The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

"We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television.&nbsp;

Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter.

But the drug maker &nbsp;"only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said.

And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing".

The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons".

"When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said.&nbsp;

French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects.

While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective".&nbsp;

Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson &amp; Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe.&nbsp;

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs".&nbsp;

In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far.

Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine.

The EU's internal markets commissioner Thierry Breton hinted Sunday that the bloc might decide not to order AstraZeneca's coronavirus jab again following delays in delivering the first batches of the vaccine. "We're pragmatic. My priority, as far as the vaccines are concerned, is to ensure that the firms we have contracts with deliver them punctually," Breton told BFMTV television. Brussels had originally ordered 120 million doses of the Anglo-Swedish group's jab for the 27 member states in the first quarter and 180 million in the second quarter. But the drug maker "only delivered 30 million, thus creating the problems that everyone has seen," Breton said. And only another 70 million will be delivered in the second quarter, he continued, but added: "Nothing is decided. Talks are still ongoing". The EU commissioner insisted that any such decision would "not be for epidemiological or medical reasons". "When looking at the data, the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh the disease," he said. French industry minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher had suggested on Friday that the EU might not renew its contract with AstraZeneca in 2022 after Denmark became the first European country to stop using the jab altogether over suspected rare but serious side effects. While other countries also suspended its use, at least temporarily, most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency (EMA), emphasised the benefits of the vaccine, judging it "safe and effective". Pannier-Runacher said that the EU had "not started discussions with Johnson & Johnson and with AstraZeneca for a new contract, whereas we have already started discussions with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna", the makers of two other vaccines on the market in Europe. EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also said this week that German biotech firm BioNTech and US pharma giant Pfizer had shown themselves to be "reliable partners, who have honoured their commitments and have reacted quickly with regard to our needs". In France, 23 cases and eight deaths have been reported of rare blood clots after taking the AstraZeneca jab, out of more than 2.7 million doses administered so far. Nevertheless, Alain Fischer, an immunologist who heads the government's vaccination advisory board, told French radio on Sunday the benefits of the jab for people aged 55 and over "very much outweighed the risks" of possible complications.

EU hints it might not order AstraZeneca jab again

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the&nbsp;pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday.

The fresh addition took the total tally to 1,50,61,919 while the death toll soared to 1,78,769.

As many as 2,73,810 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours.

The active number of cases in the country stands at 19,29,329.

In the last 24 hours, 1,44,178 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,29,53,821.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 13,56,133 samples were tested on Monday. And, as many as 26,78,94,549 samples have been tested across the country till April 18.

(With inputs from agencies)

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday.

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday. The fresh addition took the total tally to 1,50,61,919 while the death toll soared to 1,78,769. As many as 2,73,810 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours. The active number of cases in the country stands at 19,29,329. In the last 24 hours, 1,44,178 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,29,53,821. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 13,56,133 samples were tested on Monday. And, as many as 26,78,94,549 samples have been tested across the country till April 18. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: India reports record 2,73,810 cases, highest ever deaths in a day

Researchers at KJ Hospital Research and Postgraduate Center in Chennai have developed a palm-sized device that they say can detect COVID-19 infection in a matter of seconds. The device takes into consideration parameters such as Zeta potential, blood pressure, body temperature, Oxygen saturation and blood count. No pricks or invasions are needed.

A person needs to only place his hand in a plastic glove and results flash on the connected computer within seconds. This is a much quicker process than the RT-PCR test which takes 6 hours to give results.

The technology behind the device is based on measurement of a very small quantity of electricity which the human body generates. In a normal person, it ranges between 23 and 25 milliVolt (mV). As per the findings of the researchers, those infected with COVID show 5-15 mV reading.

The sensors can also detect low blood oxygen saturation and low count of White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC) and platelets other than blood pressure and fever.

Research team said that the idea struck them during their study on cancer patients.

“We verified the results of our device with the RT-PCR results of hundreds of patients coming into the Stanley and Omandurar Hospitals in Chennai. There was a 100% match with the RT-PCR results and a nearly 98% match when compared to the standard blood count test,” said Dhejasvee Rajagopal and Arun Inbaraj, research associates at KJ Research Foundation.

"We are a unit that is recognised by the Department of Science and technology, Government of India,” said Dr Jegadeesan, Founder and Chief Surgeon of the Hospital.

The device cost around Rs 10,000 for its development but researchers say that they are confident that their manufacturing partner will produce it for much less. The team has filed for a patent of the device and has also published a research paper on its working.

Researchers at KJ Hospital Research and Postgraduate Center in Chennai have developed a palm-sized device that they say can detect COVID-19 infection in a matter of seconds.

Researchers at KJ Hospital Research and Postgraduate Center in Chennai have developed a palm-sized device that they say can detect COVID-19 infection in a matter of seconds. The device takes into consideration parameters such as Zeta potential, blood pressure, body temperature, Oxygen saturation and blood count. No pricks or invasions are needed. A person needs to only place his hand in a plastic glove and results flash on the connected computer within seconds. This is a much quicker process than the RT-PCR test which takes 6 hours to give results. The technology behind the device is based on measurement of a very small quantity of electricity which the human body generates. In a normal person, it ranges between 23 and 25 milliVolt (mV). As per the findings of the researchers, those infected with COVID show 5-15 mV reading. The sensors can also detect low blood oxygen saturation and low count of White Blood Cells (WBC), Red Blood Cells (RBC) and platelets other than blood pressure and fever. Research team said that the idea struck them during their study on cancer patients. “We verified the results of our device with the RT-PCR results of hundreds of patients coming into the Stanley and Omandurar Hospitals in Chennai. There was a 100% match with the RT-PCR results and a nearly 98% match when compared to the standard blood count test,” said Dhejasvee Rajagopal and Arun Inbaraj, research associates at KJ Research Foundation. "We are a unit that is recognised by the Department of Science and technology, Government of India,” said Dr Jegadeesan, Founder and Chief Surgeon of the Hospital. The device cost around Rs 10,000 for its development but researchers say that they are confident that their manufacturing partner will produce it for much less. The team has filed for a patent of the device and has also published a research paper on its working.

This palm-sized device can detect COVID in seconds, claim researchers

Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs.

Starting from Friday (April 16) and set to run to the end of the month, the new measures see an effective curfew after 8pm, indoor activities banned in public spaces, and schools closed.

When the coronavirus first appeared in South America last year, Argentina brought in a strict lockdown that initially kept a lid on cases but choked an already ailing economy in recession for the past three years.

Cases ended up rising regardless as many Argentines were forced out of doors to make a living as poverty rates shot up to 42 percent by the end of the year.

The restrictions have already sparked a battle between the federal government of centre-left President Alberto Fernandez and Buenos Aires' city mayor who strongly opposes the school shutdown and has said he was not consulted on the measures.

Fernandez says the country needs to gain time in the battle against the virus after daily cases hit a record 27,000 earlier this week. The South American country has recorded over 2.6 million cases and is nearing 59,000 deaths.

Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs.

Argentines took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday (April 17) to protest new lockdown measures brought back this week as daily COVID-19 cases surged to record highs. Starting from Friday (April 16) and set to run to the end of the month, the new measures see an effective curfew after 8pm, indoor activities banned in public spaces, and schools closed. When the coronavirus first appeared in South America last year, Argentina brought in a strict lockdown that initially kept a lid on cases but choked an already ailing economy in recession for the past three years. Cases ended up rising regardless as many Argentines were forced out of doors to make a living as poverty rates shot up to 42 percent by the end of the year. The restrictions have already sparked a battle between the federal government of centre-left President Alberto Fernandez and Buenos Aires' city mayor who strongly opposes the school shutdown and has said he was not consulted on the measures. Fernandez says the country needs to gain time in the battle against the virus after daily cases hit a record 27,000 earlier this week. The South American country has recorded over 2.6 million cases and is nearing 59,000 deaths.

Argentina: People take to streets in Buenos Aires to protest lockdown

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed.&nbsp;

So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed. So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours. There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours. India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

Maharashtra records biggest single day jump of 68,631 new COVID-19 cases

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces.

"It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering.

"You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled.

For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding.

It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again."&nbsp;

Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day.

That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces.

Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard.

"We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said.

"I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns.

Israel on Sunday (April 18), lifted mandate to compulsorily wear masks outdoors. Israelis stepped out on streets without masks for the first time in a year. Israel has vaccinated over half of its population in one of the world's fastest anti-COVID inoculation campaigns. Israel's health ministry had announced on Thursday that masks would no longer be required in public outdoor spaces. "It's very strange but it's very nice," said Eliana Gamulka, 26, after getting off a bus near the busy Jerusalem shopping boulevard of Jaffa Street and removing her face covering. "You can't pretend that you don't know anyone any more," she smiled. For Gamulka, a project manager, the good news came at the perfect time: just two weeks before her wedding. It will be "very nice to celebrate with everyone, now without masks," she said. "The pictures will be great! I'm very relieved. We can start living again." Rapid vaccination has led to drastic decrease in Israel's daily caseload. In January this year, the caseload was 10,000 infections per day. Now it has come to 200 cases per day. That has allowed the re-opening of schools, bars, restaurants and other indoor gatherings -- although masks are still required in indoor public spaces. Yet on Sunday, office worker Ester Malka said she wasn't quite ready to let down her guard. "We're allowed, but I'm still afraid, I got used to (wearing a mask)," she said. "I feel like it's part of my life. We'll see what happens when everyone has taken them off. If it goes well for a couple of months, then I'll remove mine." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel drops public mask mandate with more than half population vaccinated

Barie Carmichael lost her sense of taste and smell while traveling in Europe. She remembers keeping a dinner date at a Michelin-starred restaurant but tasting nothing.

It may sound like a case of COVID-19. But Carmichael, 72, a fellow at the University of Virginia’s business school, lost her ability to taste and smell for three years in the 1990s. The only respiratory infection she’d had was bronchitis.

Scientists say that although the complications of COVID have riveted peoples’ attention, many symptoms — like a loss of smell — are not unique to COVID. Heart inflammation, lung and nerve damage and small blood clots in the lining of lungs occur in a small but noticeable percentage of patients who have had other respiratory and viral infections.

No one is saying COVID is the equivalent of, say, the flu. But COVID-19 is providing a new opportunity to understand the complications of many common viral infections.

Before the pandemic, research grants to study a loss of smell were hard to come by, said Danielle Reed, associate director of the Monell Chemical Senses Center, a nonprofit research group in Philadelphia.

But now, she said, “there is an explosive growth of interest among funders.” (She added that most who say they have lost a sense of taste have really lost a sense of smell.)

Monell researchers want to compare how often people lose their sense of smell after a bout with the flu versus a bout with COVID-19 — and how long the loss lasts. Is there a genetic predisposition to this complication?

Researchers at other institutions want to know who is susceptible to heart infections, blood clots or lung damage after having a respiratory virus like the flu.

Heart problems following a viral infection are among the best studied. Every year, myocarditis — an inflammation of the heart muscle — affects as many as 1.5 million people worldwide, most of whom had a prior respiratory virus infection. Most recover fully.

But symptoms like fatigue are often not recognized as being related to myocarditis. And Dr. Bruce McManus, an emeritus pathology professor at the University of British Columbia, suspects that the fatigue that sometimes follows a bout with COVID-19 might be caused by this heart problem.

“We think of COVID-19 and influenza as respiratory diseases, and in fact they are,” McManus said. “But the reason many patients reach their demise in many instances is myocardial.”

Barie Carmichael lost her sense of taste and smell while traveling in Europe. She remembers keeping a dinner date at a Michelin-starred restaurant but tasting nothing.

Barie Carmichael lost her sense of taste and smell while traveling in Europe. She remembers keeping a dinner date at a Michelin-starred restaurant but tasting nothing. It may sound like a case of COVID-19. But Carmichael, 72, a fellow at the University of Virginia’s business school, lost her ability to taste and smell for three years in the 1990s. The only respiratory infection she’d had was bronchitis. Scientists say that although the complications of COVID have riveted peoples’ attention, many symptoms — like a loss of smell — are not unique to COVID. Heart inflammation, lung and nerve damage and small blood clots in the lining of lungs occur in a small but noticeable percentage of patients who have had other respiratory and viral infections. No one is saying COVID is the equivalent of, say, the flu. But COVID-19 is providing a new opportunity to understand the complications of many common viral infections. Before the pandemic, research grants to study a loss of smell were hard to come by, said Danielle Reed, associate director of the Monell Chemical Senses Center, a nonprofit research group in Philadelphia. But now, she said, “there is an explosive growth of interest among funders.” (She added that most who say they have lost a sense of taste have really lost a sense of smell.) Monell researchers want to compare how often people lose their sense of smell after a bout with the flu versus a bout with COVID-19 — and how long the loss lasts. Is there a genetic predisposition to this complication? Researchers at other institutions want to know who is susceptible to heart infections, blood clots or lung damage after having a respiratory virus like the flu. Heart problems following a viral infection are among the best studied. Every year, myocarditis — an inflammation of the heart muscle — affects as many as 1.5 million people worldwide, most of whom had a prior respiratory virus infection. Most recover fully. But symptoms like fatigue are often not recognized as being related to myocarditis. And Dr. Bruce McManus, an emeritus pathology professor at the University of British Columbia, suspects that the fatigue that sometimes follows a bout with COVID-19 might be caused by this heart problem. “We think of COVID-19 and influenza as respiratory diseases, and in fact they are,” McManus said. “But the reason many patients reach their demise in many instances is myocardial.”

Can Covid research help solve the mysteries of other viruses?

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the world. In just the last 24 hours, India witnessed its highest ever coronavirus infections at 2,34,692. A new research sheds light on how the virus affects urban areas. For long, it was believed that densely populated cities are hotbeds for infectious transmission.

A new study published in Sustainable Cities and Society suggests that crowded cities are not likely to cause more infections. Researchers took data from a health application in account. They also looked at the details from Tehran, Iran which was once an epicentre of the pandemic.

Researchers found that population density alone cannot be considered a risk factor. Even then, researchers accounted for the difference between “high density” and “overcrowding”. They found that overcrowding posed a bigger risk and continues to get&nbsp;in the way of social distancing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/twos-not-the-end-pfizer-ceo-hints-at-need-for-third-dose-of-coronavirus-vaccine-378056" hreflang="en">Two's not the end: Pfizer CEO hints at need for third dose of coronavirus vaccine</a>

The researchers added that overcrowding can occur even in districts that have a low density. Owing to this, they ascertained that cities that are densely populated may not be considered a risk factor.

To achieve this, researchers from the Universities of Tehran and Isfahan, along with Hiroshima University in Japan collected data which was recorded by Iran’s COVID-19 tracing application called “AC19”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stay-home-wion-tackles-key-questions-related-to-coronavirus-pandemic-377833" hreflang="en">Stay home! WION tackles key questions related to coronavirus pandemic</a>

Tehran, the city around which the research as modelled has 8.6 million people living in 22 districts. Researchers found that population density played only a minimal role in COVID-19 transmission.

More important factors than population density included age, wealth, healthcare, along with how rigorously people follow protocols.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the world. In just the last 24 hours, India witnessed its highest ever coronavirus infections at 2,34,692. A new research sheds light on how the virus affects urban areas.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the world. In just the last 24 hours, India witnessed its highest ever coronavirus infections at 2,34,692. A new research sheds light on how the virus affects urban areas. For long, it was believed that densely populated cities are hotbeds for infectious transmission. A new study published in Sustainable Cities and Society suggests that crowded cities are not likely to cause more infections. Researchers took data from a health application in account. They also looked at the details from Tehran, Iran which was once an epicentre of the pandemic. Researchers found that population density alone cannot be considered a risk factor. Even then, researchers accounted for the difference between “high density” and “overcrowding”. They found that overcrowding posed a bigger risk and continues to get in the way of social distancing. Also read: Two's not the end: Pfizer CEO hints at need for third dose of coronavirus vaccine The researchers added that overcrowding can occur even in districts that have a low density. Owing to this, they ascertained that cities that are densely populated may not be considered a risk factor. To achieve this, researchers from the Universities of Tehran and Isfahan, along with Hiroshima University in Japan collected data which was recorded by Iran’s COVID-19 tracing application called “AC19”. Also read: Stay home! WION tackles key questions related to coronavirus pandemic Tehran, the city around which the research as modelled has 8.6 million people living in 22 districts. Researchers found that population density played only a minimal role in COVID-19 transmission. More important factors than population density included age, wealth, healthcare, along with how rigorously people follow protocols.

Densely populated cities not necessarily prone to coronavirus infections, study finds

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, likely does not directly infect the brain but can still inflict significant neurological damage, a new study suggests.&nbsp;

The findings, published in the journal Brain, suggest that the neurological changes often seen in these patients may result from inflammation triggered by the virus in other parts of the body or the brain's blood vessels.&nbsp;

"We've looked at more brains than other studies and we have used more techniques to search for the virus. The bottom line is that we find no evidence of viral RNA or protein in brain cells," said researcher James E Goldman from Columbia University.&nbsp;

For the study, the research team examined the brains of 41 patients with Covid-19 who succumbed to the disease during their hospitalisation. The patients ranged in age from 38 to 97, about half had been intubated and all had lung damage caused by the virus.&nbsp;

All of the patients had extensive clinical and laboratory investigations, and some had brain MRI and CT scans.&nbsp;

To detect any virus in the neurons and glia cells of the brain, the researchers used multiple methods including RNA in situ hybridisation, which can detect viral RNA within intact cells; antibodies that can detect viral proteins within cells; and RT-PCR, a sensitive technique for detecting viral RNA.&nbsp;

Despite their intensive search, the researchers found no evidence of the virus in the patients' brain cells. Though they did detect very low levels of viral RNA by RT-PCR, this was likely due to virus in blood vessels or leptomeninges covering the brain.&nbsp;

The tests were conducted on more than two dozen brain regions, including the olfactory bulb, which was searched because some reports have speculated that the coronavirus can travel from the nasal cavity into the brain via the olfactory nerve.&nbsp;

"Even there, we didn't find any viral protein or RNA. Though we found viral RNA and protein in the patients' nasal mucosa and in the olfactory mucosa high in the nasal cavity," Goldman said.&nbsp;

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, likely does not directly infect the brain but can still inflict significant neurological damage, a new study suggests.

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, likely does not directly infect the brain but can still inflict significant neurological damage, a new study suggests. The findings, published in the journal Brain, suggest that the neurological changes often seen in these patients may result from inflammation triggered by the virus in other parts of the body or the brain's blood vessels. "We've looked at more brains than other studies and we have used more techniques to search for the virus. The bottom line is that we find no evidence of viral RNA or protein in brain cells," said researcher James E Goldman from Columbia University. For the study, the research team examined the brains of 41 patients with Covid-19 who succumbed to the disease during their hospitalisation. The patients ranged in age from 38 to 97, about half had been intubated and all had lung damage caused by the virus. All of the patients had extensive clinical and laboratory investigations, and some had brain MRI and CT scans. To detect any virus in the neurons and glia cells of the brain, the researchers used multiple methods including RNA in situ hybridisation, which can detect viral RNA within intact cells; antibodies that can detect viral proteins within cells; and RT-PCR, a sensitive technique for detecting viral RNA. Despite their intensive search, the researchers found no evidence of the virus in the patients' brain cells. Though they did detect very low levels of viral RNA by RT-PCR, this was likely due to virus in blood vessels or leptomeninges covering the brain. The tests were conducted on more than two dozen brain regions, including the olfactory bulb, which was searched because some reports have speculated that the coronavirus can travel from the nasal cavity into the brain via the olfactory nerve. "Even there, we didn't find any viral protein or RNA. Though we found viral RNA and protein in the patients' nasal mucosa and in the olfactory mucosa high in the nasal cavity," Goldman said.

'Covid does not infect brain but still inflicts damage' 

Europe’s medical regulator, the European Medicines Agency, has said it will announce a decision on the safety of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday.

EMA has decided to take a closer look at the side effects of the J&amp;J vaccine shot after reports claimed blood clots as a side effect of the jab.

The US has also temporarily suspended the use of the J&amp;J vaccine in the country due to the same reason.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-eu-to-end-astrazeneca-and-jj-vaccine-contracts-at-expiry-378024">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-eu-to-end-astrazeneca-and-jj-vaccine-contracts-at-expiry-378024/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

To review the reports, the EMA “is holding a virtual press briefing on the conclusion of the evaluation of a safety signal with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen relating to cases of thromboembolic events by EMA's safety committee,” it said in a statement.

This has come a day after the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said it will have to meet again with more information on the reports of side effects. The statement was issued after an hours-long meeting was concluded with no result, citing a lack of information.

It has also been reported that the EU may not renew its contract with AstraZeneca for coronavirus vaccine after a long-existing tiff between the company and the continent over delay in delivery of doses.

Europe’s medical regulator, the European Medicines Agency, has said it will announce a decision on the safety of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday.

Europe’s medical regulator, the European Medicines Agency, has said it will announce a decision on the safety of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday. EMA has decided to take a closer look at the side effects of the J&J vaccine shot after reports claimed blood clots as a side effect of the jab. The US has also temporarily suspended the use of the J&J vaccine in the country due to the same reason. Watch | To review the reports, the EMA “is holding a virtual press briefing on the conclusion of the evaluation of a safety signal with COVID-19 Vaccine Janssen relating to cases of thromboembolic events by EMA's safety committee,” it said in a statement. This has come a day after the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said it will have to meet again with more information on the reports of side effects. The statement was issued after an hours-long meeting was concluded with no result, citing a lack of information. It has also been reported that the EU may not renew its contract with AstraZeneca for coronavirus vaccine after a long-existing tiff between the company and the continent over delay in delivery of doses.

Europe's EMA to take final decision on J&J coronavirus vaccine on Tuesday

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK.

A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE).

The B.1.617 variant contains mutations from two separate virus variants, namely E484Q and L452R.

The double mutant strain was first found in samples of saliva collected from Maharashtra, Punjab, and Delhi.

According to health experts, the L452R variant was first found in the US, whereas the E484Q variant is indigenous.

Scientists are worried about the variant as it carries two mutations in the spike protein that may make it more able to evade the body’s immune responses.

Experts in India are working to understand whether or not it could be more infectious and resistant to vaccines.

According to the health ministry, the new variant could also increase infection rates and easily surpass immune defences.

(With inputs from agencies)

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK. A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE).

A double mutation coronavirus that first emerged in India has been detected in the UK. A total of 77 cases of the variant, known as B.1.617, have been recorded in the UK up to April 14, according to Public Health England (PHE). The B.1.617 variant contains mutations from two separate virus variants, namely E484Q and L452R. The double mutant strain was first found in samples of saliva collected from Maharashtra, Punjab, and Delhi. According to health experts, the L452R variant was first found in the US, whereas the E484Q variant is indigenous. Scientists are worried about the variant as it carries two mutations in the spike protein that may make it more able to evade the body’s immune responses. Experts in India are working to understand whether or not it could be more infectious and resistant to vaccines. According to the health ministry, the new variant could also increase infection rates and easily surpass immune defences. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian variant of Covid-19 discovered in the UK, 77 cases ‘under investigation’

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility.

Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020.

The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection.

There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant.

However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant.

Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility.

Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain.

Studies published in Lancet Infectious Diseases and Lancet Public Health have found that the UK variant of COVID-19 spreads more quickly but there is no evidence to conclusively say that symptoms were worse than original coronavirus strain. The studies found that the 'viral load' and 'R-number' for B.1.1.7 (UK variant of coronavirus). This indicates that it has high transmissibility. Out of the two studies, the one published in Lancet Infectious Diseases is a whole genome sequencing and cohort study. This study involved coronavirus patients admitted to University College London Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital between November 9 and December 20, 2020. The authors of the study compared illness severity in those who were infected with UK variant and those who were not. Out of 341 patients, 198 had B.1.1.7 and 143 had a non-B.1.1.7 infection. There was no evidence found that patients infected with the UK variant had more severe disease. It was found that 36 per cent of UK variant infected patients died as compared to 38 per cent of those with non-UK variant. However, when the researchers measured the viral load of patients, they found that it was greater in case of UK variant. Viral load refers to amount of virus present in a person's nose and throat. Greater the viral load, greater is the transmissibility. Hence, the researchers found that UK coronavirus variant was more transmissible.

UK COVID variant spreads faster but no evidence of worse symptoms: Study

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 138 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.97 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. 
 
In its latest update on Thursday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 138,021,474 and 2,971,130, respectively. 
 
The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 31,420,888 and 564,396, respectively, according to the CSSE. 
 
India follows in second place with 13,873,825 cases. 
 
The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (13,673,507), France (5,210,772), Russia (4,613,646), the UK (4,393,330), Turkey (4,025,557), Italy (3,809,193), Spain (3,387,022), Germany (3,067,697), Poland (2,621,116), Colombia (2,604,157), Argentina (2,585,801), Mexico (2,291,246) and Iran (2,143,794), the CSSE figures showed. 
 
In terms of deaths, Brazil comes second with 361,884 fatalities. 
 
Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are Mexico (210,812), India (172,085), the UK (127,407), Italy (115,557), Russia (102,275), France (99,936), Germany (79,234), Spain (76,756), Colombia (66,819), Iran (65,359), Poland (59,930), Argentina (58,542), Peru (55,812) and South Africa (53,498).

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 138 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.97 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Thursday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 138,021,474 and 2,971,130, respectively.

The overall global Covid-19 caseload has topped 138 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 2.97 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. In its latest update on Thursday morning, the University`s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and death toll stood at 138,021,474 and 2,971,130, respectively. The US is the worst-hit country with the world`s highest number of cases and deaths at 31,420,888 and 564,396, respectively, according to the CSSE. India follows in second place with 13,873,825 cases. The other countries with more than two million confirmed coronavirus cases are Brazil (13,673,507), France (5,210,772), Russia (4,613,646), the UK (4,393,330), Turkey (4,025,557), Italy (3,809,193), Spain (3,387,022), Germany (3,067,697), Poland (2,621,116), Colombia (2,604,157), Argentina (2,585,801), Mexico (2,291,246) and Iran (2,143,794), the CSSE figures showed. In terms of deaths, Brazil comes second with 361,884 fatalities. Nations with a death toll of over 50,000 are Mexico (210,812), India (172,085), the UK (127,407), Italy (115,557), Russia (102,275), France (99,936), Germany (79,234), Spain (76,756), Colombia (66,819), Iran (65,359), Poland (59,930), Argentina (58,542), Peru (55,812) and South Africa (53,498).

Global Covid-19 caseload tops 138 million, 2.97 million deaths

Delhi Chief Minister&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital.

All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders.

"I had a meeting with L-G (&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor). We have decided to impose a weekend curfew in Delhi. This is because people generally go out for work on weekdays and entertainment on weekends. So to break the chain, we are imposing a weekend curfew, exempting essential services," Kejriwal said.

However, keeping in mind that essential services do not get affected by the decision, the state government has given exemption in certain categories.

What's allowed:

Essential services to operate with curfew passes.

Interstate transport to continue.

Wedding guests in the permissible limit can apply for passes for movement.&nbsp;

No pass required for movement for medical purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Movie shows are allowed to operate at 30% of seating capacity.

Traveller movement allowed but need to show passes.

Only one weekly market will be allowed each day per zone.

Home delivery of food is allowed.

What's not allowed:

Markets, malls, gyms, spas, auditoriums, and swimming pools to remain shut &nbsp;

Work from home in all private offices.

No dine-in restaurants, only take-aways.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital. All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a weekend curfew owing to the surging covid cases in the last few days in India's capital. All spas, auditoriums and malls have been asked to stay shut from Friday evening till further orders. "I had a meeting with L-G ( Lieutenant Governor). We have decided to impose a weekend curfew in Delhi. This is because people generally go out for work on weekdays and entertainment on weekends. So to break the chain, we are imposing a weekend curfew, exempting essential services," Kejriwal said. However, keeping in mind that essential services do not get affected by the decision, the state government has given exemption in certain categories. What's allowed: Essential services to operate with curfew passes. Interstate transport to continue. Wedding guests in the permissible limit can apply for passes for movement. No pass required for movement for medical purposes. Movie shows are allowed to operate at 30% of seating capacity. Traveller movement allowed but need to show passes. Only one weekly market will be allowed each day per zone. Home delivery of food is allowed. What's not allowed: Markets, malls, gyms, spas, auditoriums, and swimming pools to remain shut Work from home in all private offices. No dine-in restaurants, only take-aways.

COVID-19: Delhi CM announces weekend curfew: Timings, what's open, what's closed and guidelines

The new COVID-19 wave in India, in which the number of cases is skyrocketing, is hitting children hard. As per the data from the Union Health Ministry of India 79,688 children have been infected in the five worst hit states since March.

India: Second wave of COVID-19 is affecting more children

Europe faces more risks to its economic recovery due to Covid-19 variants and delays in vaccination campaigns that threaten to prolong the health crisis, the IMF said on Wednesday.

That could create "social unrest and more medium-term scarring of economies if the crisis lingers," the International Monetary Fund warned, calling for more government support until the crisis has passed.

"This is not a call for a package that boosts spending indiscriminately and permanently, but for a well-targeted and temporary shot in the arm of both demand and supply,"&nbsp;said Alfred Kammer, director of the IMF's European department in a blog about the outlook.

The IMF sees European growth of 4.5 per cent this year, 0.2 points lower than the October forecast, followed by a 3.9 per cent expansion in 2022, according to the latest Regional Economic Outlook.

That would take the economy "back to its pre-pandemic level but not to the path expected before the pandemic."

"Reflecting the periodic infection waves and the pace of vaccinations, the economic recovery in Europe is still halting and uneven," Kammer wrote.

Additional spending of three per cent of GDP through next year could lift GDP by about two per cent by the end of 2022 and cut the impact of scarring by more than half, he said.&nbsp;

"The costs would pale in comparison to the benefits," he added.

The IMF forecasts assume vaccines will be "widely available" by mid-year, and Kammer said "the number one priority is to boost vaccine production." But policymakers "need to continue to provide emergency support to households and firms."

The Washington-based crisis lender credited the "unprecedented lifelines" to workers with helping tens of millions, but said those funds should shift to retraining programs to help workers find jobs in emerging industries.

"The faster the recovery, the less scarring people and businesses will suffer," the IMF said.

On the upside, the fund notes the potentially large beneficial effects of the European Union's "Next Generation" plan.

Europe faces more risks to its economic recovery due to Covid-19 variants and delays in vaccination campaigns that threaten to prolong the health crisis, the IMF said on Wednesday.

Europe faces more risks to its economic recovery due to Covid-19 variants and delays in vaccination campaigns that threaten to prolong the health crisis, the IMF said on Wednesday. That could create "social unrest and more medium-term scarring of economies if the crisis lingers," the International Monetary Fund warned, calling for more government support until the crisis has passed. "This is not a call for a package that boosts spending indiscriminately and permanently, but for a well-targeted and temporary shot in the arm of both demand and supply," said Alfred Kammer, director of the IMF's European department in a blog about the outlook. The IMF sees European growth of 4.5 per cent this year, 0.2 points lower than the October forecast, followed by a 3.9 per cent expansion in 2022, according to the latest Regional Economic Outlook. That would take the economy "back to its pre-pandemic level but not to the path expected before the pandemic." "Reflecting the periodic infection waves and the pace of vaccinations, the economic recovery in Europe is still halting and uneven," Kammer wrote. Additional spending of three per cent of GDP through next year could lift GDP by about two per cent by the end of 2022 and cut the impact of scarring by more than half, he said. "The costs would pale in comparison to the benefits," he added. The IMF forecasts assume vaccines will be "widely available" by mid-year, and Kammer said "the number one priority is to boost vaccine production." But policymakers "need to continue to provide emergency support to households and firms." The Washington-based crisis lender credited the "unprecedented lifelines" to workers with helping tens of millions, but said those funds should shift to retraining programs to help workers find jobs in emerging industries. "The faster the recovery, the less scarring people and businesses will suffer," the IMF said. On the upside, the fund notes the potentially large beneficial effects of the European Union's "Next Generation" plan.

Europe needs more short-term aid to counter continued Covid risks: IMF

India has decided to fast-track approval for COVID-19 vaccines developed in another countries. This comes after reports of vaccine shortages in certain states in the middle of worrying second wave of Coronavirus.

India seeks Pfizer, Modern, J&J Covid vaccines

We get our hands on a compact disinfection device. Here's what we think about it.

Tech It Out | Review : A portable disinfection device

The new wave of Covid-19 infections sweeping parts of India is "worrisome" and threatens the 12.5 per cent growth projection, an International Monetary Fund expert for the region said on Tuesday. 
 
Jonathan Otry, the Deputy Director of the IMF`s Asia Pacific Department, said that "the current surge in infections presents a worrisome downside risk revisions" for India which "has seen a more sizeable upward revision to 12 and a half per cent on account of continued normalisation of its economy and a more growth-friendly fiscal policy". 
 
In projections made before the current spike in Covid-19 cases and released last week, the IMF had raised its estimate of India`s gross domestic product (GDP) growth by 1 per cent from the January projection to the historically high rate of 12.5 per cent -- the highest in the world for large economies -- during this fiscal year. The growth was projected to moderate to 6.9 per cent next fiscal year. 
 
Otry said at a news conference that a faster vaccine rollout "will propel the economic recovery" around the region. 
 
For this strong international cooperation is needed to ensure adequate vaccine production and universal distribution at affordable prices, he said, praising India`s programmes. 
 
"In this respect, the efforts of China and India have been commendable. And we hope, both countries continue to make supplies available to other countries, while ensuring adequate supplies at home," he said. 
 
While the Covid-19 pandemic may adversely impact efforts in some areas to combat climate change, he said that India has pledged to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goals and is even likely to exceed its commitments. 
 
Otry also said that the recovery from the pandemic will be uneven across the Asia Pacific region. 
 
China`s economy is projected to grow by 8.4 per cent this year, the second-highest globally. Japan, in contrast, will have a growth rate of only 3.3 per cent. 
 
The rest of South Asia excluding India is also recovering despite the recent spike in infections because of higher than expected exports and remittances, he said. 
 
The IMF`s growth projection for the South Asia region is 11 per cent. 
 
Bangladesh is projected to grow by 5 per cent, Nepal 2.9 per cent, and Sri Lanka 4 per cent. 
 
Pakistan, which is listed by the IMF in the Middle East and Central Asia region, is projected to have a growth rate of 1.5 per cent. 
 
The two smallest South Asian countries are outliers in the growth projection for the region. 
 
The Maldives, with a population of only 531,000 and a GDP on just $5.6 billion, outperforms most countries with a growth projection of 18.9 per cent. 
 
Bhutan`s economy is, however, projected to continue shrinking, registering a negative growth rate of 1.9 per cent. (Bhutan`s population is 763,000 and GDP $2.5 billion.) 
 
Among steps to be taken to ensure a strong recovery, Otry called for actions against "zombie" companies and support for "dynamic entrants". 
 
He said "corporate debt vulnerabilities, especially among small and medium enterprises, need to be addressed". 
 
"Balance sheet repair" should be facilitated to "enable zombie firms to exit, and allow dynamic entrants to thrive", he said. 
 
"Insolvency frameworks need to be strengthened to allow non-viable firms to exit, while assuring adequate credit flow to productive firms, and facilitating fresh equity capital to help companies overcome debt overhangs and grow job opportunities," he added. 
 
Otry emphasised the role of trade in the recovery. 
 
"Easing of trade and technology tensions and facilitation of digital trade would also provide a welcome fillip to growth," he said. 
 
"To fulfil Asia`s potential for trade-led growth, restrictions that impede trade need to be reduced. These include tariffs and non-tariff barriers, such as quotas, subsidies, local content rules, and licensing requirements, where progress has stalled since the 1990s," he added.

The new wave of Covid-19 infections sweeping parts of India is "worrisome" and threatens the 12.5 per cent growth projection, an International Monetary Fund expert for the region said on Tuesday.

The new wave of Covid-19 infections sweeping parts of India is "worrisome" and threatens the 12.5 per cent growth projection, an International Monetary Fund expert for the region said on Tuesday. Jonathan Otry, the Deputy Director of the IMF`s Asia Pacific Department, said that "the current surge in infections presents a worrisome downside risk revisions" for India which "has seen a more sizeable upward revision to 12 and a half per cent on account of continued normalisation of its economy and a more growth-friendly fiscal policy". In projections made before the current spike in Covid-19 cases and released last week, the IMF had raised its estimate of India`s gross domestic product (GDP) growth by 1 per cent from the January projection to the historically high rate of 12.5 per cent -- the highest in the world for large economies -- during this fiscal year. The growth was projected to moderate to 6.9 per cent next fiscal year. Otry said at a news conference that a faster vaccine rollout "will propel the economic recovery" around the region. For this strong international cooperation is needed to ensure adequate vaccine production and universal distribution at affordable prices, he said, praising India`s programmes. "In this respect, the efforts of China and India have been commendable. And we hope, both countries continue to make supplies available to other countries, while ensuring adequate supplies at home," he said. While the Covid-19 pandemic may adversely impact efforts in some areas to combat climate change, he said that India has pledged to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goals and is even likely to exceed its commitments. Otry also said that the recovery from the pandemic will be uneven across the Asia Pacific region. China`s economy is projected to grow by 8.4 per cent this year, the second-highest globally. Japan, in contrast, will have a growth rate of only 3.3 per cent. The rest of South Asia excluding India is also recovering despite the recent spike in infections because of higher than expected exports and remittances, he said. The IMF`s growth projection for the South Asia region is 11 per cent. Bangladesh is projected to grow by 5 per cent, Nepal 2.9 per cent, and Sri Lanka 4 per cent. Pakistan, which is listed by the IMF in the Middle East and Central Asia region, is projected to have a growth rate of 1.5 per cent. The two smallest South Asian countries are outliers in the growth projection for the region. The Maldives, with a population of only 531,000 and a GDP on just $5.6 billion, outperforms most countries with a growth projection of 18.9 per cent. Bhutan`s economy is, however, projected to continue shrinking, registering a negative growth rate of 1.9 per cent. (Bhutan`s population is 763,000 and GDP $2.5 billion.) Among steps to be taken to ensure a strong recovery, Otry called for actions against "zombie" companies and support for "dynamic entrants". He said "corporate debt vulnerabilities, especially among small and medium enterprises, need to be addressed". "Balance sheet repair" should be facilitated to "enable zombie firms to exit, and allow dynamic entrants to thrive", he said. "Insolvency frameworks need to be strengthened to allow non-viable firms to exit, while assuring adequate credit flow to productive firms, and facilitating fresh equity capital to help companies overcome debt overhangs and grow job opportunities," he added. Otry emphasised the role of trade in the recovery. "Easing of trade and technology tensions and facilitation of digital trade would also provide a welcome fillip to growth," he said. "To fulfil Asia`s potential for trade-led growth, restrictions that impede trade need to be reduced. These include tariffs and non-tariff barriers, such as quotas, subsidies, local content rules, and licensing requirements, where progress has stalled since the 1990s," he added.

Covid surge in India 'worrisome', threatens growth prospects: IMF

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000. And the Brazilian variant is targetting the youth as well. There are more young people in ICUs of hospitals than old. The number of people under 40 surpassed the number of old.

Brazil was banking on Chinese vaccine Sinovac. However, a local study has found that this shot has an efficacy of just 50.7 per cent. The efficacy is barely over the threshold needed for regulatory approval by the WHO.

China, just for a short while, also admitted that its vaccines aren't good enough. The top disease control official of China Gao Fu, said current Chinese vaccines offer lower protection.

But on Monday, he walked back from this statement. And the state media went into overdrive to defend the Chinese shots. Reports say China is now considering mixing two different vaccines to boost their power.

The idea is not new. There are others who are exploring this possibility. The UK is conducting a trial to check, if one person can get two doses of different vaccines.

In France, the health regulator has already allowed mixing of vaccine shots. Those under the age of 55, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine first can take either the Pfizer or Moderna jab for their second dose.

Germany is following a similar policy. Health experts generally agree that mixing vaccines shouldn't be a problem. It's an approach that has been tried before with Influenza and ebola shots.

But scientists need more data to be sure if different Wuhan virus vaccines can indeed work together.

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000.

Brazil's healthcare system has collapsed due to coronavirus. This Sunday, Brazil recorded more than 1800 deaths. The total death toll so far is more than 353,000. And the Brazilian variant is targetting the youth as well. There are more young people in ICUs of hospitals than old. The number of people under 40 surpassed the number of old. Brazil was banking on Chinese vaccine Sinovac. However, a local study has found that this shot has an efficacy of just 50.7 per cent. The efficacy is barely over the threshold needed for regulatory approval by the WHO. China, just for a short while, also admitted that its vaccines aren't good enough. The top disease control official of China Gao Fu, said current Chinese vaccines offer lower protection. But on Monday, he walked back from this statement. And the state media went into overdrive to defend the Chinese shots. Reports say China is now considering mixing two different vaccines to boost their power. The idea is not new. There are others who are exploring this possibility. The UK is conducting a trial to check, if one person can get two doses of different vaccines. In France, the health regulator has already allowed mixing of vaccine shots. Those under the age of 55, who received the AstraZeneca vaccine first can take either the Pfizer or Moderna jab for their second dose. Germany is following a similar policy. Health experts generally agree that mixing vaccines shouldn't be a problem. It's an approach that has been tried before with Influenza and ebola shots. But scientists need more data to be sure if different Wuhan virus vaccines can indeed work together.

Brazil: Was it a mistake to rely on Chinese vaccines?

So far some 780 million vaccines have been administered globally, but measures including wearing masks and maintaining physical distancing must be applied to reverse the trajectory.

Coronavirus pandemic 'A long way from over', says WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said.

The tika utsav refers to COVID-19 vaccination drive between April 11 and 14.

The day-1 of the countrywide Tika Utsav saw many workplace vaccination centres becoming operational, it said.

As it was a Sunday, most of these were operational in the private workplaces.

"On an average, 45,000 COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs) are functional on any given day, Today, 63,800 CVCs were operational, marking a rise of an average of 18,800 operational vaccination centres.

"Additionally, on an average, Sundays usually witness lower levels of vaccination numbers (about 16 lakh). But on the first day of Tika Utsav, more than 27 lakh vaccine doses were administered till 8 pm today," the ministry said.

The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers (HCWs) getting inoculated and vaccination of frontline workers (FLWs) started from February 2.

The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from March 1 for those over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.

India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 from April 1.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,43,65,035 according to the 8 pm provisional report, the ministry said.

This has been achieved across 15,55,837 sessions, including 90,12,768 HCWs who have taken the first dose and 55,23,718 HCWs who have taken the second dose. A total of 99,94,360 FLWs have received the first dose and 47,93,536 FLWs got the second dose.

Besides, 3,19,49,793 and 6,76,609 beneficiaries, 45 to 59 years old, have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively, while 4,04,76,731 and 19,37,520 individuals above 60 years have been given the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively.

"More than 9 crore (9,14,33,652) first doses of COVID vaccine have been administered to the citizens, of which more than 4 crore (4,04,76,731) are in the above 60 years of age category," the ministry said.

A total of 27,69,888 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm on Sunday, the eighty-sixth day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of these, 25,47,691 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 2,22,197 beneficiaries received second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report, the ministry said, adding that final reports would be completed for the day by late night.

These 27,69,888 beneficiaries include 16,73,140 (who got the first dose) and 35,127 people (who got the second dose), in the 45 to 60 years old category. While 8,25,101 and 1,37,314 individuals, above 60 years, have taken the first and second doses of the vaccine, respectively.

Asserting that the tika utsav marks the beginning of another major war on COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made several suggestions to people on curbing the virus and urged them to focus on personal and social hygiene.

In a blog addressed to the people of the country, he urged them to remember four things, including "each one, vaccinate one"- helping those getting vaccinated who are less educated and elderly and who cannot go for the jab themselves, and "each one, treat one"- helping those who do not have the means or do not know about the facilities available for vaccination.

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said.

On the first day of 'Tika Utsav', more than 27 lakh COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered till Sunday evening, taking the cumulative number of doses given in the country to 10,43,65,035, the Union health ministry said. The tika utsav refers to COVID-19 vaccination drive between April 11 and 14. The day-1 of the countrywide Tika Utsav saw many workplace vaccination centres becoming operational, it said. As it was a Sunday, most of these were operational in the private workplaces. "On an average, 45,000 COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs) are functional on any given day, Today, 63,800 CVCs were operational, marking a rise of an average of 18,800 operational vaccination centres. "Additionally, on an average, Sundays usually witness lower levels of vaccination numbers (about 16 lakh). But on the first day of Tika Utsav, more than 27 lakh vaccine doses were administered till 8 pm today," the ministry said. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 with healthcare workers (HCWs) getting inoculated and vaccination of frontline workers (FLWs) started from February 2. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from March 1 for those over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 from April 1. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 10,43,65,035 according to the 8 pm provisional report, the ministry said. This has been achieved across 15,55,837 sessions, including 90,12,768 HCWs who have taken the first dose and 55,23,718 HCWs who have taken the second dose. A total of 99,94,360 FLWs have received the first dose and 47,93,536 FLWs got the second dose. Besides, 3,19,49,793 and 6,76,609 beneficiaries, 45 to 59 years old, have been administered the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively, while 4,04,76,731 and 19,37,520 individuals above 60 years have been given the 1st and 2nd dose, respectively. "More than 9 crore (9,14,33,652) first doses of COVID vaccine have been administered to the citizens, of which more than 4 crore (4,04,76,731) are in the above 60 years of age category," the ministry said. A total of 27,69,888 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm on Sunday, the eighty-sixth day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of these, 25,47,691 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 2,22,197 beneficiaries received second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report, the ministry said, adding that final reports would be completed for the day by late night. These 27,69,888 beneficiaries include 16,73,140 (who got the first dose) and 35,127 people (who got the second dose), in the 45 to 60 years old category. While 8,25,101 and 1,37,314 individuals, above 60 years, have taken the first and second doses of the vaccine, respectively. Asserting that the tika utsav marks the beginning of another major war on COVID-19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made several suggestions to people on curbing the virus and urged them to focus on personal and social hygiene. In a blog addressed to the people of the country, he urged them to remember four things, including "each one, vaccinate one"- helping those getting vaccinated who are less educated and elderly and who cannot go for the jab themselves, and "each one, treat one"- helping those who do not have the means or do not know about the facilities available for vaccination.

India: More than 2.7 million COVID vaccine doses administered on Day 1 of 'Tika Utsav'

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin&nbsp;and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine.

The approval on Monday was given by&nbsp;Subject Expert Committee. The regulator Drug Controller General of India will have to give final nod for wider use of the doses on all citizens.

Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF is behind the Sputnik V vaccine. The vaccine will be produced in India under a pact between RDIF and Indian Pharma companies like Dr Reddy's, Virchow, Stelis Biopharma and Panacea Biotec. The pacts were already in place, given that India is the hub of global manufacturing of vaccines. Around 750 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine are expected to be produced in India.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-ignore-these-new-oral-symptoms-of-covid-19-377054">Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19</a>

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was in New Delhi.

On a question about Sputnik V vaccine approval, he said,"I do not rule out that further cooperation in this area could encompass vaccine production in Russia. Specialists should discuss it and proceed on the basis of the maximum effectiveness of such cooperation."

Sputnik V is already registered in more than 59 countries. The efficacy of the two-shot vaccine is over 91.6%. According to RDIF.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-are-the-three-new-symptoms-of-covid-19-dont-take-them-lightly-375900">These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly</a>

"The cost of one dose of the vaccine for international markets is less than $10 (Sputnik V is a two-dose vaccine)."&nbsp;

The vaccine can be stored at a temperature of +2 to +8 degrees Celsius. The vaccine is named after the first Soviet space satellite.

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine.

Sputnik V, the COVID-19 vaccine from Russia, has been given 'Emergency Use Authorisation' in India by a panel of experts. It is the third vaccine Indian authorities have given approval to after Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and the University of Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield vaccine. The approval on Monday was given by Subject Expert Committee. The regulator Drug Controller General of India will have to give final nod for wider use of the doses on all citizens. Russian Direct Investment Fund or RDIF is behind the Sputnik V vaccine. The vaccine will be produced in India under a pact between RDIF and Indian Pharma companies like Dr Reddy's, Virchow, Stelis Biopharma and Panacea Biotec. The pacts were already in place, given that India is the hub of global manufacturing of vaccines. Around 750 million doses of the Sputnik V vaccine are expected to be produced in India. Also Read | Don't ignore these new oral symptoms of Covid-19 Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov was in New Delhi. On a question about Sputnik V vaccine approval, he said,"I do not rule out that further cooperation in this area could encompass vaccine production in Russia. Specialists should discuss it and proceed on the basis of the maximum effectiveness of such cooperation." Sputnik V is already registered in more than 59 countries. The efficacy of the two-shot vaccine is over 91.6%. According to RDIF. Also Read | These are the three new symptoms of COVID-19. Don't take them lightly "The cost of one dose of the vaccine for international markets is less than $10 (Sputnik V is a two-dose vaccine)." The vaccine can be stored at a temperature of +2 to +8 degrees Celsius. The vaccine is named after the first Soviet space satellite.

Russia's Sputnik V COVID vaccine gets emergency nod from expert panel in India

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown.&nbsp;

Deaths rose by 794 to a total of 168,436, health ministry data showed.&nbsp;

India’s overall case load has swelled to 13.21 million, the third-highest globally, behind the United States and Brazil. India has reported&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of cases in the world in the past week, breaching the 100,000 mark for the first time on Monday and four times after that.&nbsp;

The government blames the resurgence mainly on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks as businesses have nearly fully reopened since February, only to be partially shut again to control the current surge.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, the Indian state with the most cases, has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages, officials said. Its weekend lockdown will end on early Monday.&nbsp;

In India’s financial capital Mumbai, hundreds of poor migrant workers crammed onto trains this week to flee the city, potentially risking a wider outbreak in smaller towns and villages.&nbsp;

The railways department denied people were fleeing cities because of the surge, calling it a usual rush this time of year because of holidays and as workers move to harvest crops.&nbsp;

Many states, meanwhile, have complained of a shortage of vaccines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown.

India reported a record 145,384 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday and the highest number of deaths in more than five months, as it grapples with an overwhelming second-wave of infections that has forced the state of Maharashtra to impose a weekend lockdown. Deaths rose by 794 to a total of 168,436, health ministry data showed. India’s overall case load has swelled to 13.21 million, the third-highest globally, behind the United States and Brazil. India has reported the most number of cases in the world in the past week, breaching the 100,000 mark for the first time on Monday and four times after that. The government blames the resurgence mainly on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks as businesses have nearly fully reopened since February, only to be partially shut again to control the current surge. Maharashtra, the Indian state with the most cases, has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages, officials said. Its weekend lockdown will end on early Monday. In India’s financial capital Mumbai, hundreds of poor migrant workers crammed onto trains this week to flee the city, potentially risking a wider outbreak in smaller towns and villages. The railways department denied people were fleeing cities because of the surge, calling it a usual rush this time of year because of holidays and as workers move to harvest crops. Many states, meanwhile, have complained of a shortage of vaccines. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Covid infections hit another record, weekend lockdown in Maharashtra 

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages.

South Asia - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka - accounts for 11% of global cases and almost 6% of deaths. The region accounts for 23% of the world`s population of 7.59 billion people.

India, the country with the third-highest coronavirus total, accounts for over 84% of South Asia`s cases and deaths.

The world`s second-most populous country reported 145,384 new cases on Saturday, the fastest climb in the world and the country`s fifth record this week, as well as 794 deaths. The government blames the current spike on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks.

India is accounting for one in every six reported infections in its current surge.

While ramping up its vaccination drive, inoculating about 4 million people a day, several states said they were rationing doses as the federal government was not refilling stocks in time.

India`s western neighbour Pakistan, the second-hardest hit in the region, is in its third wave, recording more than 700,000 cases and 15,000 related deaths.

It has seen a sharp rise in cases in the past 10 days. Officials say there are now more people in intensive care than at any other point during the pandemic.

Bangladesh, India`s eastern neighbour, is reporting about 7,000 cases a day, totalling some 678,937 cases. 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given Bangladesh 1.2 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

At least 94.1 million people had received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose in southern Asia by Friday, according to figures from Our World in Data.

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages.

Coronavirus infections in the South Asia sub-region surpassed the grim milestone of 15 million on Saturday, a Reuters tally shows, led by India`s record daily infections and vaccine shortages. South Asia - India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka - accounts for 11% of global cases and almost 6% of deaths. The region accounts for 23% of the world`s population of 7.59 billion people. India, the country with the third-highest coronavirus total, accounts for over 84% of South Asia`s cases and deaths. The world`s second-most populous country reported 145,384 new cases on Saturday, the fastest climb in the world and the country`s fifth record this week, as well as 794 deaths. The government blames the current spike on crowding and a reluctance to wear masks. India is accounting for one in every six reported infections in its current surge. While ramping up its vaccination drive, inoculating about 4 million people a day, several states said they were rationing doses as the federal government was not refilling stocks in time. India`s western neighbour Pakistan, the second-hardest hit in the region, is in its third wave, recording more than 700,000 cases and 15,000 related deaths. It has seen a sharp rise in cases in the past 10 days. Officials say there are now more people in intensive care than at any other point during the pandemic. Bangladesh, India`s eastern neighbour, is reporting about 7,000 cases a day, totalling some 678,937 cases. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given Bangladesh 1.2 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. At least 94.1 million people had received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose in southern Asia by Friday, according to figures from Our World in Data.

South Asia surpasses grim milestone of 15 million COVID-19 cases: Reuters tally

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees.

The swoop in the French capital`s 19th arrondissement was the latest police action against restaurants breaking the rules to offer patrons a slice of pre-pandemic life.

Restaurants, bars and cafes have been closed for sit-down dining for months, and public frustration is growing amid a third national lockdown and another wave of coronavirus infections.

"Guests fined for failing to respect sanitary measures. Organiser and manager arrested," the city`s police force said on Twitter.

In a separate incident, dozens of diners were sanctioned for eating out at a restaurant in the Paris suburb of Saint-Ouen at Friday lunchtime.

President Emmanuel Macron`s government rejected allegations aired on the private M6 television station by a flamboyant businessman, who said earlier this week that he had hosted several illicit dinner parties attended by ministers.

The businessman, Pierre-Jean Chalencon, later retracted his remarks about the ministers` presence, but the matter has continued to hound the government.

Government spokesman Gabriel Attal told a news conference on Thursday the government had no reason to think any minister had attended an unlawful dinner party.

Chalencon was briefly detained by police for questioning on Friday, but played down the incident.

"The police are marvellous people," he told reporters. "It was nothing more than a simple questioning."

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees.

More than 110 people dining at a clandestine restaurant were fined late on Friday for violating a COVID-19 lockdown, Paris police said, days after the government denied allegations that ministers had attended similar underground soirees. The swoop in the French capital`s 19th arrondissement was the latest police action against restaurants breaking the rules to offer patrons a slice of pre-pandemic life. Restaurants, bars and cafes have been closed for sit-down dining for months, and public frustration is growing amid a third national lockdown and another wave of coronavirus infections. "Guests fined for failing to respect sanitary measures. Organiser and manager arrested," the city`s police force said on Twitter. In a separate incident, dozens of diners were sanctioned for eating out at a restaurant in the Paris suburb of Saint-Ouen at Friday lunchtime. President Emmanuel Macron`s government rejected allegations aired on the private M6 television station by a flamboyant businessman, who said earlier this week that he had hosted several illicit dinner parties attended by ministers. The businessman, Pierre-Jean Chalencon, later retracted his remarks about the ministers` presence, but the matter has continued to hound the government. Government spokesman Gabriel Attal told a news conference on Thursday the government had no reason to think any minister had attended an unlawful dinner party. Chalencon was briefly detained by police for questioning on Friday, but played down the incident. "The police are marvellous people," he told reporters. "It was nothing more than a simple questioning."

Diners at clandestine Paris soiree fined for lockdown breaches

Italy reported 344 coronavirus-related deaths on Saturday against 718 the day before, the health ministry said, while the daily tally of new infections fell to 17,567 from 18,938 the day before.

Italy has registered 113,923 deaths linked to COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second-highest toll in Europe after Britain and the seventh-highest in the world. The country has 3.75 million cases to date.

Patients in hospital with COVID-19 - not including those in intensive care - stood at 27,654 on Saturday, down from 28,146 a day earlier.

There were 186 new admissions to intensive care units, edging down from 192 on Friday. The total number of intensive care patients decreased to 3,588 from a previous 3,603.

Some 320,892 tests for COVID-19 were carried out in the past day, compared with a previous 362,973, the health ministry said.

Italy reported 344 coronavirus-related deaths on Saturday against 718 the day before, the health ministry said, while the daily tally of new infections fell to 17,567 from 18,938 the day before.

Italy reported 344 coronavirus-related deaths on Saturday against 718 the day before, the health ministry said, while the daily tally of new infections fell to 17,567 from 18,938 the day before. Italy has registered 113,923 deaths linked to COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged in February last year, the second-highest toll in Europe after Britain and the seventh-highest in the world. The country has 3.75 million cases to date. Patients in hospital with COVID-19 - not including those in intensive care - stood at 27,654 on Saturday, down from 28,146 a day earlier. There were 186 new admissions to intensive care units, edging down from 192 on Friday. The total number of intensive care patients decreased to 3,588 from a previous 3,603. Some 320,892 tests for COVID-19 were carried out in the past day, compared with a previous 362,973, the health ministry said.

Italy reports 344 coronavirus deaths on Saturday, 17,567 new cases

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark.

The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days.

A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population.

Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive.

The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too.

As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436.

Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages.

The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days.

India has become the fastest country to administer 100 million coronavirus vaccine doses as per numbers with India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. To administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses, India took just 85 days. This is a major feat as the US and China took 89 and 102 days respectively to reach the 100 million mark. The development is sure to give a further boost to India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic even as a spike in number of infections has been seen in recent days. A country of more than a billion people, India faces a big task as it vaccinates its population. Frontline workers, citizens aged 60 and above as well as those aged 45 years and above (with comorbidities) have been given preference in the initial stages of India's coronavirus vaccination drive. The need for redoubled efforts in the fight against the pandemic was felt on Saturday as more than 100 thousand new coronavirus cases were reported across India. The death toll was up too. As per the health ministry data, death toll rose by 794 to a total of 168,436. Most cases have been detected in the western state of Maharashtra. The state has already shut down restaurants, malls and places of worship and barred the movement of most people to control the outbreak that has threatened to overrun medical facilities and created vaccine shortages. The weekend lockdown will end on Monday.

India fastest to administer 100 million COVID vaccine doses

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days. This is an average number. Brazil and India are the new hotspots. Two factors are causing spike in infections. One, the virus variants. Two, massive global shortage of vaccines. China is emerging as a winner in this situation.

As the vaccine shortage makes countries desperate, they are buying China's unproven vaccines by millions. As if overnight, china has become --- the biggest producer and exporter of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Coronavirus is no longer the same. It is mutating and taking many forms. Some of these variants are more infectious. The Wuhan virus had mutated more than 12000 times by November 2020. Most of these mutations are unremarkable but some are serious. Experts are tracking four of them.

The first one is called the Brazil variant. Scientists call this 'P1' It was first identified in the Amazonian city of Manaus in December 2020. Now it's the dominant strain in brazil. There is no evidence that this variant make a patient more unwell, but it does spread faster.

On Thursday (April 8) Brazil recorded more than four thousand Wuhan virus deaths in a single day.

The next variant is the UK variant. Scientists call it "B1.1.7". It was first detected in the UK in September last year. At that time it was seen in just one out of four patients.

By December, almost two-thirds of the new cases in London were of this strain.

Countries started imposing travel bans on the UK. That did not stop the spread. Now the variant is found on all major continents. Then we have the south Africa variant.

This too, has spread to a number of countries. Experts believe vaccines are less effective against the South African strain. And fourth one is called the 'Double mutant'

This variant was found in India recently in samples from Maharastra, Delhi and Punjab. This virus is called a double mutant because the variant carries two mutations

This allows the virus to evade body's immune system. It could be resistant to antibodies.

So even those who have recovered might catch the Wuhan virus again. That could also mean weaker immunity from existing vaccines.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-serious-are-side-effects-of-covid-vaccines-376186">How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines?</a>

So there are four serious mutations of the virus. And all four types have been found in India.

Is that why the cases are shooting up? It can't be said for sure.

That's because Indian authorities are reportedly not testing enough for newer strains. According to a report India has tested less than one percent of its positive samples for variants.

In comparison, the UK Has sequenced eight percent of infections. And 33 percent in just the last week. So we simply don't know how the new strains are behaving in India.

The experts have maintained so far that the vaccine work against the new strains. But there aren't enough vaccines.

The EU decided to curb vaccine exports for six weeks.

Yesterday, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison complained about supply shortages from Europe.

In America, there is a shortage of the Johnson and Johnson shot. Several cities are bracing for a supply disruption.

Same with the UK. It has begun using the Moderna vaccine now. That's because the rollout of other shots has dropped to the lowest level this year. There's a supply crunch at Astrazeneca.

It has been caused by manufacturing problems in the company. &nbsp;

Astrazeneca had struck a deal with India's Serum Institute to make the Oxford vaccine here

So AstraZeneca was relying on the Serum Institute for supplies. Now it has sent a legal notice to its Indian partner. AstraZeneca is blaming the Serum Institute for supply delays. Also complaining of supply delay are some Indian states.

They say the Astrazeneca vaccine or Covishield is not available in enough quantities. It is one of the two vaccines approved for use in India. The govt of India has already placed a temporary hold on all exports of the vaccine. It says complaints of shortages in India are unfounded. The health minister of India shared these figures.

He says there are enough vaccines to go around in India. For the rest of the world though, the shortage is serious.

China knows that governments are desperate. They will lap up vaccines, even if the efficacy is questionable.

And that's exactly what's happening. Reports say 70 countries and territories have either approved Chinese shots or struck deals to secure them.

Beijing has even donated shots to 37 countries. China has produced 230 million doses. By March it had exported more than 100 million shots. In comparison, India has exported 63 million doses to 84 countries.

And the European Union has exported 58 million doses. What about the rest of the developed world?

They don't believe in sharing. They're busy inoculating their own citizens first.

The result is this, China with unproven shots is leading the exports of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days.

Coronavirus numbers in India and the world aren't looking good. More than 126 thousand infections have been recorded in India in last 24 hours. Worldover, more than 500 thousand people have tested positive every day in the last seven days. This is an average number. Brazil and India are the new hotspots. Two factors are causing spike in infections. One, the virus variants. Two, massive global shortage of vaccines. China is emerging as a winner in this situation. As the vaccine shortage makes countries desperate, they are buying China's unproven vaccines by millions. As if overnight, china has become --- the biggest producer and exporter of Wuhan virus vaccines. Coronavirus is no longer the same. It is mutating and taking many forms. Some of these variants are more infectious. The Wuhan virus had mutated more than 12000 times by November 2020. Most of these mutations are unremarkable but some are serious. Experts are tracking four of them. The first one is called the Brazil variant. Scientists call this 'P1' It was first identified in the Amazonian city of Manaus in December 2020. Now it's the dominant strain in brazil. There is no evidence that this variant make a patient more unwell, but it does spread faster. On Thursday (April 8) Brazil recorded more than four thousand Wuhan virus deaths in a single day. The next variant is the UK variant. Scientists call it "B1.1.7". It was first detected in the UK in September last year. At that time it was seen in just one out of four patients. By December, almost two-thirds of the new cases in London were of this strain. Countries started imposing travel bans on the UK. That did not stop the spread. Now the variant is found on all major continents. Then we have the south Africa variant. This too, has spread to a number of countries. Experts believe vaccines are less effective against the South African strain. And fourth one is called the 'Double mutant' This variant was found in India recently in samples from Maharastra, Delhi and Punjab. This virus is called a double mutant because the variant carries two mutations This allows the virus to evade body's immune system. It could be resistant to antibodies. So even those who have recovered might catch the Wuhan virus again. That could also mean weaker immunity from existing vaccines. Also Read | How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines? So there are four serious mutations of the virus. And all four types have been found in India. Is that why the cases are shooting up? It can't be said for sure. That's because Indian authorities are reportedly not testing enough for newer strains. According to a report India has tested less than one percent of its positive samples for variants. In comparison, the UK Has sequenced eight percent of infections. And 33 percent in just the last week. So we simply don't know how the new strains are behaving in India. The experts have maintained so far that the vaccine work against the new strains. But there aren't enough vaccines. The EU decided to curb vaccine exports for six weeks. Yesterday, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison complained about supply shortages from Europe. In America, there is a shortage of the Johnson and Johnson shot. Several cities are bracing for a supply disruption. Same with the UK. It has begun using the Moderna vaccine now. That's because the rollout of other shots has dropped to the lowest level this year. There's a supply crunch at Astrazeneca. It has been caused by manufacturing problems in the company. Astrazeneca had struck a deal with India's Serum Institute to make the Oxford vaccine here So AstraZeneca was relying on the Serum Institute for supplies. Now it has sent a legal notice to its Indian partner. AstraZeneca is blaming the Serum Institute for supply delays. Also complaining of supply delay are some Indian states. They say the Astrazeneca vaccine or Covishield is not available in enough quantities. It is one of the two vaccines approved for use in India. The govt of India has already placed a temporary hold on all exports of the vaccine. It says complaints of shortages in India are unfounded. The health minister of India shared these figures. He says there are enough vaccines to go around in India. For the rest of the world though, the shortage is serious. China knows that governments are desperate. They will lap up vaccines, even if the efficacy is questionable. And that's exactly what's happening. Reports say 70 countries and territories have either approved Chinese shots or struck deals to secure them. Beijing has even donated shots to 37 countries. China has produced 230 million doses. By March it had exported more than 100 million shots. In comparison, India has exported 63 million doses to 84 countries. And the European Union has exported 58 million doses. What about the rest of the developed world? They don't believe in sharing. They're busy inoculating their own citizens first. The result is this, China with unproven shots is leading the exports of Wuhan virus vaccines.

Countries buy China's unproven vaccines by millions

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they?

Do the benefits still outweigh the risks? The answer may depend on where one lives.

Multiple reports have linked AstraZeneca vaccine to blood clots. The European regulator has confirmed this. Blood clots have been listed as a rare side effect.

The EU member states are free to decide for themselves whether to continue the rollout or stop it.

The Astrazeneca vaccine is still humanity's best bet against the virus. It is cheap it is easy to store and it is easy to transport. Yes, there could be a causal link between clots and the vaccine.

But the benefits still outweigh the risks. If it's a toss-up between a blood clot and the Wuhan virus, the expert opinion is clear. The virus is much deadlier. The risk of infection is much more potent.

But it doesn't take much for the world to panic nowadays. And after last year it is difficult not to.

Vaccines are already in short supply. Some countries are yet to get shipments. A global wave of vaccine hesitancy is the last thing we need. So how do we navigate this?

The World Health Organisation has a huge role to play. The WHO says the blood clot link is plausible, but not confirmed. So there's still a question mark. An expert committee will meet next week to review the data.

If the WHO makes the right noises. There is still hope for AstraZeneca. Because right now countries are pandering to the hysteria.

Italy has limited the vaccine to people above 60 years. Britain is offering alternative jabs to below 30s. So you can get a Pfizer or Moderna shot instead of AstraZeneca in the UK.

This is the first time Britain has waivered. In Spain the jab will be available only for those aged 60o and above. But across the Atlantic, in Latin America, both, Mexico and Brazil plan to stick with the current policy.

Australia and the Philippines are also imposing limits. People below 50 cannot get the Astrazeneca jab in Australia. And in the Philippines, the limit is 60 years.

The bottom line is this, there is no universal policy on the AstraZeneca vaccine. It's every nation for itself. But what about the other vaccines in the market? Are they foolproof?

Side effects are universal, all medicines trigger unwanted reactions. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are no different.

These are the common side effects listed by the US CDC (Centre for disease control)

Tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea. Some of these cases were serious. In the US the first few weeks saw multiple cases of severe allergic reactions including Anaphylaxis.

In rare cases, this can cause your windpipe to swell up, cutting off your oxygen supply.

It's a life-threatening condition. Pfizer and Moderna are yet to be subjected to AstraZeneca's level of scrutiny. But that could change in the coming weeks. Because the US Has launched a new clinical trial.

It targets are Moderna and Pfizer. 3400 adults will be part of the trial. The results are expected at the end of summer.

But here's the catch.

America would have administered millions of doses by the time the results are out. So in effect, this is a retrospective study.

Another question is. Why is there sudden furore over side effects? They've existed as long as medicine itself. In most cases society ignores them looking at the greater good.

The most striking example is the birth control pill.

Side effects of the birth control pill include weight gain, depression, mood swings and also, blood clots.

So where is Britain's alternative for the birth control pill? Will Australia, Italy and others ban their use? It is unlikely.

The conversation around AstraZeneca must be rooted in Science. Governments must listen to scientists.

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they? Do the benefits still outweigh the risks?

The conversation around the Wuhan virus keeps evolving from masks to lockdowns to vaccines. The big debate now is about side effects. How serious are they? Do the benefits still outweigh the risks? The answer may depend on where one lives. Multiple reports have linked AstraZeneca vaccine to blood clots. The European regulator has confirmed this. Blood clots have been listed as a rare side effect. The EU member states are free to decide for themselves whether to continue the rollout or stop it. The Astrazeneca vaccine is still humanity's best bet against the virus. It is cheap it is easy to store and it is easy to transport. Yes, there could be a causal link between clots and the vaccine. But the benefits still outweigh the risks. If it's a toss-up between a blood clot and the Wuhan virus, the expert opinion is clear. The virus is much deadlier. The risk of infection is much more potent. But it doesn't take much for the world to panic nowadays. And after last year it is difficult not to. Vaccines are already in short supply. Some countries are yet to get shipments. A global wave of vaccine hesitancy is the last thing we need. So how do we navigate this? The World Health Organisation has a huge role to play. The WHO says the blood clot link is plausible, but not confirmed. So there's still a question mark. An expert committee will meet next week to review the data. If the WHO makes the right noises. There is still hope for AstraZeneca. Because right now countries are pandering to the hysteria. Italy has limited the vaccine to people above 60 years. Britain is offering alternative jabs to below 30s. So you can get a Pfizer or Moderna shot instead of AstraZeneca in the UK. This is the first time Britain has waivered. In Spain the jab will be available only for those aged 60o and above. But across the Atlantic, in Latin America, both, Mexico and Brazil plan to stick with the current policy. Australia and the Philippines are also imposing limits. People below 50 cannot get the Astrazeneca jab in Australia. And in the Philippines, the limit is 60 years. The bottom line is this, there is no universal policy on the AstraZeneca vaccine. It's every nation for itself. But what about the other vaccines in the market? Are they foolproof? Side effects are universal, all medicines trigger unwanted reactions. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are no different. These are the common side effects listed by the US CDC (Centre for disease control) Tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea. Some of these cases were serious. In the US the first few weeks saw multiple cases of severe allergic reactions including Anaphylaxis. In rare cases, this can cause your windpipe to swell up, cutting off your oxygen supply. It's a life-threatening condition. Pfizer and Moderna are yet to be subjected to AstraZeneca's level of scrutiny. But that could change in the coming weeks. Because the US Has launched a new clinical trial. It targets are Moderna and Pfizer. 3400 adults will be part of the trial. The results are expected at the end of summer. But here's the catch. America would have administered millions of doses by the time the results are out. So in effect, this is a retrospective study. Another question is. Why is there sudden furore over side effects? They've existed as long as medicine itself. In most cases society ignores them looking at the greater good. The most striking example is the birth control pill. Side effects of the birth control pill include weight gain, depression, mood swings and also, blood clots. So where is Britain's alternative for the birth control pill? Will Australia, Italy and others ban their use? It is unlikely. The conversation around AstraZeneca must be rooted in Science. Governments must listen to scientists.

How serious are side effects of COVID vaccines?

With more than 1.31 Lakh cases today, India's Wuhan virus cases touched a new daily high. While Brazil recorded more than 4,000 deaths in 24 hours.

Gravitas: India and Brazil: The new Covid Hotspots

covid

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