An estimated 270 million people are expected to face potentially life-threatening food shortages this year — compared to 150 million before the pandemic — according to analysis from the World Food Program.

Coronavirus pandemic deepens global hunger, millions on the brink of famine

Have you recovered from a Covid infection? Do you still feel sick?Are you breathless? Are you losing your hair? You are not alone. Millions around the world are now suffering from long covid. Do we have a solution?

Gravitas: Recovered from Covid, but still suffering? All about long covid

A day after Wuhan recorded seven new coronavirus cases, Chinese authorities said the entire population of the city will be tested. Wuhan official Li Tao said nucleic acid testing will be carried out for all residents. Officials had earlier linked the latest coronavirus cases to a train station with the infected cases identified among migrant workers. Watch this and more trending news on this show WION Trending.

WION Trending: Chinese authorities to test all Wuhan residents amid COVID surge

US health expert Anthony Fauci said that is warning of "some pain and suffering in the future" as coronavirus cases continue to rise. Fauci argued that the unvaccinated are affecting others because they're "allowing the propagation and the spread of the outbreak."

US health expert Anthony Fauci warns of pain and suffering in future as COVID cases continue to rise

Kicking off the campaign, Israel's President Isaac Herzog, 60, received a third dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine at a hospital in Ramat Gan.

Israel launches COVID booster shot campaign, President gets third vaccine shot

Britain's UN ambassador has warned that half of Myanmar's population could be infected with COVID-19 in the next two weeks. This comes a day after Myanmar asked the international community to help Myanmar curb the rising COVID cases in the country. The country has been in political chaos in the last few weeks. The people are protesting against the coup that overthrew the civilian government and seized the authority in the country.

Half of Myanmar's population could be infected to COVID in two weeks, warns Britain's UN ambassador

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said. Vaccination rates remain low in the region.

WHO said that the highly transmissible Delta variant has been recorded in 15 out of 22 countries and territories of the region from Morocco to Pakistan.

"The circulation of the Delta variant is fuelling the surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement.

"Most of the new cases and hospitalised patients are unvaccinated people. &nbsp;We are now in the fourth wave of Covid-19 across the region," said Ahmed al-Mandhari, director of WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region.

As of the last week of July, "only 41 million people, or 5.5 percent, of the region's population, had been fully vaccinated," the WHO said.

There is an increase in infections by 55 per cent. Deaths have risen by 15 per cent. More than 310,000 case and 3,500 deaths have been recorded weekly.

Countries such as Tunisia, which has suffered the biggest number of Covid-19 deaths in North Africa, have been struggling to contain the outbreak.

Critical shortages of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds have stretched the capacities of healthcare systems regionally.

WHO noted the rapid spread of the Delta variant was quickly making it "the dominant strain" in the region.

According to a recent paper in the journal Virological, the amount of virus found in the first tests of patients with the Delta variant was 1,000 times higher than patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, greatly increasing its contagiousness.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said.

World Health Organisation said on Thursday that Delta variant was behind the "surge" in coronavirus outbreak in West Asia. This has triggered a "fourth wave", it said. Vaccination rates remain low in the region. WHO said that the highly transmissible Delta variant has been recorded in 15 out of 22 countries and territories of the region from Morocco to Pakistan. "The circulation of the Delta variant is fuelling the surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement. "Most of the new cases and hospitalised patients are unvaccinated people. We are now in the fourth wave of Covid-19 across the region," said Ahmed al-Mandhari, director of WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region. As of the last week of July, "only 41 million people, or 5.5 percent, of the region's population, had been fully vaccinated," the WHO said. There is an increase in infections by 55 per cent. Deaths have risen by 15 per cent. More than 310,000 case and 3,500 deaths have been recorded weekly. Countries such as Tunisia, which has suffered the biggest number of Covid-19 deaths in North Africa, have been struggling to contain the outbreak. Critical shortages of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds have stretched the capacities of healthcare systems regionally. WHO noted the rapid spread of the Delta variant was quickly making it "the dominant strain" in the region. According to a recent paper in the journal Virological, the amount of virus found in the first tests of patients with the Delta variant was 1,000 times higher than patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, greatly increasing its contagiousness. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia virus surge due to Delta variant: WHO

The World Health Organization reported&nbsp;that the Delta variant is causing a surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> outbreaks,&nbsp;triggering a "fourth wave"&nbsp;in the Middle East where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination rates</a> are low.

From Morocco to Pakistan, 15 of the 22 territories and countries under the purview of the global health body have been infected with the highly transmissible strain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-surge-by-21-cases-can-exceed-200-million-in-two-weeks-who-401228">Coronavirus deaths surge by 21% , cases can exceed 200 million in two weeks: WHO</a>

"The circulation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278">Delta variant</a> is fuelling the surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement.

Comparing last month to the previous month, infection rates soared by 55 per cent, while mortality rates surged by 15 per cent. Weekly, the number of cases has exceeded 310,000 and the death toll has reached 3,500.

The WHO noted that the Delta variant was quickly becoming "the dominant strain" in the region due to its rapid spread.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-variant-now-in-three-chinese-provinces-401421">Delta variant now in three Chinese provinces</a>

Among the newly hospitalized and newly diagnosed are many people unvaccinated against COVID-19. In this region, the virus is approaching its fourth wave, noted Ahmed al-Mandhari, WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region director.

As of the last week of July, the WHO reports that only 41 million people, or merely 5.5 per cent of the region's population, were fully vaccinated.

The regional healthcare system has been forced to stretch its resources due to a critical shortage of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds.

North African countries like Tunisia, which have seen the most COVID-19 deaths, are struggling with containing the outbreak.

The amount of virus found in the first samples of Delta variant patients was 1,000 times higher than the samples taken from patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, making it far more contagious., according to an article published in the journal Virological.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization reported that the Delta variant is causing a surge in coronavirus outbreaks, triggering a "fourth wave" in the Middle East where vaccination rates are low.

The World Health Organization reported that the Delta variant is causing a surge in coronavirus outbreaks, triggering a "fourth wave" in the Middle East where vaccination rates are low. From Morocco to Pakistan, 15 of the 22 territories and countries under the purview of the global health body have been infected with the highly transmissible strain. Also read | Coronavirus deaths surge by 21% , cases can exceed 200 million in two weeks: WHO "The circulation of the Delta variant is fuelling the surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths in an increasing number of countries in WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region," it said in a statement. Comparing last month to the previous month, infection rates soared by 55 per cent, while mortality rates surged by 15 per cent. Weekly, the number of cases has exceeded 310,000 and the death toll has reached 3,500. The WHO noted that the Delta variant was quickly becoming "the dominant strain" in the region due to its rapid spread. Also read | Delta variant now in three Chinese provinces Among the newly hospitalized and newly diagnosed are many people unvaccinated against COVID-19. In this region, the virus is approaching its fourth wave, noted Ahmed al-Mandhari, WHO's Eastern Mediterranean region director. As of the last week of July, the WHO reports that only 41 million people, or merely 5.5 per cent of the region's population, were fully vaccinated. The regional healthcare system has been forced to stretch its resources due to a critical shortage of oxygen tanks and intensive care beds. North African countries like Tunisia, which have seen the most COVID-19 deaths, are struggling with containing the outbreak. The amount of virus found in the first samples of Delta variant patients was 1,000 times higher than the samples taken from patients in the first wave of the virus in 2020, making it far more contagious., according to an article published in the journal Virological. (With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organization blames Delta variant for Middle East virus surge

A major influx of vaccination doses is expected to come through for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covax-delivers-over-20-million-doses-to-20-nations-368420">Covax</a> over the coming months, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 250 million doses of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> will be donated within six to eight weeks, it said.

With more than 152 million doses distributed thus far to 137 participating territories, the scheme aims to provide vaccines to poorer countries, and the inflow of doses will be a major boost.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-distribute-80-million-vaccine-doses-through-covax-india-included-in-list-white-house-389263">US to distribute 80 million vaccine doses through Covax; India included in list: White House</a>

In a weekly operational update issued Wednesday, the WHO said that at a recent UN Crisis Management Team meeting that there will be increased vaccine donations to the Covax facility, projecting an additional 250 million vaccines over the next six to eight weeks".

Covax is a vaccine distribution programme co-led by the World Health Organization, the Gavi vaccine alliance and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, with UNICEF handling the vaccine delivery flights through its vaccine logistics expertise.

92 of the world's poorest countries can get vaccinations free of charge through Covax, the cost of which is supported by donors.

Plants in India that produced AstraZeneca doses were to be Covax's early backbone, but India restricted exports because of its own devastating Coronavirus outbreak.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/give-at-least-50-of-vaccine-doses-to-covax-programme-who-390032">Give at least 50% of vaccine doses to Covax programme: WHO</a>

Consequently, Covax is increasingly dependent on donations from wealthy countries, that have purchased more batches than they need.

Gavi chief executive Seth Berkley emphasized the importance of higher vaccine coverage everywhere in order to protect the most vulnerable against the emergence of new disease variants. He stated that global vaccine demand and supply are far imbalanced, leaving millions unprotected.

Inequity surrounding vaccines

Several countries have begun vaccinating children and giving additional booster vaccinations to it's citizens, while others have so far not been able to vaccinate their health care workers and elderly, who are most at risk of acquiring serious diseases.

It is a matter of grave concern to the WHO that rich and poor nations have starkly different access to COVID-19 vaccines.

To provide full protection, most Covid vaccines require two shots.&nbsp; Among high-income countries, as classified by the World Bank, 96.7 doses have been administered per 100 residents.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-states-donates-153-million-johnson-johnson-vaccines-to-nepal-397680">United States donates 1.53 million Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines to Nepal</a>

In the 29 lowest-income countries, the average dose per 100 people is only 1.6.

On Wednesday, Tanzania was expected to begin rolling out vaccinations, leaving only Burundi, Eritrea and North Korea without COVID-19 immunization campaigns.

Covax delivered over a million single-shot vaccines donated by the United States to Tanzania on Saturday.

A total of 610 million doses are expected to be donated to Covax between 2021 and 2022.

The United States accounts for 260 million of those, while the European Union accounts for 200 million, Britain accounts for 80 million, and Canada and Japan account for about 30 million each.

(With inputs from agencies)

A major influx of vaccination doses is expected to come through for Covax over the coming months, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 250 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine will be donated within six to eight weeks, it said.

A major influx of vaccination doses is expected to come through for Covax over the coming months, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 250 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine will be donated within six to eight weeks, it said. With more than 152 million doses distributed thus far to 137 participating territories, the scheme aims to provide vaccines to poorer countries, and the inflow of doses will be a major boost. Also read | US to distribute 80 million vaccine doses through Covax; India included in list: White House In a weekly operational update issued Wednesday, the WHO said that at a recent UN Crisis Management Team meeting that there will be increased vaccine donations to the Covax facility, projecting an additional 250 million vaccines over the next six to eight weeks". Covax is a vaccine distribution programme co-led by the World Health Organization, the Gavi vaccine alliance and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, with UNICEF handling the vaccine delivery flights through its vaccine logistics expertise. 92 of the world's poorest countries can get vaccinations free of charge through Covax, the cost of which is supported by donors. Plants in India that produced AstraZeneca doses were to be Covax's early backbone, but India restricted exports because of its own devastating Coronavirus outbreak. Also read | Give at least 50% of vaccine doses to Covax programme: WHO Consequently, Covax is increasingly dependent on donations from wealthy countries, that have purchased more batches than they need. Gavi chief executive Seth Berkley emphasized the importance of higher vaccine coverage everywhere in order to protect the most vulnerable against the emergence of new disease variants. He stated that global vaccine demand and supply are far imbalanced, leaving millions unprotected. Inequity surrounding vaccines Several countries have begun vaccinating children and giving additional booster vaccinations to it's citizens, while others have so far not been able to vaccinate their health care workers and elderly, who are most at risk of acquiring serious diseases. It is a matter of grave concern to the WHO that rich and poor nations have starkly different access to COVID-19 vaccines. To provide full protection, most Covid vaccines require two shots. Among high-income countries, as classified by the World Bank, 96.7 doses have been administered per 100 residents. Also read | United States donates 1.53 million Johnson & Johnson vaccines to Nepal In the 29 lowest-income countries, the average dose per 100 people is only 1.6. On Wednesday, Tanzania was expected to begin rolling out vaccinations, leaving only Burundi, Eritrea and North Korea without COVID-19 immunization campaigns. Covax delivered over a million single-shot vaccines donated by the United States to Tanzania on Saturday. A total of 610 million doses are expected to be donated to Covax between 2021 and 2022. The United States accounts for 260 million of those, while the European Union accounts for 200 million, Britain accounts for 80 million, and Canada and Japan account for about 30 million each. (With inputs from agencies)

Covax expects 250 million donated doses in six to eight weeks: WHO

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has now recommended people to resume wearing masks amid the surging delta variant, the media reported.

US: Tech giants to mandate Covid-19 shots for staff

International cruises are set to start again in England after a 16-month break. Cruises are set to start on August 6 as per reports.

Moreover, people fully vaccinated in the US and European Union (UN) except France will be allowed to travel to England without having to quarantine on arrival.

"We're helping reunite people living in the US and European countries with their family and friends," Transport Secretary Grant Shapps tweeted.

The policy will come into force from 4:00 am (0300 GMT) on August 2.

Travellers fully jabbed with a vaccine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or the European&nbsp; 
Medicines Agency will be able to travel from any country on the British government's "amber" traffic light list without having to self-isolate at home for 10 days.

Britain is in the midst of another wave of the virus due to the Delta variant, although case numbers have dropped over the past week, while its vaccine drive has seen more than 70 percent of adults fully jabbed.

Scotland, which is in charge of its own travel rules, later said that it was also getting rid of quarantine requirements for jabbed travellers from the US and EU.

Wales and Northern Ireland also set their own health policies, and decide their own foreign travel rules, but are consulting with London over a UK-wide policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

International cruises are set to start again in England after a 16-month break. Cruises are set to start on August 6 as per reports. Moreover, people fully vaccinated in the US and European Union (UN) except France will be allowed to travel to England without having to quarantine on arrival.

International cruises are set to start again in England after a 16-month break. Cruises are set to start on August 6 as per reports. Moreover, people fully vaccinated in the US and European Union (UN) except France will be allowed to travel to England without having to quarantine on arrival. "We're helping reunite people living in the US and European countries with their family and friends," Transport Secretary Grant Shapps tweeted. The policy will come into force from 4:00 am (0300 GMT) on August 2. Travellers fully jabbed with a vaccine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or the European Medicines Agency will be able to travel from any country on the British government's "amber" traffic light list without having to self-isolate at home for 10 days. Britain is in the midst of another wave of the virus due to the Delta variant, although case numbers have dropped over the past week, while its vaccine drive has seen more than 70 percent of adults fully jabbed. Scotland, which is in charge of its own travel rules, later said that it was also getting rid of quarantine requirements for jabbed travellers from the US and EU. Wales and Northern Ireland also set their own health policies, and decide their own foreign travel rules, but are consulting with London over a UK-wide policy. (With inputs from agencies)

International cruises set to restart in England

If you and most of the people in your area are vaccinated, things are substantially better than they used to be.

Case counts are rising, some hospitals are filling up, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is again&nbsp;recommending universal masking&nbsp;in&nbsp;areas where cases are surging. But to suggest that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> is an escalating emergency in the United States is not quite right. The truth is that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a>&nbsp;and the unvaccinated are experiencing two very different pandemics right now. If we don’t confront that, the nation can’t address either appropriately.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-deaths-surge-by-21-cases-can-exceed-200-million-in-two-weeks-who-401228">Coronavirus deaths surge by 21% , cases can exceed 200 million in two weeks: WHO</a>

The CDC’s&nbsp;announcement&nbsp;will lead many to believe that the pandemic is getting worse. But if you and most of the people in your area are vaccinated, things are substantially better than they used to be. Hospitals are relatively clear of COVID-19. Few deaths are occurring. People may still be worried, and some may be masking, but much of their panic is that the stuffy nose they woke up with may be COVID-19.

Sometimes it is. As has always been the case, breakthrough infections of COVID-19 remain possible. Such reports have become&nbsp;more frequent. Because the vaccines are not 100 percent effective, some vaccinated people will get infected, some will get sick, and in rare cases, some may even be hospitalized. The success of the vaccines has long been predicated on preventing severe illness, which they do, rather than on preventing any infection.

If the vast majority of vaccinated people who get COVID-19 recover with no real issues, how much should we worry?

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-outbreak-of-covid-19-in-china-highest-daily-rise-since-january-400714">New outbreak of COVID-19 in China: Highest daily rise since January</a>

There are&nbsp;four other endemic&nbsp;coronaviruses&nbsp;in circulation. They all cause&nbsp;colds. It would be a major victory if we could relegate SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, to this group. For the vaccinated, right now, that victory has largely been achieved.

One of the reasons we can’t celebrate yet is that none of this is true for the unvaccinated. For them, the pandemic has not changed much. Hospitals are filling up again in states where rates of vaccination are low. In those places, more people are on ventilators, and many are still dying.

Even in places with high rates of vaccination, some people can’t be vaccinated. Others do not respond as well to the vaccines because they are immunocompromised. The very elderly are still at higher risk because a breakthrough infection is more dangerous for them. Children aren’t eligible to be vaccinated yet, and while they’re at relatively low risk for severe illness, they may need some extra protection.

It’s critical to act at a local level to protect all such people in our communities. Others should mask up around them, try to limit indoor contact with them and sit a little farther away. That’s what we did before the vaccines, and it’s still good practice. Specific masking recommendations for those at highest risk make sense.

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>

The single best thing we can do for such people, though, is to get everyone around them immunized.

Across the country, the vast majority of severe illness and deaths are&nbsp;among the unvaccinated. Fewer than 1,200 vaccinated people have&nbsp;died&nbsp;of COVID-19 as of July 19. Over 97 percent of people who are hospitalized for COVID-19 are unvaccinated,&nbsp;according to&nbsp;the CDC.

Breakthrough cases should be addressed to avoid possible transmission (it remains unclear how much vaccinated people who get infected contribute to spread), but they are not the most important metric for measuring the end of the pandemic. If most breakthrough infections cause colds or limited illness, they really aren’t the main concern, unless they start resulting in serious illness and deaths. For the most part, they’re not right now.

Even the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278">Delta variant</a> is not a major threat to everyone in the United States. It is largely a threat to the unvaccinated. It’s more infectious, it’s spreading more quickly, and most people aren’t being as careful as they were months ago. Delta is therefore causing the unvaccinated to get sick, and they’re still going to the hospital, and they’re still dying.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-cdc-advises-fully-vaccinated-individuals-to-wear-masks-again-401145/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Despite this difference, reporting on the relative percentage of Delta cases every day is causing vaccinated people to panic and sowing some doubt about the effectiveness of vaccinations. But it’s clear from the data on hospitalizations and deaths today compared to when the Alpha variant was on the rise at the&nbsp;beginning of the year&nbsp;that the United States is in a much better situation now.

That’s because more people are vaccinated, including&nbsp;most Americans&nbsp;over 65.

Many may read the CDC’s continued focus on masking and distancing as an acknowledgement that the vaccines don’t work well enough. Leaning heavily on masking and distancing is what we did when we didn’t have vaccinations. Today, such recommendations are less likely to succeed because they are more likely to be followed by those already primed to listen — the vaccinated — and to be fought and ignored by those who aren’t.

Hospitalizations and deaths are rising in some areas not because someone didn’t wear a mask at the ballgame. They’re occurring because too many people are not immunized.

This is why I’ve&nbsp;advocated&nbsp;vaccine mandates. I don’t understand how we can mandate wearing masks but not getting vaccinations.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-is-making-a-comeback-in-the-united-states-401281/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It may take enormous political capital to enforce mandates or huge incentives, but it will be worth it. COVID-19 is not even close to a crisis for those who are vaccinated, but it is a true danger to those who are unvaccinated. Our policies and actions should continue to reinforce that message while helping the latter join the former.

If you and most of the people in your area are vaccinated, things are substantially better than they used to be. Case counts are rising, some hospitals are filling up, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is again recommending universal masking in areas where cases are surging.

If you and most of the people in your area are vaccinated, things are substantially better than they used to be. Case counts are rising, some hospitals are filling up, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is again recommending universal masking in areas where cases are surging. But to suggest that COVID-19 is an escalating emergency in the United States is not quite right. The truth is that the vaccinated and the unvaccinated are experiencing two very different pandemics right now. If we don’t confront that, the nation can’t address either appropriately. Coronavirus deaths surge by 21% , cases can exceed 200 million in two weeks: WHO The CDC’s announcement will lead many to believe that the pandemic is getting worse. But if you and most of the people in your area are vaccinated, things are substantially better than they used to be. Hospitals are relatively clear of COVID-19. Few deaths are occurring. People may still be worried, and some may be masking, but much of their panic is that the stuffy nose they woke up with may be COVID-19. Sometimes it is. As has always been the case, breakthrough infections of COVID-19 remain possible. Such reports have become more frequent. Because the vaccines are not 100 percent effective, some vaccinated people will get infected, some will get sick, and in rare cases, some may even be hospitalized. The success of the vaccines has long been predicated on preventing severe illness, which they do, rather than on preventing any infection. If the vast majority of vaccinated people who get COVID-19 recover with no real issues, how much should we worry? Also read | New outbreak of COVID-19 in China: Highest daily rise since January There are four other endemic coronaviruses in circulation. They all cause colds. It would be a major victory if we could relegate SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, to this group. For the vaccinated, right now, that victory has largely been achieved. One of the reasons we can’t celebrate yet is that none of this is true for the unvaccinated. For them, the pandemic has not changed much. Hospitals are filling up again in states where rates of vaccination are low. In those places, more people are on ventilators, and many are still dying. Even in places with high rates of vaccination, some people can’t be vaccinated. Others do not respond as well to the vaccines because they are immunocompromised. The very elderly are still at higher risk because a breakthrough infection is more dangerous for them. Children aren’t eligible to be vaccinated yet, and while they’re at relatively low risk for severe illness, they may need some extra protection. It’s critical to act at a local level to protect all such people in our communities. Others should mask up around them, try to limit indoor contact with them and sit a little farther away. That’s what we did before the vaccines, and it’s still good practice. Specific masking recommendations for those at highest risk make sense. Also read | US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO The single best thing we can do for such people, though, is to get everyone around them immunized. Across the country, the vast majority of severe illness and deaths are among the unvaccinated. Fewer than 1,200 vaccinated people have died of COVID-19 as of July 19. Over 97 percent of people who are hospitalized for COVID-19 are unvaccinated, according to the CDC. Breakthrough cases should be addressed to avoid possible transmission (it remains unclear how much vaccinated people who get infected contribute to spread), but they are not the most important metric for measuring the end of the pandemic. If most breakthrough infections cause colds or limited illness, they really aren’t the main concern, unless they start resulting in serious illness and deaths. For the most part, they’re not right now. Even the Delta variant is not a major threat to everyone in the United States. It is largely a threat to the unvaccinated. It’s more infectious, it’s spreading more quickly, and most people aren’t being as careful as they were months ago. Delta is therefore causing the unvaccinated to get sick, and they’re still going to the hospital, and they’re still dying. Despite this difference, reporting on the relative percentage of Delta cases every day is causing vaccinated people to panic and sowing some doubt about the effectiveness of vaccinations. But it’s clear from the data on hospitalizations and deaths today compared to when the Alpha variant was on the rise at the beginning of the year that the United States is in a much better situation now. That’s because more people are vaccinated, including most Americans over 65. Many may read the CDC’s continued focus on masking and distancing as an acknowledgement that the vaccines don’t work well enough. Leaning heavily on masking and distancing is what we did when we didn’t have vaccinations. Today, such recommendations are less likely to succeed because they are more likely to be followed by those already primed to listen — the vaccinated — and to be fought and ignored by those who aren’t. Hospitalizations and deaths are rising in some areas not because someone didn’t wear a mask at the ballgame. They’re occurring because too many people are not immunized. This is why I’ve advocated vaccine mandates. I don’t understand how we can mandate wearing masks but not getting vaccinations. It may take enormous political capital to enforce mandates or huge incentives, but it will be worth it. COVID-19 is not even close to a crisis for those who are vaccinated, but it is a true danger to those who are unvaccinated. Our policies and actions should continue to reinforce that message while helping the latter join the former.

Covid is now a crisis for the unvaccinated

The American infectious disease agency Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has urged fully vaccinated people living in substantial and high transmission areas to wear masks indoors. This is a major reversal in guidance that underscored USA's struggle to suppress the Delta variant.

President Joe Biden said the announcement showed that America needs to "do better" on vaccinations, adding that a vaccine mandate for the country's more than two million federal workers was now "under consideration."

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Rochelle Walensky cited new data that shows rare breakthrough cases involving Delta have an increased risk of onward transmission.

"In areas with substantial and high transmission, CDC recommends fully vaccinated people wear masks in public indoor settings," she said.

Till last week, the CDC had defended its decision that said that vaccinated people didn't have to wear masks indoors. White House has also told its staff to mask up again due to local transmission rates.

According to the latest CDC data, 63 percent of the country's more than 3,200 counties are experiencing substantial or high transmission.

Substantial is defined as being between 50 to 100 daily cases per 100,000 people over seven days, while high is defined as more than 100 daily cases per 100,000 over seven days.

Biden said he would lay out new steps on Thursday to overcome the lag in vaccinations after the country's strong start to its program.

(With inputs from agencies)

The American infectious disease agency Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has urged fully vaccinated people living in substantial and high transmission areas to wear masks indoors.

The American infectious disease agency Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has urged fully vaccinated people living in substantial and high transmission areas to wear masks indoors. This is a major reversal in guidance that underscored USA's struggle to suppress the Delta variant. President Joe Biden said the announcement showed that America needs to "do better" on vaccinations, adding that a vaccine mandate for the country's more than two million federal workers was now "under consideration." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Rochelle Walensky cited new data that shows rare breakthrough cases involving Delta have an increased risk of onward transmission. "In areas with substantial and high transmission, CDC recommends fully vaccinated people wear masks in public indoor settings," she said. Till last week, the CDC had defended its decision that said that vaccinated people didn't have to wear masks indoors. White House has also told its staff to mask up again due to local transmission rates. According to the latest CDC data, 63 percent of the country's more than 3,200 counties are experiencing substantial or high transmission. Substantial is defined as being between 50 to 100 daily cases per 100,000 people over seven days, while high is defined as more than 100 daily cases per 100,000 over seven days. Biden said he would lay out new steps on Thursday to overcome the lag in vaccinations after the country's strong start to its program. (With inputs from agencies)

Mask up, CDC tells fully vaccinated US citizens

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise.

Toymaker Mattel,&nbsp;the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment&nbsp;explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost.

Talking to BBC, Ynon Kreiz, Mattel's chief executive said that they expect a hike in prices in the second half of the year, adding that the company is yet to decide which products will be affected.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-news-in-bid-to-boost-diversity-barbie-intoduces-dolls-with-vitiligo-and-no-hair-277505">In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair</a>

Mr Kreiz also noted that his company was not alone in increasing its prices.&nbsp;He says that other companies within the industry have also raised their prices, and no one is surprised by this move.

The Barbie doll maker also announced sales of more than $1 billion (£720 million), an amount that is far better than what they were expecting.&nbsp;

He was speaking as the company unveiled second-quarter figures that beat Wall Street forecasts.

Sales for the period rose 40 per cent to $1.03billion compared with the same period last year.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barbie-unveils-european-female-athlete-collection-284308/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Contributing to this, the company's largest brand, Barbie, saw billings rise by 46 per cent, while&nbsp;Hot Wheels' billings surged 67 per cent.

The iconic doll's sales have surged in the last year as parents turned to it during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Barbie empire's push to increase diversity with different skin tones and role models has also appealed to customers.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mattels-barbie-extra-dolls-with-various-body-types-skin-tones-and-styles-go-on-sale-343914/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

This month, the company also unveiled a doll of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-of-third-round-400902">Naomi Osaka</a>, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion from Japan.

(With inputs from agencies)

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise. Toymaker Mattel, the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost.

A company titan in the toy industry says it has to raise prices in the months leading up to Christmas as its costs are on the rise. Toymaker Mattel, the maker of Barbie dolls, recently made this comment explaining that during the global recovery from the pandemic, raw material and shipping costs shot up which will directly add to the production cost. Talking to BBC, Ynon Kreiz, Mattel's chief executive said that they expect a hike in prices in the second half of the year, adding that the company is yet to decide which products will be affected. Also read | In a bid to boost diversity, Barbie introduces dolls with vitiligo and no hair Mr Kreiz also noted that his company was not alone in increasing its prices. He says that other companies within the industry have also raised their prices, and no one is surprised by this move. The Barbie doll maker also announced sales of more than $1 billion (£720 million), an amount that is far better than what they were expecting. He was speaking as the company unveiled second-quarter figures that beat Wall Street forecasts. Sales for the period rose 40 per cent to $1.03billion compared with the same period last year. Contributing to this, the company's largest brand, Barbie, saw billings rise by 46 per cent, while Hot Wheels' billings surged 67 per cent. The iconic doll's sales have surged in the last year as parents turned to it during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Barbie empire's push to increase diversity with different skin tones and role models has also appealed to customers. This month, the company also unveiled a doll of Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion from Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

Barbie maker Mattel warns of higher prices as shipping costs rise

Libyan authorities stepped up their vaccination campaign around Tripoli as coronavirus cases rose across the country. Libyan health ministry has set up temporary centres in capital. AFP reported that there were long queues outside the tents on Saturday morning.

"The campaign will continue until all the available doses are used," doctor Rawad Behelille told AFP in central Tripoli.

Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah issued a decree earlier this month for cafes and restaurants to close in the wake of rising infections. He also suspended university lectures and weddings.

Daily reported cases have reached several thousand in the past week, in a country with a population of around seven million.

Libya has recorded over 229,600 coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic, including over 3,340 deaths. 
Fewer than 500,000 people have been vaccinated since the war-torn country's inoculation campaign started in April.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Libyan authorities stepped up their vaccination campaign around Tripoli as coronavirus cases rose across the country. Libyan health ministry has set up temporary centres in capital.

Libyan authorities stepped up their vaccination campaign around Tripoli as coronavirus cases rose across the country. Libyan health ministry has set up temporary centres in capital. AFP reported that there were long queues outside the tents on Saturday morning. "The campaign will continue until all the available doses are used," doctor Rawad Behelille told AFP in central Tripoli. Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah issued a decree earlier this month for cafes and restaurants to close in the wake of rising infections. He also suspended university lectures and weddings. Daily reported cases have reached several thousand in the past week, in a country with a population of around seven million. Libya has recorded over 229,600 coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic, including over 3,340 deaths. Fewer than 500,000 people have been vaccinated since the war-torn country's inoculation campaign started in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Libya hastens Tripoli jab drive amid increasing Covid caseload

The Tokyo Olympics will be the most expensive olympic games in history. The estimated cost to Japan is $15.4 Billion. In the past, several host nations have failed to recover the amount they invested. Will it be the same in the case of Japan?

Gravitas: 2021 Tokyo Olympics begin

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh &amp; Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides.

For the first time Indian Railways' "Oxygen Express" will cross international border and supply 200 MTs of liquid oxygen in 10 containers to neighbouring Bangladesh. The operation is being undertaken by South Eastern Railway with the train leaving Tatanagar and reaching Benapole in Bangladesh on Sunday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/United?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#United</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh</a>'s fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a>,🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RailMinIndia</a> enabling supply of 200 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen through the 1st cross-border <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OxygenExpress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OxygenExpress</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. Reaching <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Benapole?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Benapole</a> 🇧🇩 tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/BDMOFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BDMOFA</a><a href="https://twitter.com/albd1971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@albd1971</a><a href="https://twitter.com/shah_farhad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shah_farhad</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@meaindia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshwiniVaishnaw</a> <a href="https://t.co/3zP9JSMGD7">pic.twitter.com/3zP9JSMGD7</a>
— India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) <a href="https://twitter.com/ihcdhaka/status/1418870755249594371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A release by Indian Railways said,"This is the first time ever that the Oxygen Express is put into operation to neighbouring country."

Domestically, Indian Railways started Oxygen Express on April 24th when the country was struck by devastating Covid crisis earlier this year. According to railways, more than 35000 MTs of liquid oxygen was transported to 15 states &amp; around 480 Oxygen Expresses were operationalised.

Meanwhile, Indian Naval Ship Airavat reached Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. The ship has brought five cryogenic containers containing 100 MTs of liquid oxygen and 300 concentraters to support the Southeast Asian country's fight against Covid.

Indian envoy to Indonesia Manoj Kumar Bharti handed over essential medicines and relief materials to Bapak Eka Jusup Singka, Head of Crisis Centre, Indonesian Ministry of Health.

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INS Airavat carrying 100 MT Liquid Medical Oxygen &amp; 300 Oxygen concentrators arrives at Tanjung Priok port as a part of operation Samudra Setu-II of <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a>. A friend in need is a friend indeed. 🇮🇳🇮🇩 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indiaindonesia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indiaindonesia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>
— India in Indonesia (@IndianEmbJkt) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbJkt/status/1418825367935139840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Currently the country has been struck by a devastating Covid crisis, similar to what India saw in April. In fact the famous tourist destination of Bali is running out of oxygen as cases surge.

A navy release said, "India and Indonesia enjoy close cultural and commercial ties. Both countries have been working together in the maritime domain towards a safer Indo-Pacific."

The naval ship Airavat whose primary role is to carry out amphibious operations had been deployed for relief operations across the Indian Ocean Region in the past as well. Both Indian and Indonesian navies have been carrying out bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols regularly.

Remember, both Bangladesh and Indonesia had reached out to India when it was stuck by Covid crisis. Bangladesh sent Remdisivir Injection, medicines and protective equipment. A large quantity of Remdisivir was used in Northeastern states of India bordering Bangladesh.

Indonesia had sent India oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders. All in all, India got relief from 52 countries which included various items from foreign governments, private companies, Indian associations abroad among other sources. Last year, New Delhi had sent HCQ to many countries and this year 95 countries got India-made vaccines. The vaccine export initative, called Vaccine Maitri initiative is currently on pause as India focuses on its domestic vaccination programme.

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh & Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides.

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh & Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides. For the first time Indian Railways' "Oxygen Express" will cross international border and supply 200 MTs of liquid oxygen in 10 containers to neighbouring Bangladesh. The operation is being undertaken by South Eastern Railway with the train leaving Tatanagar and reaching Benapole in Bangladesh on Sunday. #United in #Bangladesh's fight against #Covid19,🇮🇳 @RailMinIndia enabling supply of 200 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen through the 1st cross-border #OxygenExpress from #India. Reaching #Benapole 🇧🇩 tomorrow.@BDMOFA@albd1971@shah_farhad@meaindia@IndianDiplomacy@AshwiniVaishnaw pic.twitter.com/3zP9JSMGD7 — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) July 24, 2021 × A release by Indian Railways said,"This is the first time ever that the Oxygen Express is put into operation to neighbouring country." Domestically, Indian Railways started Oxygen Express on April 24th when the country was struck by devastating Covid crisis earlier this year. According to railways, more than 35000 MTs of liquid oxygen was transported to 15 states & around 480 Oxygen Expresses were operationalised. Meanwhile, Indian Naval Ship Airavat reached Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. The ship has brought five cryogenic containers containing 100 MTs of liquid oxygen and 300 concentraters to support the Southeast Asian country's fight against Covid. Indian envoy to Indonesia Manoj Kumar Bharti handed over essential medicines and relief materials to Bapak Eka Jusup Singka, Head of Crisis Centre, Indonesian Ministry of Health. INS Airavat carrying 100 MT Liquid Medical Oxygen & 300 Oxygen concentrators arrives at Tanjung Priok port as a part of operation Samudra Setu-II of @indiannavy. A friend in need is a friend indeed. 🇮🇳🇮🇩 #indiaindonesia @MEAIndia — India in Indonesia (@IndianEmbJkt) July 24, 2021 × Currently the country has been struck by a devastating Covid crisis, similar to what India saw in April. In fact the famous tourist destination of Bali is running out of oxygen as cases surge. A navy release said, "India and Indonesia enjoy close cultural and commercial ties. Both countries have been working together in the maritime domain towards a safer Indo-Pacific." The naval ship Airavat whose primary role is to carry out amphibious operations had been deployed for relief operations across the Indian Ocean Region in the past as well. Both Indian and Indonesian navies have been carrying out bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols regularly. Remember, both Bangladesh and Indonesia had reached out to India when it was stuck by Covid crisis. Bangladesh sent Remdisivir Injection, medicines and protective equipment. A large quantity of Remdisivir was used in Northeastern states of India bordering Bangladesh. Indonesia had sent India oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders. All in all, India got relief from 52 countries which included various items from foreign governments, private companies, Indian associations abroad among other sources. Last year, New Delhi had sent HCQ to many countries and this year 95 countries got India-made vaccines. The vaccine export initative, called Vaccine Maitri initiative is currently on pause as India focuses on its domestic vaccination programme.

India sends Covid relief to Indonesia, Bangladesh

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine"> unvaccinated</a> people are held responsible for the increasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid infections</a>.

Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks. It’s the unvaccinated folks that are letting us down."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-is-letting-people-get-infected-by-covid-aide-claims-400358">UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims</a>

The statement came after the US state of Alabama saw an increase in coronavirus infections. Ivey said the rise in cases is mainly because of the reluctance of people towards getting vaccinated against coronavirus.

To back up her statement, she also claimed that the majority of the new hospitalisations in Covid cases and the coronavirus-related deaths are of people who have not yet been vaccinated against the virus.

She blamed the unvaccinated people’s lifestyle and their poor choice for the spread of the virus in the state specifically. "These folks are choosing a horrible lifestyle of self-inflicted pain," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-study-suggests-dogs-can-be-used-to-detect-covid-19-400356" hreflang="en">New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19</a>

Her statement also came after a study claimed that more than nine out of ten Covid deaths in the US have been of unvaccinated people.

This has also come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, and his government are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As of now, nearly 56.2 per cent of Americans have received the first dose, as per the data of US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the unvaccinated people are held responsible for the increasing Covid infections. Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks.

The Republican governor of Alabama has said it is time the unvaccinated people are held responsible for the increasing Covid infections. Alleging unvaccinated people of not using their "common sense", Kay Ivey said "it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks, not the vaccinated folks. It’s the unvaccinated folks that are letting us down." Also read | UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims The statement came after the US state of Alabama saw an increase in coronavirus infections. Ivey said the rise in cases is mainly because of the reluctance of people towards getting vaccinated against coronavirus. To back up her statement, she also claimed that the majority of the new hospitalisations in Covid cases and the coronavirus-related deaths are of people who have not yet been vaccinated against the virus. She blamed the unvaccinated people’s lifestyle and their poor choice for the spread of the virus in the state specifically. "These folks are choosing a horrible lifestyle of self-inflicted pain," she said. Also read | New study suggests dogs can be used to detect COVID-19 Her statement also came after a study claimed that more than nine out of ten Covid deaths in the US have been of unvaccinated people. This has also come at a time when the US President, Joe Biden, and his government are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As of now, nearly 56.2 per cent of Americans have received the first dose, as per the data of US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Use your common sense: Alabama governor says time to blame unvaccinated people

The contact tracing app developed by NHS in Britain creates trouble for the population. The app 'pings' anyone who has had close contact with a COVID infected person and asks him or her to self-isolate. After Britain celebrated freedom day, the British phones continued buzzing. This is being called by the British by the name of 'Pingdemic.'

Thousands get pinged for virus exposure in Britain

They say that your mental toughness counts a lot when you are recovering from an illness. And in case of a deadly disease like Covid, you need all possible help in fighting off the infection. A 102-year-old Russian World War 2 veteran has proved that you can defeat the disease no matter what.

Older population is considered to be more susceptible to COVID-19. But 102-year-old Nikolai Bagayev proved that age is no bar for a successful fight back.&nbsp;

Bagayev, 102, had 80% lung damage when he was admitted to hospital in the town of Korolyov near Moscow with the coronavirus.

He had to spend more than a month in hospital including a week intensive care. But he emerged victorious, just as his nation against the Germans in the Second World War. Bagayev was discharged on Thursday evening.

"The last time I faced death was in 1941. Back then, my right lung was injured during the battle for Moscow. But I was rather young at the time and managed to recover promptly," he told Reuters.

"This time around, I was largely supported by doctors despite several instances where I was on the verge of losing hope and courage. I am extremely thankful to all of them."

Bagayev is one a shrinking group of veterans who are revered in Russia for their role in defeating Nazi Germany. In May, he took part in the annual victory parade on Square Parade alongside President Vladimir Putin.

"It was hard, but I could see the doctors fighting, and I helped them," said Bagayev, who was wearing a military uniform festooned with medals when discharged from hospital.

"They are the ones who are the heroes," Bagayev, who was last year promoted to a rank of colonel in reserve, said of his doctors.

Bagayev lived through many of the now defunct Soviet Union's tumultuous chapters and was twice wounded during the war - once gravely.

"He is a real trooper, he kept remembering his war-time wound and hardships in (the Battle of) Moscow and those memories helped him during his time in hospital," Bagayev's doctor, Valentina Rakitskaya, said.

After the war, Bagayev worked in the Soviet republic of Kazakhstan where he helped build the Baikonur cosmodrome which sent the first man into space, Yuri Gagarin, in 1961.

Bagayev said a breathing technique which he had learnt from Soviet cosmonauts helped him recover from COVID-19.

As a devoted member of Russia's opposition Communist party he plans to help them campaign ahead of a parliamentary election in September, but he said his first goal was to start walking again without help.

(With inputs from agencies)

They say that your mental toughness counts a lot when you are recovering from an illness. And in case of a deadly disease like Covid, you need all possible help in fighting off the infection.

They say that your mental toughness counts a lot when you are recovering from an illness. And in case of a deadly disease like Covid, you need all possible help in fighting off the infection. A 102-year-old Russian World War 2 veteran has proved that you can defeat the disease no matter what. Older population is considered to be more susceptible to COVID-19. But 102-year-old Nikolai Bagayev proved that age is no bar for a successful fight back. Bagayev, 102, had 80% lung damage when he was admitted to hospital in the town of Korolyov near Moscow with the coronavirus. He had to spend more than a month in hospital including a week intensive care. But he emerged victorious, just as his nation against the Germans in the Second World War. Bagayev was discharged on Thursday evening. "The last time I faced death was in 1941. Back then, my right lung was injured during the battle for Moscow. But I was rather young at the time and managed to recover promptly," he told Reuters. "This time around, I was largely supported by doctors despite several instances where I was on the verge of losing hope and courage. I am extremely thankful to all of them." Bagayev is one a shrinking group of veterans who are revered in Russia for their role in defeating Nazi Germany. In May, he took part in the annual victory parade on Square Parade alongside President Vladimir Putin. "It was hard, but I could see the doctors fighting, and I helped them," said Bagayev, who was wearing a military uniform festooned with medals when discharged from hospital. "They are the ones who are the heroes," Bagayev, who was last year promoted to a rank of colonel in reserve, said of his doctors. Bagayev lived through many of the now defunct Soviet Union's tumultuous chapters and was twice wounded during the war - once gravely. "He is a real trooper, he kept remembering his war-time wound and hardships in (the Battle of) Moscow and those memories helped him during his time in hospital," Bagayev's doctor, Valentina Rakitskaya, said. After the war, Bagayev worked in the Soviet republic of Kazakhstan where he helped build the Baikonur cosmodrome which sent the first man into space, Yuri Gagarin, in 1961. Bagayev said a breathing technique which he had learnt from Soviet cosmonauts helped him recover from COVID-19. As a devoted member of Russia's opposition Communist party he plans to help them campaign ahead of a parliamentary election in September, but he said his first goal was to start walking again without help. (With inputs from agencies)

Reborn aged 102: Russian WW2 veteran beats Covid after month in hospital

A third dose of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid vaccine</a> was administered to Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader on Wednesday, as he urged the population to follow his example.

The 54-year-old had previously received the Sinovac vaccine from Sinopharm, but this time received a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/pfizer">Pfizer</a> vaccine at a vaccination centre near the National Palace in Santo Domingo.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-warns-against-mixing-and-matching-covid-19-vaccines-calls-it-dangerous-trend-397801/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country intends to achieve normalisation by vaccinating the entire population with the first and second dose, followed by the third to reinforce the first two, he told journalists present at the vaccination.

According to official figures, the Dominican Republic, which has a population of 10.5 million, has reported nearly 340,000 infections and 4,000 deaths since the outbreak began.

Over half of the population, or 5.4 million people, have received the first shot while more than 3.8 million have received a second.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-vaccination-burnout-delta-variant-spurs-countries-to-speed-up-shots-398602">After vaccination burnout, Delta variant spurs countries to speed up shots</a>

In July, health authorities in the Caribbean nation, citing the proliferation of new variants&nbsp;launched a campaign for a third dose.

According to official figures, in total, the Dominican Republic has ordered around 34 million shots, of which 14 million are from Chinese firm Sinovac, 10 million are from British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, and 10 million from American firm Pfizer.&nbsp;

Tourist arrivals returned to 80 per cent of their pre-pandemic levels in early July, a tourism-dependent nation said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/should-you-mix-and-match-vaccines-398048/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Dominican Republic, known for its beaches, particularly the seaside resort of Punta Cana, welcomed 6.5 million tourists in 2019. A total of 7.5 per cent of the country's workforce is employed in the tourism industry, which accounts for 8.4 per cent of the GDP.

(With inputs from agencies)

A third dose of the Covid vaccine was administered to Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader on Wednesday, as he urged the population to follow his example. The 54-year-old had previously received the Sinovac vaccine from Sinopharm, but this time received a Pfizer vaccine at a vaccination centre near the National Palace in Santo Domingo.

A third dose of the Covid vaccine was administered to Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader on Wednesday, as he urged the population to follow his example. The 54-year-old had previously received the Sinovac vaccine from Sinopharm, but this time received a Pfizer vaccine at a vaccination centre near the National Palace in Santo Domingo. The country intends to achieve normalisation by vaccinating the entire population with the first and second dose, followed by the third to reinforce the first two, he told journalists present at the vaccination. According to official figures, the Dominican Republic, which has a population of 10.5 million, has reported nearly 340,000 infections and 4,000 deaths since the outbreak began. Over half of the population, or 5.4 million people, have received the first shot while more than 3.8 million have received a second. Also read | After vaccination burnout, Delta variant spurs countries to speed up shots In July, health authorities in the Caribbean nation, citing the proliferation of new variants launched a campaign for a third dose. According to official figures, in total, the Dominican Republic has ordered around 34 million shots, of which 14 million are from Chinese firm Sinovac, 10 million are from British-Swedish company AstraZeneca, and 10 million from American firm Pfizer. Tourist arrivals returned to 80 per cent of their pre-pandemic levels in early July, a tourism-dependent nation said. The Dominican Republic, known for its beaches, particularly the seaside resort of Punta Cana, welcomed 6.5 million tourists in 2019. A total of 7.5 per cent of the country's workforce is employed in the tourism industry, which accounts for 8.4 per cent of the GDP. (With inputs from agencies)

Dominican Republic president gets third jab of Covid vaccine, urges people to follow suit

The European Union on Thursday said that 200 million Europeans had been fully vaccinated against coronavirus. This translates to more than half of the adult population in European Union. However the bloc still short of 70 per cent target it had set for the summer.

European Commission spokeswoman Dana Spinant told reporters that based on the latest data of the European Centre for Disease Control "54.7 percent of the adult population is fully vaccinated with either two doses or one dose in the case of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine".

"We have 68.4 per cent of adults in the EU who have already had their first dose," she added.

"We are now among the regions of the world that have vaccinated the most, but it is important that this progress is distributed in a more balanced way so that there are no pockets where the virus can spread and mutate," she added.

Rollout of vaccines was slower in Europe than in the UK or US due to supply shortages. This had drawn heavy criticism earlier this year.

The European Commission, which coordinated vaccine orders for the 27 member states, was the subject of many of the complaints.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had announced on July 10 that the EU had enough doses to vaccinate "at least 70 percent of the adult population this month".

According to official data compiled by AFP, just over 440 million doses have been administered in the European Union. That is 98.4 doses per 100 inhabitants, while the United States are at 102.4 per 100 inhabitants.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union on Thursday said that 200 million Europeans had been fully vaccinated against coronavirus. This translates to more than half of the adult population in European Union.

The European Union on Thursday said that 200 million Europeans had been fully vaccinated against coronavirus. This translates to more than half of the adult population in European Union. However the bloc still short of 70 per cent target it had set for the summer. European Commission spokeswoman Dana Spinant told reporters that based on the latest data of the European Centre for Disease Control "54.7 percent of the adult population is fully vaccinated with either two doses or one dose in the case of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine". "We have 68.4 per cent of adults in the EU who have already had their first dose," she added. "We are now among the regions of the world that have vaccinated the most, but it is important that this progress is distributed in a more balanced way so that there are no pockets where the virus can spread and mutate," she added. Rollout of vaccines was slower in Europe than in the UK or US due to supply shortages. This had drawn heavy criticism earlier this year. The European Commission, which coordinated vaccine orders for the 27 member states, was the subject of many of the complaints. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had announced on July 10 that the EU had enough doses to vaccinate "at least 70 percent of the adult population this month". According to official data compiled by AFP, just over 440 million doses have been administered in the European Union. That is 98.4 doses per 100 inhabitants, while the United States are at 102.4 per 100 inhabitants. (With inputs from agencies)

More than half of adults in European Union countries fully vaccinated against Covid

China has rejected a global demand to probe the possibility of a lab leak. Beijing called the demand "shocking" & "arrogant". China is now executing a 3-step plan to evade blame for the pandemic.

Gravitas : Covid Origins: China won't allow a investigation into Wuhan Lab

Athletes at the Tokyo Olympic village were surprised to find beds made out of cardboard, which they immediately dubbed as anti-sex beds. Do the organisers really want a celibate games village?

Gravitas: Anti-sex beds at Tokyo Olympics?

Statistics South Africa says the pandemic has reduced the country’s life expectancy in men to 59.3 years and to 64.6 years in women.

COVID-19 reduces life expectancy in South Africa

By the thousands, they sleep in hallways, tents and cars, gasping for air as they wait for beds in overcrowded hospitals that may not have oxygen to give them. Others see hospitals as hopeless, even dangerous, and take their chances at home.

Wherever they lie, as COVID-19 steals their breath away, their families engage in a frantic, daily hunt for scarce supplies of life-giving oxygen.

Indonesia has become the new epicenter of the pandemic, surpassing India and Brazil to become the country with the world’s highest count of new infections. The surge is part of a wave across Southeast Asia, where vaccination rates are low but countries had, until recently, contained the virus relatively well​. Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand are also facing their largest outbreaks yet and have imposed new restrictions, including lockdowns and stay-at-home orders.

In Indonesia, cases and deaths have skyrocketed in the past month as the highly contagious delta variant sweeps through densely populated Java island, as well as Bali. In some regions, the coronavirus has pushed the medical system past its limits, although hospitals are taking emergency steps to expand capacity.

Bekasi Regional Public Hospital, where some COVID patients have waited days for treatment, has erected large tents on its grounds, with beds for up to 150 people. Nearby in Jakarta, the capital, a long line of people waited for hours outside a small dispensary, hoping to fill their portable tanks with oxygen.

Among them was Nyimas Siti Nadia, 28, who had been searching for oxygen for her aunt’s family, all sick with COVID.

“She is a doctor and she is afraid to go to a hospital because she knows the situation,” Nyimas said. “There are many instances where patients do not get beds or oxygen. If we go to the hospital, we have to bring our own oxygen.”

On Thursday, Indonesian authorities reported nearly 57,000 new cases, the highest daily total yet — seven times as many as a month earlier. On Friday, they reported a record 1,205 deaths, bringing the country’s official toll from the pandemic to more than 71,000.

But some health experts say those figures vastly understate the spread in Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most-populous nation, because testing has been limited. Dicky Budiman, an Indonesian public health researcher at Griffith University in Australia, estimates that the true number of cases is three to six times higher.

In India, where the delta variant was first identified, daily cases peaked at more than 414,000 in May, but they have since dropped to about 40,000.

Despite Indonesia’s mushrooming caseload, officials say they have the situation under control.

“If we talk about the worst-case scenario, 60,000 or slightly more, we are pretty OK,” said Luhut Pandjaitan, a senior minister assigned by President Joko Widodo to handle the crisis. “We are hoping that it will not reach 100,000, but even so, we are preparing now for if we ever get there.”

Many Indonesians, however, have been facing their worst-case scenarios for weeks.

Family members describe nightmare scenes of trying to get a hospital to admit their sick relatives. Some hospitals were accepting only patients who brought their own oxygen, they said. At others, patients waited wherever they could find space to lie down.

In Bekasi, a city of 2.5 million that adjoins Jakarta, patients have flocked to the regional public hospital. To accommodate the surge, 10 large tents were set up on the grounds, equipped with beds for as many as 150 people.

Lisa Wiliana’s husband had been in one of the tents since the previous day, waiting for space in a ward. After nine days of sickness, she said, his oxygen saturation level had dropped to 84, well below the range of 95-100 that is considered healthy. The hospital was giving him some oxygen, but she had to arrange to get more.

“We are waiting for an available room because it is full,” she said. “What else can we do? The important thing is to get the oxygen, because he already had trouble breathing. It was scary.”

Even being admitted does not make getting oxygen a certainty. At Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, in the city of Yogyakarta, 33 patients died this month after the central oxygen supply ran out. The staff switched to tanks donated by the police, but it was too late for many patients.

Overwhelmed hospitals have added thousands of beds, but on average, 10% of their health care workers are in isolation after exposure to the virus, said Dr. Lia G. Partakusuma, secretary-general of the Indonesian Hospital Association. Some hospitals are using five times as much liquid oxygen as normal, and distributors are having difficulty keeping up with the demand, she said.

“Some hospitals have said, ‘If you brought your own oxygen tank, please use it first because we have a limited oxygen supply,’” she said. “But it is not a requirement for them to bring their own oxygen.”

With hospitals so overcrowded, many people choose to stay home — and many die there. Lapor COVID, a nonprofit group that is tracking deaths from the disease, reports that at least 40 COVID patients a day are now dying at home.

The president has stopped short of a nationwide lockdown but ordered restrictions in Java and Bali, including closing places of worship, schools, shopping malls and sports facilities, reducing public-transit capacity and limiting restaurants to takeout. The restrictions are set to expire Tuesday, but officials are weighing whether to extend them.

Only about 15% of Indonesia’s 270 million people have received a dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and just 6% are fully inoculated. Indonesia has relied heavily on the vaccine made by Sinovac Biotech, a Chinese company, which has proved less effective than other shots. At least 20 Indonesian doctors who were fully vaccinated with Sinovac have died from the virus.

This past week, the United States donated 4.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine to Indonesia. Officials said the first priority would be to give booster shots to nearly 1.5 million health workers.

Budiman, the Indonesian public health researcher in Australia, predicted more than a year ago that Indonesia would become a pandemic epicenter because of its dense population and weak health care system. He has urged more testing, contact tracing and isolation of infected individuals.

Indonesia’s health minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, said Friday that the country had increased testing to about 230,000 people a day, from about 30,000 in December. His target is 400,000 a day.

But Budiman contends that testing is still woefully limited, noting that in recent days, the share of tests that came up positive had risen to more than 30%. Health experts say a high rate is a sign of too little testing.

“For more than a year, our test positivity rate has almost never been below 10%, which means we are missing many cases and we cannot identify the majority of infections and the clusters,” he said.

Outside the small CV Rintis Usaha Bersama oxygen shop in South Jakarta, more than 100 customers lined up in the street with their oxygen tanks and waited hours for the chance to refill them.

Alif Akhirul Ramadan, 27, said he was getting oxygen for his 77-year-old grandmother, who was being cared for by family members at home. He said that her condition had suddenly worsened and that her tank was running low.

“Now it has to be refilled,” said Alif, who has had COVID twice. “There is no backup at home. That is why we need to refill it quickly.”

By the thousands, they sleep in hallways, tents and cars, gasping for air as they wait for beds in overcrowded hospitals that may not have oxygen to give them. Others see hospitals as hopeless, even dangerous, and take their chances at home.

By the thousands, they sleep in hallways, tents and cars, gasping for air as they wait for beds in overcrowded hospitals that may not have oxygen to give them. Others see hospitals as hopeless, even dangerous, and take their chances at home. Wherever they lie, as COVID-19 steals their breath away, their families engage in a frantic, daily hunt for scarce supplies of life-giving oxygen. Indonesia has become the new epicenter of the pandemic, surpassing India and Brazil to become the country with the world’s highest count of new infections. The surge is part of a wave across Southeast Asia, where vaccination rates are low but countries had, until recently, contained the virus relatively well. Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand are also facing their largest outbreaks yet and have imposed new restrictions, including lockdowns and stay-at-home orders. In Indonesia, cases and deaths have skyrocketed in the past month as the highly contagious delta variant sweeps through densely populated Java island, as well as Bali. In some regions, the coronavirus has pushed the medical system past its limits, although hospitals are taking emergency steps to expand capacity. Bekasi Regional Public Hospital, where some COVID patients have waited days for treatment, has erected large tents on its grounds, with beds for up to 150 people. Nearby in Jakarta, the capital, a long line of people waited for hours outside a small dispensary, hoping to fill their portable tanks with oxygen. Among them was Nyimas Siti Nadia, 28, who had been searching for oxygen for her aunt’s family, all sick with COVID. “She is a doctor and she is afraid to go to a hospital because she knows the situation,” Nyimas said. “There are many instances where patients do not get beds or oxygen. If we go to the hospital, we have to bring our own oxygen.” On Thursday, Indonesian authorities reported nearly 57,000 new cases, the highest daily total yet — seven times as many as a month earlier. On Friday, they reported a record 1,205 deaths, bringing the country’s official toll from the pandemic to more than 71,000. But some health experts say those figures vastly understate the spread in Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most-populous nation, because testing has been limited. Dicky Budiman, an Indonesian public health researcher at Griffith University in Australia, estimates that the true number of cases is three to six times higher. In India, where the delta variant was first identified, daily cases peaked at more than 414,000 in May, but they have since dropped to about 40,000. Despite Indonesia’s mushrooming caseload, officials say they have the situation under control. “If we talk about the worst-case scenario, 60,000 or slightly more, we are pretty OK,” said Luhut Pandjaitan, a senior minister assigned by President Joko Widodo to handle the crisis. “We are hoping that it will not reach 100,000, but even so, we are preparing now for if we ever get there.” Many Indonesians, however, have been facing their worst-case scenarios for weeks. Family members describe nightmare scenes of trying to get a hospital to admit their sick relatives. Some hospitals were accepting only patients who brought their own oxygen, they said. At others, patients waited wherever they could find space to lie down. In Bekasi, a city of 2.5 million that adjoins Jakarta, patients have flocked to the regional public hospital. To accommodate the surge, 10 large tents were set up on the grounds, equipped with beds for as many as 150 people. Lisa Wiliana’s husband had been in one of the tents since the previous day, waiting for space in a ward. After nine days of sickness, she said, his oxygen saturation level had dropped to 84, well below the range of 95-100 that is considered healthy. The hospital was giving him some oxygen, but she had to arrange to get more. “We are waiting for an available room because it is full,” she said. “What else can we do? The important thing is to get the oxygen, because he already had trouble breathing. It was scary.” Even being admitted does not make getting oxygen a certainty. At Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, in the city of Yogyakarta, 33 patients died this month after the central oxygen supply ran out. The staff switched to tanks donated by the police, but it was too late for many patients. Overwhelmed hospitals have added thousands of beds, but on average, 10% of their health care workers are in isolation after exposure to the virus, said Dr. Lia G. Partakusuma, secretary-general of the Indonesian Hospital Association. Some hospitals are using five times as much liquid oxygen as normal, and distributors are having difficulty keeping up with the demand, she said. “Some hospitals have said, ‘If you brought your own oxygen tank, please use it first because we have a limited oxygen supply,’” she said. “But it is not a requirement for them to bring their own oxygen.” With hospitals so overcrowded, many people choose to stay home — and many die there. Lapor COVID, a nonprofit group that is tracking deaths from the disease, reports that at least 40 COVID patients a day are now dying at home. The president has stopped short of a nationwide lockdown but ordered restrictions in Java and Bali, including closing places of worship, schools, shopping malls and sports facilities, reducing public-transit capacity and limiting restaurants to takeout. The restrictions are set to expire Tuesday, but officials are weighing whether to extend them. Only about 15% of Indonesia’s 270 million people have received a dose of a coronavirus vaccine, and just 6% are fully inoculated. Indonesia has relied heavily on the vaccine made by Sinovac Biotech, a Chinese company, which has proved less effective than other shots. At least 20 Indonesian doctors who were fully vaccinated with Sinovac have died from the virus. This past week, the United States donated 4.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine to Indonesia. Officials said the first priority would be to give booster shots to nearly 1.5 million health workers. Budiman, the Indonesian public health researcher in Australia, predicted more than a year ago that Indonesia would become a pandemic epicenter because of its dense population and weak health care system. He has urged more testing, contact tracing and isolation of infected individuals. Indonesia’s health minister, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, said Friday that the country had increased testing to about 230,000 people a day, from about 30,000 in December. His target is 400,000 a day. But Budiman contends that testing is still woefully limited, noting that in recent days, the share of tests that came up positive had risen to more than 30%. Health experts say a high rate is a sign of too little testing. “For more than a year, our test positivity rate has almost never been below 10%, which means we are missing many cases and we cannot identify the majority of infections and the clusters,” he said. Outside the small CV Rintis Usaha Bersama oxygen shop in South Jakarta, more than 100 customers lined up in the street with their oxygen tanks and waited hours for the chance to refill them. Alif Akhirul Ramadan, 27, said he was getting oxygen for his 77-year-old grandmother, who was being cared for by family members at home. He said that her condition had suddenly worsened and that her tank was running low. “Now it has to be refilled,” said Alif, who has had COVID twice. “There is no backup at home. That is why we need to refill it quickly.”

The pandemic has a new epicenter: Indonesia

"I’ve been asked to self-isolate by the Test, Trace and Isolate system after I’ve been in contact with somebody who has COVID, in this case of course the Health Secretary Sajid Javid," Johnson said.

UK PM Johnson urges people to stay cautious

Many Londoners appeared to be apprehensive on Monday about the Boris Johnson administration's decision of lifting Covid restrictions across England.

Britain has one of the world's highest death tolls from Covid. The country is facing a new wave of cases. However, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is pushing ahead with lifting of restrictions.

After rushing to vaccinate its population faster than almost all other European countries, the government is betting that England can reopen as fully vaccinated people are less likely to get seriously ill with COVID-19.

Reuters quoted some of the Londoners who expressed apprehension about lifting of restrictions.

Retiree Wendy Bryant, 66, told Reuters she thought the lifting of rules, including law-mandated mask-wearing, happened too quickly and that Johnson "bowed to pressure from large businesses".

Surveyor Jordan Buche, 42, said he was "caught in two minds" and felt nervous about the restrictions coming to an end. He was also unsure about whether he should continue to wear a mask in shops and on public transport.

British society appears split on the restrictions: some want tough rules to continue as they fear the virus will keep killing people, but others have chafed at the most onerous restrictions in peacetime history.

Business owners - including nightclubs, travel companies and the hospitality industry - have been desperate to reopen the economy while many students, young people and parents have disregarded many of the most onerous rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

Many Londoners appeared to be apprehensive on Monday about the Boris Johnson administration's decision of lifting Covid restrictions across England. Britain has one of the world's highest death tolls from Covid.

Many Londoners appeared to be apprehensive on Monday about the Boris Johnson administration's decision of lifting Covid restrictions across England. Britain has one of the world's highest death tolls from Covid. The country is facing a new wave of cases. However, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is pushing ahead with lifting of restrictions. After rushing to vaccinate its population faster than almost all other European countries, the government is betting that England can reopen as fully vaccinated people are less likely to get seriously ill with COVID-19. Reuters quoted some of the Londoners who expressed apprehension about lifting of restrictions. Retiree Wendy Bryant, 66, told Reuters she thought the lifting of rules, including law-mandated mask-wearing, happened too quickly and that Johnson "bowed to pressure from large businesses". Surveyor Jordan Buche, 42, said he was "caught in two minds" and felt nervous about the restrictions coming to an end. He was also unsure about whether he should continue to wear a mask in shops and on public transport. British society appears split on the restrictions: some want tough rules to continue as they fear the virus will keep killing people, but others have chafed at the most onerous restrictions in peacetime history. Business owners - including nightclubs, travel companies and the hospitality industry - have been desperate to reopen the economy while many students, young people and parents have disregarded many of the most onerous rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Nervous Londoners think it's 'too early' to end Covid restrictions

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said.

One lawmaker tested positive on Friday and the other two did so on Saturday, the caucus said in a statement. It said all three were fully vaccinated against the disease.

It didn't release their names or conditions to 'respect the privacy of Members and their personal health'.&nbsp;"This is a sober reminder that Covid is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions," caucus Chairman Chris Turner said in the statement, adding that the caucus was conferring with health experts in Texas to get additional guidance. Turner didn't immediately reply to a message seeking further information about the outbreak.

More than 50 Texas lawmakers arrived in Washington on Monday after leaving their home state on a private charter flight.&nbsp;They received criticism from Republicans and others after a photo showed them mask-less on the plane, though federal pandemic guidelines don't require masks to be worn on private aircraft.

The Democrats left the state to deny the Republican-controlled Legislature the necessary quorum to pass a bill that would place new restrictions on voting in Texas.

Members of the caucus have met with Vice President Kamala Harris, but it was not immediately known whether the three, who contracted COVID-19 did so. Harris' office said it would issue a statement later on Saturday.

Texas House Speaker Dade McPhelan, a Republican, issued a statement saying he and his wife were praying for the health and safety of the sick lawmakers.

"My staff has reached out to Dr&nbsp;John Hellerstedt, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and his epidemiology team for any additional guidance on protocols for those exposed to COVID-19 post-vaccination," Phelan wrote.&nbsp;

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said.

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said. One lawmaker tested positive on Friday and the other two did so on Saturday, the caucus said in a statement. It said all three were fully vaccinated against the disease. It didn't release their names or conditions to 'respect the privacy of Members and their personal health'. "This is a sober reminder that Covid is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions," caucus Chairman Chris Turner said in the statement, adding that the caucus was conferring with health experts in Texas to get additional guidance. Turner didn't immediately reply to a message seeking further information about the outbreak. More than 50 Texas lawmakers arrived in Washington on Monday after leaving their home state on a private charter flight. They received criticism from Republicans and others after a photo showed them mask-less on the plane, though federal pandemic guidelines don't require masks to be worn on private aircraft. The Democrats left the state to deny the Republican-controlled Legislature the necessary quorum to pass a bill that would place new restrictions on voting in Texas. Members of the caucus have met with Vice President Kamala Harris, but it was not immediately known whether the three, who contracted COVID-19 did so. Harris' office said it would issue a statement later on Saturday. Texas House Speaker Dade McPhelan, a Republican, issued a statement saying he and his wife were praying for the health and safety of the sick lawmakers. "My staff has reached out to Dr John Hellerstedt, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and his epidemiology team for any additional guidance on protocols for those exposed to COVID-19 post-vaccination," Phelan wrote.

3 Texas Democrats who fled elections bill vote get Covid 

Kanwar Yatra, a huge religious pilgrimage in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been cancelled due to Covid fears. Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) took this decision a day after the government held talks with Kanwar Sanghs (organisations). The talks were initiated talks after a nudge from Supreme Court of India.

In Kanwar Yatra, Lord Shiva devotees from northern Indian states travel on foot or by other means to collect water from River Ganga at Haridwar in Uttarakhand state. It is then&nbsp;offered at Shiva temples in their areas.&nbsp;The pilgrimage was set to begin from July 25.&nbsp;

According to Uttar Pradesh government officials, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Avnish Awasthi and Director General of Police Mukul Goel held discussions with the Kanwar Sanghs on the instructions of the Chief Minister.

Earlier on July 9, the Chief Minister had said that he would hold talks with the Kanwar Sanghs.&nbsp;

"The officers should try to take decisions like last year by communicating with the Kanwar Sangh at the local level. Last year too, after talks with the administration, the Kanwar Sangh had announced the suspension of the yatra," Adityanath said.

On Friday, Supreme Court of India had granted one last opportunity to UP government to reconsider its decision of holding "symbolic Kanwar Yatra" amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The court had said that right to life of Indian citizens was paramount.

A Bench headed by Justice Rohinton F Nariman gave an ultimatum to the Uttar Pradesh government to either "reconsider" its decision or the court will pass orders. Uttarakhand government has already decided to cancel the Kanwar Yatra this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Delhi cancels Kanwar yatra as well

Delhi has followed UP and Uttarakhand on Sunday (July 18) to cancel&nbsp;Kanwar yatra this year due to Covid situation. Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has passed an order in this regard

"Whereas upcoming Kanwar Yatra-2021, will commence from July 25, 2021, and in spite of being banned/ suspended by Uttarakhand Government, there is an apprehension of gatherings/ congregations processions during Kanwar Yatra-2021, therefore, in view of persisting COVID-19 situation, it is decided that Kanwar Yatra-2021 should not be permitted in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus in the territory of NCT of Delhi," read the order.

Chaiperson of DDMA directed that no celebrations, processions, gatherings shall be allowed during the forthcoming Kanwar Yatra-2021 starting from July 25, 2021, in the national capital

Earlier, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh governments decided to call off the Kanwar Yatra in view of COVID-19.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kanwar Yatra, a huge religious pilgrimage in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been cancelled due to Covid fears. Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) took this decision a day after the government held talks with Kanwar Sanghs (organisations).

Kanwar Yatra, a huge religious pilgrimage in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been cancelled due to Covid fears. Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) took this decision a day after the government held talks with Kanwar Sanghs (organisations). The talks were initiated talks after a nudge from Supreme Court of India. In Kanwar Yatra, Lord Shiva devotees from northern Indian states travel on foot or by other means to collect water from River Ganga at Haridwar in Uttarakhand state. It is then offered at Shiva temples in their areas. The pilgrimage was set to begin from July 25. According to Uttar Pradesh government officials, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Avnish Awasthi and Director General of Police Mukul Goel held discussions with the Kanwar Sanghs on the instructions of the Chief Minister. Earlier on July 9, the Chief Minister had said that he would hold talks with the Kanwar Sanghs. "The officers should try to take decisions like last year by communicating with the Kanwar Sangh at the local level. Last year too, after talks with the administration, the Kanwar Sangh had announced the suspension of the yatra," Adityanath said. On Friday, Supreme Court of India had granted one last opportunity to UP government to reconsider its decision of holding "symbolic Kanwar Yatra" amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The court had said that right to life of Indian citizens was paramount. A Bench headed by Justice Rohinton F Nariman gave an ultimatum to the Uttar Pradesh government to either "reconsider" its decision or the court will pass orders. Uttarakhand government has already decided to cancel the Kanwar Yatra this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Delhi cancels Kanwar yatra as well Delhi has followed UP and Uttarakhand on Sunday (July 18) to cancel Kanwar yatra this year due to Covid situation. Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has passed an order in this regard "Whereas upcoming Kanwar Yatra-2021, will commence from July 25, 2021, and in spite of being banned/ suspended by Uttarakhand Government, there is an apprehension of gatherings/ congregations processions during Kanwar Yatra-2021, therefore, in view of persisting COVID-19 situation, it is decided that Kanwar Yatra-2021 should not be permitted in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus in the territory of NCT of Delhi," read the order. Chaiperson of DDMA directed that no celebrations, processions, gatherings shall be allowed during the forthcoming Kanwar Yatra-2021 starting from July 25, 2021, in the national capital Earlier, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh governments decided to call off the Kanwar Yatra in view of COVID-19. (With inputs from agencies)

Annual mega religious pilgrimage in India cancelled due to Covid fears

With gifts and exports to more than 80 countries, China has undertaken an active vaccine diplomacy, but its Covid jabs are now facing serious questions on efficacy.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had authorised two made-in-China COVID-19 vaccines, Sinovac and Sinopharm.

Manufacturers of these two Chinese vaccines have joined the worldwide vaccine-sharing system Covax, which aims to give vaccines to poorer countries.

As part of the initiative, the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi) stated it will make 110 million doses of the vaccines available.

Covax has agreements with 11 vaccine producers and expects to distribute 2 billion doses globally by early 2022.

However, the problem with Chinese vaccines is that they haven't given many countries confidence in their fight against the coronavirus pandemic, which happened to have spread from China to the rest of the world.

In recent weeks, there has been an increase in concern over Chinese vaccines.

To combat the coronavirus pandemic and restore normalcy, countries including Mongolia, Seychelles, and Bahrain relied on the easily accessible Chinese vaccines.

These countries are currently dealing with an outbreak of diseases.

In May, a surge in COVID-19 cases in the Seychelles grabbed international headlines.

With the majority of its population having had one or more vaccine doses, the country had the highest vaccination coverage in the world.

According to China's National Health Commission, more than a billion doses have been administered in China

In China, the spread of the coronavirus has been mostly contained, and the country has largely opened up.

Efficacy rates: A comparison

While the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have efficacy rates of above 90 per cent, China's Sinopharm vaccine has a 78.1 per cent efficacy rate and the Sinovac has a 51 per cent.

Indian vaccine Covaxin has a 93.4 percent efficacy against severe disease, according to its manufacturer Bharat Biotech's final analysis of phase 3 clinical trials.

The first vaccination to be licenced for use in India, Covishield, has a confirmed efficacy rate which can be scaled up to 91 per cent when both doses are given 8-12 weeks apart.

The vaccine also generates a stronger antibody response and protects against serious consequences.

(With inputs from agencies)

With gifts and exports to more than 80 countries, China has undertaken an active vaccine diplomacy, but its Covid jabs are now facing serious questions on efficacy.

With gifts and exports to more than 80 countries, China has undertaken an active vaccine diplomacy, but its Covid jabs are now facing serious questions on efficacy. The World Health Organization (WHO) had authorised two made-in-China COVID-19 vaccines, Sinovac and Sinopharm. Manufacturers of these two Chinese vaccines have joined the worldwide vaccine-sharing system Covax, which aims to give vaccines to poorer countries. As part of the initiative, the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi) stated it will make 110 million doses of the vaccines available. Covax has agreements with 11 vaccine producers and expects to distribute 2 billion doses globally by early 2022. However, the problem with Chinese vaccines is that they haven't given many countries confidence in their fight against the coronavirus pandemic, which happened to have spread from China to the rest of the world. In recent weeks, there has been an increase in concern over Chinese vaccines. To combat the coronavirus pandemic and restore normalcy, countries including Mongolia, Seychelles, and Bahrain relied on the easily accessible Chinese vaccines. These countries are currently dealing with an outbreak of diseases. In May, a surge in COVID-19 cases in the Seychelles grabbed international headlines. With the majority of its population having had one or more vaccine doses, the country had the highest vaccination coverage in the world. According to China's National Health Commission, more than a billion doses have been administered in China In China, the spread of the coronavirus has been mostly contained, and the country has largely opened up. Efficacy rates: A comparison While the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have efficacy rates of above 90 per cent, China's Sinopharm vaccine has a 78.1 per cent efficacy rate and the Sinovac has a 51 per cent. Indian vaccine Covaxin has a 93.4 percent efficacy against severe disease, according to its manufacturer Bharat Biotech's final analysis of phase 3 clinical trials. The first vaccination to be licenced for use in India, Covishield, has a confirmed efficacy rate which can be scaled up to 91 per cent when both doses are given 8-12 weeks apart. The vaccine also generates a stronger antibody response and protects against serious consequences. (With inputs from agencies)

Credibility crisis: How effective are Chinese Covid vaccines?

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