Experts suggest that different vaccine combinations could work together to enforce the body’s immune response to the virus, there is currently no evidence it will be as effective.

No data currently available on mixing COVID vaccines: WHO

<p>US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers.</p>

<p>According to a 12-month investigation by The Guardian and KHN, over 3,600 US health care workers perished in the first year of the pandemic.</p>

<p>The news organizations have been tracking healthcare worker COVID-19 deaths as part of their 12-month "Lost on the Frontline" project. The project, which launched in April 2020 and closes on April 8, revealed 3,607 healthcare worker deaths in the first year of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the project, more than 100 reporters examined governmental and private data sources, interviewed those who lost loved ones and spoke to healthcare experts. The 3,607 total includes deaths identified by labour unions, obituaries, media outlets and online postings by family members.</p>

<p>The yearlong series of investigative reports found that many of these deaths could have been prevented. Studies show that health care workers were more than three times as likely to contract covid as the general public.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers.

US Healthcare workers have faced a host of obstacles in the last 12 months of the pandemic. Tireless work, staying away from near ones, dire PPE shortages, limited Covid tests and sparse tracking of viral spread, all have contributed to the bad condition of the healthcare workers. According to a 12-month investigation by The Guardian and KHN, over 3,600 US health care workers perished in the first year of the pandemic. The news organizations have been tracking healthcare worker COVID-19 deaths as part of their 12-month "Lost on the Frontline" project. The project, which launched in April 2020 and closes on April 8, revealed 3,607 healthcare worker deaths in the first year of the pandemic. For the project, more than 100 reporters examined governmental and private data sources, interviewed those who lost loved ones and spoke to healthcare experts. The 3,607 total includes deaths identified by labour unions, obituaries, media outlets and online postings by family members. The yearlong series of investigative reports found that many of these deaths could have been prevented. Studies show that health care workers were more than three times as likely to contract covid as the general public. (With inputs from agencies)

One year of Covid-19 outbreak: 3,607 US healthcare workers died in the line of duty

In an open letter, 24 scientists and researchers from Europe, the United States, Australia and Japan said the study was tainted by politics.

Scientists call for new probe into virus origins

<p>Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac.</p>

<p>Earlier, Pakistan had granted the EUA to China`s two-dose Sinopharm and single-dose Convidecia vaccine developed by the Cansino Biologicals Inc.This would be the fifth coronavirus vaccine and the third Chinese vaccine to be used in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK`s AstraZeneca and Russian Sputnik V vaccines have also been approved by the DRAP. According to the report, the CoronaVac vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate was allowed by the health authorities to counter the third wave of the pandemic in Pakistan, reported Geo News. Meanwhile, two Chinese and one Russian vaccine are being used in the public and private sectors.</p>

<p>Pakistan is also expecting the AstraZeneca vaccine under the COVAX programme. Meanwhile, the third wave of coronavirus has killed 105 more people in Pakistan in the last 24 hours, taking the national death tally to 15,229.Citing National Command and Operations Centre`s (NCOC) official data, Geo News reported that about 5,312 new cases emerged in the country with the total tally now recorded at 710,829 as of today.</p>


Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac.

Pakistan approved the emergency use of the third Chinese vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate, on Thursday.Citing officials, Geo News reported that the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to another Chinese vaccine, CoronaVac. Earlier, Pakistan had granted the EUA to China`s two-dose Sinopharm and single-dose Convidecia vaccine developed by the Cansino Biologicals Inc.This would be the fifth coronavirus vaccine and the third Chinese vaccine to be used in Pakistan. UK`s AstraZeneca and Russian Sputnik V vaccines have also been approved by the DRAP. According to the report, the CoronaVac vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate was allowed by the health authorities to counter the third wave of the pandemic in Pakistan, reported Geo News. Meanwhile, two Chinese and one Russian vaccine are being used in the public and private sectors. Pakistan is also expecting the AstraZeneca vaccine under the COVAX programme. Meanwhile, the third wave of coronavirus has killed 105 more people in Pakistan in the last 24 hours, taking the national death tally to 15,229.Citing National Command and Operations Centre`s (NCOC) official data, Geo News reported that about 5,312 new cases emerged in the country with the total tally now recorded at 710,829 as of today.

Pakistan approves emergency use of third Chinese COVID vaccine, despite its low efficacy rate

AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine has been linked to rare blood clots in the brain. At least 62 such cases have been reported so far. Are vaccine side-effects normal? Should you take the AstraZeneca jab?

Gravitas: AstraZeneca and the blood clot controversy

The Wuhan virus is now targeting the youth. In Europe, Brazil and India - younger people are catching the newer variants. For some, the consequences are deadly. Can mass vaccination bring this surge under control?

Gravitas | Covid-19: The virus is now targeting the youth

India has recorded more than 1,00,000 new cases of the Wuhan virus today. The deadly second wave is sweeping through South Asia. What can the region do to curb the surge?

Gravitas: Covid-19 Pandemic: A grim milestone for India

<p>Akshay Kumar is the latest Bollywood celebrity&nbsp;to have tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Kumar, who was currently in Ayodhya<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/bollywood/news-akshay-kumar-shares-first-look-from-ram-setu-as-he-starts-shooting-for-special-film-374262"> shooting</a> for his next mega project 'RamSetu' confirmed the news and has quarantined himself.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Taking to his Twitter account, he wrote, ''I wish to inform everyone that, earlier this morning, I have tested positive for Covid-19. Following all the protocols I have immediately isolated myself. I am under home quarantine and have sought necessary medical care. I would sincerely request all those that have come in contact with me get themselves tested and take care of. Back in action soon!''.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://13.235.153.162/photos/celebrities-whove-received-the-coronavirus-vaccine-so-far-359234" hreflang="en">Celebrities who've received the coronavirus vaccine so far</a></p>

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— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshaykumar/status/1378554562638798852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 'Bell Bottom' actor has joined the long list of celebrities who have tested positive recently this month including Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and Ashish Vidyarthi tested positive.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/akshay-kumar-shares-his-first-look-from-atrangi-re-373692" hreflang="en">Akshay Kumar shares his first look from 'Atrangi Re'</a></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMizrpTHs0F/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)</a></p>
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<p>Meanwhile, Akshay’s other upcoming films include 'Sooryavanshi', 'Bell Bottom', 'Prithviraj', 'Ram Setu', 'Raksha Bandhan'.&nbsp;</p>


Akshay Kumar is the latest Bollywood celebrity to have tested positive for coronavirus. Kumar, who was currently in Ayodhya shooting for his next mega project 'RamSetu' confirmed the news and has quarantined himself.

Akshay Kumar is the latest Bollywood celebrity to have tested positive for coronavirus. Kumar, who was currently in Ayodhya shooting for his next mega project 'RamSetu' confirmed the news and has quarantined himself. Taking to his Twitter account, he wrote, ''I wish to inform everyone that, earlier this morning, I have tested positive for Covid-19. Following all the protocols I have immediately isolated myself. I am under home quarantine and have sought necessary medical care. I would sincerely request all those that have come in contact with me get themselves tested and take care of. Back in action soon!''. Celebrities who've received the coronavirus vaccine so far 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/w9Q7m54BUN — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) April 4, 2021 × The 'Bell Bottom' actor has joined the long list of celebrities who have tested positive recently this month including Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and Ashish Vidyarthi tested positive. Akshay Kumar shares his first look from 'Atrangi Re' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) × Meanwhile, Akshay’s other upcoming films include 'Sooryavanshi', 'Bell Bottom', 'Prithviraj', 'Ram Setu', 'Raksha Bandhan'.

Akshay Kumar tests positive for Covid-19, self-isolates at home

<p>Singer Mariah Carey has received her first dose of the coronavirus vaccine.</p>

<p>The multiple Grammy winner shared her video of getting vaccinated Saturday on Instagram, which shows her talking to the camera as she is "excited and nervous" to get the jab.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/celebrities-whove-received-the-coronavirus-vaccine-so-far-359234">Celebrities who've received the coronavirus vaccine so far</a></p>

<p>"Vaccine side effect: G6," she quipped in the caption - when the needle went in, she started singing a high note. In the video, Carey said the battle against the coronavirus is far from over.</p>

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<p>"Here we are, all the way from that first post washing my hands with Roc and Roe (her children) in New York, trying to encourage people to really be safe. You know, we''re still in this battle together," the 52-year-old singer said.</p>

<p>"Here we are, hoping for the best, encouraging you guys to do it when you can," she added</p>


Singer Mariah Carey has received her first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. The multiple Grammy winner shared her video of getting vaccinated Saturday on Instagram, which shows her talking to the camera as she is "excited and nervous" to get the jab.

Singer Mariah Carey has received her first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. The multiple Grammy winner shared her video of getting vaccinated Saturday on Instagram, which shows her talking to the camera as she is "excited and nervous" to get the jab. Celebrities who've received the coronavirus vaccine so far "Vaccine side effect: G6," she quipped in the caption - when the needle went in, she started singing a high note. In the video, Carey said the battle against the coronavirus is far from over. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mariah Carey (@mariahcarey) × "Here we are, all the way from that first post washing my hands with Roc and Roe (her children) in New York, trying to encourage people to really be safe. You know, we''re still in this battle together," the 52-year-old singer said. "Here we are, hoping for the best, encouraging you guys to do it when you can," she added

Mariah Carey receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine, shares video

<p>The world is struggling with another shortage - that of vaccines. Many countries still don't have the shots they need. Some of those who have it don't want to use them.</p>

<p>To add to the woes, the curbs on the AstraZeneca vaccine are back. France, Sweden, Finland, Canada and Germany want the youth to avoid the shot.</p>

<p>And the UK has found 30 blood clotting cases linked to this vaccine.</p>

<p>There is uncertainty and confusion in Germany once again. A day after the Astrazeneca shot was suspended. The people who are waiting for a jab don't know what to expect next.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Germany suspended the use of this vaccine for those below 60 over fears of a rare blood clot. It wasn't the only one to do so.</p>

<p>France, Sweden, Finland and Canada too want younger people to avoid the shot.</p>

<p>In Norway and Denmark the Astrazeneca shot still remains suspended for everyone. While, the UK has now found 30 cases of blood clot events.</p>

<p>But it still continues to use the vaccine. The head of the European medicines agency still backs the Astrazenca shot.</p>

<p>The constant back and forth over the vaccines is only hurting Europe. Despite booking millions of vials in advance. Less than 10 percent of the people in Germany, France and Italy have managed to get their first dose. In comparison, by end of March. The UK had vaccinated more than 40 percent of its citizens with at least one dose.</p>

<p>Britain at least on the vaccine front seems to be benefiting after breaking away from the union. Slow approvals have only compounded Europe's problems.</p>

<p>According to a report, the European Commission struck its first vaccine contract 105 days after Britain. It approved its first shot 19 days later.</p>

<p>The European Union has booked close to two billion doses. That's enough to cover its population more than twice. But the bloc has been slow to administer the doses.</p>

<p>After its program began in December last year.</p>

<p>It took 63 days for the EU to vaccinate five per cent of its population with a single dose. The UK covered the same distance in less than 40 days.</p>

<p>The impact of the delays is there for the world to see. A deadly third wave is now sweeping the continent. Forcing several countries to reimpose lockdowns and restrictions. The UK on the other hand has now eased some of its restrictions.</p>

<p>Now with the latest round of suspensions against the Astrazeneca shot. Europe's fight against the pandemic is about to get tougher.</p>


The world is struggling with another shortage - that of vaccines. Many countries still don't have the shots they need. Some of those who have it don't want to use them.

The world is struggling with another shortage - that of vaccines. Many countries still don't have the shots they need. Some of those who have it don't want to use them. To add to the woes, the curbs on the AstraZeneca vaccine are back. France, Sweden, Finland, Canada and Germany want the youth to avoid the shot. And the UK has found 30 blood clotting cases linked to this vaccine. There is uncertainty and confusion in Germany once again. A day after the Astrazeneca shot was suspended. The people who are waiting for a jab don't know what to expect next. Earlier this week, Germany suspended the use of this vaccine for those below 60 over fears of a rare blood clot. It wasn't the only one to do so. France, Sweden, Finland and Canada too want younger people to avoid the shot. In Norway and Denmark the Astrazeneca shot still remains suspended for everyone. While, the UK has now found 30 cases of blood clot events. But it still continues to use the vaccine. The head of the European medicines agency still backs the Astrazenca shot. The constant back and forth over the vaccines is only hurting Europe. Despite booking millions of vials in advance. Less than 10 percent of the people in Germany, France and Italy have managed to get their first dose. In comparison, by end of March. The UK had vaccinated more than 40 percent of its citizens with at least one dose. Britain at least on the vaccine front seems to be benefiting after breaking away from the union. Slow approvals have only compounded Europe's problems. According to a report, the European Commission struck its first vaccine contract 105 days after Britain. It approved its first shot 19 days later. The European Union has booked close to two billion doses. That's enough to cover its population more than twice. But the bloc has been slow to administer the doses. After its program began in December last year. It took 63 days for the EU to vaccinate five per cent of its population with a single dose. The UK covered the same distance in less than 40 days. The impact of the delays is there for the world to see. A deadly third wave is now sweeping the continent. Forcing several countries to reimpose lockdowns and restrictions. The UK on the other hand has now eased some of its restrictions. Now with the latest round of suspensions against the Astrazeneca shot. Europe's fight against the pandemic is about to get tougher.

Europe's fight against pandemic set to get tougher

India has vaccines, but does it have a fool-proof vaccine strategy? Nearly 75% of India is not eligible for vaccination. How does India plan to tide over the second wave?

Gravitas: What is India's vaccine strategy?

Can an international treaty save the world from future pandemics? Leaders from 23 countries and the WHO back the idea. But the proposal is short on details. WION's Palki asks: Will a divided global leadership agree to a new treaty?

Gravitas: Can an international treaty save the world from future pandemics?

<p>Japan's Nagano prefecture barred spectators from parts of the Olympic torch relay on Thursday to prevent large groups from gathering after its capital city raised its COVID-19 alert level following a recent rise in infections.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-hands-euro-2020-spectator-limit-responsibility-to-host-cities-374598" hreflang="en">UEFA hands Euro 2020 spectator limit responsibility to host cities</a></p>

<p>No spectators will be present when the last relay runner of the day brings in the torch and lights the Olympic cauldron in Nagano City, the prefecture said.</p>

<p>Spectators would also be barred from a section of road in Nagano City that was expected to attract large numbers of people, while the city's elderly and those with underlying conditions were urged to avoid watching from roadsides.</p>

<p>Tokyo Olympics organisers are already requiring roadside spectators to wear masks, practise social distancing and not cheer out loud to prevent the spread of the virus.</p>

<p>The additional measures underscore the lengths to which authorities are going to organise a safe torch relay and assuage public concerns, with surveys showing most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to the pandemic.</p>

<p>The relay began last week in Fukushima and is being seen as the first major test of the Games in holding a large-scale event while implementing stringent health protocols.</p>

<p>Around 10,000 runners will carry the torch through the country's 47 prefectures over 121 days.</p>

<p>Although Japan has been affected by the pandemic less severely than the United States and Europe, its vaccination campaign is off to a slow start while some prefectures are seeing an uptick in new infections.</p>

<p>Olympic organisers last month decided to bar international spectators from the Games, and this month are due to decide on the maximum capacity for spectators in venues.</p>

<p>The Olympics, postponed by a year because of the pandemic, are scheduled for July 23 to Aug. 8 and the Paralympics from Aug. 24 to Sept. 5.</p>


Japan's Nagano prefecture barred spectators from parts of the Olympic torch relay on Thursday to prevent large groups from gathering after its capital city raised its COVID-19 alert level following a recent rise in infections.

Japan's Nagano prefecture barred spectators from parts of the Olympic torch relay on Thursday to prevent large groups from gathering after its capital city raised its COVID-19 alert level following a recent rise in infections. ALSO READ: UEFA hands Euro 2020 spectator limit responsibility to host cities No spectators will be present when the last relay runner of the day brings in the torch and lights the Olympic cauldron in Nagano City, the prefecture said. Spectators would also be barred from a section of road in Nagano City that was expected to attract large numbers of people, while the city's elderly and those with underlying conditions were urged to avoid watching from roadsides. Tokyo Olympics organisers are already requiring roadside spectators to wear masks, practise social distancing and not cheer out loud to prevent the spread of the virus. The additional measures underscore the lengths to which authorities are going to organise a safe torch relay and assuage public concerns, with surveys showing most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to the pandemic. The relay began last week in Fukushima and is being seen as the first major test of the Games in holding a large-scale event while implementing stringent health protocols. Around 10,000 runners will carry the torch through the country's 47 prefectures over 121 days. Although Japan has been affected by the pandemic less severely than the United States and Europe, its vaccination campaign is off to a slow start while some prefectures are seeing an uptick in new infections. Olympic organisers last month decided to bar international spectators from the Games, and this month are due to decide on the maximum capacity for spectators in venues. The Olympics, postponed by a year because of the pandemic, are scheduled for July 23 to Aug. 8 and the Paralympics from Aug. 24 to Sept. 5.

Nagano bars fans from parts of torch relay as COVID precaution

<p><strong>India's coronavirus vaccine outreach</strong>, or Vaccine Maitri, is continuing with full gusto, with the latest entrant being Fiji, which got&nbsp;a consignment of 100,000 doses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The vaccines were handed over by India's acting high commissioner <strong>Saifullah Khan to Fiji's Prime Minister Admiral</strong> (Retd) Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama at the Nadi International Airport.&nbsp;Fiji's Health minister Ifereimi Waqainabete, Defence minister Inia Seruiratu, Permanent Secretary for Office of the Prime Minister Yogesh Karan, Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services James Fong and other top officials were also present.</p>

<p>Fiji's prime minister thanked<strong> Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi</strong>, tweeting, "Vinaka [thank you]&nbsp;to my friend, @narendramodi , for helping us take this giant step towards a post-pandemic future for Fiji and for the world."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> has arrived to Fiji with 100k doses of life-saving COVID-19 vaccines.<br />
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Vinaka to my friend, <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, for helping us take this giant step towards a post-pandemic future for Fiji and for the world. <a href="https://t.co/xlWdm04Nvs">pic.twitter.com/xlWdm04Nvs</a></p>
— Frank Bainimarama (@FijiPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/FijiPM/status/1376455082242269190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In a bleak year for multilateralism, you’ve helped put a welcome pause on the pandemic politics that’s kept valuable vaccines in the world’s largest &amp; richest countries," he added.</p>

<p>India has sent vaccines to other countries in the Pacific, including to Solomon Islands. India has also dispatched the doses to the Caribbean.</p>

<p>The Indian high commission&nbsp;said in a release: "India and Fiji share longstanding partnership based on mutual respect, cooperation and cultural ties. Fiji is an important partner for realising the Indo- Pacific vision that envisages a free, open and inclusive region in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity."</p>

<p>India began its Vaccine Maitri drive in January, with the first tranche of Indian vaccines being sent to the Maldives and Bhutan, followed by other countries in the neighbourhood. India's vaccine outreach to the world started within four days of it starting its mega domestic vaccination programme on 16th January.</p>

<p>Speaking at an event on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla said, "Since the launch of Vaccine Maitri, we have supplied 64 million doses of vaccines to 82 countries. This includes supplies under a grant, commercial contracts and the COVAX facility [the global vaccine access initiative spearheaded by World Health Organization]."</p>

<p>India's vaccine initiative is expected to get a booster shot, with Quad countries - India, US, Australia, Japan- agreeing after the first leadership summit in March that India's vaccine manufacturing capacity will be increased to produce more doses for the Indo-Pacific region.</p>


India's coronavirus vaccine outreach, or Vaccine Maitri, is continuing with full gusto, with the latest entrant being Fiji, which got a consignment of 100,000 doses.

India's coronavirus vaccine outreach, or Vaccine Maitri, is continuing with full gusto, with the latest entrant being Fiji, which got a consignment of 100,000 doses. The vaccines were handed over by India's acting high commissioner Saifullah Khan to Fiji's Prime Minister Admiral (Retd) Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama at the Nadi International Airport. Fiji's Health minister Ifereimi Waqainabete, Defence minister Inia Seruiratu, Permanent Secretary for Office of the Prime Minister Yogesh Karan, Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services James Fong and other top officials were also present. Fiji's prime minister thanked Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi, tweeting, "Vinaka [thank you] to my friend, @narendramodi , for helping us take this giant step towards a post-pandemic future for Fiji and for the world." #VaccineMaitri has arrived to Fiji with 100k doses of life-saving COVID-19 vaccines. Vinaka to my friend, @narendramodi, for helping us take this giant step towards a post-pandemic future for Fiji and for the world. pic.twitter.com/xlWdm04Nvs — Frank Bainimarama (@FijiPM) March 29, 2021 × "In a bleak year for multilateralism, you’ve helped put a welcome pause on the pandemic politics that’s kept valuable vaccines in the world’s largest & richest countries," he added. India has sent vaccines to other countries in the Pacific, including to Solomon Islands. India has also dispatched the doses to the Caribbean. The Indian high commission said in a release: "India and Fiji share longstanding partnership based on mutual respect, cooperation and cultural ties. Fiji is an important partner for realising the Indo- Pacific vision that envisages a free, open and inclusive region in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity." India began its Vaccine Maitri drive in January, with the first tranche of Indian vaccines being sent to the Maldives and Bhutan, followed by other countries in the neighbourhood. India's vaccine outreach to the world started within four days of it starting its mega domestic vaccination programme on 16th January. Speaking at an event on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla said, "Since the launch of Vaccine Maitri, we have supplied 64 million doses of vaccines to 82 countries. This includes supplies under a grant, commercial contracts and the COVAX facility [the global vaccine access initiative spearheaded by World Health Organization]." India's vaccine initiative is expected to get a booster shot, with Quad countries - India, US, Australia, Japan- agreeing after the first leadership summit in March that India's vaccine manufacturing capacity will be increased to produce more doses for the Indo-Pacific region.

India sends COVID-19 vaccines to over 80 countries, Fiji the latest entrant

The in-home vaccinations are free and are funded by the Yonkers Office for the Aging and Ro, a healthcare technology company.

Elderly in New York get vaccines at home

India on Monday witnesses decline in the rate of fresh Coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. In India, the tally climbed to 12,039,644 as the daily number of infection continued to remain above 60,000.

India witnesses dip in fresh Covid-19 cases

Bats are known to carry coronaviruses and, in fact, the closest relative of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been found in bats.

WHO-China report says animals likely source of COVID-19

<p>Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year.</p>

<p>"We are seeing a higher COVID positive rate in high-rise residential buildings than in slums...to stop the spread only essential services will be allowed (at night)," said Mumbai Mayor Kishor Pednekar, adding that hotels, pubs and shopping malls must observe the night curfew rules.</p>

<p>Residential areas with five or more reported COVID-19 cases in the city have been ordered to be sealed off.</p>

<p>India recorded 62,714 cases of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the country’s Health Ministry said on Sunday, the highest single-day tally since mid-October last year. With 312 deaths, single-day fatalities were also at their highest since Christmas, according to ministry data.</p>

<p>Several government hospitals reported they were running out of critical-care beds in Mumbai city.</p>

<p>While Maharashtra leads the surge, several other states - Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh - are also seeing a rise in cases.</p>

<p>In parts of the country, especially Delhi and Mumbai, authorities have imposed bans or restrictions on the Hindu festival of Holi and the Muslim "day of forgiveness", Shab-e-Baraat, which are both observed over this weekend.</p>

<p>Holi is usually celebrated with large gatherings in which people smear each other with colour, while Muslim men typically hold large prayer gatherings at mosques on Shab-e-Barat.</p>

<p><strong>ELECTION SEASON</strong></p>

<p>The surge in COVID-19 cases in India comes amid a vital election season, as the eastern state of West Bengal and Assam started voting for state assemblies on Saturday.</p>

<p>The elections will indicate how support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding up after a year of the pandemic and months of mass protests over farm laws his government enacted late last year.</p>

<p>The export of COVID-19 vaccines is facing sharp criticism from many Indians. India is a major producer of vaccines and has supplied 61 million doses to as many as 77 countries as part of both grants and commercial arrangements.</p>

<p>The government said last week it has decided to focus on its domestic vaccination programme and there will be no immediate expansion of vaccine exports.</p>

<p>More than 40 million people have received at least one dose so far, less than 4% of the 1.35 billion population, according to official figures.</p>

<p>"The vaccination drive has to be scaled up massively, and test and trace and isolation protocols have to be strengthened across the country," said S.K. Sinha, a Health Ministry official.</p>


Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year.

Authorities in India's western state of Maharashtra imposed night curfews on Sunday to tackle a record surge in COVID-19 cases with the financial capital Mumbai reporting 6,123 new cases, the highest single-day spike since March last year. "We are seeing a higher COVID positive rate in high-rise residential buildings than in slums...to stop the spread only essential services will be allowed (at night)," said Mumbai Mayor Kishor Pednekar, adding that hotels, pubs and shopping malls must observe the night curfew rules. Residential areas with five or more reported COVID-19 cases in the city have been ordered to be sealed off. India recorded 62,714 cases of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the country’s Health Ministry said on Sunday, the highest single-day tally since mid-October last year. With 312 deaths, single-day fatalities were also at their highest since Christmas, according to ministry data. Several government hospitals reported they were running out of critical-care beds in Mumbai city. While Maharashtra leads the surge, several other states - Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh - are also seeing a rise in cases. In parts of the country, especially Delhi and Mumbai, authorities have imposed bans or restrictions on the Hindu festival of Holi and the Muslim "day of forgiveness", Shab-e-Baraat, which are both observed over this weekend. Holi is usually celebrated with large gatherings in which people smear each other with colour, while Muslim men typically hold large prayer gatherings at mosques on Shab-e-Barat. ELECTION SEASON The surge in COVID-19 cases in India comes amid a vital election season, as the eastern state of West Bengal and Assam started voting for state assemblies on Saturday. The elections will indicate how support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is holding up after a year of the pandemic and months of mass protests over farm laws his government enacted late last year. The export of COVID-19 vaccines is facing sharp criticism from many Indians. India is a major producer of vaccines and has supplied 61 million doses to as many as 77 countries as part of both grants and commercial arrangements. The government said last week it has decided to focus on its domestic vaccination programme and there will be no immediate expansion of vaccine exports. More than 40 million people have received at least one dose so far, less than 4% of the 1.35 billion population, according to official figures. "The vaccination drive has to be scaled up massively, and test and trace and isolation protocols have to be strengthened across the country," said S.K. Sinha, a Health Ministry official.

Maharashtra imposes night curfew after record COVID spike

<p>The fear of COVID in itself is enough for people to move well beyond the minimum required social distance. The once-in-a-generation pandemic has had the world in its clutches for more than a year now. There are now vaccines available ofcourse. But the scare remains.</p>

<p>But what if we told that there is a microbe that is invisible to our immune system? In theory, if these microbes entered our body, the immune system will not be able to mount a defence.</p>

<p>Scared yet?</p>

<p>Researchers associated with Harvard Medical School and other institutions have collected sea microbes that exhibit 'immunosilence'. The findings have challenged the notion in Immunovbiology that human immune system has evolved to detect every micro-organism with a view to protect us.</p>

<p>The microbes were collected from a mile below the surface of the Pacific Ocean. For this, the scientists chose a spot in central Pacific Ocean in Phoenix Islands in Kiribati, 1650 miles (2655 kilometers) from Hawaii. One of the authors of the study has been quoted in media as saying that it was "most deep, ancient, remote, and protected part" of the ocean.</p>

<p>The researchers collected the bacteria and added human and mouse immune cells to the culture. It was found that 80 per cent of the microbes (prominently Moritella) escaped detection.</p>

<p>This has led scientists involved in the study to exclaim that immune system may be "locally defined" by pathogens in the local environment.</p>

<p>In spite of the spooky findings of the bacteria being invisible to human immune system, those observed in the study don't pose risk of infecting people, said the scientists.</p>

<p>They have published their findings in the journal Science Immunology.</p>


The fear of COVID in itself is enough for people to move well beyond the minimum required social distance. The once-in-a-generation pandemic has had the world in its clutches for more than a year now.

The fear of COVID in itself is enough for people to move well beyond the minimum required social distance. The once-in-a-generation pandemic has had the world in its clutches for more than a year now. There are now vaccines available ofcourse. But the scare remains. But what if we told that there is a microbe that is invisible to our immune system? In theory, if these microbes entered our body, the immune system will not be able to mount a defence. Scared yet? Researchers associated with Harvard Medical School and other institutions have collected sea microbes that exhibit 'immunosilence'. The findings have challenged the notion in Immunovbiology that human immune system has evolved to detect every micro-organism with a view to protect us. The microbes were collected from a mile below the surface of the Pacific Ocean. For this, the scientists chose a spot in central Pacific Ocean in Phoenix Islands in Kiribati, 1650 miles (2655 kilometers) from Hawaii. One of the authors of the study has been quoted in media as saying that it was "most deep, ancient, remote, and protected part" of the ocean. The researchers collected the bacteria and added human and mouse immune cells to the culture. It was found that 80 per cent of the microbes (prominently Moritella) escaped detection. This has led scientists involved in the study to exclaim that immune system may be "locally defined" by pathogens in the local environment. In spite of the spooky findings of the bacteria being invisible to human immune system, those observed in the study don't pose risk of infecting people, said the scientists. They have published their findings in the journal Science Immunology.

You think COVID virus is bad? There's a sea microbe that's invisible to our immune system

<p>European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled.</p>

<p>"I think it is clear that first of all the company has to catch up, has to honour the contract it has with the European member states, before it can engage again in exporting vaccines," she told a news conference after an EU summit dominated by the bloc's struggling vaccination rollout.</p>

<p>These blunt words also threaten to deepen row with Britain as it is trying to secure AstraZeneca shipments from EU. This is being done to fill an abrupt hole in the supplies.</p>

<p>Brussels and London have both laid claim to vaccine stocks in an AstraZeneca factory in the Netherlands.</p>

<p>European Commission's stance of toughening rules on vaccine exports has not been received well in the UK but a joint statement by Britain and the EU said that both sides are looking to find a "win-win" solution.</p>

<p><strong>(With AFP inputs)</strong></p>


European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled.

European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday that AstraZeneca needed to "catch up" on its COVID vaccine deliveries and could not export the vaccines out of the EU until the commitments are fulfilled. "I think it is clear that first of all the company has to catch up, has to honour the contract it has with the European member states, before it can engage again in exporting vaccines," she told a news conference after an EU summit dominated by the bloc's struggling vaccination rollout. These blunt words also threaten to deepen row with Britain as it is trying to secure AstraZeneca shipments from EU. This is being done to fill an abrupt hole in the supplies. Brussels and London have both laid claim to vaccine stocks in an AstraZeneca factory in the Netherlands. European Commission's stance of toughening rules on vaccine exports has not been received well in the UK but a joint statement by Britain and the EU said that both sides are looking to find a "win-win" solution. (With AFP inputs)

EU asks AstraZeneca to 'catch up' on COVID vaccine deliveries

<p>France's Health Minister Olivier Veran on Thursday announced ban on outdoor gatherings of more than six people. He said that 45,000 new coronavirus cases were detected in previous 24 hours.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, 3 additional French regions including the Rhone department around Lyon will be put under tightened COVID-19 restrictions for four weeks from Friday (March 26). This follows after similar measure in Paris region a week earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Veran said that pressure on the hospital system will continue to increase in coming days.</p>

<p>New restrictions come on top of nationwide curbs. A nightly curfew is in place and restaurants, bars, museums and cinemas are closed across the country.</p>

<p><strong>(With Reuters inputs)</strong></p>


France's Health Minister Olivier Veran on Thursday announced ban on outdoor gatherings of more than six people. He said that 45,000 new coronavirus cases were detected in previous 24 hours.

France's Health Minister Olivier Veran on Thursday announced ban on outdoor gatherings of more than six people. He said that 45,000 new coronavirus cases were detected in previous 24 hours. Meanwhile, 3 additional French regions including the Rhone department around Lyon will be put under tightened COVID-19 restrictions for four weeks from Friday (March 26). This follows after similar measure in Paris region a week earlier. Veran said that pressure on the hospital system will continue to increase in coming days. New restrictions come on top of nationwide curbs. A nightly curfew is in place and restaurants, bars, museums and cinemas are closed across the country. (With Reuters inputs)

France bans outdoor gatherings of more than six people as COVID-19 cases rise

<p>American pharmaceutical company Pfizer&nbsp;said it has begun human safety testing of a new pill to treat the coronavirus that could be used at the first sign of illness.</p>

<p>“Tackling the COVID-19 pandemic requires both prevention via vaccine and targeted treatment for those who contract the virus. Given the way that SARS-CoV-2 is mutating and the continued global impact of COVID-19, it appears likely that it will be critical to have access to therapeutic options both now and beyond the pandemic,"said Mikael Dolsten, Pfizer’s Chief Scientific Officer, in a statement.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-says-covid-vaccine-76-effective-in-updated-us-trial-data-372964"><strong>Also read: AstraZeneca says Covid vaccine 76% effective in updated US trial data</strong></a><br />
<br />
The oral antiviral clinical candidate "PF-07321332", a SARS-CoV2-3CL protease inhibitor, has demonstrated potent in vitro anti-viral activity against SARS-CoV-2, as well as activity against other coronaviruses, the company said in statement.</p>

<p>This Phase 1 trial is being conducted in the United States.</p>

<p>The Phase 1 trial is a randomised, double-blind, sponsor-open, placebo-controlled, single and multiple dose-escalation study in healthy adults evaluating the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of PF-07321332.</p>

<p>The initiation of this study is supported by preclinical studies that demonstrated the antiviral activity of this potential first-in-class SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic designed specifically to inhibit replication of the SARS-CoV2 virus.</p>

<p>The structure of PF-07321332, together with the pre-clinical data, will be shared in a COVID-19 session of the Spring American Chemical Society meeting on April 6.</p>

<p>Pfizer, in collaboration with German company BioNTech, was the first pharmaceutical company to receive emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, the only FDA-approved antiviral treatment for COVID-19 is Gilead’s Remdesivir.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


American pharmaceutical company Pfizer said it has begun human safety testing of a new pill to treat the coronavirus that could be used at the first sign of illness.

American pharmaceutical company Pfizer said it has begun human safety testing of a new pill to treat the coronavirus that could be used at the first sign of illness. “Tackling the COVID-19 pandemic requires both prevention via vaccine and targeted treatment for those who contract the virus. Given the way that SARS-CoV-2 is mutating and the continued global impact of COVID-19, it appears likely that it will be critical to have access to therapeutic options both now and beyond the pandemic,"said Mikael Dolsten, Pfizer’s Chief Scientific Officer, in a statement. Also read: AstraZeneca says Covid vaccine 76% effective in updated US trial data The oral antiviral clinical candidate "PF-07321332", a SARS-CoV2-3CL protease inhibitor, has demonstrated potent in vitro anti-viral activity against SARS-CoV-2, as well as activity against other coronaviruses, the company said in statement. This Phase 1 trial is being conducted in the United States. The Phase 1 trial is a randomised, double-blind, sponsor-open, placebo-controlled, single and multiple dose-escalation study in healthy adults evaluating the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of PF-07321332. The initiation of this study is supported by preclinical studies that demonstrated the antiviral activity of this potential first-in-class SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic designed specifically to inhibit replication of the SARS-CoV2 virus. The structure of PF-07321332, together with the pre-clinical data, will be shared in a COVID-19 session of the Spring American Chemical Society meeting on April 6. Pfizer, in collaboration with German company BioNTech, was the first pharmaceutical company to receive emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a COVID-19 vaccine. Currently, the only FDA-approved antiviral treatment for COVID-19 is Gilead’s Remdesivir. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, a pill to treat coronavirus; Pfizer begins human trials

<p>Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government instead asked people to stay home over the holiday and Chancellor Angela Merkel issued a mea culpa after reversing the measures.</p>

<p>"This mistake is mine alone," Merkel said. "The whole process has caused additional uncertainty, for which I ask all citizens to forgive me."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the European Union said it was going to tighten vaccine export controls in a bid to give boost to its stuttering.</p>

<p><strong>'Big lesson in humility'</strong></p>

<p>Elsewhere on the continent, Belgium said it would bring in a new partial lockdown for four weeks, closing schools and limiting access to non-essential shops as it sought to quell a third wave.</p>

<p>The pandemic "is a big lesson in humility for politicians, for everyone," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said in announcing the measures.<br />
Poland meanwhile recorded its highest daily infections with nearly 30,000 new cases, while the Netherlands extended coronavirus restrictions until April 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And Norway said it would roll out new restrictions this week, including banning alcohol sales at bars and restaurants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vaccines are seen as the way out of the pandemic that has now killed more than 2.7 million people around the world and plunged the global economy into a recession not seen in decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>(With AFP inputs)</strong></p>


Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan.

Germany on Wednesday backtracked on its plan to impose strict Easter weekend shutdown after opposition from the public. Germany on Wednesday said it would scrap plans to close most shops in the country over Easter from April 1 to 5 after facing stinging criticism of the plan. The government instead asked people to stay home over the holiday and Chancellor Angela Merkel issued a mea culpa after reversing the measures. "This mistake is mine alone," Merkel said. "The whole process has caused additional uncertainty, for which I ask all citizens to forgive me." Meanwhile, the European Union said it was going to tighten vaccine export controls in a bid to give boost to its stuttering. 'Big lesson in humility' Elsewhere on the continent, Belgium said it would bring in a new partial lockdown for four weeks, closing schools and limiting access to non-essential shops as it sought to quell a third wave. The pandemic "is a big lesson in humility for politicians, for everyone," Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said in announcing the measures. Poland meanwhile recorded its highest daily infections with nearly 30,000 new cases, while the Netherlands extended coronavirus restrictions until April 20. And Norway said it would roll out new restrictions this week, including banning alcohol sales at bars and restaurants. Vaccines are seen as the way out of the pandemic that has now killed more than 2.7 million people around the world and plunged the global economy into a recession not seen in decades. (With AFP inputs)

Germany backtracks on Easter shutdown plans

<p>Syria's Health Minister Hasan al-Ghabbash told reporters on Wednesday that the country would send Oxygen to Lebanon to aid it in its fight with COVID. The first installment of the supply was handed over to Lebanese Health Minister Hamad Hasan.</p>

<p>"We will supply Lebanon with 75 tonnes of oxygen in installments of 25 tonnes a day for a period of three days," Health Minister Hasan al-Ghabbash told reporters after a meeting with his &nbsp;Lebanese counterpart.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shipment will be delivered "immediately" and will not strain Syria's supplies, Ghabbash said.</p>

<p>For his part, Hasan said his ministry requested aid to save hundreds of Lebanese lives threatened by an oxygen shortage.</p>

<p>"We have around 1,000 patients on breathing aid in Lebanon's emergency rooms" and oxygen supplies "that honestly are only enough to last for today", he said.<br />
Lebanon was expecting to receive new oxygen shipments from abroad but stormy weather conditions has delayed arrivals, Hamad said.</p>

<p>"In spite of high need and rising demand for oxygen in Syria, authorities granted us our request," he added, praising Damascus for its swift assistance.</p>

<p>Official dealings between Syria and Lebanon have been limited since start of the Syrian conflict.</p>

<p>Lebanon is grappling with a coronavirus outbreak that compounded its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war.</p>

<p>The country of more than six million has recorded a total of 444,865 Covid-19 cases, including 5,858 deaths since last year.</p>

<p>Syria has recorded 17,743 cases, among them 1,183 deaths, in government-held areas.</p>

<p><strong>(With AFP inputs)</strong></p>


Syria's Health Minister Hasan al-Ghabbash told reporters on Wednesday that the country would send Oxygen to Lebanon to aid it in its fight with COVID. The first installment of the supply was handed over to Lebanese Health Minister Hamad Hasan.

Syria's Health Minister Hasan al-Ghabbash told reporters on Wednesday that the country would send Oxygen to Lebanon to aid it in its fight with COVID. The first installment of the supply was handed over to Lebanese Health Minister Hamad Hasan. "We will supply Lebanon with 75 tonnes of oxygen in installments of 25 tonnes a day for a period of three days," Health Minister Hasan al-Ghabbash told reporters after a meeting with his Lebanese counterpart. The shipment will be delivered "immediately" and will not strain Syria's supplies, Ghabbash said. For his part, Hasan said his ministry requested aid to save hundreds of Lebanese lives threatened by an oxygen shortage. "We have around 1,000 patients on breathing aid in Lebanon's emergency rooms" and oxygen supplies "that honestly are only enough to last for today", he said. Lebanon was expecting to receive new oxygen shipments from abroad but stormy weather conditions has delayed arrivals, Hamad said. "In spite of high need and rising demand for oxygen in Syria, authorities granted us our request," he added, praising Damascus for its swift assistance. Official dealings between Syria and Lebanon have been limited since start of the Syrian conflict. Lebanon is grappling with a coronavirus outbreak that compounded its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war. The country of more than six million has recorded a total of 444,865 Covid-19 cases, including 5,858 deaths since last year. Syria has recorded 17,743 cases, among them 1,183 deaths, in government-held areas. (With AFP inputs)

Syria sends Oxygen to Lebanon to fight COVID

The novel Coronavirus is still prevailing in Europe. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has extended the nationwide lockdown till 18th April in view of the radical increase in covid cases.

Germany extends lockdown measures till 18 April

<p>World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries. It called it a "moral outrage" and said it was grotesque.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The WHO tore into wealthy nations now vaccinating younger people at low risk of developing Covid-19, saying they were doing so at the cost of vulnerable people's lives in low-income countries.</p>

<p>WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it was "shocking" how little had been done to avert an entirely predictable "catastrophic moral failure" to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines.</p>

<p>"The gap between the number of vaccines administered in rich countries, and the number of vaccines administered through Covax is growing every single day, and becoming more grotesque every day," he said, referring to the facility that ensures poorer countries can access Covid-19 vaccines.</p>

<p>"Countries that are now vaccinating younger, healthy people at low risk of disease are doing so at the cost of the lives of health workers, older people and other at-risk groups in other countries," Tedros told a press conference.</p>

<p>"The inequitable distribution of vaccines is not just a moral outrage. It's also economically and epidemiologically self-defeating.</p>

<p>"Some countries are racing to vaccinate their entire populations while other countries have nothing."</p>

<p>Tedros said rich countries might be buying some short-term comfort but added that they may be giving themselves a false sense of security.</p>

<p>He said that more the virus spreads more is the likelihood of new variants emerging.</p>

<p>"As long as the virus continues to circulate anywhere, people will continue to die, trade and travel will continue to be disrupted, and the economic recovery will be further delayed," he said.</p>

<p>The Covax global vaccine-sharing facility has so far distributed more than 31 million doses to 57 countries.</p>


World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries.

World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday lashed out and expressed serious displeasure at the growing gap in the number of COVID vaccines administered in rich and poor countries. It called it a "moral outrage" and said it was grotesque. The WHO tore into wealthy nations now vaccinating younger people at low risk of developing Covid-19, saying they were doing so at the cost of vulnerable people's lives in low-income countries. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it was "shocking" how little had been done to avert an entirely predictable "catastrophic moral failure" to ensure the equitable distribution of vaccines. "The gap between the number of vaccines administered in rich countries, and the number of vaccines administered through Covax is growing every single day, and becoming more grotesque every day," he said, referring to the facility that ensures poorer countries can access Covid-19 vaccines. "Countries that are now vaccinating younger, healthy people at low risk of disease are doing so at the cost of the lives of health workers, older people and other at-risk groups in other countries," Tedros told a press conference. "The inequitable distribution of vaccines is not just a moral outrage. It's also economically and epidemiologically self-defeating. "Some countries are racing to vaccinate their entire populations while other countries have nothing." Tedros said rich countries might be buying some short-term comfort but added that they may be giving themselves a false sense of security. He said that more the virus spreads more is the likelihood of new variants emerging. "As long as the virus continues to circulate anywhere, people will continue to die, trade and travel will continue to be disrupted, and the economic recovery will be further delayed," he said. The Covax global vaccine-sharing facility has so far distributed more than 31 million doses to 57 countries.

WHO lashes out at unequal vaccine distribution

<p>Imran Khan getting infected with coronavirus is likely to have negative impact on Pakistan's already struggling vaccination drive. For months, Pakistan struggled to source vaccines for its<br />
citizens. Now when it finally has vaccine doses, the prime minister himself been tested positive just 2 days after getting a jab.</p>

<p>There are concerns this could lead to greater vaccine hesitancy in the country.</p>

<p>Imran Khan and his wife Bushra bibi have tested positive and are currently self-isolating. Indian PM has wished a speedy recovery to Imran khan. But what's making headlines is the fact that Imran khan got infected just two days after receiving his first vaccine shot. The jab was of the 'Made-in-China' Sinopharm vaccine which in January this year, was called one of the most unsafe vaccines with 73 side effects, by a Chinese doctor,</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Pakistan has received two batches of Sinopharm. The first shipment of 500,000 doses arrived in February. The second shipment of another half a million doses reached last week. Islamabad is also in talks with another Chinese company CanSino biologics to vaccinate its population of 220 million but the question is, how many in Pakistan will be willing to take the shot?</p>

<p>This, especially after knowing how ineffective Chinese vaccines could be. Asad Umar, the minister-in-charge of Pakistan's Covid-19 operation says Imran Khan had been infected prior to his vaccination and that the symptoms take a few days before manifesting.</p>

<p>The claims may be scientifically justified but in a country where polio still remains an endemic due to widespread conspiracies against inoculation, it might get slightly tough to convince the people.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, an Ipsos poll conducted on vaccine hesitancy in Pakistan showed that 2 in 5 Pakistanis are against taking the COVID-19 vaccine.</p>

<p>8 in 10 were completely oblivious of any vaccine names.</p>

<p>9 in 10 expected to be vaccinated free of cost.</p>

<p>43% expected to be vaccinated at home.</p>

<p>23% were worried about the side-effects...</p>

<p>And then there are people who think a vaccine is a tool of warfare.</p>

<p>https://twitter.Com/aasimzkhan/status/1351068270472916992</p>

<p>The news of Imran Khan testing positive is only adding fuel to such wild theories. The Pakistan government is caught on a sticky-wicket once again.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Imran Khan getting infected with coronavirus is likely to have negative impact on Pakistan's already struggling vaccination drive. For months, Pakistan struggled to source vaccines for its citizens.

Imran Khan getting infected with coronavirus is likely to have negative impact on Pakistan's already struggling vaccination drive. For months, Pakistan struggled to source vaccines for its citizens. Now when it finally has vaccine doses, the prime minister himself been tested positive just 2 days after getting a jab. There are concerns this could lead to greater vaccine hesitancy in the country. Imran Khan and his wife Bushra bibi have tested positive and are currently self-isolating. Indian PM has wished a speedy recovery to Imran khan. But what's making headlines is the fact that Imran khan got infected just two days after receiving his first vaccine shot. The jab was of the 'Made-in-China' Sinopharm vaccine which in January this year, was called one of the most unsafe vaccines with 73 side effects, by a Chinese doctor, Nonetheless, Pakistan has received two batches of Sinopharm. The first shipment of 500,000 doses arrived in February. The second shipment of another half a million doses reached last week. Islamabad is also in talks with another Chinese company CanSino biologics to vaccinate its population of 220 million but the question is, how many in Pakistan will be willing to take the shot? This, especially after knowing how ineffective Chinese vaccines could be. Asad Umar, the minister-in-charge of Pakistan's Covid-19 operation says Imran Khan had been infected prior to his vaccination and that the symptoms take a few days before manifesting. The claims may be scientifically justified but in a country where polio still remains an endemic due to widespread conspiracies against inoculation, it might get slightly tough to convince the people. Earlier this month, an Ipsos poll conducted on vaccine hesitancy in Pakistan showed that 2 in 5 Pakistanis are against taking the COVID-19 vaccine. 8 in 10 were completely oblivious of any vaccine names. 9 in 10 expected to be vaccinated free of cost. 43% expected to be vaccinated at home. 23% were worried about the side-effects... And then there are people who think a vaccine is a tool of warfare. https://twitter.Com/aasimzkhan/status/1351068270472916992 The news of Imran Khan testing positive is only adding fuel to such wild theories. The Pakistan government is caught on a sticky-wicket once again.

Imran Khan's COVID infection may have negative impact on vaccination drive

<p>Thousands of Italian parents, children and teachers protested in squares up and down the country on Sunday against what they call the unnecessary closure of schools to try to curb Covid-19 infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protests, the first of any significance against Mario Draghi's national unity government that took office last month, were held in more than 35 squares nationwide including Rome's Piazza del Popolo and Milan's central Piazza Duomo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Demonstrators in Rome wore dunce's caps to indicate the impact of the closures on students' education, while in Milan pupils' messages and placards were propped against their school rucksacks placed on the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Numbers at each venue were limited due to coronavirus restrictions on gatherings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Open schools, whatever it takes," read one placard held aloft by a child in Rome, in reference to Draghi's famous promise to save the euro when he was European Central Bank chief in 2012.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most Italian schools for all ages have been closed since March 15, when Draghi ramped up efforts to control the virus, with students attending lessons online from home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are asking for one thing: that our schools be given the status of essential public services and immediately reopened," the Rome arm of the 'Open Schools' national network that organised the demonstrations said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Italy's outbreak began 13 months ago, schools have closed and re-opened at various times depending on age groups and local infection levels, but overall there has been less face-to-face schooling than in most other European countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest closures were the last straw for millions of parents forced to work from home or pay for child care.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government says the closures are needed due to rising infection rates, and particularly, the increasing prevalence of the variant first discovered in the UK, in which contagion is high among younger age groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Draghi promised on Friday that schools would be the first thing to reopen when current Covid restrictions are eased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


Thousands of Italian parents, children and teachers protested in squares up and down the country on Sunday against what they call the unnecessary closure of schools to try to curb Covid-19 infections.

Thousands of Italian parents, children and teachers protested in squares up and down the country on Sunday against what they call the unnecessary closure of schools to try to curb Covid-19 infections. The protests, the first of any significance against Mario Draghi's national unity government that took office last month, were held in more than 35 squares nationwide including Rome's Piazza del Popolo and Milan's central Piazza Duomo. Demonstrators in Rome wore dunce's caps to indicate the impact of the closures on students' education, while in Milan pupils' messages and placards were propped against their school rucksacks placed on the ground. Numbers at each venue were limited due to coronavirus restrictions on gatherings. "Open schools, whatever it takes," read one placard held aloft by a child in Rome, in reference to Draghi's famous promise to save the euro when he was European Central Bank chief in 2012. Most Italian schools for all ages have been closed since March 15, when Draghi ramped up efforts to control the virus, with students attending lessons online from home. "We are asking for one thing: that our schools be given the status of essential public services and immediately reopened," the Rome arm of the 'Open Schools' national network that organised the demonstrations said in a statement. Since Italy's outbreak began 13 months ago, schools have closed and re-opened at various times depending on age groups and local infection levels, but overall there has been less face-to-face schooling than in most other European countries. The latest closures were the last straw for millions of parents forced to work from home or pay for child care. The government says the closures are needed due to rising infection rates, and particularly, the increasing prevalence of the variant first discovered in the UK, in which contagion is high among younger age groups. Draghi promised on Friday that schools would be the first thing to reopen when current Covid restrictions are eased. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian parents, children protest against Covid school closures 

<p>Pope Francis urged people to fight organised crime such as the "mafias" on Sunday. He warned that criminals were using coronavirus pandemic for their own benefit.</p>

<p>"Mafias are present in various part of the world and, taking advantage of the pandemic, they are enriching themselves through corruption," Francis said, speaking at his Sunday noon address on the day Italy remembers victims of organised crime.</p>

<p>"These structures of sin, mafia structures, are against the gospel and mistake idolatry for faith," the pope added.</p>

<p>Italian police say that crime clans are using coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to win favour with people. Mafias are offering loans and food to poor families facing financial ruin. Mob loan demanding exorbitant interest rates are bailing out businesses hit by the pandemic, police say.</p>

<p>In December, the Paris-based Interpol police co-ordination issued a global alert warning that organised criminal networks were targeting COVID-19 vaccines. In March, South African police seized hundreds of fake vaccines and arrested four suspects.</p>

<p>In Italy, many members of organised crime see themselves as part of a religious, cult-like group, invoking the help of saints and using religious figurines or statues in initiation rites.</p>

<p>The southern town of Oppido Mamertina made headlines in 2014 when locals carrying a statue of the Madonna diverted the route of a procession to pause at the home of a mob boss and tilted the statue slightly as if to kneel in a sign of respect.</p>

<p>"Today, let us remember all the victims and renew our commitment against mafias," Francis said.</p>

<p><strong>(With Reuters inputs)</strong></p>


Pope Francis urged people to fight organised crime such as the "mafias" on Sunday. He warned that criminals were using coronavirus pandemic for their own benefit.

Pope Francis urged people to fight organised crime such as the "mafias" on Sunday. He warned that criminals were using coronavirus pandemic for their own benefit. "Mafias are present in various part of the world and, taking advantage of the pandemic, they are enriching themselves through corruption," Francis said, speaking at his Sunday noon address on the day Italy remembers victims of organised crime. "These structures of sin, mafia structures, are against the gospel and mistake idolatry for faith," the pope added. Italian police say that crime clans are using coronavirus pandemic as an opportunity to win favour with people. Mafias are offering loans and food to poor families facing financial ruin. Mob loan demanding exorbitant interest rates are bailing out businesses hit by the pandemic, police say. In December, the Paris-based Interpol police co-ordination issued a global alert warning that organised criminal networks were targeting COVID-19 vaccines. In March, South African police seized hundreds of fake vaccines and arrested four suspects. In Italy, many members of organised crime see themselves as part of a religious, cult-like group, invoking the help of saints and using religious figurines or statues in initiation rites. The southern town of Oppido Mamertina made headlines in 2014 when locals carrying a statue of the Madonna diverted the route of a procession to pause at the home of a mob boss and tilted the statue slightly as if to kneel in a sign of respect. "Today, let us remember all the victims and renew our commitment against mafias," Francis said. (With Reuters inputs)

Pope Francis vs Mafia? Holy Father urges people to fight organised crime

<p>Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra got his first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday. The superstar shared the news on his Twitter account.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The 85-year-old actor tweeted a video in which he can be seen taking a vaccine shot. ''Tweet karte karte... josh aa gaya... aur main nikal gaya... vaccination lene... it's definitely not a show off... but to inspire you all... Friends, please take care," Dharmendra tweeted along with the video.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tweet karte karte.... josh aa gaya ...aur main nikal gaya....vaccination lene .... it’s definitely not a show off...but to inspire you all..... Friends, please take care 👋 <a href="https://t.co/gp4lQAZr1l">pic.twitter.com/gp4lQAZr1l</a></p>
— Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) <a href="https://twitter.com/aapkadharam/status/1372903958499368967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Few hours before he took the shot, the star took to his Twitter account and shared his black and white photo and urged everyone to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. ''Mask laga kar baith..... tere tarboz koi nahin kharede ga.......lock down ko lock karna hai ..... to do gaz ki doori aur mask zarori'' he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Mask laga kar baith..... tere tarboz koi nahin kharede ga.......lock down ko lock karna hai ..... to do gaz ki doori aur mask zarori 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/UlDcOyEuyc">pic.twitter.com/UlDcOyEuyc</a></p>
— Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) <a href="https://twitter.com/aapkadharam/status/1372872012104757254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dharmendra joins a list of Indian celebrities who have received the COVID-19 vaccine before, including veterans like Kamal Haasan, Hema Malini, Mohanlal, Paresh Rawal, Satish Shah, Jeetendra, Kamal Haasan, Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, and comedian Johnny Lever and south star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/nagarjuna-gets-first-jab-of-covid-19-vaccine-urges-fans-to-get-vaccinated-371094">Nagarjuna.</a><br />
&nbsp;<br />
On the work front, he will be next seen in 'Apne 2', which also stars Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Karan Deol.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra got his first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday. The superstar shared the news on his Twitter account. The 85-year-old actor tweeted a video in which he can be seen taking a vaccine shot.

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra got his first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday. The superstar shared the news on his Twitter account. The 85-year-old actor tweeted a video in which he can be seen taking a vaccine shot. ''Tweet karte karte... josh aa gaya... aur main nikal gaya... vaccination lene... it's definitely not a show off... but to inspire you all... Friends, please take care," Dharmendra tweeted along with the video. Tweet karte karte.... josh aa gaya ...aur main nikal gaya....vaccination lene .... it’s definitely not a show off...but to inspire you all..... Friends, please take care 👋 pic.twitter.com/gp4lQAZr1l — Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) March 19, 2021 × Few hours before he took the shot, the star took to his Twitter account and shared his black and white photo and urged everyone to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. ''Mask laga kar baith..... tere tarboz koi nahin kharede ga.......lock down ko lock karna hai ..... to do gaz ki doori aur mask zarori'' he wrote. Mask laga kar baith..... tere tarboz koi nahin kharede ga.......lock down ko lock karna hai ..... to do gaz ki doori aur mask zarori 🙏 pic.twitter.com/UlDcOyEuyc — Dharmendra Deol (@aapkadharam) March 19, 2021 × Dharmendra joins a list of Indian celebrities who have received the COVID-19 vaccine before, including veterans like Kamal Haasan, Hema Malini, Mohanlal, Paresh Rawal, Satish Shah, Jeetendra, Kamal Haasan, Anupam Kher, Neena Gupta, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, and comedian Johnny Lever and south star Nagarjuna. On the work front, he will be next seen in 'Apne 2', which also stars Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Karan Deol.

Veteran actor Dharmendra gets first jab of Covid-19 vaccine

<p>Here's what you need to know about the coronavirus right now:</p>

<p>Nearly a dozen countries resume AstraZeneca shots</p>

<p>Almost a dozen countries resumed use of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 shots on Friday as EU and British regulators said the benefits outweighed any risks after reports of rare instances of blood clotting that temporarily halted inoculations.</p>

<p>The end of suspensions will kick off a test of public confidence, both in the shot and in drug regulators whose conclusions are under unprecedented scrutiny, as virus variants spread and the global death toll, now at nearly 2.7 million, rises.</p>

<p>Indonesia joined Germany, France and others in re-administering the shots after they suspended vaccinations on reports of around 30 cases of rare brain blood clots, after millions of injections, that sent scientists and governments scrambling to determine if there was a link.</p>

<p><strong>Paris goes into lockdown</strong></p>

<p>France imposed a month-long lockdown on Paris and parts of the north after a faltering vaccine rollout and spread of highly contagious coronavirus variants forced President Emmanuel Macron to shift course.</p>

<p>Since late January, when he defied the calls of scientists and some in his government to lock the country down, Macron has said he would do whatever it takes to keep the euro zone's second-largest economy as open as possible.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-government-imposes-limited-lockdown-in-paris-amid-covid-19-variant-surge-371536">French government imposes limited lockdown in Paris amid COVID-19 variant surge</a></strong></p>

<p>However, this week he ran out of options just as France and other European countries briefly suspended use of the AstraZeneca vaccine.</p>

<p><strong>Lockdown extension looms in Germany</strong></p>

<p>German Health Minister Jens Spahn on Friday dampened hopes that further restrictions will be lifted soon, saying rising infections could mean that curbs to slow the spread of the virus may have to be re-imposed.</p>

<p>"The rising case numbers may mean that we cannot take further opening steps in the weeks to come. On the contrary, we may even have to take steps backwards," Spahn told a weekly news conference.</p>

<p>Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to meet with leaders of Germany's 16 federal states on Monday to discuss whether to extend a lockdown that has been in place since mid-December.</p>

<p><strong>Philippines posts record daily cases</strong></p>

<p>The Philippines recorded 7,103 new cases on Friday, a record daily increase in infections, as authorities tightened curbs in the capital and approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use.</p>

<p>A new wave of cases in the Philippines, which has the second highest number of infections and deaths in Southeast Asia, is threatening hopes of a strong economic rebound after a record contraction last year and the loss of millions of jobs.</p>

<p>The health ministry said there were now 648,066 confirmed cases and 12,900 deaths.</p>

<p><strong>US&nbsp;to share vaccine with Mexico and Canada</strong></p>

<p>The United States plans to send roughly 4 million doses of AstraZeneca's vaccine to Mexico and Canada in loan deals with the two countries, yielding to requests to share shots with allies.</p>

<p>Mexico will receive 2.5 million doses of the vaccine and Canada is to receive 1.5 million doses, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.</p>

<p>"It is not fully finalised yet but it is our aim," Psaki told a daily briefing. "Ensuring our neighbours can contain the virus is ... mission critical to ending the pandemic."</p>

<p><strong>Brazil struggles with lack of ICU doctors</strong></p>

<p>As Brazil's coronavirus outbreak spirals out of control, the country is facing a dangerous new shortage, threatening to drive fatalities even higher: a lack of staff in intensive care units.</p>

<p>Some medical professionals are burned out after months of gruelling work. Others are simply unable to keep up with the endless flow of critical patients pushing the country's healthcare system to the brink.</p>

<p>"Intensive care doctors are a commodity in short supply," César Eduardo Fernandes, the president of the Brazilian Medical Association, told Reuters. "There's no way to meet this brutal, catastrophic demand."</p>


Here's what you need to know about the coronavirus right now: Nearly a dozen countries resume AstraZeneca shots Almost a dozen countries resumed use of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 shots on Friday as EU and British regulators said the benefits outweighed any risks after reports of rare instances of blood clotting that temporarily halted inoculations.

Here's what you need to know about the coronavirus right now: Nearly a dozen countries resume AstraZeneca shots Almost a dozen countries resumed use of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 shots on Friday as EU and British regulators said the benefits outweighed any risks after reports of rare instances of blood clotting that temporarily halted inoculations. The end of suspensions will kick off a test of public confidence, both in the shot and in drug regulators whose conclusions are under unprecedented scrutiny, as virus variants spread and the global death toll, now at nearly 2.7 million, rises. Indonesia joined Germany, France and others in re-administering the shots after they suspended vaccinations on reports of around 30 cases of rare brain blood clots, after millions of injections, that sent scientists and governments scrambling to determine if there was a link. Paris goes into lockdown France imposed a month-long lockdown on Paris and parts of the north after a faltering vaccine rollout and spread of highly contagious coronavirus variants forced President Emmanuel Macron to shift course. Since late January, when he defied the calls of scientists and some in his government to lock the country down, Macron has said he would do whatever it takes to keep the euro zone's second-largest economy as open as possible. Also Read | French government imposes limited lockdown in Paris amid COVID-19 variant surge However, this week he ran out of options just as France and other European countries briefly suspended use of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Lockdown extension looms in Germany German Health Minister Jens Spahn on Friday dampened hopes that further restrictions will be lifted soon, saying rising infections could mean that curbs to slow the spread of the virus may have to be re-imposed. "The rising case numbers may mean that we cannot take further opening steps in the weeks to come. On the contrary, we may even have to take steps backwards," Spahn told a weekly news conference. Chancellor Angela Merkel is due to meet with leaders of Germany's 16 federal states on Monday to discuss whether to extend a lockdown that has been in place since mid-December. Philippines posts record daily cases The Philippines recorded 7,103 new cases on Friday, a record daily increase in infections, as authorities tightened curbs in the capital and approved Russia's Sputnik V vaccine for emergency use. A new wave of cases in the Philippines, which has the second highest number of infections and deaths in Southeast Asia, is threatening hopes of a strong economic rebound after a record contraction last year and the loss of millions of jobs. The health ministry said there were now 648,066 confirmed cases and 12,900 deaths. US to share vaccine with Mexico and Canada The United States plans to send roughly 4 million doses of AstraZeneca's vaccine to Mexico and Canada in loan deals with the two countries, yielding to requests to share shots with allies. Mexico will receive 2.5 million doses of the vaccine and Canada is to receive 1.5 million doses, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said. "It is not fully finalised yet but it is our aim," Psaki told a daily briefing. "Ensuring our neighbours can contain the virus is ... mission critical to ending the pandemic." Brazil struggles with lack of ICU doctors As Brazil's coronavirus outbreak spirals out of control, the country is facing a dangerous new shortage, threatening to drive fatalities even higher: a lack of staff in intensive care units. Some medical professionals are burned out after months of gruelling work. Others are simply unable to keep up with the endless flow of critical patients pushing the country's healthcare system to the brink. "Intensive care doctors are a commodity in short supply," César Eduardo Fernandes, the president of the Brazilian Medical Association, told Reuters. "There's no way to meet this brutal, catastrophic demand."

What you need to know about the coronavirus right now

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