obtain a pass, a worker must reportedly have proof of having been vaccinated, negative test result, or recovery from coronavirus infection.

The health pass is official documentation, with a QR scan code, that proves a person has had the COVID-19 vaccine. Many French bars, restaurants, museums and sports venues will not allow people inside unless they can show the health pass.

The health pass mandate has seen fierce protests for weeks.

While the majority of people in France have been vaccinated against COVID-19, demonstrators argue the health pass discriminates against those who have not, and infringes upon people's liberties.

The protesters have been protesting across France for many weekends.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic.

Around two million French workers in restaurants and other service sectors will now have to show a health pass in order to go to work. This is part of French government's effort to fight coronavirus pandemic. In order to obtain a pass, a worker must reportedly have proof of having been vaccinated, negative test result, or recovery from coronavirus infection. The health pass is official documentation, with a QR scan code, that proves a person has had the COVID-19 vaccine. Many French bars, restaurants, museums and sports venues will not allow people inside unless they can show the health pass. The health pass mandate has seen fierce protests for weeks. While the majority of people in France have been vaccinated against COVID-19, demonstrators argue the health pass discriminates against those who have not, and infringes upon people's liberties. The protesters have been protesting across France for many weekends. (With inputs from agencies)

France: Health pass mandatory for service sector workers to enter workplace

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient.

The office did not say&nbsp;whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament.

He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yakoob's office said on Monday that he was under quarantine after a close contact with a Covid-19 patient. The office did not say whether he had been tested for coronavirus or how long he would be in quarantine. Sabri was sworn in as prime minister earlier this month. He succeeded Muhyiddin Yassin who resigned after failing to hold onto a narrow majority in parliament. He takes charge amid public anger over the handling of the pandemic, with a recent surge in COVID-19 cases to record highs and downgraded growth forecasts after the economy has been battered by extended lockdowns. (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysia PM comes in contact with Covid patient, in quarantine now

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons. One such anti-mask activist has passed away due to Covid-19.

Caleb Wallace (30) was the so-called anti-mask activist and he helped organise "The Freedom Rally" in July 2020. As per media reports, he is a father of three children and his wife is pregnant with their fourth child.&nbsp;

His wife Jessica told a local newspaper that Caleb began experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 on July 26. However, he refused to get tested or go to the hospital. He self-medicated with Vitamin C, Zinc, Aspirin and Ivermectin. Health officials in the US have urged people not to take Ivermectin to treat Covid.

He was taken to emergency room on July 30 and had been unconscious since August 8. He passed away on Saturday.

“To those who wished him death, I’m sorry his views and opinions hurt you. I prayed he’d come out of this with a new perspective and more appreciation for life. I can’t say much more than that because I can’t speak for him,” wrote his wife Jessica on the family's GoFundMe page.

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons.

Covid-19 is real and there are simple measures to protect yourself against a possible infection. Wearing mask is one of them. But in US, there are hundreds who are against wearing of the mask for variety of reasons. One such anti-mask activist has passed away due to Covid-19. Caleb Wallace (30) was the so-called anti-mask activist and he helped organise "The Freedom Rally" in July 2020. As per media reports, he is a father of three children and his wife is pregnant with their fourth child. His wife Jessica told a local newspaper that Caleb began experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 on July 26. However, he refused to get tested or go to the hospital. He self-medicated with Vitamin C, Zinc, Aspirin and Ivermectin. Health officials in the US have urged people not to take Ivermectin to treat Covid. He was taken to emergency room on July 30 and had been unconscious since August 8. He passed away on Saturday. “To those who wished him death, I’m sorry his views and opinions hurt you. I prayed he’d come out of this with a new perspective and more appreciation for life. I can’t say much more than that because I can’t speak for him,” wrote his wife Jessica on the family's GoFundMe page.

Texas: Anti-mask 'activist' dies of COVID-19

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year.

After donating or selling 66 million doses to nearly 100 countries, India barred exports in the middle of April to focus on domestic immunisation as infections exploded, upsetting the inoculation plans of many African and South Asian countries&nbsp;

India`s daily vaccinations surpassed 10 million doses on Friday, with national vaccine production more than doubling since April and set to rise again in the coming weeks. New production lines &nbsp;have been set up, a vaccine developed by Cadila Healthcare won recent approval, and commercial production of Russia`s Sputnik V is starting in India.

The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world`s biggest vaccine maker, is now producing about 150 million doses a month of its version of the AstraZeneca shot, more than twice its April output of about 65 million, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

"No fixed timeline on exports but the company hopes to restart in a few months," said the source, who declined to be named without approval to talk on the matter.

SII, which has previously indicated exports could resume by year-end , did not respond to a request for comment.

Global vaccine sharing platform COVAX hopes India will restart foreign sales sooner than later.

"With successful national vaccination and the arrival of more products, we are hoping that Indian supply to COVAX will resume as quickly as possible," a spokesperson for the platform`s co-lead GAVI told Reuters in an email.

India, a major international producer of many other vaccines, could play a "similarly transformative role in the global response to COVID-19," the spokesperson said.

India`s health ministry and the foreign ministry, which coordinates vaccine exports, did not respond to a request for comment.

Bharat Biotech, the maker of India`s first domestically developed COVID-19 shot, on Sunday inaugurated a new factory with a production capacity of 10 million doses a month. It said it was "marching towards" a goal of a total annual capacity of about 1 billion doses of the drug, Covaxin.

Infections, meanwhile, are again rising in India after an explosive outbreak in April and May. But the country has administered more than 633 million vaccine doses, with at least one dose to 52% of its 944 million adults and two doses to more than 15%.

A government source told Reuters in June the U.S. experience showed that vaccinations tend to slow down after a big majority of people get their shots. That might give SII a chance to export excess output, said the source.

The chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s party said this month India could produce as many as 1.1 billion vaccine doses between September and December, enough to fully immunise all adults in the country this year.

India has so far given emergency authorisation to six COVID-19 shots, four of which are being produced locally. One more domestic vaccine is expected to be approved soon while many more are going through mid-stage trials.

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year.

India`s rising output of COVID-19 vaccines and the inoculation of more than half its adult population with at least one dose are raising hopes the country will return as an exporter within months, ramping up from early next year. After donating or selling 66 million doses to nearly 100 countries, India barred exports in the middle of April to focus on domestic immunisation as infections exploded, upsetting the inoculation plans of many African and South Asian countries India`s daily vaccinations surpassed 10 million doses on Friday, with national vaccine production more than doubling since April and set to rise again in the coming weeks. New production lines have been set up, a vaccine developed by Cadila Healthcare won recent approval, and commercial production of Russia`s Sputnik V is starting in India. The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world`s biggest vaccine maker, is now producing about 150 million doses a month of its version of the AstraZeneca shot, more than twice its April output of about 65 million, a source with knowledge of the matter said. "No fixed timeline on exports but the company hopes to restart in a few months," said the source, who declined to be named without approval to talk on the matter. SII, which has previously indicated exports could resume by year-end , did not respond to a request for comment. Global vaccine sharing platform COVAX hopes India will restart foreign sales sooner than later. "With successful national vaccination and the arrival of more products, we are hoping that Indian supply to COVAX will resume as quickly as possible," a spokesperson for the platform`s co-lead GAVI told Reuters in an email. India, a major international producer of many other vaccines, could play a "similarly transformative role in the global response to COVID-19," the spokesperson said. India`s health ministry and the foreign ministry, which coordinates vaccine exports, did not respond to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech, the maker of India`s first domestically developed COVID-19 shot, on Sunday inaugurated a new factory with a production capacity of 10 million doses a month. It said it was "marching towards" a goal of a total annual capacity of about 1 billion doses of the drug, Covaxin. Infections, meanwhile, are again rising in India after an explosive outbreak in April and May. But the country has administered more than 633 million vaccine doses, with at least one dose to 52% of its 944 million adults and two doses to more than 15%. A government source told Reuters in June the U.S. experience showed that vaccinations tend to slow down after a big majority of people get their shots. That might give SII a chance to export excess output, said the source. The chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s party said this month India could produce as many as 1.1 billion vaccine doses between September and December, enough to fully immunise all adults in the country this year. India has so far given emergency authorisation to six COVID-19 shots, four of which are being produced locally. One more domestic vaccine is expected to be approved soon while many more are going through mid-stage trials.

India could soon be exporting Covid vaccines again as production jumps

The rate of inoculation in South Africa remains 20 percent. It remains a huge task for the country's govt to convince people to take COVID jabs.

Rate of inoculation in South Africa remains 20 percent

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources.

On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.63 million doses shipped to 863 vaccination centres nationawide.

However, production of Moderna (MRNA.O) COVID-19 vaccines at a plant in Spain can continue, the European Union drugs regulator said on Friday, while it carries out its investigation of a suspected metallic contamination incident.

The European Union drugs regulator said it was investigating the incident at the Spanish plant run by Rovi (ROVI.MC), but did not find reasons to seek a temporary suspension of production after an initial assessment.

"COVID-19 vaccine production in Rovi is able to continue, following a preliminary risk assessment," the European Medicines Agency told Reuters in a statement.

"An investigation into the root cause is ongoing. EMA will be able to provide more information as the investigation progresses," it added.

Moderna has so far delivered to the EU nearly 75 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine, EU public data show. The company has two contracts with the 27-nation bloc for up to 460 million shots.

Spanish pharma company Rovi, which bottles Moderna vaccines for markets outside of the United States, said the contamination could be due to a manufacturing issue on a production line. A spokesperson said the company could not say anything more while it was investigating.

Moderna put the lot in question and two adjacent ones on hold.

(With inputs from agencies)

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources. On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.

Contaminant found in a batch of Moderna vaccine was believed to be a metallic particle, reported Japan's public broadcaster NHK citing health ministry sources. On Thursday, Japan suspended use of 1.63 million doses shipped to 863 vaccination centres nationawide. However, production of Moderna (MRNA.O) COVID-19 vaccines at a plant in Spain can continue, the European Union drugs regulator said on Friday, while it carries out its investigation of a suspected metallic contamination incident. The European Union drugs regulator said it was investigating the incident at the Spanish plant run by Rovi (ROVI.MC), but did not find reasons to seek a temporary suspension of production after an initial assessment. "COVID-19 vaccine production in Rovi is able to continue, following a preliminary risk assessment," the European Medicines Agency told Reuters in a statement. "An investigation into the root cause is ongoing. EMA will be able to provide more information as the investigation progresses," it added. Moderna has so far delivered to the EU nearly 75 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine, EU public data show. The company has two contracts with the 27-nation bloc for up to 460 million shots. Spanish pharma company Rovi, which bottles Moderna vaccines for markets outside of the United States, said the contamination could be due to a manufacturing issue on a production line. A spokesperson said the company could not say anything more while it was investigating. Moderna put the lot in question and two adjacent ones on hold. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan: Moderna vaccine contaminant believed to be metallic particle

Srilanka has extended its national lockdown for another week after the spurt in Coronavirus cases.

Srilanka extends national lockdown for another week after COVID surge

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths.

North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths.

The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday.

Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries.

The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries.

Flare up in North America

This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent.

The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East.

Biggest spike

On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more.

Biggest drops

Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent.

US bears the brunt

The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent.

On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699.

(With inputs from agencies)

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week.

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths. The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday. Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries. The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries. Flare up in North America This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent. The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East. Biggest spike On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more. Biggest drops Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent. US bears the brunt The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent. On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699. (With inputs from agencies)

USA bears the brunt of the Covid pandemic

A classified US intelligence report that was submitted to the White House recently couldn’t conclusively trace the origins of the COVID-19 virus due to lack of information provided by China, a report by the US media has stated.

The assessment report, which was ordered by President Joe Biden three months ago, couldn’t prove whether the virus that first emerged in central China had jumped to humans via animals or escaped a highly secure research facility in Wuhan, a report from the Washington report said citing two unnamed US officials who are familiar with the matter.

They said the report would be declassified in coming days.

When Biden ordered the investigation, he said the US intelligence agencies were split over the “two likely scenarios”—animals or lab.

Former president Donald Trump and his aides had earlier pointed fingers at Beijing, claiming that the virus came out of a Wuhan virology lab amid intense criticism over their administration’s handling of the outbreak.

“Despite Biden’s directive that the intelligence community redouble their efforts to untangle the origin debate, the 90-day review brought them no closer to consensus,” the officials told the Post

Responding to reports, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Wednesday criticised Washington for “politicising” the issue of COVID origin-tracing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-virologist-claims-covid-19-was-made-in-wuhan-lab-offers-scientific-proof-327153">Chinese virologist claims COVID-19 was made in Wuhan lab; offers scientific proof</a>

“The United States says it lacks information from China,” Wang told a press briefing, according to China News service, a state-owned newswire.

“I can tell the United States that this is just an excuse to cover up the failure of its intelligence in origin tracing.”

Wang said the report was political and therefore it would not draw any scientific conclusion, “and would only disturb and damage the international effort in finding the origin of the virus and the global cooperation against COVID-19.”

Beijing has repeatedly rejected calls from the United States and other countries for a renewed origin probe after a heavily politicized visit by a World Health Organization (WHO) team in January also proved inconclusive and faced criticism for lacking transparency and access.

Even WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus admitted that the global health body’s probe into Wuhan’s virology labs did not go far enough.

(With inputs from agencies)

A classified US intelligence report that was submitted to the White House recently couldn’t conclusively trace the origins of the COVID-19 virus due to lack of information provided by China, a report by the US media has stated.

A classified US intelligence report that was submitted to the White House recently couldn’t conclusively trace the origins of the COVID-19 virus due to lack of information provided by China, a report by the US media has stated. The assessment report, which was ordered by President Joe Biden three months ago, couldn’t prove whether the virus that first emerged in central China had jumped to humans via animals or escaped a highly secure research facility in Wuhan, a report from the Washington report said citing two unnamed US officials who are familiar with the matter. They said the report would be declassified in coming days. When Biden ordered the investigation, he said the US intelligence agencies were split over the “two likely scenarios”—animals or lab. Former president Donald Trump and his aides had earlier pointed fingers at Beijing, claiming that the virus came out of a Wuhan virology lab amid intense criticism over their administration’s handling of the outbreak. “Despite Biden’s directive that the intelligence community redouble their efforts to untangle the origin debate, the 90-day review brought them no closer to consensus,” the officials told the Post Responding to reports, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Wednesday criticised Washington for “politicising” the issue of COVID origin-tracing. Also read | Chinese virologist claims COVID-19 was made in Wuhan lab; offers scientific proof “The United States says it lacks information from China,” Wang told a press briefing, according to China News service, a state-owned newswire. “I can tell the United States that this is just an excuse to cover up the failure of its intelligence in origin tracing.” Wang said the report was political and therefore it would not draw any scientific conclusion, “and would only disturb and damage the international effort in finding the origin of the virus and the global cooperation against COVID-19.” Beijing has repeatedly rejected calls from the United States and other countries for a renewed origin probe after a heavily politicized visit by a World Health Organization (WHO) team in January also proved inconclusive and faced criticism for lacking transparency and access. Even WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus admitted that the global health body’s probe into Wuhan’s virology labs did not go far enough. (With inputs from agencies)

Classified US intelligence study inconclusive on COVID origins: Report

The brazillian health ministry said on Wednesday that the country will give Covid-19 booster shots to people with compromised immune system and those over the age of 70. The vaccination would begin in mid-September.

For booster shots, vaccines from AstraZeneca, Johnson &amp; Johnson or Pfizer will be used, said the ministry in a statement.

The information differs from remarks on Tuesday by Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga, who had said vulnerable people and over 80-year-olds would receive an additional jab of the Pfizer.

Rapid spread of the Delta variant and research suggesting diminishing effectiveness of vaccines over time has led to many countries planning booster vaccine drives.

Sinovac's Coronavac vaccine, which was used for many elderly people in Brazil because it was the earliest available in large quantities, is not part of the plans outlined for the booster shots.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dont-worry-about-covid-22-here-are-misconceptions-about-it-408319">Don't worry about Covid-22: Here are misconceptions about it</a>

The extra shots will be administered to those with vulnerable immune systems 28 days after their second dose. For those 70 and over, the ministry stipulated a six-month interval before applying a booster shot.

Also starting next month, the gap between the first and second shots of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines will fall to eight weeks from 12 weeks for all those vaccinated in Brazil.

Brazil has had more than 20.6 million confirmed coronavirus infections and more than 575,000 fatalities due to the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

The brazillian health ministry said on Wednesday that the country will give Covid-19 booster shots to people with compromised immune system and those over the age of 70.

The brazillian health ministry said on Wednesday that the country will give Covid-19 booster shots to people with compromised immune system and those over the age of 70. The vaccination would begin in mid-September. For booster shots, vaccines from AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson or Pfizer will be used, said the ministry in a statement. The information differs from remarks on Tuesday by Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga, who had said vulnerable people and over 80-year-olds would receive an additional jab of the Pfizer. Rapid spread of the Delta variant and research suggesting diminishing effectiveness of vaccines over time has led to many countries planning booster vaccine drives. Sinovac's Coronavac vaccine, which was used for many elderly people in Brazil because it was the earliest available in large quantities, is not part of the plans outlined for the booster shots. Also Read | Don't worry about Covid-22: Here are misconceptions about it The extra shots will be administered to those with vulnerable immune systems 28 days after their second dose. For those 70 and over, the ministry stipulated a six-month interval before applying a booster shot. Also starting next month, the gap between the first and second shots of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines will fall to eight weeks from 12 weeks for all those vaccinated in Brazil. Brazil has had more than 20.6 million confirmed coronavirus infections and more than 575,000 fatalities due to the virus. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil plans booster Covid vaccine drive

In a bid to revive his prospects after announcing a snap election, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday promised to introduce a two-year ban on foreign buyers if re-elected to the office.

The PM made the announcement to placate the locals who have been grappling with soaring home prices. The federal elections &nbsp;are scheduled to take place on September 20.

“If you work hard, if you save, that dream of having your own place should be in reach,” Reuters quoted Trudeau as saying at a campaign stop in Hamilton, a fast-growing city outside Toronto.

Housing affordability has become the central theme in this election campaign, as the prices have sky-rocketed during the pandemic.

The surge in the price of homes is largely being attributed to foreign buyers, especially non-residents from China and Hong Kong who have been spending a good amount of fortune in Vancouver real estate.

According to Reuters, the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) home price index is up 69.7% since November 2015, when Trudeau first took office.

The average cost of a home was C$669,200 ($529,840) in July—a 16% rise from a year ago, according to the CREA.

“We’ll crack down on predatory speculators,” Trudeau was quoted as saying. “

Trudeau’s&nbsp;Liberal's Party of Canada&nbsp;has also proposed to introduce tax-free savings accounts for first-time buyers and more oversight of the real estate industry to fight money laundering. They’re also vowing to add or repair 1.4 million homes over the next four years.&nbsp;

Banking on a strong response against the COVID pandemic, Trudeau on August 15 called for snap elections. However, recent polls show that the difference between the governing Liberals and the opposition Conservative is narrowing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-nationalism-push-in-quebec-is-posing-as-election-challenge-for-canada-pm-trudeau-388085">Why nationalism push in Quebec is posing as election challenge for Canada PM Trudeau?</a>

According to Nanos Research&nbsp;poll, ballot support for the Liberals stands at 32.5%, while the Conservatives are at 31.4%.

Another polling agency Ipsos showed that the Liberals have lost 3 points over a week and now have 33% support nearly the same as the Conservatives, who are at 32%.

Another national poll conducted by the non-profit Angus Reid Institute underscored the&nbsp;statistical tie, with the Liberals again at 33%, a lead of just 2 points over the Conservatives.

Trudeau’s attempt to garner a parliamentary majority in the September 20 elections is also likely to face further headwinds as the government attempts to tackle criticism over it’s “withdrawal fiasco” in Afghanistan.

According to local outlet Global News, “the first week of the campaign was dominated by criticisms over the Trudeau government’s slow evacuation.”

However, poll experts are of the view that international geopolitics “hardly” play a decisive role in Canadian elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to revive his prospects after announcing a snap election, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday promised to introduce a two-year ban on foreign buyers if re-elected to the office.

In a bid to revive his prospects after announcing a snap election, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday promised to introduce a two-year ban on foreign buyers if re-elected to the office. The PM made the announcement to placate the locals who have been grappling with soaring home prices. The federal elections are scheduled to take place on September 20. “If you work hard, if you save, that dream of having your own place should be in reach,” Reuters quoted Trudeau as saying at a campaign stop in Hamilton, a fast-growing city outside Toronto. Housing affordability has become the central theme in this election campaign, as the prices have sky-rocketed during the pandemic. The surge in the price of homes is largely being attributed to foreign buyers, especially non-residents from China and Hong Kong who have been spending a good amount of fortune in Vancouver real estate. According to Reuters, the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) home price index is up 69.7% since November 2015, when Trudeau first took office. The average cost of a home was C$669,200 ($529,840) in July—a 16% rise from a year ago, according to the CREA. “We’ll crack down on predatory speculators,” Trudeau was quoted as saying. “ Trudeau’s Liberal's Party of Canada has also proposed to introduce tax-free savings accounts for first-time buyers and more oversight of the real estate industry to fight money laundering. They’re also vowing to add or repair 1.4 million homes over the next four years. Banking on a strong response against the COVID pandemic, Trudeau on August 15 called for snap elections. However, recent polls show that the difference between the governing Liberals and the opposition Conservative is narrowing. Also read | Why nationalism push in Quebec is posing as election challenge for Canada PM Trudeau? According to Nanos Research poll, ballot support for the Liberals stands at 32.5%, while the Conservatives are at 31.4%. Another polling agency Ipsos showed that the Liberals have lost 3 points over a week and now have 33% support nearly the same as the Conservatives, who are at 32%. Another national poll conducted by the non-profit Angus Reid Institute underscored the statistical tie, with the Liberals again at 33%, a lead of just 2 points over the Conservatives. Trudeau’s attempt to garner a parliamentary majority in the September 20 elections is also likely to face further headwinds as the government attempts to tackle criticism over it’s “withdrawal fiasco” in Afghanistan. According to local outlet Global News, “the first week of the campaign was dominated by criticisms over the Trudeau government’s slow evacuation.” However, poll experts are of the view that international geopolitics “hardly” play a decisive role in Canadian elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid tight election race, Canadian PM Trudeau promises 2-year ban on foreign home buyers

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus.

New Zealand's virus-free run since February ended last week as a Delta variant outbreak erupted in Auckland. It quickly spread to capital Wellington.

On Tuesday, authorities reported 41 new Covid cases on Tuesday. This has taken number of infections in the country to 148.

Of the new cases, 38 are in Auckland and three are in Wellington. So far, eight people associated with the current outbreak are in hospital, the ministry said.

"Delta is unlike our previous experience. It is, as we know, highly infectious and transmissible and, as we have seen, spreads rapidly,” Bloomfield said at a news conference.

But he said it was reassuring to see the numbers were not rising exponentially and the majority were still in Auckland.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus.

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus. New Zealand's virus-free run since February ended last week as a Delta variant outbreak erupted in Auckland. It quickly spread to capital Wellington. On Tuesday, authorities reported 41 new Covid cases on Tuesday. This has taken number of infections in the country to 148. Of the new cases, 38 are in Auckland and three are in Wellington. So far, eight people associated with the current outbreak are in hospital, the ministry said. "Delta is unlike our previous experience. It is, as we know, highly infectious and transmissible and, as we have seen, spreads rapidly,” Bloomfield said at a news conference. But he said it was reassuring to see the numbers were not rising exponentially and the majority were still in Auckland. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Delta variant spreads rapidly, new cases emerge

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths.

Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so.

<img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80b59851-52ea-45dc-85cf-39cae2650687" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-08-24T052413Z_3_LYNXMPEH7N04G_RTROPTP_4_HEALTH-CORONAVIRUS-ISRAEL-BOOSTERS.JPG" />

On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further.

In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters.

The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv

Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well.

"The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government.

"This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive. Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths. Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so. On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further. In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters. The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well. "The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government. "This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's booster Covid vaccine drive shows effect on Delta variant spread

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases.

"Pupils... will be vaccinated on school grounds during school hours, subject to parental approval," a government statement said, confirming classes would begin on September 1.

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Israeli leaders say they are trying to avoid repeating disruptive school closures amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Israel has seen a steep rise in Covid infections after months.

On Monday, the health ministry said that 6467 new Covid cases were recorded in Israel just a day before. 1142 people were hospitalised

About 30 per cent of children between the ages 12 and 15 have received two vaccine doses in Israel. This is far less than any other age group.

The school reopening plan would also require pupils younger than 12 to bring parental approval to perform a coronavirus test on the first day of school.

Further, high school classes in cities with high rates of transmission would require 70 percent of students to be vaccinated or move to online learning.

Some in government had opposed vaccines in schools, with Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton saying in July that students could feel peer pressure to get vaccines.

On Monday she praised the plan on Twitter, writing, "Opening the school year -- vital to students' stability and mental resilience."

Ran Balicer, chairman of Israel's national expert panel on Covid-19, warned on public radio, "of course it will not be possible to completely prevent infections."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases.

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases. "Pupils... will be vaccinated on school grounds during school hours, subject to parental approval," a government statement said, confirming classes would begin on September 1. × Israeli leaders say they are trying to avoid repeating disruptive school closures amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Israel has seen a steep rise in Covid infections after months. On Monday, the health ministry said that 6467 new Covid cases were recorded in Israel just a day before. 1142 people were hospitalised About 30 per cent of children between the ages 12 and 15 have received two vaccine doses in Israel. This is far less than any other age group. The school reopening plan would also require pupils younger than 12 to bring parental approval to perform a coronavirus test on the first day of school. Further, high school classes in cities with high rates of transmission would require 70 percent of students to be vaccinated or move to online learning. Some in government had opposed vaccines in schools, with Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton saying in July that students could feel peer pressure to get vaccines. On Monday she praised the plan on Twitter, writing, "Opening the school year -- vital to students' stability and mental resilience." Ran Balicer, chairman of Israel's national expert panel on Covid-19, warned on public radio, "of course it will not be possible to completely prevent infections." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to administer Covid vaccines in schools as they reopen

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic.

The sentence was handed to Juliari Batubara, the minister by a court in Jakarta. Batubara was arrested in December. A sting operation had turned up suitcases, backpacks and envelopes stuffed with cash.

"The court sentences the defendant to 12 years in prison and orders him to pay 500 million rupiah ($35,000) in fines or serve six more months in prison," presiding judge Muhammad Damis told the hearing, which was held virtually for virus safety reasons.

The former politician was also ordered to pay the equivalent of about $1 million in restitution, or face an additional two years in prison, the court said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virginity-check-for-female-recruits-indonesian-army-ends-the-abusive-two-finger-test-404687">Virginity check for female recruits: Indonesian army ends the abusive two-finger test</a>

Batubara would take cash from two contractors hired to supply basic food packages for Indonesians hit hard by the health crisis, the court heard earlier.

President Joko Widodo vowed not to protect corrupt officials in the wake of Batubara's arrest and described the stolen funds as "the people's money".

Graft remains a big problem in Indonesia, where politicians are widely seen as among the most corrupt.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic.

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic. The sentence was handed to Juliari Batubara, the minister by a court in Jakarta. Batubara was arrested in December. A sting operation had turned up suitcases, backpacks and envelopes stuffed with cash. "The court sentences the defendant to 12 years in prison and orders him to pay 500 million rupiah ($35,000) in fines or serve six more months in prison," presiding judge Muhammad Damis told the hearing, which was held virtually for virus safety reasons. The former politician was also ordered to pay the equivalent of about $1 million in restitution, or face an additional two years in prison, the court said. Also Read: Virginity check for female recruits: Indonesian army ends the abusive two-finger test Batubara would take cash from two contractors hired to supply basic food packages for Indonesians hit hard by the health crisis, the court heard earlier. President Joko Widodo vowed not to protect corrupt officials in the wake of Batubara's arrest and described the stolen funds as "the people's money". Graft remains a big problem in Indonesia, where politicians are widely seen as among the most corrupt. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia ex-minister sentenced for 12 years over Covid aid fraud

India saw a single-day rise of 25,072 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 160 days, while active cases declined to 3,33,924, comprising 1.03 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the union health ministry data updated on Monday.

The tally of COVID-19 cases has increased to 3,24,49,306, while the death toll has climbed to 4,34,756 with 389 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am.

Watch | Vietnam COVID-19: Over 11,000 cases and 737 deaths in 24 hours

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The active cases have declined to 3,33,924, the lowest in 155 days, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has increased to 97.63 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the health ministry said.

A reduction of 19,474 cases has been recorded in the total number of active COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours. 
Also, 12,95,160 tests were conducted on Sunday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 50,75,51,399.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-rolls-out-its-first-indigenously-made-covid-19-vaccine-407790">Taiwan rolls out its first indigenously made COVID-19 vaccine</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.94 per cent. It has been less than 3 per cent for the last 28 days. 
Weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.91 per cent. It has been below 3 per cent for the last 59 days, according to the health ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,16,80,626, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated.

The 389 new fatalities include 145 from Maharashtra, 69 from Odisha and 66 from Kerala.&nbsp;

India saw a single-day rise of 25,072 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 160 days, while active cases declined to 3,33,924, comprising 1.03 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the union health ministry data updated on Monday.

India saw a single-day rise of 25,072 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 160 days, while active cases declined to 3,33,924, comprising 1.03 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, according to the union health ministry data updated on Monday. The tally of COVID-19 cases has increased to 3,24,49,306, while the death toll has climbed to 4,34,756 with 389 daily fatalities, according to the data updated at 8 am. Watch | Vietnam COVID-19: Over 11,000 cases and 737 deaths in 24 hours × The active cases have declined to 3,33,924, the lowest in 155 days, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has increased to 97.63 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the health ministry said. A reduction of 19,474 cases has been recorded in the total number of active COVID-19 cases in a span of 24 hours. Also, 12,95,160 tests were conducted on Sunday, taking the cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 50,75,51,399. Also Read: Taiwan rolls out its first indigenously made COVID-19 vaccine The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.94 per cent. It has been less than 3 per cent for the last 28 days. Weekly positivity rate was recorded at 1.91 per cent. It has been below 3 per cent for the last 59 days, according to the health ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,16,80,626, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.34 per cent, the data stated. The 389 new fatalities include 145 from Maharashtra, 69 from Odisha and 66 from Kerala.

India sees single-day rise of 25,072 new Covid cases, lowest in 160 days

A British public health study has found that protection from either of the two most commonly used COVID-19 vaccines against the now prevalent Delta variant of the coronavirus weakens within three months.

It also found that those who get infected after receiving two shots of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or the AstraZeneca vaccine may be of greater risk to others than under previous variants of the coronavirus.

Based on more than three million nose and throat swabs taken across Britain, the Oxford University study found that 90 days after a second shot of the Pfizer or Astrazeneca vaccine, their efficacy in preventing infections had slipped to 75% and 61%, respectively.

That was down from 85% and 68%, respectively, seen two weeks after a second dose. The decline in efficacy was more pronounced among those aged 35 years and older than those below that age.

"Both of these vaccines, at two doses, are still doing really well against Delta... When you start very, very high, you got a long way to go," said Sarah Walker, an Oxford professor of medical statistics and chief investigator for the survey https://www.ndm.ox.ac.uk/covid-19/covid-19-infection-survey/results/new-studies.

Walker was not involved in work on AstraZeneca's vaccine, which was initially developed by immunology experts at Oxford.

The researchers would not project how much more the protection would drop over time, but suggested that the efficacy of the two vaccines studied would converge within 4-5 months after the second shot.

Israel began administering third Pfizer doses last month to confront a surge in local infections driven by Delta. Several European countries are also expected to begin offering boosters to the elderly and people with weak immune systems.

Pfizer has said its vaccine's efficacy drops over time. Last month AstraZeneca said it was still looking into how long its vaccine's protection lasts and whether a booster dose would be needed to keep up immunity.

"The fact that we do see ... more viral load hints that indeed herd immunity might become more challenging," said co-author Koen Pouwels, also of Oxford University.

Herd immunity is when a large enough portion of the population is immune to a pathogen, either by vaccination or prior infection, stopping infection numbers from growing.

"Vaccines are probably best at preventing severe disease and slightly less at preventing transmission," said Pouwels.

The authors cautioned that the viral concentration in the throat was only a rough proxy for severity of symptoms and that they had no new data on the duration of infections.

The survey, which has yet to be peer-reviewed before publication in a scientific journal, underscores concerns by scientists that the Delta variant, first identified in India, can infect fully vaccinated people at a greater rate than previous lineages, and that the vaccinated could more easily transmit it.

To contrast periods before and after Delta became prevalent, the Oxford researchers analysed about 2.58 million swabs taken from 380,000 randomly picked adults between Dec. 1, 2020, and May 16, 2021, and 810,000 test results from 360,000 participants between May 17 and Aug. 1.

The study was conducted in partnership with Britain's Office of National Statistics (ONS) and the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC).

A British public health study has found that protection from either of the two most commonly used COVID-19 vaccines against the now prevalent Delta variant of the coronavirus weakens within three months.

A British public health study has found that protection from either of the two most commonly used COVID-19 vaccines against the now prevalent Delta variant of the coronavirus weakens within three months. It also found that those who get infected after receiving two shots of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or the AstraZeneca vaccine may be of greater risk to others than under previous variants of the coronavirus. Based on more than three million nose and throat swabs taken across Britain, the Oxford University study found that 90 days after a second shot of the Pfizer or Astrazeneca vaccine, their efficacy in preventing infections had slipped to 75% and 61%, respectively. That was down from 85% and 68%, respectively, seen two weeks after a second dose. The decline in efficacy was more pronounced among those aged 35 years and older than those below that age. "Both of these vaccines, at two doses, are still doing really well against Delta... When you start very, very high, you got a long way to go," said Sarah Walker, an Oxford professor of medical statistics and chief investigator for the survey https://www.ndm.ox.ac.uk/covid-19/covid-19-infection-survey/results/new-studies. Walker was not involved in work on AstraZeneca's vaccine, which was initially developed by immunology experts at Oxford. The researchers would not project how much more the protection would drop over time, but suggested that the efficacy of the two vaccines studied would converge within 4-5 months after the second shot. Israel began administering third Pfizer doses last month to confront a surge in local infections driven by Delta. Several European countries are also expected to begin offering boosters to the elderly and people with weak immune systems. Pfizer has said its vaccine's efficacy drops over time. Last month AstraZeneca said it was still looking into how long its vaccine's protection lasts and whether a booster dose would be needed to keep up immunity. "The fact that we do see ... more viral load hints that indeed herd immunity might become more challenging," said co-author Koen Pouwels, also of Oxford University. Herd immunity is when a large enough portion of the population is immune to a pathogen, either by vaccination or prior infection, stopping infection numbers from growing. "Vaccines are probably best at preventing severe disease and slightly less at preventing transmission," said Pouwels. The authors cautioned that the viral concentration in the throat was only a rough proxy for severity of symptoms and that they had no new data on the duration of infections. The survey, which has yet to be peer-reviewed before publication in a scientific journal, underscores concerns by scientists that the Delta variant, first identified in India, can infect fully vaccinated people at a greater rate than previous lineages, and that the vaccinated could more easily transmit it. To contrast periods before and after Delta became prevalent, the Oxford researchers analysed about 2.58 million swabs taken from 380,000 randomly picked adults between Dec. 1, 2020, and May 16, 2021, and 810,000 test results from 360,000 participants between May 17 and Aug. 1. The study was conducted in partnership with Britain's Office of National Statistics (ONS) and the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC).

British study shows Covid-19 vaccine efficacy wanes under Delta variant

World Humanitarian Day, August 19,&nbsp;is a global celebration of people helping people. It is intended to raise public awareness regarding humanitarian assistance worldwide and today we acknowledge some do-gooders in the Hindi film industry who did their best to alleviate gloom during the worst phase of the pandemic:

<img alt="sonu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="510d3426-c2bc-4fcd-8c0e-ef3b4161a6c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-394.jpg" />

Sonu Sood: The actor&nbsp;turned into a virtual superman for legions of vulnerable migrants when he mobilised resources and goodwill during the first lockdown to ferry them to their homes. Be it arranging chartered flights or buses, providing safe places for isolation, oxygen stocks, critical medical assistance or connecting directly with people in distress, he became a one-man army as he rescued, healed and helped countless people who needed a helping hand. His charity foundation is a force of good today and demonstrates the power of one in changing the lives of many. &nbsp;He has also launched 'Sanjeevani - A Shot of Life,' an initiative to encourage people to get vaccinated.

<h2>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-humanitarian-day-2021-history-significance-challenges-and-all-you-need-to-know-406840">World Humanitarian Day 2021: History, significance, challenges and all you need to know</a></h2>

<img alt="anand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65a732f9-fced-45e3-8405-4b1df23189e8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-395.jpg" />

Anand Pandit: During the pandemic, veteran producer and real estate magnet Anand Pandit not only &nbsp;sponsored a vaccination drive to help all workers associated with IFTDA (Indian Film &amp; Television Directors' Association) but also took care of the daily wagers working on his building and film projects. He also provided medical kits and funded medical check-ups for those who could not afford it. He&nbsp;gave around 250 apartments to the BMC (The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai) to accommodate over 1000 patients. &nbsp;He was also in news recently for &nbsp;collaborating with Amitabh Bachchan and Ajay Devgn to open COVID relief centres, complete with beds and oxygen support in Dadar and Juhu areas of Mumbai.&nbsp;

<img alt="srk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92a97c72-39aa-4aa1-ac1d-30f7a94260ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-392.jpg" />

Shah Rukh Khan: From donating 20,000 N-95 masks to Kerala, 2,000 PPE kits to health workers in Chhattisgarh to providing 500 Remdesivir injections for &nbsp;COVID-19 positive patients in Delhi, Shah Rukh Khan has been quietly helping out in various capacities during the pandemic. His Meer Foundation has been spearheading many relief activities. He and wife Gauri Khan, also offered their four-storey personal office space for treating COVID-19 patients and the actor has also taken the help of his other companies - Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, and Red Chillies VFX - to help &nbsp;central and state agencies. Meer Foundation also tied up with Ek Saath - The Earth Foundation to meet the daily food requirements of over 5500 families for at least a month in Mumbai.

<img alt="rohit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6dbeb271-462c-470b-8576-d3773054d52f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-391.jpg" />

Rohit Shetty: Bollywood’s hit machine Rohit Shetty also did his bit during the worst months of the pandemic by contributing towards 250 hospital beds including additional medical facilities at the Guru Tegh Bahadur COVID Care Centre in Delhi. The Mumbai Police Commissioner also thanked filmmaker Shetty for his help towards &nbsp;facilitating unlimited occupancy in 11 hotels &nbsp;for &nbsp;on-duty personnel who were working day and night during the early months of the pandemic.&nbsp;

<img alt="aditya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2b6bd9d-2c44-4585-a448-f28e386fef1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New-393.jpg" />

Aditya Chopra: This reclusive head of Yash Raj Films, stayed as always out of limelight as he helmed major relief efforts during the pandemic. He opened up the kitchen at YRF Studios to provide meals to thousands of frontline workers in Goregaon and to people in Andheri’s quarantine centres. He&nbsp;diverted the funds meant for the golden jubilee celebrations of Yash Raj Films to help the industry’s daily wage earners. He also&nbsp;launched the Yash Chopra Saathi Initiative to provide financial support to thousands of film industry workers. During the lockdown, he also helped thousands of daily wage earners, women and senior citizens of the film industry by crediting Rs 5000 directly into their bank accounts. His team also led the distribution of ration kits to distressed families of industry workers for an entire month through their NGO partners Youth Feed India.

World Humanitarian Day, August 19, is a global celebration of people helping people. It is intended to raise public awareness regarding humanitarian assistance worldwide and today we acknowledge some do-gooders in the Hindi film industry who did their best to alleviate gloom during the worst phase of the pandemic: Sonu Sood: The actor turned into a virtual superman for legions of vulnerable migrants when he mobilised resources and goodwill during the first lockdown to ferry them to their homes.

World Humanitarian Day, August 19, is a global celebration of people helping people. It is intended to raise public awareness regarding humanitarian assistance worldwide and today we acknowledge some do-gooders in the Hindi film industry who did their best to alleviate gloom during the worst phase of the pandemic: Sonu Sood: The actor turned into a virtual superman for legions of vulnerable migrants when he mobilised resources and goodwill during the first lockdown to ferry them to their homes. Be it arranging chartered flights or buses, providing safe places for isolation, oxygen stocks, critical medical assistance or connecting directly with people in distress, he became a one-man army as he rescued, healed and helped countless people who needed a helping hand. His charity foundation is a force of good today and demonstrates the power of one in changing the lives of many. He has also launched 'Sanjeevani - A Shot of Life,' an initiative to encourage people to get vaccinated. Also read: World Humanitarian Day 2021: History, significance, challenges and all you need to know Anand Pandit: During the pandemic, veteran producer and real estate magnet Anand Pandit not only sponsored a vaccination drive to help all workers associated with IFTDA (Indian Film & Television Directors' Association) but also took care of the daily wagers working on his building and film projects. He also provided medical kits and funded medical check-ups for those who could not afford it. He gave around 250 apartments to the BMC (The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai) to accommodate over 1000 patients. He was also in news recently for collaborating with Amitabh Bachchan and Ajay Devgn to open COVID relief centres, complete with beds and oxygen support in Dadar and Juhu areas of Mumbai. Shah Rukh Khan: From donating 20,000 N-95 masks to Kerala, 2,000 PPE kits to health workers in Chhattisgarh to providing 500 Remdesivir injections for COVID-19 positive patients in Delhi, Shah Rukh Khan has been quietly helping out in various capacities during the pandemic. His Meer Foundation has been spearheading many relief activities. He and wife Gauri Khan, also offered their four-storey personal office space for treating COVID-19 patients and the actor has also taken the help of his other companies - Kolkata Knight Riders, Red Chillies Entertainment, and Red Chillies VFX - to help central and state agencies. Meer Foundation also tied up with Ek Saath - The Earth Foundation to meet the daily food requirements of over 5500 families for at least a month in Mumbai. Rohit Shetty: Bollywood’s hit machine Rohit Shetty also did his bit during the worst months of the pandemic by contributing towards 250 hospital beds including additional medical facilities at the Guru Tegh Bahadur COVID Care Centre in Delhi. The Mumbai Police Commissioner also thanked filmmaker Shetty for his help towards facilitating unlimited occupancy in 11 hotels for on-duty personnel who were working day and night during the early months of the pandemic. Aditya Chopra: This reclusive head of Yash Raj Films, stayed as always out of limelight as he helmed major relief efforts during the pandemic. He opened up the kitchen at YRF Studios to provide meals to thousands of frontline workers in Goregaon and to people in Andheri’s quarantine centres. He diverted the funds meant for the golden jubilee celebrations of Yash Raj Films to help the industry’s daily wage earners. He also launched the Yash Chopra Saathi Initiative to provide financial support to thousands of film industry workers. During the lockdown, he also helped thousands of daily wage earners, women and senior citizens of the film industry by crediting Rs 5000 directly into their bank accounts. His team also led the distribution of ration kits to distressed families of industry workers for an entire month through their NGO partners Youth Feed India.

On World Humanitarian Day, 5 celebs who extended Covid relief when it mattered most

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police.

Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished.

Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May.

The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month.

According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19.

This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue.

On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance.

A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule.

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished. Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May. The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month. According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19. This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue. On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance. A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore: British man handed jail term for not wearing mask

China's industrial data is missing expectations and pressure is increasing on the Chinese economy. The new COVID outbreak has disrupted business in China

China's industrial data misses expectations as COVID outbreak disrupts business

Sri Lanka's president on Monday demoted the health minister who publicly endorsed sorcery and magic potions to battle Covid-19, as coronavirus infections and deaths hit record highs.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office said Pavithra Wanniarachchi's health portfolio had been given to Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella who is also the government spokesman.

Wanniarachchi was in intensive care in January after contracting the virus despite publicly consuming and endorsing a "magic potion" against Covid-19 made by a sorcerer.

She also poured a pot of "blessed" water into a river in November after a self-styled god-man told her that it would end the pandemic in the island nation of 21 million people.

Sri Lanka's health ministry under Wanniarachchi came under intense criticism last week for understating coronavirus infections.

Despite the demotion, she will remain in the cabinet -- the president gave her the less important transport ministry.

The number of daily virus deaths crossed 150 in the past week, overwhelming crematoriums.

Daily infections crossed 3,000, and with hospitals struggling to cope, even government health workers say the actual number of infections could be three times higher.

The government has so far rejected calls for a lockdown to contain the surge, but last week tightened restrictions.

Wedding and parties have been banned from Tuesday, while state ceremonies and public gatherings are also prohibited until September 1.

Shops, restaurants and officers will have to follow a night curfew from Monday.

In the cabinet reshuffle, Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Education Minister Gamini Lakshman Peiris swapped their portfolios.

Sri Lanka's president on Monday demoted the health minister who publicly endorsed sorcery and magic potions to battle Covid-19, as coronavirus infections and deaths hit record highs.

Sri Lanka's president on Monday demoted the health minister who publicly endorsed sorcery and magic potions to battle Covid-19, as coronavirus infections and deaths hit record highs. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office said Pavithra Wanniarachchi's health portfolio had been given to Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella who is also the government spokesman. Wanniarachchi was in intensive care in January after contracting the virus despite publicly consuming and endorsing a "magic potion" against Covid-19 made by a sorcerer. She also poured a pot of "blessed" water into a river in November after a self-styled god-man told her that it would end the pandemic in the island nation of 21 million people. Sri Lanka's health ministry under Wanniarachchi came under intense criticism last week for understating coronavirus infections. Despite the demotion, she will remain in the cabinet -- the president gave her the less important transport ministry. The number of daily virus deaths crossed 150 in the past week, overwhelming crematoriums. Daily infections crossed 3,000, and with hospitals struggling to cope, even government health workers say the actual number of infections could be three times higher. The government has so far rejected calls for a lockdown to contain the surge, but last week tightened restrictions. Wedding and parties have been banned from Tuesday, while state ceremonies and public gatherings are also prohibited until September 1. Shops, restaurants and officers will have to follow a night curfew from Monday. In the cabinet reshuffle, Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Education Minister Gamini Lakshman Peiris swapped their portfolios.

Sri Lanka axes health minister over Covid misinformation as outbreak grows

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak.&nbsp;

On Monday evening, more than five million residents would not be able to leave their homes between 9 pm and 5 am. Essential workers would be required to get special permits to be on the streets.

Victoria state premier Dan Andrews said the decision came after a series of street parties, pub crawls and home gatherings over the weekend, as Melbourne reached a "tipping point" in its latest outbreak.

"We've seen lots of different people flouting these rules, not doing as they should, making really poor choices," he said.

He also announced the restrictions would be extended to September 2. He said it was necessary for Melbourne to avoid a Sydney-like situation.

More than eight million people in New South Wales state are under lockdown -- including in Sydney where residents have already been under those restrictions for almost two months.

Since the outbreak began in mid-June, Australia's most populous state has recorded more than 8200 cases.

A snap lockdown was announced for the northern city of Darwin on Monday, with about 150,000 people told to stop non-essential movements for three days after a man tested positive.

"We have made the decision to lock down fast because of what we do not know," Northern Territory chief minister Michael Gunner said.

"There is a very real risk that this virus has been transmitted to others."

Australia's capital Canberra will also remain in lockdown until September 2 as health officials grapple with a small but growing outbreak in the city.

Australia won global praise for its early pandemic response but strict border closures and other measures have struggled to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant.

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak.

Coronavirus curfew was announced on Monday in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Residents would now confined to their homes overnight. The measure was taken as a part of authorities' efforts to stamp out Delta variant ourbreak. On Monday evening, more than five million residents would not be able to leave their homes between 9 pm and 5 am. Essential workers would be required to get special permits to be on the streets. Victoria state premier Dan Andrews said the decision came after a series of street parties, pub crawls and home gatherings over the weekend, as Melbourne reached a "tipping point" in its latest outbreak. "We've seen lots of different people flouting these rules, not doing as they should, making really poor choices," he said. He also announced the restrictions would be extended to September 2. He said it was necessary for Melbourne to avoid a Sydney-like situation. More than eight million people in New South Wales state are under lockdown -- including in Sydney where residents have already been under those restrictions for almost two months. Since the outbreak began in mid-June, Australia's most populous state has recorded more than 8200 cases. A snap lockdown was announced for the northern city of Darwin on Monday, with about 150,000 people told to stop non-essential movements for three days after a man tested positive. "We have made the decision to lock down fast because of what we do not know," Northern Territory chief minister Michael Gunner said. "There is a very real risk that this virus has been transmitted to others." Australia's capital Canberra will also remain in lockdown until September 2 as health officials grapple with a small but growing outbreak in the city. Australia won global praise for its early pandemic response but strict border closures and other measures have struggled to contain the highly transmissible Delta variant. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Coronavirus curfew announced in Melbourne

Even after an year into the Coronavirus pandemic, we still have many questions about its origins. Beijing rejected WHO's calls for an investigation into the origins of COVID saying it is a political move.

Beijing rejects WHO's calls for investigation into origins of COVID

US has become the latest country to approve a COVID booster shot to vulnerable people under new rules. US health authorities are in talks with Moderna and Pfizer. Those eligible include cancer, HIV patients, and organ recipients.

US becomes latest country to approve COVID booster shot to vulnerable people

Canada has extended its ban on direct flights from India, but has opened its border to Americans at a time when Covid cases in the U.S. are surging. Americans can enter Canada by showing proof of vaccination, Indians have not been given that option. How is Canada justifying such arbitrary rules? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Canada extends travel ban on direct flights from India

The rapid spread of the Delta variant of the coronavirus has pushed cases and hospitalizations in the United States to a six-month high. U.S. has reported 100,000 average daily cases of the COVID variant.

Wion Live Broadcast: Delta variant fuels covid surge in US

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