An EU-wide Covid certificate for easier travel comes into force on Thursday, just in time for Europe's busy summer vacation period, but the more infectious Delta variant is already threatening to curtail its use.

The EU document -- essentially a QR code made available in digital form on smartphones or hard copy -- shows whether the bearer is vaccinated with one of the EU's approved jabs (from BioNTech/Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna or Johnson &amp; Johnson), has recovered from an infection, or has a recent negative Covid test.

Under EU law, the certificate is meant to do away with the need for quarantines or further testing when travelling between the EU's 27 countries or four associated European nations (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein).

EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders said he expected all EU member states to be connected from Thursday. Only Ireland, which was hit by a cyber-attack targeting its health service in May, will lag behind.

As of Wednesday, 21 EU countries were already accepting the certificate, including major tourist destinations France, Spain,&nbsp;Italy, Greece and Croatia.

"We recommend to all the member states to use such a tool not only for the free movement law... but also for all the possible national uses, for other purposes: to go to concerts, festivals, theatres, restaurants," Reynders said.

But a surge in the Delta variant, first detected in India and now rampant in former EU member Britain, could trigger an "emergency brake" provision suspending its acceptance.

Already Germany has announced a ban on incoming travellers from Portugal, where the Delta variant has become dominant. Only its own citizens or residents are exempted if they quarantine for two weeks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unstoppable-182-unmarked-graves-found-at-third-canadian-school-395019">Also Read |&nbsp;'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school</a>

Berlin's decision has raised Brussels' ire, with Reynders saying "we should avoid travel bans" within the EU and stressing that Germany should have consulted with its partners first.

Britain's Delta problem

Britain's startling rise in Delta infections -- it now has a rolling two-week infection rate more than seven times that of the EU -- is generating deep concern on the continent.

At an EU summit last week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised southern EU countries -- desperate for tourist cash -- for allowing in Britons with few, if any, Covid checks.

This week, Portugal, Spain and Malta all abruptly increased restrictions for travellers from Britain, emphasising full vaccination for entry.

Beyond the EU certificate, Brussels is urging all member states to allow in only fully vaccinated travellers from outside the bloc, or those with urgent reasons to visit.

But, unlike for the certificate, that is only "guidance" that can be ignored.

Even the EU certificate may not be the fillip many hope for.

"There is no doubt that the tourist industry could do with a boost in time for the summer season," economic research consultancy Capital Economics said in a note.

But it forecast the EU certificate "will have very little impact on European tourism this year," observing that "most adults are not fully vaccinated and the Delta variant is making people and governments more cautious".

Airlines worry

Airlines grouped together in an umbrella lobby group, A4E, have expressed worries that an "inconsistent approach" among EU countries in vetting the EU Covid certificate could create long lines in airports with the potential to "create new health hazards".

They called for the certificates to be checked online before travellers even arrived at the airport.

Reynders responded by saying the European Commission stood by to help with technical implementation but stressed that the fact there was one EU certificate rather than 27 national ones already greatly streamlined travel in the bloc.

Overall, EU governments are weighing the public desire for a summer break after a tough year of restrictions against a race between vaccination and the Delta variant.

AFP statistics collating official health data from across the EU show that 50.4 per cent of the bloc's population has now received at least one vaccine dose (compared with 65.7 per cent in Britain).&nbsp;

So far, 32.7 per cent in the EU are considered completely vaccinated.&nbsp;

Covid experts had initially believed "herd immunity" could be reached with 70 per cent of a population fully vaccinated, but now judge it would need 80 per cent or more immunised, given Delta's infectiousness and the fact vaccines are less effective against it.

An EU-wide Covid certificate for easier travel comes into force on Thursday, just in time for Europe's busy summer vacation period, but the more infectious Delta variant is already threatening to curtail its use.

An EU-wide Covid certificate for easier travel comes into force on Thursday, just in time for Europe's busy summer vacation period, but the more infectious Delta variant is already threatening to curtail its use. The EU document -- essentially a QR code made available in digital form on smartphones or hard copy -- shows whether the bearer is vaccinated with one of the EU's approved jabs (from BioNTech/Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson), has recovered from an infection, or has a recent negative Covid test. Under EU law, the certificate is meant to do away with the need for quarantines or further testing when travelling between the EU's 27 countries or four associated European nations (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders said he expected all EU member states to be connected from Thursday. Only Ireland, which was hit by a cyber-attack targeting its health service in May, will lag behind. As of Wednesday, 21 EU countries were already accepting the certificate, including major tourist destinations France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Croatia. "We recommend to all the member states to use such a tool not only for the free movement law... but also for all the possible national uses, for other purposes: to go to concerts, festivals, theatres, restaurants," Reynders said. But a surge in the Delta variant, first detected in India and now rampant in former EU member Britain, could trigger an "emergency brake" provision suspending its acceptance. Already Germany has announced a ban on incoming travellers from Portugal, where the Delta variant has become dominant. Only its own citizens or residents are exempted if they quarantine for two weeks. Also Read | 'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school Berlin's decision has raised Brussels' ire, with Reynders saying "we should avoid travel bans" within the EU and stressing that Germany should have consulted with its partners first. Britain's Delta problem Britain's startling rise in Delta infections -- it now has a rolling two-week infection rate more than seven times that of the EU -- is generating deep concern on the continent. At an EU summit last week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticised southern EU countries -- desperate for tourist cash -- for allowing in Britons with few, if any, Covid checks. This week, Portugal, Spain and Malta all abruptly increased restrictions for travellers from Britain, emphasising full vaccination for entry. Beyond the EU certificate, Brussels is urging all member states to allow in only fully vaccinated travellers from outside the bloc, or those with urgent reasons to visit. But, unlike for the certificate, that is only "guidance" that can be ignored. Even the EU certificate may not be the fillip many hope for. "There is no doubt that the tourist industry could do with a boost in time for the summer season," economic research consultancy Capital Economics said in a note. But it forecast the EU certificate "will have very little impact on European tourism this year," observing that "most adults are not fully vaccinated and the Delta variant is making people and governments more cautious". Airlines worry Airlines grouped together in an umbrella lobby group, A4E, have expressed worries that an "inconsistent approach" among EU countries in vetting the EU Covid certificate could create long lines in airports with the potential to "create new health hazards". They called for the certificates to be checked online before travellers even arrived at the airport. Reynders responded by saying the European Commission stood by to help with technical implementation but stressed that the fact there was one EU certificate rather than 27 national ones already greatly streamlined travel in the bloc. Overall, EU governments are weighing the public desire for a summer break after a tough year of restrictions against a race between vaccination and the Delta variant. AFP statistics collating official health data from across the EU show that 50.4 per cent of the bloc's population has now received at least one vaccine dose (compared with 65.7 per cent in Britain). So far, 32.7 per cent in the EU are considered completely vaccinated. Covid experts had initially believed "herd immunity" could be reached with 70 per cent of a population fully vaccinated, but now judge it would need 80 per cent or more immunised, given Delta's infectiousness and the fact vaccines are less effective against it.

EU revives bloc-wide travel with Covid pass but Delta poses threat

A recent research has revealed that the deadly coronavirus is common in pet cats and dogs if their owners have the disease.&nbsp;

As a part of the research, swabs were taken from 310 pets in 196 households where a human infection had been detected. &nbsp;It was concluded that 6 cats and 7 dogs returned a positive PCR result. Also, 54 animals tested positive for virus antibodies.

As per the authors of the study, there is no evidence of pet-to-owner transmission yet. However, it would be difficult to detect when the virus is still spreading.&nbsp;

Dr Els Broens, from Utrecht University, was quoted by BBC as saying that, "If you have Covid, you should avoid contact with your cat or dog, just as you would do with other people". He added, "The main concern is not the animals' health but the potential risk that pets could act as a reservoir of the virus and reintroduce it into the human population".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-jinping-hails-irreversible-rise-of-china-on-communist-party-centenary-395051">Also Read |&nbsp;President Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary</a>

The university sent a mobile veterinary clinic to households in the Netherlands that had tested positive for Covid-19. Then there were swabs taken from their pet cats and dogs to test for evidence of a current infection. The blood samples were also tested for antibodies. This suggested a past exposure to Covid.

When presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, it was concluded that 4.2 per cent showed evidence of current infection and 17.4 per cent tested positive for antibodies.&nbsp;

BBC quoted Veterinary Microbiological Diagnostic Centre Dr Broens saying that "We can't say there is a 0% risk of owners catching Covid from their pets". He added, "At the moment, the pandemic is still being driven by human-to-human infections, so we just wouldn't detect it".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another study by the University of Guelph in Ontario revealed that cats that slept on their owner's bed were more likely to get the infection.&nbsp;

To examine, a total of 48 cats and 54 dogs from 77 households were tested for Covid antibodies.

As a result, about 67 per cent of the owned cats and 43 per cent of the owned dogs tested positive, compared with 9 per cent of dogs and cats from an animal shelter and 3 per cent of stray cats in the area.

A recent research has revealed that the deadly coronavirus is common in pet cats and dogs if their owners have the disease. As a part of the research, swabs were taken from 310 pets in 196 households where a human infection had been detected.

A recent research has revealed that the deadly coronavirus is common in pet cats and dogs if their owners have the disease. As a part of the research, swabs were taken from 310 pets in 196 households where a human infection had been detected. It was concluded that 6 cats and 7 dogs returned a positive PCR result. Also, 54 animals tested positive for virus antibodies. As per the authors of the study, there is no evidence of pet-to-owner transmission yet. However, it would be difficult to detect when the virus is still spreading. Dr Els Broens, from Utrecht University, was quoted by BBC as saying that, "If you have Covid, you should avoid contact with your cat or dog, just as you would do with other people". He added, "The main concern is not the animals' health but the potential risk that pets could act as a reservoir of the virus and reintroduce it into the human population". Also Read | President Jinping hails 'irreversible' rise of China on Communist Party centenary The university sent a mobile veterinary clinic to households in the Netherlands that had tested positive for Covid-19. Then there were swabs taken from their pet cats and dogs to test for evidence of a current infection. The blood samples were also tested for antibodies. This suggested a past exposure to Covid. When presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, it was concluded that 4.2 per cent showed evidence of current infection and 17.4 per cent tested positive for antibodies. BBC quoted Veterinary Microbiological Diagnostic Centre Dr Broens saying that "We can't say there is a 0% risk of owners catching Covid from their pets". He added, "At the moment, the pandemic is still being driven by human-to-human infections, so we just wouldn't detect it". Meanwhile, another study by the University of Guelph in Ontario revealed that cats that slept on their owner's bed were more likely to get the infection. To examine, a total of 48 cats and 54 dogs from 77 households were tested for Covid antibodies. As a result, about 67 per cent of the owned cats and 43 per cent of the owned dogs tested positive, compared with 9 per cent of dogs and cats from an animal shelter and 3 per cent of stray cats in the area.

Covid common in pet dogs and cats, reveals study

The World Health Organization on Thursday said that over two months of declining Covid cases in Europe had come to an end, warning a new wave would come "unless we remain disciplined."

WHO's regional director for Europe Hans Kluge, in a press conference, said, "Last week, the number of cases rose by 10 per cent, driven by increased mixing, travel, gatherings and easing of social restrictions".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🎥🔴 Watch LIVE as <a href="https://twitter.com/hans_kluge?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hans_kluge</a> and experts from WHO/Europe provide a situation update on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in the European Region before answering questions from journalists <a href="https://t.co/3hBj0dn5Mj">https://t.co/3hBj0dn5Mj</a>
— WHO/Europe (@WHO_Europe) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO_Europe/status/1410522364656250882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Kluge further said that if people decide to travel and gather, they should assess the risks carefully and do it safely, keeping all life-saving reflexes of masks and self-protections especially indoor and in crowd.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-urge-uk-to-expand-official-list-of-symptoms-for-covid-19-395089">Also Read |&nbsp;Scientists urge UK to expand official list of symptoms for Covid-19</a>

"We see many countries doing well, but the truth is that the average vaccine coverage in the region is 24% only, and more serious, half of our elders and 40% of our health care workers are still unprotected", Kluge said.

He further highlighted that the vaccine is 'effective' against the Delta variant. Urging people to get vaccinated, he said that a delay may cost lives and the economy.

Meanwhile, scientists have urged the UK to expand its official list of Covid symptoms to reduce the number of missed cases.

This will also help in people knowing if they should self-isolate.&nbsp;

Prof Calum Semple, a member of the government’s Sage committee of experts argues that the 'narrow' clinical definition of covid in the UK leads to delays in identifying people with the disease.&nbsp;

Semple, of the University of Liverpool, along with Dr Alex Crozier at UCL and others describe how Covid patients do not always experience the official UK symptoms of a high fever, a new continuous cough, or a loss of sense of smell or taste early on, or at any time in the course of the disease.

The World Health Organization on Thursday said that over two months of declining Covid cases in Europe had come to an end, warning a new wave would come "unless we remain disciplined.

The World Health Organization on Thursday said that over two months of declining Covid cases in Europe had come to an end, warning a new wave would come "unless we remain disciplined." WHO's regional director for Europe Hans Kluge, in a press conference, said, "Last week, the number of cases rose by 10 per cent, driven by increased mixing, travel, gatherings and easing of social restrictions". 🎥🔴 Watch LIVE as @hans_kluge and experts from WHO/Europe provide a situation update on #COVID19 in the European Region before answering questions from journalists https://t.co/3hBj0dn5Mj — WHO/Europe (@WHO_Europe) July 1, 2021 × Kluge further said that if people decide to travel and gather, they should assess the risks carefully and do it safely, keeping all life-saving reflexes of masks and self-protections especially indoor and in crowd. Also Read | Scientists urge UK to expand official list of symptoms for Covid-19 "We see many countries doing well, but the truth is that the average vaccine coverage in the region is 24% only, and more serious, half of our elders and 40% of our health care workers are still unprotected", Kluge said. He further highlighted that the vaccine is 'effective' against the Delta variant. Urging people to get vaccinated, he said that a delay may cost lives and the economy. Meanwhile, scientists have urged the UK to expand its official list of Covid symptoms to reduce the number of missed cases. This will also help in people knowing if they should self-isolate. Prof Calum Semple, a member of the government’s Sage committee of experts argues that the 'narrow' clinical definition of covid in the UK leads to delays in identifying people with the disease. Semple, of the University of Liverpool, along with Dr Alex Crozier at UCL and others describe how Covid patients do not always experience the official UK symptoms of a high fever, a new continuous cough, or a loss of sense of smell or taste early on, or at any time in the course of the disease.

Covid cases in Europe up again after 10 weeks of decline, says WHO

The European Union (EU) digital certificate was meant to facilitate free movement but EU green pass excluded India's Covishield. Watch this report to know more.

Covishield excluded from EU's COVID 'Green Pass'

Do you also hate the uncomfortable and sometimes downright painful RT-PCR Covid nasal swab test? Good news, soon that might become a thing of the past, replaced by masks that can tell if the wearer has COVID-19 or not.

Researchers have developed a prototype <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> testing face mask that has the capability to do just that.

Equipped with a patch of sensors that are attached to a pad that collects the user's breath particles, this mask needs to be worn for just 15 minutes to get a result.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/confused-about-masks-heres-what-scientists-know-344077">Confused about masks? Here's what scientists know</a>

According to research published in the journal Nature Biotechnology, this is what the future looks like: tiny sensors incorporated into wearable fabrics like masks and jackets which could provide instant information on exposure to disease-causing pathogens such as the coronavirus.

Peter Nguyen the study’s co-author, says that these highly sensitive tests can be integrated into smart wearables “beyond what a FitBit or Applewatch can offer”.

Although up till now, these tests have been restricted for use in laboratories, they may soon be available to the public. &nbsp;

"The concept is similar to how our own skin works, where you automatically sense your environment with exquisite sensitivity without needing to actively participate in the details of the process itself," says Nguyen, a research scientist at the Wyss Institute at Harvard University.

Earlier such tests were based on living cells, which according to researchers can be too fragile and sometimes even dangerous in non-medical settings. However, in this new study, scientists were able to re-create the cell parts that sense dangerous microorganisms and freeze-dry them.

In this new study, researchers have made use of cell-free reactions which contain the tools of a living cell without the cell itself.

These freeze-dried cells can then be re-activated to begin testing by adding water similar to a "package of instant ramen noodles", says Nguyen.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-secret-weapon-that-makes-cotton-most-suitable-for-reusable-face-masks-369402">Scientists discover secret weapon that makes cotton most suitable for reusable face masks</a>

In the new study, researchers used cell-free reactions that contain the tools of a living cell without the cell itself.

Since these cells are not alive, the sensors can be freeze-dried and stored for months until they are ready to be activated.

The authors of this study show that these sensors, which use CRISPR gene-editing technology, have the capability to match laboratory virus detection and they can be woven into wearable fabrics.&nbsp;

These wearable detectors might be useful for "anyone working in an environment where they might be exposed to pathogens or toxins".

The user needs to wear the prototype COVID-19 testing&nbsp;face&nbsp;mask for at least 15 minutes after its&nbsp;sensors collect their breath particles. After the fifteen minutes are up, they pierce a small pouch on the&nbsp;mask&nbsp;and water wicks the sample into the sensor for analysis.&nbsp;

A strip on the&nbsp;mask&nbsp;displays the result.&nbsp;

Wearable warning

The researchers have also developed a jacket for a liquid "exposure event", for people working in dangerous environments.&nbsp;

The jacket also employs the gene-editing tool CRISPR, to create sensors that light up when exposed to the target pathogen.&nbsp;

From tiny sensors in the fabric, Fibre optic threads in the jacket carry information to a miniature detector. This detector which is placed within the garment is the size of a small candy bar.

"In the short term, we see the wearables and especially the&nbsp;face&nbsp;masks being used in the clinic for specialised situations," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However according to Nguyen in the long run, especially in cases of local outbreaks, for easy at-home testing these garments could also be used by regular people.

&nbsp;

Do you also hate the uncomfortable and sometimes downright painful RT-PCR Covid nasal swab test? Good news, soon that might become a thing of the past, replaced by masks that can tell if the wearer has COVID-19 or not.

Do you also hate the uncomfortable and sometimes downright painful RT-PCR Covid nasal swab test? Good news, soon that might become a thing of the past, replaced by masks that can tell if the wearer has COVID-19 or not. Researchers have developed a prototype COVID-19 testing face mask that has the capability to do just that. Equipped with a patch of sensors that are attached to a pad that collects the user's breath particles, this mask needs to be worn for just 15 minutes to get a result. Also read | Confused about masks? Here's what scientists know According to research published in the journal Nature Biotechnology, this is what the future looks like: tiny sensors incorporated into wearable fabrics like masks and jackets which could provide instant information on exposure to disease-causing pathogens such as the coronavirus. Peter Nguyen the study’s co-author, says that these highly sensitive tests can be integrated into smart wearables “beyond what a FitBit or Applewatch can offer”. Although up till now, these tests have been restricted for use in laboratories, they may soon be available to the public. "The concept is similar to how our own skin works, where you automatically sense your environment with exquisite sensitivity without needing to actively participate in the details of the process itself," says Nguyen, a research scientist at the Wyss Institute at Harvard University. Earlier such tests were based on living cells, which according to researchers can be too fragile and sometimes even dangerous in non-medical settings. However, in this new study, scientists were able to re-create the cell parts that sense dangerous microorganisms and freeze-dry them. In this new study, researchers have made use of cell-free reactions which contain the tools of a living cell without the cell itself. These freeze-dried cells can then be re-activated to begin testing by adding water similar to a "package of instant ramen noodles", says Nguyen. Also read | Scientists discover secret weapon that makes cotton most suitable for reusable face masks In the new study, researchers used cell-free reactions that contain the tools of a living cell without the cell itself. Since these cells are not alive, the sensors can be freeze-dried and stored for months until they are ready to be activated. The authors of this study show that these sensors, which use CRISPR gene-editing technology, have the capability to match laboratory virus detection and they can be woven into wearable fabrics. These wearable detectors might be useful for "anyone working in an environment where they might be exposed to pathogens or toxins". The user needs to wear the prototype COVID-19 testing face mask for at least 15 minutes after its sensors collect their breath particles. After the fifteen minutes are up, they pierce a small pouch on the mask and water wicks the sample into the sensor for analysis. A strip on the mask displays the result. Wearable warning The researchers have also developed a jacket for a liquid "exposure event", for people working in dangerous environments. The jacket also employs the gene-editing tool CRISPR, to create sensors that light up when exposed to the target pathogen. From tiny sensors in the fabric, Fibre optic threads in the jacket carry information to a miniature detector. This detector which is placed within the garment is the size of a small candy bar. "In the short term, we see the wearables and especially the face masks being used in the clinic for specialised situations," he added. However according to Nguyen in the long run, especially in cases of local outbreaks, for easy at-home testing these garments could also be used by regular people.

Could your face mask detect Covid?

Bolsonaro, whose popularity has faded as Brazil’s COVID-19 death toll climbed past 500,000, has denied any wrongdoing, saying on Monday he was not aware of any irregularities.

Brazil to suspend COVID vaccine deal with India’s Bharat Biotech

The US has announced an additional $41 million assistance to help India respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the country’s preparedness for future health emergencies, taking the total aid to more than $200 million.

In April and May, India struggled with the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new cases.

Hospitals were reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

“India came to the assistance of the United States during this country’s time of need, and now the United States stands with the people of India as they continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic,” the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on June 28.

USAID announced an additional $41 million in support to help India respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the country’s preparedness for COVID-19 and future health emergencies.

USAID’s assistance will support access to COVID-19 testing, pandemic-related mental health services, timely referrals to medical services, and access to healthcare in remote areas, the independent agency of the U.S. federal government primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and development assistance said.

Through this additional funding, USAID will continue to partner with India to strengthen healthcare supply chains and electronic health information systems, support its vaccination efforts, and mobilise and coordinate private sector relief, it said.

USAID has contributed more than $200 million for India’s COVID-19 relief and response efforts since the pandemic began, including more than $50 million in emergency supplies and training for more than 2,14,000 frontline health workers on infection prevention and control, benefiting more than 42 million Indians, according to a media release.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tells-un-weekend-airstrikes-were-aimed-at-deterring-iran-394796">Also Read |&nbsp;US tells UN weekend airstrikes were aimed at deterring Iran</a>

The US is providing significant emergency assistance to the hardest-hit countries in South Asia, including India and Nepal, by allocating more than $300 million under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which President Joe Biden had signed on March 11.

In May, President Biden announced $100 million worth of COVID-19 assistance to India.

The US-India Chambers of Commerce Foundation has raised more than $1.2 million for coronavirus-related efforts in India.

With record-breaking fundraising, the US-India Chambers of Commerce Foundation has shipped or en route nearly 120 ventilators and over 1,000 oxygen concentrators, a release said on June 3.

Also, India will be a significant recipient of the US vaccines after Mr. Biden announced details of his administration’s decision to send 25 million COVID-19 shots to countries across the globe.

India has been included in both the identified categories — direct supply to neighbours and partner countries, and under the COVAX initiative.

The US has announced an additional $41 million assistance to help India respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the country’s preparedness for future health emergencies, taking the total aid to more than $200 million.

The US has announced an additional $41 million assistance to help India respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the country’s preparedness for future health emergencies, taking the total aid to more than $200 million. In April and May, India struggled with the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new cases. Hospitals were reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. “India came to the assistance of the United States during this country’s time of need, and now the United States stands with the people of India as they continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic,” the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on June 28. USAID announced an additional $41 million in support to help India respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the country’s preparedness for COVID-19 and future health emergencies. USAID’s assistance will support access to COVID-19 testing, pandemic-related mental health services, timely referrals to medical services, and access to healthcare in remote areas, the independent agency of the U.S. federal government primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and development assistance said. Through this additional funding, USAID will continue to partner with India to strengthen healthcare supply chains and electronic health information systems, support its vaccination efforts, and mobilise and coordinate private sector relief, it said. USAID has contributed more than $200 million for India’s COVID-19 relief and response efforts since the pandemic began, including more than $50 million in emergency supplies and training for more than 2,14,000 frontline health workers on infection prevention and control, benefiting more than 42 million Indians, according to a media release. Also Read | US tells UN weekend airstrikes were aimed at deterring Iran The US is providing significant emergency assistance to the hardest-hit countries in South Asia, including India and Nepal, by allocating more than $300 million under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which President Joe Biden had signed on March 11. In May, President Biden announced $100 million worth of COVID-19 assistance to India. The US-India Chambers of Commerce Foundation has raised more than $1.2 million for coronavirus-related efforts in India. With record-breaking fundraising, the US-India Chambers of Commerce Foundation has shipped or en route nearly 120 ventilators and over 1,000 oxygen concentrators, a release said on June 3. Also, India will be a significant recipient of the US vaccines after Mr. Biden announced details of his administration’s decision to send 25 million COVID-19 shots to countries across the globe. India has been included in both the identified categories — direct supply to neighbours and partner countries, and under the COVAX initiative.

US announces $41 million additional COVID-19 assistance to India

Brazil’s government was criticised for carelessly handling the deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a> in the country, and although the President of Brazil, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/jair-bolsonaro?page=1">Jair Bolsonaro</a>, claimed the country managed the pandemic nicely, a recent study has claimed otherwise.

The study by a group of researchers from the Federal University of Pelotas and coordinated by the epidemiologist and dean of UFPel, Pedro Hallal, has claimed that more than 400,000 lives could have been saved if the authorities would have implemented stricter social distancing rules.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-asks-journalist-to-shut-up-for-urging-him-to-keep-mask-on-393127" hreflang="en">Bolsonaro asks journalist to 'shut up' for urging him to keep mask on</a>

The study has been conducted under the guidance of the government of the state of Rio Grande do Sul and in partnership with the Ministry of Health.

Researchers claim that stricter social distancing measures and an early start to the Covid vaccination programmes could have prevented at least 80 per cent of the Covid deaths registered in Brazil.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilians-protest-bolsonaros-role-in-half-a-million-covid-19-deaths-392661" hreflang="en">Brazilians protest Bolsonaro's role in half a million COVID-19 deaths</a>

"The responsibility for these numbers is entirely on the federal government’s back –and particularly on the president’s," Pedro Hallal, a professor at the Federal University of Pelotas told the Guardian. "It was not the federal government who said that&nbsp;the pandemic was a ‘little flu’. It was not the government that&nbsp;encouraged people to go out without a mask, or who said that the&nbsp;vaccine could turn you into an alligator. That was all the president, and it’s his responsibility."

This research has also revealed that the COVID-19 related mortality average is 2,345 per million in&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;versus 494 worldwide, i.e. it is more than four times higher in Brazil than any other country in the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chubby-dictator-bolsonaro-fined-for-flouting-covid-restrictions-386956" hreflang="en">'Chubby dictator': Bolsonaro fined for flouting covid restrictions</a>

Hallal has also alleged that nearly 95,000 to 145,000 deaths happened solely because the Bolsonaro government failed to acquire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a> on time. While Brazil started a mass vaccination campaign in January, the programme has been constantly disrupted due to the shortage of vaccines in the country.

The vaccine campaign has also suffered as Jair Bolsonaro has refused to give credit to the vaccines and has stayed away from getting himself vaccinated. "I’ve got the virus alive, so I am immunised," he told his supporters in March. "I will let other people get the injection in my place, and later on, if I decide to get the vaccine – because, depending on me, this is voluntary, you cannot force anyone to take it – I will take it."

Brazil’s government was criticised for carelessly handling the deadly coronavirus pandemic in the country, and although the President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, claimed the country managed the pandemic nicely, a recent study has claimed otherwise.

Brazil’s government was criticised for carelessly handling the deadly coronavirus pandemic in the country, and although the President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, claimed the country managed the pandemic nicely, a recent study has claimed otherwise. The study by a group of researchers from the Federal University of Pelotas and coordinated by the epidemiologist and dean of UFPel, Pedro Hallal, has claimed that more than 400,000 lives could have been saved if the authorities would have implemented stricter social distancing rules. Also read | Bolsonaro asks journalist to 'shut up' for urging him to keep mask on The study has been conducted under the guidance of the government of the state of Rio Grande do Sul and in partnership with the Ministry of Health. Researchers claim that stricter social distancing measures and an early start to the Covid vaccination programmes could have prevented at least 80 per cent of the Covid deaths registered in Brazil. Also read | Brazilians protest Bolsonaro's role in half a million COVID-19 deaths "The responsibility for these numbers is entirely on the federal government’s back –and particularly on the president’s," Pedro Hallal, a professor at the Federal University of Pelotas told the Guardian. "It was not the federal government who said that the pandemic was a ‘little flu’. It was not the government that encouraged people to go out without a mask, or who said that the vaccine could turn you into an alligator. That was all the president, and it’s his responsibility." This research has also revealed that the COVID-19 related mortality average is 2,345 per million in Brazil versus 494 worldwide, i.e. it is more than four times higher in Brazil than any other country in the world. Also read | 'Chubby dictator': Bolsonaro fined for flouting covid restrictions Hallal has also alleged that nearly 95,000 to 145,000 deaths happened solely because the Bolsonaro government failed to acquire coronavirus vaccines on time. While Brazil started a mass vaccination campaign in January, the programme has been constantly disrupted due to the shortage of vaccines in the country. The vaccine campaign has also suffered as Jair Bolsonaro has refused to give credit to the vaccines and has stayed away from getting himself vaccinated. "I’ve got the virus alive, so I am immunised," he told his supporters in March. "I will let other people get the injection in my place, and later on, if I decide to get the vaccine – because, depending on me, this is voluntary, you cannot force anyone to take it – I will take it."

'It was Bolsonaro's fault': Researchers claim Brazil could have saved 400,000 Covid deaths

The issue of domestically manufactured Covishield not being on the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) "virtual vaccine passport" list has been taken up by India. 
 
EMA is the regulatory body that approves medical products in the bloc. The matter has also been raised with the French government by India.

Serum Institute of India, the vaccine's maker, had never applied to the European Medicines Agency.

Earlier today its Chief assured the matter will be resolved soon.

Adar Poonawalla tweeted that, "I realise that a lot of Indians who have taken COVISHIELD are facing issues with travel to the EU, I assure everyone, I have taken this up at the highest levels and hope to resolve this matter soon, both with regulators and at a diplomatic level with countries."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I realise that a lot of Indians who have taken COVISHIELD are facing issues with travel to the E.U., I assure everyone, I have taken this up at the highest levels and hope to resolve this matter soon, both with regulators and at a diplomatic level with countries.
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/1409382675748515841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Green Pass, which will be available on July 1, will allow for unrestricted movement in all EU member states for business and tourism.

Those who have been inoculated with any of the vaccinations approved by the European Medicines Agency would be eligible for the pass.

Only four vaccines are permitted for travel within the European Union under the certificate issued by the European Medicines Agency. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/universal-coronavirus-vaccine-scientists-make-unique-discovery-that-may-help-prevent-future-pandemics-393371">Universal coronavirus vaccine? Scientists make unique discovery that may help prevent future pandemics</a>

They are Vaxzevria (Oxford-AstraZeneca), Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech), Spikevax (Moderna) and Janssen (Johnson &amp; Johnson).

The Covishield version of AstraZeneca, which is manufactured by India's Serum Institute of India (SII), is not on the list. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-vaccine-to-be-tested-on-children-to-test-efficacy-363946">AstraZeneca vaccine to be tested on children to test efficacy</a>

Only the Vaxzervia version of the AstraZeneca vaccine - manufactured in the UK and other sites in Europe - is eligible for Green Pass.

EU digital Covid certificate is digital proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result, or recovered from COVID-19. It is valid in all EU countries. EMA releases a monthly update for each authorized COVID-19 vaccine.

While the impact is still to be known of the decision, but Covishield's listing under EMA means ease of travelling for Indians in future. The vaccine made by the Serum Institute of India has been approved by the World Health Organization.

The issue of domestically manufactured Covishield not being on the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) "virtual vaccine passport" list has been taken up by India. EMA is the regulatory body that approves medical products in the bloc.

The issue of domestically manufactured Covishield not being on the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) "virtual vaccine passport" list has been taken up by India. EMA is the regulatory body that approves medical products in the bloc. The matter has also been raised with the French government by India. Serum Institute of India, the vaccine's maker, had never applied to the European Medicines Agency. Earlier today its Chief assured the matter will be resolved soon. Adar Poonawalla tweeted that, "I realise that a lot of Indians who have taken COVISHIELD are facing issues with travel to the EU, I assure everyone, I have taken this up at the highest levels and hope to resolve this matter soon, both with regulators and at a diplomatic level with countries." I realise that a lot of Indians who have taken COVISHIELD are facing issues with travel to the E.U., I assure everyone, I have taken this up at the highest levels and hope to resolve this matter soon, both with regulators and at a diplomatic level with countries. — Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) June 28, 2021 × The Green Pass, which will be available on July 1, will allow for unrestricted movement in all EU member states for business and tourism. Those who have been inoculated with any of the vaccinations approved by the European Medicines Agency would be eligible for the pass. Only four vaccines are permitted for travel within the European Union under the certificate issued by the European Medicines Agency. Also read | Universal coronavirus vaccine? Scientists make unique discovery that may help prevent future pandemics They are Vaxzevria (Oxford-AstraZeneca), Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech), Spikevax (Moderna) and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson). The Covishield version of AstraZeneca, which is manufactured by India's Serum Institute of India (SII), is not on the list. Also read | AstraZeneca vaccine to be tested on children to test efficacy Only the Vaxzervia version of the AstraZeneca vaccine - manufactured in the UK and other sites in Europe - is eligible for Green Pass. EU digital Covid certificate is digital proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result, or recovered from COVID-19. It is valid in all EU countries. EMA releases a monthly update for each authorized COVID-19 vaccine. While the impact is still to be known of the decision, but Covishield's listing under EMA means ease of travelling for Indians in future. The vaccine made by the Serum Institute of India has been approved by the World Health Organization.

India takes up Covishield's absence from the European Union's 'Green Pass' list

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating&nbsp;coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office.

Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6.

The frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology.

"We owe it to people who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service.

Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers.

Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines.

The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team.&nbsp;

Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has resigned over uproar on revelations of him violating coronavirus restrictions by hugging and kissing his aide in office. Hancock conceded he had let the public down after The Sun newspaper published a security camera still obtained apparently from a whistleblower showing him kissing the aide in his office on May 6. The frontman for Britain's response to the pandemic, particularly the vaccine roll-out, quit in a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, reiterating his earlier apology. "We owe it to people who have sacrificed so much on this pandemic to be honest when we have let them down as I have done by breaching the guidance," he wrote. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that he was 'sorry' to receive Hancock's resignation. He added that Hancock should be 'immensely proud' of his service. Johnson had initially stood by Hancock after he admitted to have broken social distancing rules at a time when he was urging the public to stick by the measures, including curbs on funeral numbers. Opposition parties had kept up the pressure on the government accusing it of hypocrisy over lockdown rule breaches. Many members of the public have been slapped with fines. The main opposition Labour party said the government needed to answer questions about the undisclosed appointment of the aide, former lobbyist Gina Coladangelo, to Hancock's top advisory team. Both she and Hancock are married, and first met at university. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock resigns after kissing aide in violation of Covid curbs he advocated

The highly contagious&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;is&nbsp;driving&nbsp;a surge in&nbsp;South&nbsp;African&nbsp;Covid-19 infections that is testing the capacity of hospitals and forcing authorities to mull tighter restrictions, the government and scientists said on Saturday.

The hardest-hit country in&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;recorded 18,762 new infections on Saturday -- its highest daily figure since January -- taking the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases to 1,895,905, of which 59,621 have been fatal.

The country is in the thick of its&nbsp;third&nbsp;wave.

"We are in the exponential phase of the pandemic with the numbers just growing very, very, extremely fast and (they) will keep growing in the next weeks," Tulio de Oliveira, a top virologist in the country said.

The&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;first seen in India now appears to be "dominating infections in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa," de Oliveira of the Network for Genomic Surveillance in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;told a virtual briefing.

Koleka Mlisana, the head of a government ministerial advisory committee on&nbsp;Covid-19, told the same briefing that there is "evidence that the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;may actually be taking over".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-authority-deploys-forces-during-protest-against-critics-death-394199">Also Read |&nbsp;Palestinian Authority deploys forces during protest against critic's death</a>

To curb the spread,&nbsp;South&nbsp;African needs to "go to hard, tighter restrictions... and that needs to be done urgently," said Mlisana.

Acting Minister of Health, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane said due to the prevalence of the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant, the numbers of infections "are likely to surpass the second&nbsp;wave&nbsp;peak" in January.

Hospitals in the densely populated province of Gauteng -- encompassing Johannesburg and Pretoria, and the nation's economic and industrial heartland -- are "struggling severely", Mlisana said.

The province accounts for around 60 percent of national infections.

Medics are now starting to transport patients to other provinces where there is still room in hospitals.

"We remain very worried about the rise in hospitalisation, which is putting a lot of strain on the healthcare system in the country," said the minister.

The country's vaccination drive has been slow and only around 2.4 million people have been immunised since February.

On Friday, thousands of opposition activists rallied in Pretoria to demand a faster coronavirus vaccination rollout.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to broaden lockdown restrictions during an address to the nation scheduled for Sunday.

Health officials across the world have been alarmed by the rapid spread of the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant.

The World Health Organization said on Friday that the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;had reached at least 85 countries.

The highly contagious Delta variant is driving a surge in South African Covid-19 infections that is testing the capacity of hospitals and forcing authorities to mull tighter restrictions, the government and scientists said on Saturday.

The highly contagious Delta variant is driving a surge in South African Covid-19 infections that is testing the capacity of hospitals and forcing authorities to mull tighter restrictions, the government and scientists said on Saturday. The hardest-hit country in Africa recorded 18,762 new infections on Saturday -- its highest daily figure since January -- taking the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases to 1,895,905, of which 59,621 have been fatal. The country is in the thick of its third wave. "We are in the exponential phase of the pandemic with the numbers just growing very, very, extremely fast and (they) will keep growing in the next weeks," Tulio de Oliveira, a top virologist in the country said. The Delta variant first seen in India now appears to be "dominating infections in South Africa," de Oliveira of the Network for Genomic Surveillance in South Africa told a virtual briefing. Koleka Mlisana, the head of a government ministerial advisory committee on Covid-19, told the same briefing that there is "evidence that the Delta variant may actually be taking over". Also Read | Palestinian Authority deploys forces during protest against critic's death To curb the spread, South African needs to "go to hard, tighter restrictions... and that needs to be done urgently," said Mlisana. Acting Minister of Health, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane said due to the prevalence of the Delta variant, the numbers of infections "are likely to surpass the second wave peak" in January. Hospitals in the densely populated province of Gauteng -- encompassing Johannesburg and Pretoria, and the nation's economic and industrial heartland -- are "struggling severely", Mlisana said. The province accounts for around 60 percent of national infections. Medics are now starting to transport patients to other provinces where there is still room in hospitals. "We remain very worried about the rise in hospitalisation, which is putting a lot of strain on the healthcare system in the country," said the minister. The country's vaccination drive has been slow and only around 2.4 million people have been immunised since February. On Friday, thousands of opposition activists rallied in Pretoria to demand a faster coronavirus vaccination rollout. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to broaden lockdown restrictions during an address to the nation scheduled for Sunday. Health officials across the world have been alarmed by the rapid spread of the Delta variant. The World Health Organization said on Friday that the Delta variant had reached at least 85 countries.

Delta variant driving Covid surge in South Africa

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections.

The pandemic has now killed close to four million people across the world but vaccination drives have brought down infection numbers in many wealthy countries, though the Delta strain of the virus remains a concern.

The variant is now in 85 countries and is the most contagious of any Covid-19 strain identified, according to the World Health Organization.

Still, in much of Europe and the United States curbs on daily life are easing as vaccination programmes bear fruit, although Russia is grappling with a deadly third wave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-airs-old-election-grievances-at-campaign-style-rally-394254">Also Read |&nbsp;Trump airs old election grievances at campaign-style rally</a>

The Russian capital on Sunday recorded 144 Covid-19 deaths in the last 24 hours, a day after Saint Petersburg set the previous highest figure.

Saint Petersburg has hosted six Euro 2020 matches and is due to host a quarter-final on Friday, with spectator numbers capped at half but still upwards of 26,000 people.

Russia as a whole has seen an explosion of new infections since mid-June driven by the Delta variant.

The dramatic rise in cases comes as officials in Moscow are pushing vaccine-sceptical Russians to get inoculated after lifting most anti-virus restrictions late last year.

"To stop the pandemic, one thing is needed: rapid, large-scale vaccinations. Nobody has invented any other solution," Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin told state-run television on Saturday.

'Up in smoke'

The Delta variant is also feeding fresh outbreaks in Southeast Asia and Australia where authorities have brought back or prolonged restrictions.

More than five million Sydney residents endured their first full day of a two-week lockdown Sunday to contain an outbreak of the strain.

Restaurants, bars and cafes were shuttered and stay-at-home orders were issued, leaving the city centre virtually deserted.

"Given how contagious this strain of&nbsp;the virus is, we do anticipate that&nbsp;in the next few days case numbers&nbsp;are likely to increase even beyond&nbsp;what we have seen today," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

More than 110 Covid-19 cases have been reported in Sydney since a driver for an international flight crew tested positive in mid-June for the Delta variant.

The flare-up has been a shock for a place that had returned to relative normality after months with few local cases.

Professional musician Blain Cunneen, 27, said his work -- performing gigs, studio sessions and teaching students -- had gone "up in smoke" overnight.

"All that was starting to operate again almost as normal... very suddenly overnight I got a bunch of emails and texts about everything being cancelled," he told AFP.

Australia's northern city of Darwin also entered a separate snap 48-hour lockdown on Sunday after a handful of cases were linked to a coronavirus outbreak on a remote gold mine.

"The Northern Territory is now facing its biggest threat since the Covid crisis began," Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said.

Restrictions reimposed

Similar spikes in infections have recently been seen across Southeast Asia.&nbsp;

Thailand will from Monday reimpose restrictions on restaurants, construction sites and gatherings in the capital Bangkok as it tries to contain a wave of infections.

The country's latest wave kicked off in April when a cluster was found in upscale Bangkok clubs.

Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha has said he plans to fully reopen the country by October, but this would require hitting a target of vaccinating 50 million Thais in four months.

In neighbouring Malaysia, the prime minister announced that a nationwide lockdown in place for about a month already will continue, and he gave no date for the lifting of restrictions.

His government had previously said the strict curbs would be eased in stages, as long as there was a drop in infections, intensive care bed use and a rise in vaccination rates.

Bangladesh also said it would impose a new national lockdown from Monday, with offices shut for a week and only medical-related transport allowed.&nbsp;

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections.

Moscow on Sunday recorded the worst daily coronavirus death toll so far for a Russian city, as countries across the Asia-Pacific region extended or reimposed restrictions to tackle fresh waves of infections. The pandemic has now killed close to four million people across the world but vaccination drives have brought down infection numbers in many wealthy countries, though the Delta strain of the virus remains a concern. The variant is now in 85 countries and is the most contagious of any Covid-19 strain identified, according to the World Health Organization. Still, in much of Europe and the United States curbs on daily life are easing as vaccination programmes bear fruit, although Russia is grappling with a deadly third wave. Also Read | Trump airs old election grievances at campaign-style rally The Russian capital on Sunday recorded 144 Covid-19 deaths in the last 24 hours, a day after Saint Petersburg set the previous highest figure. Saint Petersburg has hosted six Euro 2020 matches and is due to host a quarter-final on Friday, with spectator numbers capped at half but still upwards of 26,000 people. Russia as a whole has seen an explosion of new infections since mid-June driven by the Delta variant. The dramatic rise in cases comes as officials in Moscow are pushing vaccine-sceptical Russians to get inoculated after lifting most anti-virus restrictions late last year. "To stop the pandemic, one thing is needed: rapid, large-scale vaccinations. Nobody has invented any other solution," Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin told state-run television on Saturday. 'Up in smoke' The Delta variant is also feeding fresh outbreaks in Southeast Asia and Australia where authorities have brought back or prolonged restrictions. More than five million Sydney residents endured their first full day of a two-week lockdown Sunday to contain an outbreak of the strain. Restaurants, bars and cafes were shuttered and stay-at-home orders were issued, leaving the city centre virtually deserted. "Given how contagious this strain of the virus is, we do anticipate that in the next few days case numbers are likely to increase even beyond what we have seen today," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. More than 110 Covid-19 cases have been reported in Sydney since a driver for an international flight crew tested positive in mid-June for the Delta variant. The flare-up has been a shock for a place that had returned to relative normality after months with few local cases. Professional musician Blain Cunneen, 27, said his work -- performing gigs, studio sessions and teaching students -- had gone "up in smoke" overnight. "All that was starting to operate again almost as normal... very suddenly overnight I got a bunch of emails and texts about everything being cancelled," he told AFP. Australia's northern city of Darwin also entered a separate snap 48-hour lockdown on Sunday after a handful of cases were linked to a coronavirus outbreak on a remote gold mine. "The Northern Territory is now facing its biggest threat since the Covid crisis began," Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said. Restrictions reimposed Similar spikes in infections have recently been seen across Southeast Asia. Thailand will from Monday reimpose restrictions on restaurants, construction sites and gatherings in the capital Bangkok as it tries to contain a wave of infections. The country's latest wave kicked off in April when a cluster was found in upscale Bangkok clubs. Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha has said he plans to fully reopen the country by October, but this would require hitting a target of vaccinating 50 million Thais in four months. In neighbouring Malaysia, the prime minister announced that a nationwide lockdown in place for about a month already will continue, and he gave no date for the lifting of restrictions. His government had previously said the strict curbs would be eased in stages, as long as there was a drop in infections, intensive care bed use and a rise in vaccination rates. Bangladesh also said it would impose a new national lockdown from Monday, with offices shut for a week and only medical-related transport allowed.

Moscow Covid deaths spike as Asia-Pacific countries lockdown

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with top officials to review the progress of vaccination and COVID-19 situation in the country and expressed satisfaction at the rising speed of vaccinations this week.He stressed that it is important to carry this momentum forward.The Prime Minister was informed that 3.77 crore doses have been administered in the last six days which is more than the entire population of countries like Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Canada.

It was also discussed that 128 districts in the country have vaccinated more than 50 per cent of the 45+ population and 16 districts have vaccinated more than 90 per cent of the 45+ population.The officers told the Prime Minister that they are in touch with state governments to explore and implement innovative methods to reach people for vaccination.PM Modi spoke about the need to involve NGOs and other organisations in such efforts.

He directed officers to work with the states to ensure that the pace of testing does not go down as testing remains a very important weapon to track and contain rising infections in any region.A PMO release said officials apprised PM Modi about the vaccine supply in the upcoming months and efforts being made to increase production.

"PM expressed satisfaction at the rising speed of vaccinations in this week and stressed that it is important to carry this momentum forward," the release said.

The government`s centralised free vaccination policy came into effect from June 21 under which the Centre is providing free vaccines to states for inoculating all above 18 years. The Centre has decided to procure 75 per cent of vaccines from manufacturers.&nbsp;

At the meeting, officers also apprised the Prime Minister about the rising interest in the Cowin platform globally.He said that efforts should be made to help all countries, who have expressed interest, in India`s rich tech expertise in the form of the Cowin platform.

Officials gave a detailed presentation to the Prime Minister on the progress of vaccination in the country. He was briefed about the age-wise vaccination coverage.He was briefed about the vaccine coverage among healthcare workers, frontline workers and the general population in various states.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with top officials to review the progress of vaccination and COVID-19 situation in the country and expressed satisfaction at the rising speed of vaccinations this week.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with top officials to review the progress of vaccination and COVID-19 situation in the country and expressed satisfaction at the rising speed of vaccinations this week.He stressed that it is important to carry this momentum forward.The Prime Minister was informed that 3.77 crore doses have been administered in the last six days which is more than the entire population of countries like Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Canada. It was also discussed that 128 districts in the country have vaccinated more than 50 per cent of the 45+ population and 16 districts have vaccinated more than 90 per cent of the 45+ population.The officers told the Prime Minister that they are in touch with state governments to explore and implement innovative methods to reach people for vaccination.PM Modi spoke about the need to involve NGOs and other organisations in such efforts. He directed officers to work with the states to ensure that the pace of testing does not go down as testing remains a very important weapon to track and contain rising infections in any region.A PMO release said officials apprised PM Modi about the vaccine supply in the upcoming months and efforts being made to increase production. "PM expressed satisfaction at the rising speed of vaccinations in this week and stressed that it is important to carry this momentum forward," the release said. The government`s centralised free vaccination policy came into effect from June 21 under which the Centre is providing free vaccines to states for inoculating all above 18 years. The Centre has decided to procure 75 per cent of vaccines from manufacturers. At the meeting, officers also apprised the Prime Minister about the rising interest in the Cowin platform globally.He said that efforts should be made to help all countries, who have expressed interest, in India`s rich tech expertise in the form of the Cowin platform. Officials gave a detailed presentation to the Prime Minister on the progress of vaccination in the country. He was briefed about the age-wise vaccination coverage.He was briefed about the vaccine coverage among healthcare workers, frontline workers and the general population in various states.

PM Modi reviews progress of COVID-19 vaccination

The city of&nbsp;San&nbsp;Francisco&nbsp;has announced it will require all municipal employees&nbsp;to be vaccinated against Covid-19, or they could face penalties up to and including dismissal.

The new rule, announced Wednesday, will not take effect until the vaccines have received full approval from the US Food and Drug Administration, which has so far green-lit their use on an emergency basis due to the pandemic.

San&nbsp;Francisco&nbsp;will then require its 35,000 employees, including police and firefighters, to be vaccinated. Those who fail to comply and do not receive an exemption for medical or religious reasons will be punished or could even be fired.

"It's really a decision for the health and safety of our employees and our public that we serve," said Carol Isen, the city's director of human resources.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chauvin-gets-22-12-years-in-prison-for-george-floyds-death-394037">Also Read |&nbsp;Chauvin gets 22 1/2 years in prison for George Floyd's death</a>

"It's about protecting the city as an employer from what we deem to be unacceptable risk."

The local branch of the Service Employees International Union, which represents around 20,000 city employees, called the move a "threatening mandate" and said such a requirement must be negotiated and not imposed.

This week, more than 150 employees at one of Texas's largest hospitals were fired or resigned after refusing to comply with a Covid vaccination requirement.

Officials at Houston Methodist had told its staff they needed to have received a Covid vaccination by June 7.

Some staff members had filed a lawsuit against the hospital, accusing it of "forcing its employees to be human 'guinea pigs' as a condition for continued employment."

The lawsuit was dismissed by a judge who said the vaccines' safety was not at issue.

The city of&nbsp;San&nbsp;Francisco, which adopted measures early on in the US coronavirus outbreak to stop its spread, has one of the highest vaccination rates in California: about 80 percent of residents 12 and over have received at least one dose.

The city of San Francisco has announced it will require all municipal employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19, or they could face penalties up to and including dismissal.

The city of San Francisco has announced it will require all municipal employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19, or they could face penalties up to and including dismissal. The new rule, announced Wednesday, will not take effect until the vaccines have received full approval from the US Food and Drug Administration, which has so far green-lit their use on an emergency basis due to the pandemic. San Francisco will then require its 35,000 employees, including police and firefighters, to be vaccinated. Those who fail to comply and do not receive an exemption for medical or religious reasons will be punished or could even be fired. "It's really a decision for the health and safety of our employees and our public that we serve," said Carol Isen, the city's director of human resources. Also Read | Chauvin gets 22 1/2 years in prison for George Floyd's death "It's about protecting the city as an employer from what we deem to be unacceptable risk." The local branch of the Service Employees International Union, which represents around 20,000 city employees, called the move a "threatening mandate" and said such a requirement must be negotiated and not imposed. This week, more than 150 employees at one of Texas's largest hospitals were fired or resigned after refusing to comply with a Covid vaccination requirement. Officials at Houston Methodist had told its staff they needed to have received a Covid vaccination by June 7. Some staff members had filed a lawsuit against the hospital, accusing it of "forcing its employees to be human 'guinea pigs' as a condition for continued employment." The lawsuit was dismissed by a judge who said the vaccines' safety was not at issue. The city of San Francisco, which adopted measures early on in the US coronavirus outbreak to stop its spread, has one of the highest vaccination rates in California: about 80 percent of residents 12 and over have received at least one dose.

San Francisco to require city employees to get Covid vaccine

Central Sydney's streets were deserted on Saturday as Australia's largest city began a week-long lockdown to contain the highly contagious Delta coronavirus variant, with authorities warning broader restrictions could follow.

Central Sydney's streets were deserted on Saturday as Australia's largest city began a week-long lockdown to contain the highly contagious Delta coronavirus variant, with authorities warning broader restrictions could follow. More than 80 Covid-19 cases have been reported so far in an infection surge linked to an international flight crew transported to a quarantine hotel from the airport. The flare-up was a shock for a city that had returned to relative normality after months with very few local cases. The sudden curbs took effect at midnight, affecting an estimated one million people across Sydney's business district and affluent eastern suburbs. But the spread of the outbreak beyond the four neighbourhoods already under lockdown was spurring "growing and more intense concern", New South Wales state health minister Brad Hazzard said. "The Delta variant is proving to be a very formidable foe," he told reporters. "No matter what defensive steps were taking at the moment, the virus seems to understand how to counter-attack." Health officials have been alarmed by the rapid spread of the Delta variant first seen in India, noting instances of people passing on the virus during fleeting encounters in shops and then quickly infecting close family contacts. They have flagged a string of new possible virus exposure sites, including a popular city bar, in addition to the scores of businesses and public places already identified as risks. State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said a crisis meeting with public health officials would be held later Saturday to decide whether expanding the lockdown to other areas of Sydney was needed. "I am putting everybody on notice that we may need to extend that during the course of the day or tomorrow," Berejiklian said. Sydney residents subject to the current restrictions have been ordered to stay home for at least a week, only venturing out to purchase essential goods, obtain medical care, exercise, go to school or if they are unable to work from home. An earlier ban on people leaving the city was also extended on Friday, as traces of the virus were detected in sewage in the far-flung outback town of Bourke, about nine hours drive northwest of Sydney. It is the latest in a string of snap "circuit-breaker" lockdowns across major cities around Australia, with most cases linked to returning travellers held in hotel quarantine. Australia has been among the world's most successful countries in containing Covid-19, with just over 30,000 cases and 910 deaths in a population of about 25 million.

Sydney flags broader lockdown as Delta variant cases swell

According to the latest data by Public Health England, Delta variant cases rise by 46% in past week. Over 35,204 cases of the Delta variant were recorded in a single week.

United Kingdom: Over 35,204 Delta variant cases detected in a week

Mission: Impossible 7 is on pause again! 
 
The filming of Tom Cruise starrer franchise&nbsp;reportedly has been paused again due to a positive COVID 19&nbsp;case on set and this time. 
 
Although there is no confirmation about halt and gossip related to Cruise, it has been claimed that the crew are gossiping that it could be Tom&nbsp; as he is allegedly absent from the&nbsp;set.&nbsp; As per The Sun report, “Filming on Mission Impossible 7 is on hold again because of coronavirus. And this time, those working on the production have said they think Tom could be the possible cause of the postponement''.

“Everyone on the set was told that filming was being stopped again because of a positive test. And since then, Tom hasn’t been on set once. 
&nbsp; 
“Now people are speculating that he could have come into contact with the person who tested positive. And in some cases, people are even gossiping and saying it could be him. 
 
“Obviously there is no proof of that but it’s not stopped people ­gossiping about it. It’s now become a joke on set, with people saying how ironic it would be if Tom was the reason they had to press pause again.” 
 
Fans heard the bad news earlier this month about the production coming to a halt on the sets of&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-cruise-starrer-mission-impossible-7-set-shut-due-to-a-covid-19-case-389365">‘Mission: Impossible 7’ set due to a COVID-19 </a>case. In a statement, Paramount spokesperson said, “We have temporarily halted production on Mission: Impossible 7 until June 14th, due to positive coronavirus test results during routine testing. We are following all safety protocols and will continue to monitor the situation.” 
 
Interestingly, Tom and the franchise shooting has been in the news for Cruise and his antics before. In 2020, Hollywood actor was<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-cruise-breaks-his-silence-over-viral-covid-19rant-on-the-sets-of-mission-impossible-7-384501"> taped shouting</a> at the crew for breaking safety protocols of COVID-19 and not taking health and safety measures seriously enough. 
 
'Mission: Impossible&nbsp;7' filming&nbsp;has been hit with several setbacks and delays amid the COVID 19 pandemic. Meanwhile, MI7 is scheduled to be released November&nbsp;19 and the 8th part is slated for Nov. 4, 2022

Mission: Impossible 7 is on pause again! The filming of Tom Cruise starrer franchise reportedly has been paused again due to a positive COVID 19 case on set and this time.

Mission: Impossible 7 is on pause again! The filming of Tom Cruise starrer franchise reportedly has been paused again due to a positive COVID 19 case on set and this time. Although there is no confirmation about halt and gossip related to Cruise, it has been claimed that the crew are gossiping that it could be Tom as he is allegedly absent from the set. As per The Sun report, “Filming on Mission Impossible 7 is on hold again because of coronavirus. And this time, those working on the production have said they think Tom could be the possible cause of the postponement''. “Everyone on the set was told that filming was being stopped again because of a positive test. And since then, Tom hasn’t been on set once. “Now people are speculating that he could have come into contact with the person who tested positive. And in some cases, people are even gossiping and saying it could be him. “Obviously there is no proof of that but it’s not stopped people gossiping about it. It’s now become a joke on set, with people saying how ironic it would be if Tom was the reason they had to press pause again.” Fans heard the bad news earlier this month about the production coming to a halt on the sets of ‘Mission: Impossible 7’ set due to a COVID-19 case. In a statement, Paramount spokesperson said, “We have temporarily halted production on Mission: Impossible 7 until June 14th, due to positive coronavirus test results during routine testing. We are following all safety protocols and will continue to monitor the situation.” Interestingly, Tom and the franchise shooting has been in the news for Cruise and his antics before. In 2020, Hollywood actor was taped shouting at the crew for breaking safety protocols of COVID-19 and not taking health and safety measures seriously enough. 'Mission: Impossible 7' filming has been hit with several setbacks and delays amid the COVID 19 pandemic. Meanwhile, MI7 is scheduled to be released November 19 and the 8th part is slated for Nov. 4, 2022

'Mission: Impossible 7' filming 'paused again' due to COVID19

In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976.

Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.2 seconds. There were, however, 689,708 deaths.&nbsp;

This is the first year since 1976 when deaths have outnumbered births, and it has not happened for any other year since records began in the 1930s. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-infections-rising-exponentially-in-england-doubling-every-11-days-392367">Also read: COVID-19 infections rising exponentially in England, doubling every 11 days</a> 
 
Several births plummeted to record lows last winter while easing restrictions last summer led to a spike this March.

Last year's coronavirus outbreak resulted in a sharp increase in mortality, yet birth rates have been declining for the past decade.&nbsp;

The Centre for Population Change, which is supported by the Economic and Social Research Council, predicts a "drop over the following three years, resulting in significantly fewer births annually compared to pre-pandemic."

Pre-Covid, birthrates had already fallen to "historically low levels," lower than during the Great Depression of the 1930s.&nbsp;

A birthrate of 2.1 infants per woman is required to maintain demographic stability.

In England and Wales, it had already dropped to 1.6 last year, but it is now expected to drop to 1.45 by 2023.&nbsp;

All the reasons for this are depressing, signifying hardship, insecurity and anxiety.&nbsp;

It depicts a world in which raising children is an undue burden on women, with too many barriers to earning while doing so.

In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976. Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.

In 2020, births in the UK reached a new low, with more deaths than births for the first time since 1976. Official data reveal that 683,180 babies were born in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in 2020, the equivalent of one every 46.2 seconds. There were, however, 689,708 deaths. This is the first year since 1976 when deaths have outnumbered births, and it has not happened for any other year since records began in the 1930s. Also read: COVID-19 infections rising exponentially in England, doubling every 11 days Several births plummeted to record lows last winter while easing restrictions last summer led to a spike this March. Last year's coronavirus outbreak resulted in a sharp increase in mortality, yet birth rates have been declining for the past decade. The Centre for Population Change, which is supported by the Economic and Social Research Council, predicts a "drop over the following three years, resulting in significantly fewer births annually compared to pre-pandemic." Pre-Covid, birthrates had already fallen to "historically low levels," lower than during the Great Depression of the 1930s. A birthrate of 2.1 infants per woman is required to maintain demographic stability. In England and Wales, it had already dropped to 1.6 last year, but it is now expected to drop to 1.45 by 2023. All the reasons for this are depressing, signifying hardship, insecurity and anxiety. It depicts a world in which raising children is an undue burden on women, with too many barriers to earning while doing so.

Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday.

Dave&nbsp;Smith, a retired driving instructor from Bristol in western England, said he tested positive 43 times, was hospitalised seven times and had made plans for his funeral.

"I'd resigned myself, I'd called the family in, made my peace with everybody, said goodbye,", he told BBC television.

His wife, Linda, who quarantined with him at home, said: "There was a lot of times when we didn't think he was going to pull through. It's been a hell of a year".

Ed Moran, a consultant in infectious diseases at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, said&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;"had active virus in his body" throughout.

"We were able to prove that by sending a sample of his virus to university partners who managed to grow it, proving that it was not just left-over products that were triggering a PCR test but actually active, viable virus."

Smith&nbsp;recovered after treatment with a cocktail of synthetic antibodies developed by the US biotech firm Regeneron.&nbsp;

This was allowed on compassionate grounds in his case but the treatment regime is not clinically approved for use in Britain.

Results of a clinical trial published this month showed the treatment reduced deaths among severe Covid patients who are unable to mount a strong immune response.

"It's like you've been given your life back",&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;told the BBC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-delta-variant-is-infecting-vaccinated-people-says-israel-393811">Also Read |&nbsp;COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel</a>

He and his wife cracked open a bottle of champagne when he finally tested negative, 45 days after receiving the Regeneron drug and some 305 days after his first infection.

Smith's treatment was not part of an official medical trial but his case is now being studied by virologist Andrew Davidson at the University of Bristol.

A paper on his case will be presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology &amp; Infectious Diseases in July, saying that his is thought to be "the longest infection recorded in the literature".

"Where does the virus hide away in the body? How can it stay just persistently infecting people? We don't know that," Davidson said.

Smith&nbsp;had a history of lung disease and had recently recovered from leukaemia when he caught the virus in March 2020.&nbsp;

He told The Guardian daily that since his recovery, he still gets breathless but has travelled in Britain and is teaching his granddaughter to drive.

"I've been down to the bottom and everything's brilliant now," he said.

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday.

A 72-year-old British man tested positive for coronavirus for 10 months in what is thought to be the longest recorded case of continuous infection, researchers said on Thursday. Dave Smith, a retired driving instructor from Bristol in western England, said he tested positive 43 times, was hospitalised seven times and had made plans for his funeral. "I'd resigned myself, I'd called the family in, made my peace with everybody, said goodbye,", he told BBC television. His wife, Linda, who quarantined with him at home, said: "There was a lot of times when we didn't think he was going to pull through. It's been a hell of a year". Ed Moran, a consultant in infectious diseases at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, said Smith "had active virus in his body" throughout. "We were able to prove that by sending a sample of his virus to university partners who managed to grow it, proving that it was not just left-over products that were triggering a PCR test but actually active, viable virus." Smith recovered after treatment with a cocktail of synthetic antibodies developed by the US biotech firm Regeneron. This was allowed on compassionate grounds in his case but the treatment regime is not clinically approved for use in Britain. Results of a clinical trial published this month showed the treatment reduced deaths among severe Covid patients who are unable to mount a strong immune response. "It's like you've been given your life back", Smith told the BBC. Also Read | COVID-19: Delta variant is infecting vaccinated people, says Israel He and his wife cracked open a bottle of champagne when he finally tested negative, 45 days after receiving the Regeneron drug and some 305 days after his first infection. Smith's treatment was not part of an official medical trial but his case is now being studied by virologist Andrew Davidson at the University of Bristol. A paper on his case will be presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases in July, saying that his is thought to be "the longest infection recorded in the literature". "Where does the virus hide away in the body? How can it stay just persistently infecting people? We don't know that," Davidson said. Smith had a history of lung disease and had recently recovered from leukaemia when he caught the virus in March 2020. He told The Guardian daily that since his recovery, he still gets breathless but has travelled in Britain and is teaching his granddaughter to drive. "I've been down to the bottom and everything's brilliant now," he said.

UK man tested positive for virus for 10 straight months

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning.

The coronavirus pandemic has masked the economic dislocation caused by the referendum verdict, which backed severing five decades of integration with the European mainland.

British trade with the EU collapsed at the start of the year, when Brexit's full effects came into force, but against a backdrop of much deeper damage wrought by Covid-19.

And the benefits promised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for a newly invigorated "Global Britain" remain a work in progress, while the country's very cohesion is at risk from an emboldened nationalist movement in pro-EU Scotland.

Johnson was upbeat on the effects of Brexit in comments marking the anniversary of the June 23, 2016 referendum.

"Now as we recover from this pandemic, we will seize the true potential of our regained sovereignty to unite and level up our whole United Kingdom," the prime minister said.

"With control over our regulations and subsidies, and with freeports driving new investment, we will spur innovation, jobs and renewal across every part of our country," he added.

"This Government got Brexit done and we've already reclaimed our money, laws, borders and waters."

&nbsp;

'Slow puncture'

Johnson also hailed trade deals negotiated with the EU and 68 other countries as well as the start of negotiations to join the $9 trillion Pacific trade area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-likely-to-soon-face-antitrust-claims-over-play-store-from-us-states-sources-393249">Also Read |&nbsp;Google likely to soon face antitrust claims over Play store from US states: Sources</a>

In the area which recorded Britain's highest pro-Brexit vote -- Boston, in eastern England -- musician Stephen Clark, 60, was also optimistic about the future.&nbsp;

"I think that whatever happens, whether it's going to be good or it's bad, I think it's better to have our future in our own destiny," he said.

For most Britons, the fuller effects remain to be felt with coronavirus restrictions curbing travel to their favourite holiday destinations this summer.&nbsp;

For the first time in generations, Britons no longer have unrestricted entry to Europe.

In Britain, at least 5.3 million long-resident Europeans have applied for settlement status to ensure their pre-Brexit rights are preserved -- well above the government's estimate of 3.4 million.

Any remaining Europeans have until June 30 to apply, raising the threat of new battles with Brussels if some slip through the net, after London was accused of harshly treating EU citizens trying to enter the country legitimately.

The sheer numbers involved amount to a "massive" demographic change, said King's College London economics professor Jonathan Portes.

It "will have very long-running social, cultural, political consequences long, long after Brexit and free movement are over", he said.

Portes said Brexit would give Britain's economy a "slow puncture", with a "significant but not catastrophic, persistent drag on growth of a quarter-to-half percent a year for the foreseeable future".

&nbsp;

The Northern Ireland problem

Johnson has adopted an uncompromising stance towards the EU after Britain left the bloc's single market on January 1, following years of post-referendum political paralysis and a repeatedly extended transition period.

Northern Ireland has borne the brunt of confrontation, where pro-UK unionists feel betrayed by the intricate compromises Brexit necessitated to preserve its fragile peace.

But Anand Menon, director of the think-tank UK in a Changing Europe, said frayed tempers on show between EU leaders and Johnson at the recent G7 summit also made clear "just how many big global issues the UK and the EU are going to need to work together on".

Underlining the inescapable fact of geographical proximity, Britain and the EU will remain bound by a host of committees envisioned under their last-gasp Trade and Cooperation Agreement signed on December 24.

They cover everything from financial services to trade in organic products and motor vehicles/parts, while Cambridge University law professor Catherine Barnard said EU-era laws "will affect our lives for decades and decades to come".

&nbsp;

Culture war

Johnson owes his position in power to Brexit, which put paid to his two predecessors, and is unabashed in wanting to escape the drudgery of committee negotiations to focus on the "sunlit meadows" he sees on the horizon for a post-EU Britain.

Politically, he has translated the cultural fissures revealed by the referendum campaign into an ongoing "war on woke" on behalf of supposedly marginalised working-class communities.

"Though it's happening on a wider terrain, that terrain is still being fought over," polling expert John Curtice said, noting how Brexit had fed directly into Johnson's "levelling up" agenda for forgotten parts of England.

In the final week of campaigning before the June 23, 2016 referendum, an average of polls gave a 52-48 edge to the "Remain" side.

The actual result was the exact opposite in favour of "Leave", prompting wild celebrations among Johnson and his supporters but tearful dismay for many Remainers, and consternation among Britain's allies in Europe and beyond.

Five years on, Curtice said, recent polling shows the Remain/Leave camps are split 50-50.

But Britain appears on balance resigned to its fate, with 46 percent wanting to rejoin the EU and 54 percent in favour of staying out.

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning.

Five years on from Britain's shock decision to quit the European Union, the wounds opened by Brexit have yet to heal, and analysts say its far-reaching changes are only just beginning. The coronavirus pandemic has masked the economic dislocation caused by the referendum verdict, which backed severing five decades of integration with the European mainland. British trade with the EU collapsed at the start of the year, when Brexit's full effects came into force, but against a backdrop of much deeper damage wrought by Covid-19. And the benefits promised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for a newly invigorated "Global Britain" remain a work in progress, while the country's very cohesion is at risk from an emboldened nationalist movement in pro-EU Scotland. Johnson was upbeat on the effects of Brexit in comments marking the anniversary of the June 23, 2016 referendum. "Now as we recover from this pandemic, we will seize the true potential of our regained sovereignty to unite and level up our whole United Kingdom," the prime minister said. "With control over our regulations and subsidies, and with freeports driving new investment, we will spur innovation, jobs and renewal across every part of our country," he added. "This Government got Brexit done and we've already reclaimed our money, laws, borders and waters." 'Slow puncture' Johnson also hailed trade deals negotiated with the EU and 68 other countries as well as the start of negotiations to join the $9 trillion Pacific trade area. Also Read | Google likely to soon face antitrust claims over Play store from US states: Sources In the area which recorded Britain's highest pro-Brexit vote -- Boston, in eastern England -- musician Stephen Clark, 60, was also optimistic about the future. "I think that whatever happens, whether it's going to be good or it's bad, I think it's better to have our future in our own destiny," he said. For most Britons, the fuller effects remain to be felt with coronavirus restrictions curbing travel to their favourite holiday destinations this summer. For the first time in generations, Britons no longer have unrestricted entry to Europe. In Britain, at least 5.3 million long-resident Europeans have applied for settlement status to ensure their pre-Brexit rights are preserved -- well above the government's estimate of 3.4 million. Any remaining Europeans have until June 30 to apply, raising the threat of new battles with Brussels if some slip through the net, after London was accused of harshly treating EU citizens trying to enter the country legitimately. The sheer numbers involved amount to a "massive" demographic change, said King's College London economics professor Jonathan Portes. It "will have very long-running social, cultural, political consequences long, long after Brexit and free movement are over", he said. Portes said Brexit would give Britain's economy a "slow puncture", with a "significant but not catastrophic, persistent drag on growth of a quarter-to-half percent a year for the foreseeable future". The Northern Ireland problem Johnson has adopted an uncompromising stance towards the EU after Britain left the bloc's single market on January 1, following years of post-referendum political paralysis and a repeatedly extended transition period. Northern Ireland has borne the brunt of confrontation, where pro-UK unionists feel betrayed by the intricate compromises Brexit necessitated to preserve its fragile peace. But Anand Menon, director of the think-tank UK in a Changing Europe, said frayed tempers on show between EU leaders and Johnson at the recent G7 summit also made clear "just how many big global issues the UK and the EU are going to need to work together on". Underlining the inescapable fact of geographical proximity, Britain and the EU will remain bound by a host of committees envisioned under their last-gasp Trade and Cooperation Agreement signed on December 24. They cover everything from financial services to trade in organic products and motor vehicles/parts, while Cambridge University law professor Catherine Barnard said EU-era laws "will affect our lives for decades and decades to come". Culture war Johnson owes his position in power to Brexit, which put paid to his two predecessors, and is unabashed in wanting to escape the drudgery of committee negotiations to focus on the "sunlit meadows" he sees on the horizon for a post-EU Britain. Politically, he has translated the cultural fissures revealed by the referendum campaign into an ongoing "war on woke" on behalf of supposedly marginalised working-class communities. "Though it's happening on a wider terrain, that terrain is still being fought over," polling expert John Curtice said, noting how Brexit had fed directly into Johnson's "levelling up" agenda for forgotten parts of England. In the final week of campaigning before the June 23, 2016 referendum, an average of polls gave a 52-48 edge to the "Remain" side. The actual result was the exact opposite in favour of "Leave", prompting wild celebrations among Johnson and his supporters but tearful dismay for many Remainers, and consternation among Britain's allies in Europe and beyond. Five years on, Curtice said, recent polling shows the Remain/Leave camps are split 50-50. But Britain appears on balance resigned to its fate, with 46 percent wanting to rejoin the EU and 54 percent in favour of staying out.

Five years on, Brexit bedevils pandemic-hit UK

AstraZeneca&nbsp;Plc's&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;is&nbsp;effective&nbsp;against&nbsp;Delta and Kappa&nbsp;variants, which were first&nbsp;identified&nbsp;in&nbsp;India, the company said on Tuesday, citing a study.

The study by the Oxford University investigated the ability of monoclonal antibodies in blood from recovered people and from those vaccinated to neutralize the Delta and Kappa&nbsp;variants, the statement said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/socialists-are-terrorists-describes-us-military-training-manual-393303">Also Read |&nbsp;Socialists are 'terrorists', describes US military training manual</a>

Last week, an analysis by the Public Health England (PHE) showed that&nbsp;vaccines made by Pfizer Inc and&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;offer high protection of more than 90%&nbsp;against&nbsp;hospitalization from the Delta variant.

The latest Oxford study results are built on the recent analysis by PHE, the company said.

The Delta variant is becoming the globally dominant version of the disease, the World Health Organization's chief scientist said on Friday.

AstraZeneca Plc's COVID-19 vaccine is effective against Delta and Kappa variants, which were first identified in India, the company said on Tuesday, citing a study.

AstraZeneca Plc's COVID-19 vaccine is effective against Delta and Kappa variants, which were first identified in India, the company said on Tuesday, citing a study. The study by the Oxford University investigated the ability of monoclonal antibodies in blood from recovered people and from those vaccinated to neutralize the Delta and Kappa variants, the statement said. Also Read | Socialists are 'terrorists', describes US military training manual Last week, an analysis by the Public Health England (PHE) showed that vaccines made by Pfizer Inc and AstraZeneca offer high protection of more than 90% against hospitalization from the Delta variant. The latest Oxford study results are built on the recent analysis by PHE, the company said. The Delta variant is becoming the globally dominant version of the disease, the World Health Organization's chief scientist said on Friday.

AstraZeneca vaccine effective against COVID-19 variants identified in India

Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections.

Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through "vaccine diplomacy," initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses but increased that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million U.S.-made shots around the world.

"What a sight! What a gesture!" Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted in thanks late on Saturday, linking to pictures of the vaccines being loaded onto a China Airlines Boeing 777 freighter at Memphis airport.

"The Taiwan-U.S. relationship is rock solid, &amp; we'll keep cooperating closely in combating COVID19. Forces for goodwill prevail!"

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted she was touched by the U.S. move.

"Thank you to the U.S. for this moving gesture of friendship. These vaccines will go a long way toward keeping Taiwan safe &amp; healthy."

The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is its most important international backer, to China's anger.

The 2.5 million Moderna Inc doses, due to arrive at Taiwan's main international airport late Sunday afternoon, will more than double the number of vaccines that have already arrived on the island, including 1.24 million AstraZeneca Plc shots donated by Japan earlier this month.

China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has offered Chinese-made vaccines, but the government in Taipei has repeatedly expressed concerns about their safety and efficacy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elects-new-president-mixed-reactions-across-world-392652">Also Read |&nbsp;Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world</a>

Taiwan has accused China of blocking at least one foreign vaccine deal with the island. Beijing denies that.

Despite the pandemic, China has continued to pressure Taiwan militarily.

Last week, 28 Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone, the largest reported incursion to date.

Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order as it deals with a rise in domestic cases, although infections remain comparatively low. Only around 6% of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot coronavirus vaccine regimen.

Tsai has come under pressure domestically to get vaccines faster.

On Friday the government said it would allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) to negotiate on Taipei's behalf for vaccines.

Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections.

Taiwan reacted with an outpouring of thanks to the United States for shipping 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the major semiconductor-producing island, more than doubling its arsenal as it deals with a rise in domestic infections. Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through "vaccine diplomacy," initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses but increased that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million U.S.-made shots around the world. "What a sight! What a gesture!" Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tweeted in thanks late on Saturday, linking to pictures of the vaccines being loaded onto a China Airlines Boeing 777 freighter at Memphis airport. "The Taiwan-U.S. relationship is rock solid, & we'll keep cooperating closely in combating COVID19. Forces for goodwill prevail!" Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted she was touched by the U.S. move. "Thank you to the U.S. for this moving gesture of friendship. These vaccines will go a long way toward keeping Taiwan safe & healthy." The United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is its most important international backer, to China's anger. The 2.5 million Moderna Inc doses, due to arrive at Taiwan's main international airport late Sunday afternoon, will more than double the number of vaccines that have already arrived on the island, including 1.24 million AstraZeneca Plc shots donated by Japan earlier this month. China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has offered Chinese-made vaccines, but the government in Taipei has repeatedly expressed concerns about their safety and efficacy. Also Read | Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world Taiwan has accused China of blocking at least one foreign vaccine deal with the island. Beijing denies that. Despite the pandemic, China has continued to pressure Taiwan militarily. Last week, 28 Chinese air force aircraft, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone, the largest reported incursion to date. Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order as it deals with a rise in domestic cases, although infections remain comparatively low. Only around 6% of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot coronavirus vaccine regimen. Tsai has come under pressure domestically to get vaccines faster. On Friday the government said it would allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC) to negotiate on Taipei's behalf for vaccines.

'Forces for good will prevail' - Taiwan welcomes massive US vaccine aid

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said.

The first group to arrive from Uganda -- a nine-strong party, including boxers, coaches and officials -- landed at Tokyo's Narita airport on Saturday. They are the second team to arrive after Australia women's softball squad on June 1.

But one of the African nation's delegation tested positive during screening at the airport, a government official told reporters. The person tested twice but their condition remained unknown, reported local media.

"I heard the person has been isolated based on regulations," Hidemasa Nakamura, the Tokyo 2020 Games delivery officer, told reporters, renewing a pledge to take strict measures against infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elects-new-president-mixed-reactions-across-world-392652">Also Read |&nbsp;Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world</a>

Public broadcaster NHK said the group had all been vaccinated and tested negative in Uganda before they came to Japan.

The team was originally due to have arrived in Japan on June 16, but their flight was cancelled following a surge in Covid-19 cases in Uganda, local media said.

The other members of the Ugandan party have already left the airport for Osaka, western Japan, where they will train ahead of the Games.

This was the first case showing positive Covid test results among Olympic arrivals from overseas, local media said.

Last week organisers released virus guidelines for athletes as part of their effort to hold the Games safely even though the pandemic has not yet been brought under control.

Organisers said they would meet on Monday to discuss how many domestic spectators to allow, if any, with reports suggesting they would opt for a cap of 10,000 people.

Nippon Television said organisers were considering setting the upper limit of spectators, including guests and officials, at 20,000 for the July 23 opening ceremony.

Fans from abroad are already banned from attending the postponed event.

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said.

A member of the Uganda Olympic team has tested positive for coronavirus on arrival in Japan, just over a month before the pandemic-postponed Games, officials said. The first group to arrive from Uganda -- a nine-strong party, including boxers, coaches and officials -- landed at Tokyo's Narita airport on Saturday. They are the second team to arrive after Australia women's softball squad on June 1. But one of the African nation's delegation tested positive during screening at the airport, a government official told reporters. The person tested twice but their condition remained unknown, reported local media. "I heard the person has been isolated based on regulations," Hidemasa Nakamura, the Tokyo 2020 Games delivery officer, told reporters, renewing a pledge to take strict measures against infections. Also Read | Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world Public broadcaster NHK said the group had all been vaccinated and tested negative in Uganda before they came to Japan. The team was originally due to have arrived in Japan on June 16, but their flight was cancelled following a surge in Covid-19 cases in Uganda, local media said. The other members of the Ugandan party have already left the airport for Osaka, western Japan, where they will train ahead of the Games. This was the first case showing positive Covid test results among Olympic arrivals from overseas, local media said. Last week organisers released virus guidelines for athletes as part of their effort to hold the Games safely even though the pandemic has not yet been brought under control. Organisers said they would meet on Monday to discuss how many domestic spectators to allow, if any, with reports suggesting they would opt for a cap of 10,000 people. Nippon Television said organisers were considering setting the upper limit of spectators, including guests and officials, at 20,000 for the July 23 opening ceremony. Fans from abroad are already banned from attending the postponed event.

Uganda Olympic team member tests positive on arrival in Japan

Brazil on Saturday, June 19, became the second country after the United States to surpass 500,000 Covid-19 deaths as the country fights the third wave of the deadly pandemic.

Brazil on Saturday, June 19, became the second country after the United States to surpass 500,000 Covid-19 deaths as the country fights the third wave of the deadly pandemic. As per the Health Ministry, there have been 500,800 deaths, including 2,301 in the last 24 hours. This week the average number of daily deaths surpassed 2,000 for the first time since May 10. Ethel Maciel, an epidemiologist from Espirito Santo University, told AFP, "The third wave is arriving, there's already in a change in the case and death curves". He added, "Our vaccination (program), which could make a difference, is slow and there are no signs of restrictive measures, quite the contrary". Taking to his official Twitter handle, Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga wrote, "500 thousand lives lost by the pandemic that affects our Brazil and the whole world. I work tirelessly to vaccinate all Brazilians in the shortest time possible and change this scenario that has plagued us for over a year". He further wrote, "I offer my sympathy to every father, mother, friends and relatives who have lost loved ones". Also Read | Brazilians protest Bolsonaro's role in half a million COVID-19 deaths While life seems normal in large cities, where restaurants have opened, the situation is yet very critical in 19 of Brazil's 27 states with more than 80 per cent occupancy of intensive care beds. As the death toll soared, thousands took to the streets across Brazil to protest against President Jair Bolsonaro's pandemic response, blasting the leader for not acquiring vaccines fast enough and for questioning the need for mask-wearing. The government faces fierce criticism for passing up early opportunities to buy vaccines. Pharmaceutical maker Pfizer said it got no response to offers to sell vaccines to the government between August and November last year. Bolsonaro's press office did not respond to the request for comment. Only 11 per cent of Brazilians are fully vaccinated, and 29 per cent have received the first dose, Health Ministry data shows.

Third pandemic wave hits as Brazil surpasses half million deaths due to covid

A new study in the UK, which analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection, has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from Covid-19.

A new study in the UK, which analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection, has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from Covid-19. The loss of grey matter hint towards damage to certain areas of the brain. As per experts, it suggests damage to areas of the brain. As a part of the study, the UK Biobank (UKB) performed brain image tests on over 40,000 participants before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. This is the data centre that collects and collates genetic and health information. The scientists then invited hundreds of these participants for a second imaging visit in 2021. They then studied the effects of the deadly coronavirus in the brain. This was done using data from 782 participants from the re-imaging study. Also Read | Scientists discover largest rotating structures in the universe The scientists used structural and functional brain scans from before and after the Covid-19 infection. This helped them to compare changes in the brain between these 394 Covid patients and 388 controls (those who tested negative) who were matched for age, sex, ethnicity and interval between scans. Most of the Covid patients who were examined had mild to moderate disease in the past. Published in the journal Medrxiv, the study read, "The vast majority of brain imaging studies so far have focused on qualitative, gross pathology of moderate to severe cases, often carried out on hospitalised patients. It remains unknown however whether the impact of COVID-19 can be detected in milder cases, in a quantitative and automated manner, and whether this can reveal a possible mechanism for the spread of the disease". This is not the first study that has suggested evidence of a connection between COVID-19 and brain damage. A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal last year stated that serious COVID-19 infection can potentially damage the brain, further contributing to complications such as stroke or dementia-like symptoms.

UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases.

"It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic.

Sobyanin noted that daily infections in the capital had soared from 3,000 to 7,000 within a few days and were expected to hit more than 9,000 on Friday.

"It's tripling, there's an enormous dynamic that we have not seen during the previous waves," Sobyanin added. 
The mayor had on Wednesday ordered mandatory vaccinations for Moscow residents working in the service industry, citing a "dramatic" rise in coronavirus infections.

60 per cent of all service industry workers in Moscow were ordered to be fully vaccinated by August 15. This amounts to just over two million people.

Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told the video conference the number of cases across Russia had climbed an average of 30 percent in recent weeks and people aged 30-40 were particularly affected.

"The proportion of the Indian (Delta) variant has clearly progressed over the last two weeks," added Anna Popova, head of the health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases. "It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic.

Mayor of Russian capital Moscow said on Thursday that new variants of coronavirus were suspected of causing jump in the number of cases. "It's most likely we are facing new, more aggressive variants which spread more quickly," said mayor Sergei Sobyanin during a video conference with government officials battling the pandemic. Sobyanin noted that daily infections in the capital had soared from 3,000 to 7,000 within a few days and were expected to hit more than 9,000 on Friday. "It's tripling, there's an enormous dynamic that we have not seen during the previous waves," Sobyanin added. The mayor had on Wednesday ordered mandatory vaccinations for Moscow residents working in the service industry, citing a "dramatic" rise in coronavirus infections. 60 per cent of all service industry workers in Moscow were ordered to be fully vaccinated by August 15. This amounts to just over two million people. Health Minister Mikhail Murashko told the video conference the number of cases across Russia had climbed an average of 30 percent in recent weeks and people aged 30-40 were particularly affected. "The proportion of the Indian (Delta) variant has clearly progressed over the last two weeks," added Anna Popova, head of the health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow mayor says new variant is behind Covid spike

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">Tokyo Olympics</a> but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events.

The state of emergency in place in Tokyo began in late April and largely limits bar and restaurant opening hours and bans them from selling alcohol.

That measure will now end in the capital and eight other regions on June 20, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced. It will stay in place in Okinawa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-japan-to-ease-state-of-emergency-focus-on-games-spectators-392069">Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators</a>

"The number of infections nationwide has been declining since mid-May and the situation in terms of hospital beds is steadily improving," he said.

"On the other hand, in some regions, there are signs that the fall in the number of infections is slowing," Suga added.

In place of the emergency, the government will implement so-called "quasi-emergency" measures in Tokyo and six other areas until July 11.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-agree-to-ease-emergency-curbs-in-tokyo-but-warn-of-risks-govt-392060">Experts agree to ease emergency curbs in Tokyo but warn of risks: Govt</a>

The measures will slightly relax the rules on alcohol, allowing sales until 7 pm, but still asks restaurants and bars to shut at 8 pm.

Crucially, with just five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open, strict limits will remain on the number of spectators allowed at large events.

The current state of emergency allows only 5,000 people or 50 per cent of venue capacity, whichever is smaller. And on Wednesday, the government approved an upper limit of 10,000 spectators, but only for areas not under any restrictions.

Those rules are likely to guide Olympic organisers when they decide in the coming days how many domestic fans, if any, will be allowed to attend.

Overseas fans have already been banned from the Games for the first time, and organisers said they would wait to rule on domestic spectators until the emergency was lifted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-overseas-reporters-movement-to-be-tracked-by-gps-as-japan-gears-up-for-games-390190">Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games</a>

The issue is controversial. While cases in Japan have fallen from their fourth wave peak, some medical professionals fear that crowds of Olympic spectators could fan a new surge.

A report expected soon from some of the government's top medical advisers will argue holding the Games without fans would be safest, national broadcaster NHK said Thursday.

The experts will urge that additional rules are imposed if spectators are allowed, NHK said.

'Respond flexibly'&nbsp;

Suga noted that professional baseball and football games have continued with limited spectators throughout the emergency "and there have been few clusters".

But he also warned that measures could be tightened if the situation worsens.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/half-of-japanese-predict-olympics-will-happen-this-year-poll-shows-389920">Half of Japanese predict Olympics will happen this year, poll shows</a>

"If there are signs that the medical system is stretched because of another expansion (of infections), we will respond flexibly, including by reinforcing measures," he told a news conference.

Japan has seen a comparatively small virus outbreak, with slightly over 14,000 deaths while avoiding harsh lockdowns.

Just over six per cent of the population is fully vaccinated so far.

Given the likely restrictions, Olympic organisers have given up on selling any more tickets and are weighing a lottery system to determine which ticketholders will be able to attend events, the Kyodo news agency reported.

Millions of tickets were sold in Japan last year before the postponement, and while several hundred thousand applications for refunds were processed after the Games were postponed, the number of ticketholders is still likely to exceed any spectator caps at many events.

With just over a month until the Games open, organisers are attempting to build confidence that the biggest international event since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">pandemic</a> began will be safe for participants and the public.

Newly updated virus rulebooks released this week warn athletes they could be expelled from the Games if they violate requirements like mask-wearing and daily testing.

Organisers say more than 80 per cent of athletes will be vaccinated and they will be barred from interacting with the Japanese public.

Recent polls have suggested a slight shift in public opposition to holding the Games, with more now in favour of it going ahead than cancelling it.

Previous surveys that offered postponement as an option tended to show most Japanese preferred either another delay or cancellation.

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events.

Japan's government on Thursday approved lifting Tokyo's virus emergency just over a month before the Tokyo Olympics but set new restrictions that could sharply limit fans at Games events. The state of emergency in place in Tokyo began in late April and largely limits bar and restaurant opening hours and bans them from selling alcohol. That measure will now end in the capital and eight other regions on June 20, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced. It will stay in place in Okinawa. Also read | Tokyo 2020: Japan to ease state of emergency, focus on Games spectators "The number of infections nationwide has been declining since mid-May and the situation in terms of hospital beds is steadily improving," he said. "On the other hand, in some regions, there are signs that the fall in the number of infections is slowing," Suga added. In place of the emergency, the government will implement so-called "quasi-emergency" measures in Tokyo and six other areas until July 11. Also read | Experts agree to ease emergency curbs in Tokyo but warn of risks: Govt The measures will slightly relax the rules on alcohol, allowing sales until 7 pm, but still asks restaurants and bars to shut at 8 pm. Crucially, with just five weeks until the pandemic-postponed Games open, strict limits will remain on the number of spectators allowed at large events. The current state of emergency allows only 5,000 people or 50 per cent of venue capacity, whichever is smaller. And on Wednesday, the government approved an upper limit of 10,000 spectators, but only for areas not under any restrictions. Those rules are likely to guide Olympic organisers when they decide in the coming days how many domestic fans, if any, will be allowed to attend. Overseas fans have already been banned from the Games for the first time, and organisers said they would wait to rule on domestic spectators until the emergency was lifted. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: Overseas reporters' movement to be tracked by GPS as Japan gears up for Games The issue is controversial. While cases in Japan have fallen from their fourth wave peak, some medical professionals fear that crowds of Olympic spectators could fan a new surge. A report expected soon from some of the government's top medical advisers will argue holding the Games without fans would be safest, national broadcaster NHK said Thursday. The experts will urge that additional rules are imposed if spectators are allowed, NHK said. 'Respond flexibly' Suga noted that professional baseball and football games have continued with limited spectators throughout the emergency "and there have been few clusters". But he also warned that measures could be tightened if the situation worsens. Also read | Half of Japanese predict Olympics will happen this year, poll shows "If there are signs that the medical system is stretched because of another expansion (of infections), we will respond flexibly, including by reinforcing measures," he told a news conference. Japan has seen a comparatively small virus outbreak, with slightly over 14,000 deaths while avoiding harsh lockdowns. Just over six per cent of the population is fully vaccinated so far. Given the likely restrictions, Olympic organisers have given up on selling any more tickets and are weighing a lottery system to determine which ticketholders will be able to attend events, the Kyodo news agency reported. Millions of tickets were sold in Japan last year before the postponement, and while several hundred thousand applications for refunds were processed after the Games were postponed, the number of ticketholders is still likely to exceed any spectator caps at many events. With just over a month until the Games open, organisers are attempting to build confidence that the biggest international event since the pandemic began will be safe for participants and the public. Newly updated virus rulebooks released this week warn athletes they could be expelled from the Games if they violate requirements like mask-wearing and daily testing. Organisers say more than 80 per cent of athletes will be vaccinated and they will be barred from interacting with the Japanese public. Recent polls have suggested a slight shift in public opposition to holding the Games, with more now in favour of it going ahead than cancelling it. Previous surveys that offered postponement as an option tended to show most Japanese preferred either another delay or cancellation.

Japan ending Tokyo virus emergency one month before Olympics

Almost a&nbsp;fifth&nbsp;of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;patients&nbsp;without symptoms went on to experience conditions consistent with&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;a month after their initial diagnosis, according to a huge&nbsp;study&nbsp;published Tuesday.

The analysis by non-profit FAIR Health encompassed insurance claims from 1.96 million Americans -- the largest population of&nbsp;patients&nbsp;ever studied for&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;-- from February 2020 to February 2021.

"Even as the&nbsp;Covid-19 pandemic wanes,&nbsp;long-haul&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;persists as a public health issue affecting many Americans," said FAIR Health's President Robin Gelburd.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-62-eu-residents-used-personal-contacts-to-get-access-to-healthcare-survey-391669">Also Read |&nbsp;Nearly 62% EU residents used personal contacts to get access to healthcare: Survey</a>

"The findings in our new&nbsp;study&nbsp;shed significant light on this emerging issue for all individuals who have&nbsp;long-haul&nbsp;Covid, as well as for policymakers, providers, payers, and researchers."

Perils of 'Long&nbsp;Covid'

"Long&nbsp;Covid" refers to symptoms of the disease that persist more than four weeks after being diagnosed.

The&nbsp;study&nbsp;found that across all ages, the most common post-viral conditions were in order of frequency: pain, breathing difficulties, high cholesterol, general discomfort and fatigue, and high blood pressure.

The odds of dying 30 days or more after initially being diagnosed with&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;were 46 times higher for&nbsp;patients&nbsp;who were hospitalised with&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;and discharged compared to those who weren't hospitalized.&nbsp;

Overall, 0.5 percent of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;patients&nbsp;who were hospitalized then discharged died 30 days or more after their initial diagnosis.

Nineteen percent of&nbsp;asymptomatic&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;patients&nbsp;experienced&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;symptoms 30 days out from their initial diagnosis; the figure grew to 27.5 percent of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;patients&nbsp;who were symptomatic but not hospitalized, and 50 percent of those who were hospitalised.

The order of most common&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;conditions varied by age group -- for example in the pediatric population, intestinal issues replaced high cholesterol as the third most frequent.

Most&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;conditions were associated more with females than males -- but some, such as cardiac inflammation, were more common in males, who accounted for 52 per cent of cases against 48 per cent for females.&nbsp;

A quarter of all such cases occurred among individuals aged 19-29.

Among the four mental health conditions evaluated after 30 days, anxiety was the most common, followed by depression, adjustment disorders and tic disorder.

The biggest drawback of the new&nbsp;study&nbsp;is it lacks a control group of people who never got&nbsp;Covid, which would help determine the extent to which&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;caused the conditions as opposed to being coincidental.

The causes of&nbsp;long&nbsp;Covid, which is also known as&nbsp;long&nbsp;haul&nbsp;Covid, post-Covid&nbsp;syndrome, or post-acute sequelae of&nbsp;Covid, remain unknown.

"Theories include persistent immune activation after the acute phase; initial damage from the virus, such as damage to nerve pathways, that is slow to heal; and persistent presence of a low-level virus," the&nbsp;study&nbsp;said.

Almost a fifth of Covid patients without symptoms went on to experience conditions consistent with long Covid a month after their initial diagnosis, according to a huge study published Tuesday.

Almost a fifth of Covid patients without symptoms went on to experience conditions consistent with long Covid a month after their initial diagnosis, according to a huge study published Tuesday. The analysis by non-profit FAIR Health encompassed insurance claims from 1.96 million Americans -- the largest population of patients ever studied for long Covid -- from February 2020 to February 2021. "Even as the Covid-19 pandemic wanes, long-haul Covid persists as a public health issue affecting many Americans," said FAIR Health's President Robin Gelburd. Also Read | Nearly 62% EU residents used personal contacts to get access to healthcare: Survey "The findings in our new study shed significant light on this emerging issue for all individuals who have long-haul Covid, as well as for policymakers, providers, payers, and researchers." Perils of 'Long Covid' "Long Covid" refers to symptoms of the disease that persist more than four weeks after being diagnosed. The study found that across all ages, the most common post-viral conditions were in order of frequency: pain, breathing difficulties, high cholesterol, general discomfort and fatigue, and high blood pressure. The odds of dying 30 days or more after initially being diagnosed with Covid were 46 times higher for patients who were hospitalised with Covid and discharged compared to those who weren't hospitalized. Overall, 0.5 percent of Covid patients who were hospitalized then discharged died 30 days or more after their initial diagnosis. Nineteen percent of asymptomatic Covid patients experienced long Covid symptoms 30 days out from their initial diagnosis; the figure grew to 27.5 percent of Covid patients who were symptomatic but not hospitalized, and 50 percent of those who were hospitalised. The order of most common long Covid conditions varied by age group -- for example in the pediatric population, intestinal issues replaced high cholesterol as the third most frequent. Most long Covid conditions were associated more with females than males -- but some, such as cardiac inflammation, were more common in males, who accounted for 52 per cent of cases against 48 per cent for females. A quarter of all such cases occurred among individuals aged 19-29. Among the four mental health conditions evaluated after 30 days, anxiety was the most common, followed by depression, adjustment disorders and tic disorder. The biggest drawback of the new study is it lacks a control group of people who never got Covid, which would help determine the extent to which Covid caused the conditions as opposed to being coincidental. The causes of long Covid, which is also known as long haul Covid, post-Covid syndrome, or post-acute sequelae of Covid, remain unknown. "Theories include persistent immune activation after the acute phase; initial damage from the virus, such as damage to nerve pathways, that is slow to heal; and persistent presence of a low-level virus," the study said.

One-fifth of asymptomatic Covid patients develop long Covid, says study

Several Republican lawmakers, eager to blame a US government official for the&nbsp;response&nbsp;to the coronavirus pandemic, introduced a&nbsp;bill&nbsp;Tuesday to&nbsp;fire&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;Fauci, the&nbsp;face&nbsp;of American efforts to combat&nbsp;Covid-19.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene led a handful of colleagues in announcing the so-called&nbsp;Fire&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;Act, which would reduce the famed infectious disease expert's government salary to zero and require the Senate to confirm someone to fill his position.

Fauci, who has advised seven US presidents, had become a trusted figure in the government's&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;response, beginning with his work during Donald Trump's administration.

Also Watch |&nbsp;'US must vaccinate more people before Delta variant becomes dominant', says Anthony Fauci

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-must-vaccinate-more-people-before-delta-varient-becomes-dominant-says-anthony-fauci-390835/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-always-ready-biden-arrives-in-geneva-ahead-of-summit-with-putin-391741">Also Read |&nbsp;'I'm always ready': Biden arrives in Geneva ahead of summit with Putin</a>

But conservatives have taken aim at his performance, accusing him of misleading Americans and providing contradictory advice on masks and social distancing.

"Dr. Fauci&nbsp;was not elected by the American people. He was not chosen to guide our economy. He was not chosen to rule over parents and their children's education," Greene told reporters.

"But yet Dr. Fauci&nbsp;very much controlled our lives for the past year."

The&nbsp;bill&nbsp;is not expected to receive a floor vote in the Democratically-controlled House.

Greene, whose extremist statements have made her a controversial figure in Congress, pointed to a series of&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;emails that&nbsp;Republicans&nbsp;seized on to argue that he misled Americans and initially dismissed the idea that&nbsp;Covid-19 may have originated in a Chinese laboratory.&nbsp;

"It's time to&nbsp;fire&nbsp;Dr.&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;and give answers to the American people," she said.

The White House defended&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;this month after the emails surfaced, calling him "an undeniable asset" in the pandemic&nbsp;response.

Greene also aimed a fiery accusation at China, voicing suspicion that a Wuhan laboratory was seeking to weaponize the virus.

"Why would there ever be viruses created, taken out of nature, that can be shared and passed among bats or other creatures, and then harnessed and changed into some sort of virus that can be spread among people? There's a word for that: it's called bioweapon," she said.

"Were we all victims of a bioweapon? We demand answers."

China also must be held accountable, she said, noting the Wuhan Institute of Virology's "gain-of-function" research, in which scientists increase the strength of a virus to better study its effects on hosts.

This week the Chinese scientist at the center of theories that the pandemic originated with a leak from her specialised Wuhan lab denied her institution was to blame for the health disaster.

"How on earth can I offer up evidence for something where there is no evidence?" Dr Shi Zhengli told The New York Times.

Another&nbsp;fire&nbsp;Fauci&nbsp;sponsor, congressman Mo Brooks, expressed support for Greene's bioweapons theory, saying a country would only make a virus more contagious for "militarisation purposes."

Several Republican lawmakers, eager to blame a US government official for the response to the coronavirus pandemic, introduced a bill Tuesday to fire Anthony Fauci, the face of American efforts to combat Covid-19.

Several Republican lawmakers, eager to blame a US government official for the response to the coronavirus pandemic, introduced a bill Tuesday to fire Anthony Fauci, the face of American efforts to combat Covid-19. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene led a handful of colleagues in announcing the so-called Fire Fauci Act, which would reduce the famed infectious disease expert's government salary to zero and require the Senate to confirm someone to fill his position. Fauci, who has advised seven US presidents, had become a trusted figure in the government's Covid-19 response, beginning with his work during Donald Trump's administration. Also Watch | 'US must vaccinate more people before Delta variant becomes dominant', says Anthony Fauci Also Read | 'I'm always ready': Biden arrives in Geneva ahead of summit with Putin But conservatives have taken aim at his performance, accusing him of misleading Americans and providing contradictory advice on masks and social distancing. "Dr. Fauci was not elected by the American people. He was not chosen to guide our economy. He was not chosen to rule over parents and their children's education," Greene told reporters. "But yet Dr. Fauci very much controlled our lives for the past year." The bill is not expected to receive a floor vote in the Democratically-controlled House. Greene, whose extremist statements have made her a controversial figure in Congress, pointed to a series of Fauci emails that Republicans seized on to argue that he misled Americans and initially dismissed the idea that Covid-19 may have originated in a Chinese laboratory. "It's time to fire Dr. Anthony Fauci and give answers to the American people," she said. The White House defended Fauci this month after the emails surfaced, calling him "an undeniable asset" in the pandemic response. Greene also aimed a fiery accusation at China, voicing suspicion that a Wuhan laboratory was seeking to weaponize the virus. "Why would there ever be viruses created, taken out of nature, that can be shared and passed among bats or other creatures, and then harnessed and changed into some sort of virus that can be spread among people? There's a word for that: it's called bioweapon," she said. "Were we all victims of a bioweapon? We demand answers." China also must be held accountable, she said, noting the Wuhan Institute of Virology's "gain-of-function" research, in which scientists increase the strength of a virus to better study its effects on hosts. This week the Chinese scientist at the center of theories that the pandemic originated with a leak from her specialised Wuhan lab denied her institution was to blame for the health disaster. "How on earth can I offer up evidence for something where there is no evidence?" Dr Shi Zhengli told The New York Times. Another fire Fauci sponsor, congressman Mo Brooks, expressed support for Greene's bioweapons theory, saying a country would only make a virus more contagious for "militarisation purposes."

Republicans introduce bill to fire Fauci, face of US Covid response

Kashmir's tourism industry has been completely shattered due to Covid's second wave and lockdown. However, now, with cases finally coming down, the industry is now slowly opening and tourist arrivals have begun, with stakeholders hoping for a good summer season.&nbsp;

With the government allowing all hill stations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg to open and making sure that all covid protocols are followed,&nbsp;the hotels and houseboats around the Dal lake are opening too. Tourists could be seen taking shikara rides around the lake and enjoying pleasant weather.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-residents-bring-back-a-dead-lake-in-srinagar-391441" hreflang="en">Local residents bring back a dead lake in Srinagar</a>

The tourist department along with the stakeholders are providing huge discounts to people arriving in Kashmir. Some hotels have slashed their prices by 50 per cent.&nbsp;

''Overall experience was very nice, Main areas are still under the lockdown as we have been here for the last ten days, Srinagar is opening slowly but gardens are yet to open. Apart from this, Pahalgam and Gulmarg are open, the gondola was shut but we have noticed that there aren't many covid cases here. Because of the lockdown since last one year, it has affected the business and we got a lot of cheap deals. Five star hotels are giving 50 per cent off, it's all because everything was shut," said Rounak, a tourist from Mumbai from WION.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/specially-abled-hold-cricket-matches-across-valley-to-help-relieve-stress-amid-covid-19-391591" hreflang="en">Specially-abled hold cricket matches across valley to help relieve stress amid COVID-19</a>

While many tourists in the valley requested the government to open the gardens in the entire valley so that tourists can enjoy the beauty.''It was a very nice experience but gardens like tulips and Shalimar are not open yet. If people start coming I am sure they will open everything. And we have noticed that there are very few covid cases and I think the government should open the place now," said Forum R, a tourist.&nbsp;

All the tourists arriving in the valley are being asked for their vaccination certificates as well as the test results of COVID-19. Tourists have also been asked to make sure that they follow all the Covid protocol.&nbsp;

''To come here in Covid, we started our journey from Rajasthan. We got our RT-PCR test, our antigen test, and all permission and E-pass. It's a wonderful experience here and we are very excited. People are welcoming. It's a positive way and cases are getting down, everyone is getting back to business and that's important.'' said Manoj Kumar, another tourist.

Tourism is one of the biggest industries in the Kashmir valley and the government is slowly opening areas that were closed due to lockdown.&nbsp;

''We started from Jaipur from 12, we went to Leh and then came here. Cases are coming down and things should open for the tourists, the experience was really good. We don't see any risk and we have followed all covid protocols. It was a very wonderful experience. It's very important to open all the businesses as people depend on them.'' said Sarvind Yadav, a tourist from WION.

The lifting of restrictions in the valley has brought smiles to the faces of tourism stakeholders. They are hoping that arrivals will increase in the coming days. The stakeholders however are requesting the tourists to get vaccinated before the arrival and also get the test done before travelling.&nbsp;

''By God's grace, things are improving, but we have to win the war against the pandemic. We appeal to tourists to come here after being vaccinated, we won't allow them to take shikara rides without being vaccinated. We check the certificates first and then take them around. We ourselves got vaccinated. Tourists should come and we are hopeful they will. We have to keep our distance, wash ourselves and make sure to follow all covid protocols," said Abdul Razak, a shikara owner.&nbsp;

With the decrease in covid cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, tourism Industry is finally opening its door for tourists and they expect that within next few weeks there would be a revival of tourism in Kashmir valley.

Kashmir's tourism industry has been completely shattered due to Covid's second wave and lockdown. However, now, with cases finally coming down, the industry is now slowly opening and tourist arrivals have begun, with stakeholders hoping for a good summer season.

Kashmir's tourism industry has been completely shattered due to Covid's second wave and lockdown. However, now, with cases finally coming down, the industry is now slowly opening and tourist arrivals have begun, with stakeholders hoping for a good summer season. With the government allowing all hill stations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg to open and making sure that all covid protocols are followed, the hotels and houseboats around the Dal lake are opening too. Tourists could be seen taking shikara rides around the lake and enjoying pleasant weather. Also read | Local residents bring back a dead lake in Srinagar The tourist department along with the stakeholders are providing huge discounts to people arriving in Kashmir. Some hotels have slashed their prices by 50 per cent. ''Overall experience was very nice, Main areas are still under the lockdown as we have been here for the last ten days, Srinagar is opening slowly but gardens are yet to open. Apart from this, Pahalgam and Gulmarg are open, the gondola was shut but we have noticed that there aren't many covid cases here. Because of the lockdown since last one year, it has affected the business and we got a lot of cheap deals. Five star hotels are giving 50 per cent off, it's all because everything was shut," said Rounak, a tourist from Mumbai from WION. Also read | Specially-abled hold cricket matches across valley to help relieve stress amid COVID-19 While many tourists in the valley requested the government to open the gardens in the entire valley so that tourists can enjoy the beauty.''It was a very nice experience but gardens like tulips and Shalimar are not open yet. If people start coming I am sure they will open everything. And we have noticed that there are very few covid cases and I think the government should open the place now," said Forum R, a tourist. All the tourists arriving in the valley are being asked for their vaccination certificates as well as the test results of COVID-19. Tourists have also been asked to make sure that they follow all the Covid protocol. ''To come here in Covid, we started our journey from Rajasthan. We got our RT-PCR test, our antigen test, and all permission and E-pass. It's a wonderful experience here and we are very excited. People are welcoming. It's a positive way and cases are getting down, everyone is getting back to business and that's important.'' said Manoj Kumar, another tourist. Tourism is one of the biggest industries in the Kashmir valley and the government is slowly opening areas that were closed due to lockdown. ''We started from Jaipur from 12, we went to Leh and then came here. Cases are coming down and things should open for the tourists, the experience was really good. We don't see any risk and we have followed all covid protocols. It was a very wonderful experience. It's very important to open all the businesses as people depend on them.'' said Sarvind Yadav, a tourist from WION. The lifting of restrictions in the valley has brought smiles to the faces of tourism stakeholders. They are hoping that arrivals will increase in the coming days. The stakeholders however are requesting the tourists to get vaccinated before the arrival and also get the test done before travelling. ''By God's grace, things are improving, but we have to win the war against the pandemic. We appeal to tourists to come here after being vaccinated, we won't allow them to take shikara rides without being vaccinated. We check the certificates first and then take them around. We ourselves got vaccinated. Tourists should come and we are hopeful they will. We have to keep our distance, wash ourselves and make sure to follow all covid protocols," said Abdul Razak, a shikara owner. With the decrease in covid cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, tourism Industry is finally opening its door for tourists and they expect that within next few weeks there would be a revival of tourism in Kashmir valley.

Tourist arrivals start in Kashmir, stakeholders expect revival of industry

After the Central government capped the price of the COVID-19 vaccine for the private sector, the National Health Authority (NHA) on Wednesday said 125 third-party entities have expressed interest in vaccine booking service, out of which 91 are in different process of approval.

While speaking to ANI, RS Sharma, CEO, National Health Authority said, "A review was done and it was seen that 125 entities have expressed their interest and out of which 91 are in the process of approval whereas some of them are already in the various process of finalization."

From June 21 onward central government will procure all the vaccines, which are to be distributed to the states.

Besides, that private sectors will also procure 25 percent vaccines directly from the manufacturer as per the new policy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cdc-calls-coronavirus-delta-variant-a-variant-of-concern-391751">Also Read |&nbsp;US CDC calls coronavirus Delta variant a 'variant of concern'</a>

"However, with the development of third party showing interest in roping themselves in the vaccine booking service NHA before providing the "security keys" through which the third party could connect, are going through several testing that their applications are in accordance with the privacy policy," said Sharma.

Also Watch |&nbsp;Rajnath Singh calls for 'free, open and inclusive order in Indo-Pacific'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rajnath-singh-calls-for-free-open-and-inclusive-order-in-indo-pacific-391813/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He further said they have created a team in NHA that checks the applications and compliance of various terms.

The exact timing for the third party to start under the umbrella of CoWin will depend on them as Sharma said, "We are going to provide them keys only after the testing. Ultimately the decision will be there's when they want to role it on."

In furtherance, Sharma said, "If the third party could cater to the surge for vaccination, vacancy, booking and certification on their apps that will extend the reach and much more people will be covered. The union of all these entities will be quite high. Moreover, their user interface will also be possibly different and improved."

However any change in the database be it cancellation, rescheduling will have to come in the CoWin database. Whenever one does a transaction that will be done on the database of CoWin platform.

"CoWin will play a central role. Some of the peripheral activities such as vacancies or booking will be given to the applications, which will ultimately come back to CoWin once the slot gets booked," concluded Sharma.

In a letter to all states and Union Territories last week, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had capped the maximum service charge per dose levied by private hospitals at Rs 150 per dose

After the Central government capped the price of the COVID-19 vaccine for the private sector, the National Health Authority (NHA) on Wednesday said 125 third-party entities have expressed interest in vaccine booking service, out of which 91 are in different process of approval.

After the Central government capped the price of the COVID-19 vaccine for the private sector, the National Health Authority (NHA) on Wednesday said 125 third-party entities have expressed interest in vaccine booking service, out of which 91 are in different process of approval. While speaking to ANI, RS Sharma, CEO, National Health Authority said, "A review was done and it was seen that 125 entities have expressed their interest and out of which 91 are in the process of approval whereas some of them are already in the various process of finalization." From June 21 onward central government will procure all the vaccines, which are to be distributed to the states. Besides, that private sectors will also procure 25 percent vaccines directly from the manufacturer as per the new policy. Also Read | US CDC calls coronavirus Delta variant a 'variant of concern' "However, with the development of third party showing interest in roping themselves in the vaccine booking service NHA before providing the "security keys" through which the third party could connect, are going through several testing that their applications are in accordance with the privacy policy," said Sharma. Also Watch | Rajnath Singh calls for 'free, open and inclusive order in Indo-Pacific' He further said they have created a team in NHA that checks the applications and compliance of various terms. The exact timing for the third party to start under the umbrella of CoWin will depend on them as Sharma said, "We are going to provide them keys only after the testing. Ultimately the decision will be there's when they want to role it on." In furtherance, Sharma said, "If the third party could cater to the surge for vaccination, vacancy, booking and certification on their apps that will extend the reach and much more people will be covered. The union of all these entities will be quite high. Moreover, their user interface will also be possibly different and improved." However any change in the database be it cancellation, rescheduling will have to come in the CoWin database. Whenever one does a transaction that will be done on the database of CoWin platform. "CoWin will play a central role. Some of the peripheral activities such as vacancies or booking will be given to the applications, which will ultimately come back to CoWin once the slot gets booked," concluded Sharma. In a letter to all states and Union Territories last week, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had capped the maximum service charge per dose levied by private hospitals at Rs 150 per dose

Over 120 third party entities expressed interest in COVID-19 vaccine booking

covid

Covid, News on Covid, stories on Covid, articles on Covid, Covid stories at Wion, Covid news, Covid latest news