China's aviation industry is reaching new heights as the country's aviation regulator announces an impressive plan to boost domestic flights by 34% above pre-pandemic levels.

China's aviation regulator unveils bold plan to reignite travel

<p>American multinational pharmaceutical Pfizer will price its coronavirus (COVID-19) drug Paxlovid at $1,390 per course. The price of the five-day course of the COVID-19 antiviral drug will be set when the company starts to make it available to the commercial market later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wall Street Journal first reported about the price of Paxlovid, later a company spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The price is before rebates and discounts to insurers and also the pharmacy benefit managers. The list price is more than double the $529 the federal government paid for Paxlovid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fuel-and-medicines-dwindle-as-gazas-only-cancer-hospital-bears-the-brunt-of-israeli-blockade-report-648708">Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Since December 2021, when the FDA initially authorised the medication, the government has acquired and supplied Paxlovid to the people for free.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the company will sell Paxlovid directly to health insurers starting in 2024. But then, the demand for Covid vaccines and treatments has fallen significantly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Doctors, health professionals, and patient activists are concerned that increasing the price may limit access to the treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the company said in a statement to CNBC, "As always, Pfizer's goal is to ensure broad and equitable access to our medicines."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are working diligently with payers to achieve the best possible formulary placement for PAXLOVID, resulting in low OOP costs for patients," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/morgan-stanleys-q3-profit-decline-amid-weak-investment-banking-numbers-648639">Morgan Stanley's Q3 profit decline amid weak investment banking numbers</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2>Pfizer cuts earnings outlook</h2>

<p>Recently, Pfizer sharply scaled back its earnings outlook for the year, blaming lower-than-expected sales of two drugs used to treat Covid, the company said Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It now "anticipates full-year 2023 revenues to be in the range of $58.0 to $61.0 billion, versus its previous guidance range of $67.0 to $70.0 billion," Pfizer announced in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earnings per share - the benchmark for the markets - should come in at between 1.45 and 1.65 dollars, compared with 3.25 to 3.45 dollars previously anticipated.</p>

<p>The cut to Pfizer's guidance was "solely due to its COVID products," the company said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Full-year 2023 revenues for Paxlovid and Comirnaty are expected to be approximately $12.5 billion, a decline of $9.0 billion versus original expectations," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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American multinational pharmaceutical Pfizer will price its coronavirus (COVID-19) drug Paxlovid at $1,390 per course. The price of the five-day course of the COVID-19 antiviral drug will be set when the company starts to make it available to the commercial market later this year.

American multinational pharmaceutical Pfizer will price its coronavirus (COVID-19) drug Paxlovid at $1,390 per course. The price of the five-day course of the COVID-19 antiviral drug will be set when the company starts to make it available to the commercial market later this year. The Wall Street Journal first reported about the price of Paxlovid, later a company spokesperson on Wednesday confirmed it. The price is before rebates and discounts to insurers and also the pharmacy benefit managers. The list price is more than double the $529 the federal government paid for Paxlovid. Also read: Fuel and medicines dwindle as Gaza's only cancer hospital bears the brunt of Israeli blockade: Report Since December 2021, when the FDA initially authorised the medication, the government has acquired and supplied Paxlovid to the people for free. However, the company will sell Paxlovid directly to health insurers starting in 2024. But then, the demand for Covid vaccines and treatments has fallen significantly. Doctors, health professionals, and patient activists are concerned that increasing the price may limit access to the treatment. A spokesperson for the company said in a statement to CNBC, "As always, Pfizer's goal is to ensure broad and equitable access to our medicines." "We are working diligently with payers to achieve the best possible formulary placement for PAXLOVID, resulting in low OOP costs for patients," the spokesperson added. Also read: Morgan Stanley's Q3 profit decline amid weak investment banking numbers Pfizer cuts earnings outlook Recently, Pfizer sharply scaled back its earnings outlook for the year, blaming lower-than-expected sales of two drugs used to treat Covid, the company said Friday. It now "anticipates full-year 2023 revenues to be in the range of $58.0 to $61.0 billion, versus its previous guidance range of $67.0 to $70.0 billion," Pfizer announced in a statement. Earnings per share - the benchmark for the markets - should come in at between 1.45 and 1.65 dollars, compared with 3.25 to 3.45 dollars previously anticipated. The cut to Pfizer's guidance was "solely due to its COVID products," the company said. "Full-year 2023 revenues for Paxlovid and Comirnaty are expected to be approximately $12.5 billion, a decline of $9.0 billion versus original expectations," it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pfizer to price Covid treatment Paxlovid at $1,390 per course

<p>European Union (EU) regulators have postponed their decision on granting approval for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine tailored to target the XBB variant, according to a report by the Financial Times. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), originally set to approve the updated vaccine last Friday, has requested additional information from the company, causing the delay.</p>

<p>The EMA has raised questions about the potency of the latest version of the vaccine and wants to ensure that its characteristics remain consistent across different production sites.&nbsp;"As part of the ongoing review process, (the EMA) has additional questions, which we are answering expeditiously," Novavax told the Financial Times.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-out-why-night-shifts-take-a-toll-on-your-health-646697">Scientists find out why night shifts take a toll on your health</a></p>

<p>This information comes from a source familiar with the matter cited in the FT report.</p>

<h2><strong>Novavax responds&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Novavax stated that it is actively addressing the EMA's additional queries as part of the ongoing review process.</p>

<p>However, neither Novavax nor the EMA have made any official statement over this.&nbsp;Novavax announced on Friday (Oct 13) that its updated COVID-19 vaccine is now available at US pharmacies like CVS and Rite Aid.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fast-radio-bursts-in-space-occur-due-to-starquakes-study-647154">Fast Radio Bursts in space occur due to 'starquakes': Study</a></p>

<p>The Financial Times report said that the EMA would grant approval for Novavax's variant-tailored COVID-19 vaccine within the next four weeks.</p>

<p>Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorisation for Novavax's new Covid vaccine in individuals aged 12 years and older on October 3.</p>

<p>XBB variant has been responsible for a surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and fatalities across US.</p>

<p>Priced at $130 per dose, this vaccine is now available in US.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-china-fm-israels-actions-in-gaza-have-gone-beyond-self-defence-647165">Israel-Hamas war: China FM: Israel's actions in Gaza have gone beyond self-defence</a></strong></p>

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<p>For those who have previously received any COVID-19 vaccine, a single dose can be administered at least two months after their last COVID-19 shot. Unvaccinated individuals can receive two doses, with each dose spaced three months apart.</p>

<p>Novavax's authorisation comes in the wake of the full approval of Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech's monovalent vaccines for individuals aged 12 and older, targeting the latest coronavirus variant. Notably, the FDA had recently granted emergency use authorization for the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for children between six months and 11 years of age.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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European Union (EU) regulators have postponed their decision on granting approval for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine tailored to target the XBB variant, according to a report by the Financial Times.

European Union (EU) regulators have postponed their decision on granting approval for Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine tailored to target the XBB variant, according to a report by the Financial Times. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), originally set to approve the updated vaccine last Friday, has requested additional information from the company, causing the delay. The EMA has raised questions about the potency of the latest version of the vaccine and wants to ensure that its characteristics remain consistent across different production sites. "As part of the ongoing review process, (the EMA) has additional questions, which we are answering expeditiously," Novavax told the Financial Times. Also Read | Scientists find out why night shifts take a toll on your health This information comes from a source familiar with the matter cited in the FT report. Novavax responds Novavax stated that it is actively addressing the EMA's additional queries as part of the ongoing review process. However, neither Novavax nor the EMA have made any official statement over this. Novavax announced on Friday (Oct 13) that its updated COVID-19 vaccine is now available at US pharmacies like CVS and Rite Aid. Also Read | Fast Radio Bursts in space occur due to 'starquakes': Study The Financial Times report said that the EMA would grant approval for Novavax's variant-tailored COVID-19 vaccine within the next four weeks. Food and Drug Administration granted emergency use authorisation for Novavax's new Covid vaccine in individuals aged 12 years and older on October 3. XBB variant has been responsible for a surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalisations, and fatalities across US. Priced at $130 per dose, this vaccine is now available in US. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: China FM: Israel's actions in Gaza have gone beyond self-defence × For those who have previously received any COVID-19 vaccine, a single dose can be administered at least two months after their last COVID-19 shot. Unvaccinated individuals can receive two doses, with each dose spaced three months apart. Novavax's authorisation comes in the wake of the full approval of Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech's monovalent vaccines for individuals aged 12 and older, targeting the latest coronavirus variant. Notably, the FDA had recently granted emergency use authorization for the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for children between six months and 11 years of age. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

EU regulators delay approval of Novavax's variant-tailored COVID vaccine: Report

<p>A Florida father and his three sons are set to spend time behind bars after being convicted on fraud charges related to their audacious scheme of selling bleach as a COVID-19 cure from a fake church. Mark Grenon, aged 66, and his son Joseph Grenon, aged 36, initially fled to Colombia when federal charges were first announced against them. However, they were eventually extradited back to the United States and sentenced to the maximum term of five years behind bars.&nbsp;This sentence was agreed upon between the US and Colombia.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mark Grenon's other two sons, Jonathan Grenon, aged 37, and Jordan Grenon, aged 29, received more severe penalties, each being sentenced to 12.5 years in prison. Their charges included defrauding the United States by "distributing an unapproved and misbranded drug," as per New York Post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kylie-jenner-forced-to-delete-pro-israel-post-amid-hamas-attack-643954">Kylie Jenner forced to delete pro-Israel post amid Hamas attack</a></p>

<p>As part of their punishment, all four were ordered to pay nearly $2,000 in restitution. During the sentencing hearing, Assistant US Attorney Michael Homer said that the defendants had preyed on vulnerable populations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Desperate pleas</strong></h2>

<p>Jonathan Grenon, a father of five, made a plea during the trial, requesting release to be with his family. He said that he had lost everything. His brothers echoed similar sentiments, but their pleas were denied.</p>

<p>The Grenon family's fraudulent scheme centered around the sale of "Miracle Mineral Solution" (MMS), a chemical solution that, when ingested orally, transformed into bleach.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-where-does-hamas-acquire-its-weapons-understanding-the-sources-and-transit-routes-643953">From where does Hamas acquire its weapons? Understanding the sources and transit routes</a></p>

<p>Typically used for industrial purposes like water treatment and textile bleaching, the Grenons claimed that MMS could treat, prevent, and cure COVID-19, despite the FDA never approving it for such use.</p>

<h2><strong>Fake Church, real scam</strong></h2>

<p>To evade government regulation of MMS, the Grenon family operated under the guise of the Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, a fake house of worship they had created. This church served as a front for their fraudulent activities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-conflict-we-are-at-war-israel-retaliates-after-massive-surprise-attack-by-hamas-643968">Israel-Palestine Conflict: 'We are at war': Israel retaliates after massive surprise attack by Hamas</a></strong></p>

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<p>In addition to their COVID-19 cure claims, the Grenons insisted that MMS could cure a staggering 95 percent of diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, AIDS, and more. To obtain MMS, patients had to make donations to the Genesis church, which were set at specific amounts, effectively acting as sales prices. This scheme allowed the family to amass more than $1 million.</p>

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A Florida father and his three sons are set to spend time behind bars after being convicted on fraud charges related to their audacious scheme of selling bleach as a COVID-19 cure from a fake church.

A Florida father and his three sons are set to spend time behind bars after being convicted on fraud charges related to their audacious scheme of selling bleach as a COVID-19 cure from a fake church. Mark Grenon, aged 66, and his son Joseph Grenon, aged 36, initially fled to Colombia when federal charges were first announced against them. However, they were eventually extradited back to the United States and sentenced to the maximum term of five years behind bars. This sentence was agreed upon between the US and Colombia. Meanwhile, Mark Grenon's other two sons, Jonathan Grenon, aged 37, and Jordan Grenon, aged 29, received more severe penalties, each being sentenced to 12.5 years in prison. Their charges included defrauding the United States by "distributing an unapproved and misbranded drug," as per New York Post. Also Read | Kylie Jenner forced to delete pro-Israel post amid Hamas attack As part of their punishment, all four were ordered to pay nearly $2,000 in restitution. During the sentencing hearing, Assistant US Attorney Michael Homer said that the defendants had preyed on vulnerable populations. Desperate pleas Jonathan Grenon, a father of five, made a plea during the trial, requesting release to be with his family. He said that he had lost everything. His brothers echoed similar sentiments, but their pleas were denied. The Grenon family's fraudulent scheme centered around the sale of "Miracle Mineral Solution" (MMS), a chemical solution that, when ingested orally, transformed into bleach. Also Read | From where does Hamas acquire its weapons? Understanding the sources and transit routes Typically used for industrial purposes like water treatment and textile bleaching, the Grenons claimed that MMS could treat, prevent, and cure COVID-19, despite the FDA never approving it for such use. Fake Church, real scam To evade government regulation of MMS, the Grenon family operated under the guise of the Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, a fake house of worship they had created. This church served as a front for their fraudulent activities. Watch | Israel-Palestine Conflict: 'We are at war': Israel retaliates after massive surprise attack by Hamas × In addition to their COVID-19 cure claims, the Grenons insisted that MMS could cure a staggering 95 percent of diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, AIDS, and more. To obtain MMS, patients had to make donations to the Genesis church, which were set at specific amounts, effectively acting as sales prices. This scheme allowed the family to amass more than $1 million. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Florida family's shocking scheme: Selling bleach as COVID-19 cure from sham Church

With the start of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry's next phase, political decisions made during the Covid pandemic regarding lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social separation will be closely scrutinized.

UK's Covid inquiry turns its focus to Tory leaders and scientists

Just two weeks before the general elections in New Zealand prime minister Chris Hipkins tested positive for COVID-19. The positive test will temporarily sideline Hipkins in the campaign for the 14th of October election. Hipkins said on his official social media feed that he started to experience cold symptoms on Saturday and had cancelled most of his weekend engagements.

New Zealand elections: Prime Minister Chris Hipkins tests positive for COVID

After three years after the outbreak COVID-19 continues to pose a serious threat a new landsat study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the MRNA from the COVID-19 vaccines

Covid-19 MRNA detected in breast milk

<p>A new study has found presence of mRNA from Covid vaccines in the milk of breastfeeding mothers upto 45 hours after they received the vaccine. The study, reported by The Epoch Times, has been published in journal Lancet. Seventy per cent of breast milk samples analysed in the study were found to contain the mRNA from the vaccines.</p>

<p>The study was reportedly published in the Lancet earlier this month.</p>

<p>It was found during the study that although the detected mRNA was largely fragmented, it retained 12 to 25 per cent of its original integrity. The researchers have said that more studies are required to ascertain the minimum amount of mRNA that may trigger immune response in newborns.</p>

<p>Breast milk samples were collected from 13 healthy postpartum, lactating women before as well as after the vaccination. The samples after vaccination were collected at least twice daily for five days. Seven women provided samples after first and second vaccine doses. This means that there were 20 total vaccine exposures and 154 breast milk samples.</p>

<p>Researchers then examined vaccine mRNA in whole breast milk and breast milk extracellular vesicles.</p>

<p>Extracellular vesicles (EV) are released by cells. They are small delivery vehicles carrying biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, microRNA, noncoding RNA, messenger RNA and DNA. Large amount of EVs are present in breast milk and they regulate gene expression, infant growth and development and immune function.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Supercontinent could wipe out all mammals</strong></p>

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<p>The 13 lactating women had received either the Moderna or&nbsp;Pfizer vaccine. It was found that trace mRNA amounts were present in 10 to 20 exposures up to 45 hours after vaccination. The study said that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was not expressed.</p>

<p>All participating women tested negative for Covid before collection of milk samples. The samples collected before vaccination reportedly were negative for Covid-19 vaccine.</p>

<p>“Our proposed model suggests that after intramuscular administration, the vaccine mRNA enclosed in lipid nanoparticles is transported to the mammary glands through either hematogenous or lymphatic pathways,” the researchers wrote, as reported by The Epoch Times “Within the mammary cells’ cytosol, a portion of the released vaccine mRNA is recruited and packaged into the developing extracellular vesicles, which are then released into the breast milk.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-rare-stunning-electric-blue-coloured-tarantula-species-in-thailands-lush-jungles-640279">Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles</a></strong></p>

<p>The research is significant in a sense that its scope goes beyond mRNA Covid vaccines. The researchers reportedly say the study offers "valuable insights into the transport and presence of vaccine mRNA in breast milk, which can be relevant for assessing the safety and efficacy of future mRNA-based therapies administered to lactating women."</p>

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A new study has found presence of mRNA from Covid vaccines in the milk of breastfeeding mothers upto 45 hours after they received the vaccine. The study, reported by The Epoch Times, has been published in journal Lancet.

A new study has found presence of mRNA from Covid vaccines in the milk of breastfeeding mothers upto 45 hours after they received the vaccine. The study, reported by The Epoch Times, has been published in journal Lancet. Seventy per cent of breast milk samples analysed in the study were found to contain the mRNA from the vaccines. The study was reportedly published in the Lancet earlier this month. It was found during the study that although the detected mRNA was largely fragmented, it retained 12 to 25 per cent of its original integrity. The researchers have said that more studies are required to ascertain the minimum amount of mRNA that may trigger immune response in newborns. Breast milk samples were collected from 13 healthy postpartum, lactating women before as well as after the vaccination. The samples after vaccination were collected at least twice daily for five days. Seven women provided samples after first and second vaccine doses. This means that there were 20 total vaccine exposures and 154 breast milk samples. Researchers then examined vaccine mRNA in whole breast milk and breast milk extracellular vesicles. Extracellular vesicles (EV) are released by cells. They are small delivery vehicles carrying biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, microRNA, noncoding RNA, messenger RNA and DNA. Large amount of EVs are present in breast milk and they regulate gene expression, infant growth and development and immune function. Watch | Supercontinent could wipe out all mammals × The 13 lactating women had received either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine. It was found that trace mRNA amounts were present in 10 to 20 exposures up to 45 hours after vaccination. The study said that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was not expressed. All participating women tested negative for Covid before collection of milk samples. The samples collected before vaccination reportedly were negative for Covid-19 vaccine. “Our proposed model suggests that after intramuscular administration, the vaccine mRNA enclosed in lipid nanoparticles is transported to the mammary glands through either hematogenous or lymphatic pathways,” the researchers wrote, as reported by The Epoch Times “Within the mammary cells’ cytosol, a portion of the released vaccine mRNA is recruited and packaged into the developing extracellular vesicles, which are then released into the breast milk.” Also Read | Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles The research is significant in a sense that its scope goes beyond mRNA Covid vaccines. The researchers reportedly say the study offers "valuable insights into the transport and presence of vaccine mRNA in breast milk, which can be relevant for assessing the safety and efficacy of future mRNA-based therapies administered to lactating women." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Study finds mRNA from Covid vaccines in milk of breastfeeding mothers

<p>The cringe-evoking pangolins&nbsp;are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either. Further, their potential <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7156161/">link with the origin of Covid pandemic</a>, has eroded their prominence within the traditional medicine landscape of Asian countries, even inside the wet markets of China and Thailand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it has emerged that there are more pangolin species than previously believed.</p>

<p>The mammal masquerading as a reptile has nine species and not eight as was previously believed, according to a finding published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.</p>

<h2><strong>What have the researchers found about pangolins?</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers have found that the scales of Pangolins confiscated in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013 and in Yunnan, China, in 2015 and 2019 belong to a previously unrecognised pangolin species.</p>

<p>Pangolins are dressed up with a coat of scales, and sharp claws and produce absurdly sticky saliva.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discovered pangolin species&nbsp;is yet to be formally described.</p>

<p>"It’s probably being captured and being called a Sunda pangolin or something like that," Matthew Shirley, a conservation biologist at Florida International University and chair of the Species Survival Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature was quoted as saying by the New York Times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pangolins remain susceptible to poaching due to their purported significance in traditional medication practices in China, Mongolia and parts of Southeast Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million</strong></p>

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<p>According to Dr Shirley, piecing together the genetic diversity of pangolins is important for stopping their poaching.</p>

<p>To find out where illegally trafficked scales are coming from, and which pangolin species are most at risk from poaching, the authorities need a strong reference database that matches pangolin genetics with geographic locations, Dr Shirley said, according to the New York Times.</p>

<p>An estimated 200,000 Sunda pangolins have been illegally traded in the decade between 2007 and 2017, according to the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Pangolin Specialist Group.</p>

<p>In 2016, it was estimated that since 2000, more than one&nbsp;million pangolins were traded illegally worldwide, making them&nbsp;the most trafficked wild mammal in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Wildlife significance of Pangolins</strong></h2>

<p>Pangolins are wildlife scavengers. An adult pangolin weighing 6.6 pounds (about 3 kg) can consume more than 0.66 (0.29 kg) pounds of termites in one meal. Their&nbsp;big appetite means that one pangolin can protect an area as large as 31 football fields (41 acres) from termite destruction.&nbsp;</p>

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The cringe-evoking pangolins are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either.

The cringe-evoking pangolins are not considered creatures to pet at home and do not come across as popular attractions at zoos in China and Southeast Asia either. Further, their potential link with the origin of Covid pandemic, has eroded their prominence within the traditional medicine landscape of Asian countries, even inside the wet markets of China and Thailand. However, it has emerged that there are more pangolin species than previously believed. The mammal masquerading as a reptile has nine species and not eight as was previously believed, according to a finding published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. What have the researchers found about pangolins? Researchers have found that the scales of Pangolins confiscated in Hong Kong in 2012 and 2013 and in Yunnan, China, in 2015 and 2019 belong to a previously unrecognised pangolin species. Pangolins are dressed up with a coat of scales, and sharp claws and produce absurdly sticky saliva. The discovered pangolin species is yet to be formally described. "It’s probably being captured and being called a Sunda pangolin or something like that," Matthew Shirley, a conservation biologist at Florida International University and chair of the Species Survival Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature was quoted as saying by the New York Times. What does it mean? Pangolins remain susceptible to poaching due to their purported significance in traditional medication practices in China, Mongolia and parts of Southeast Asia. Also watch | Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million × According to Dr Shirley, piecing together the genetic diversity of pangolins is important for stopping their poaching. To find out where illegally trafficked scales are coming from, and which pangolin species are most at risk from poaching, the authorities need a strong reference database that matches pangolin genetics with geographic locations, Dr Shirley said, according to the New York Times. An estimated 200,000 Sunda pangolins have been illegally traded in the decade between 2007 and 2017, according to the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Pangolin Specialist Group. In 2016, it was estimated that since 2000, more than one million pangolins were traded illegally worldwide, making them the most trafficked wild mammal in the world. Wildlife significance of Pangolins Pangolins are wildlife scavengers. An adult pangolin weighing 6.6 pounds (about 3 kg) can consume more than 0.66 (0.29 kg) pounds of termites in one meal. Their big appetite means that one pangolin can protect an area as large as 31 football fields (41 acres) from termite destruction. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pangolins, made famous by Covid, have more species than previously known: Study

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Anti-Covid drugs may have led to dangerous mutations, Egypt's mysterious underwater city reveals sunken temples and treasures, At least 12 Go Blind in Pakistan following administration of Roche's cancer drug, India: Drug dealer trains dog to bite police personnel.

Anti-Covid drugs may have led to dangerous mutations | Egypt's underwater city | Trending on WION

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - NASA's spacecraft lands successfully with largest sample collected from asteroid, European Space Agency releases photo of Earth split in day and night, first-ever poetry written by AI sounds too 'disturbing', Another Coronavirus on the way? This is what China's top virologist 'Batwoman' thinks.

NASA's spacecraft lands successfully | First-ever poetry written by AI | Trending on WION

<p>In a new study, scientists have suggested that an antiviral drug which has been used for treating patients with COVID-19 may have led to mutations in the virus and created its new variants.<br />
<br />
Molnupiravir, which is also sold in pharmacies under the brand name Lagevrio, has been designed to destroy coronavirus. However, researchers have discovered evidence that the virus can survive the treatment, sometimes leading to its mutated versions which occasionally spreads to other people.<br />
<br />
This antiviral pill of pharmaceutical giant Merck was one of the earliest treatments rolled out amid the pandemic to control the severity of the coronavirus in vulnerable people.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/disease-x-likely-to-prove-20-times-deadlier-compared-to-covid-19-hints-expert-639469">'Disease X' likely to prove 20 times deadlier compared to COVID-19, hints expert</a></p>

<p>The pill, which is consumed orally over a five-day course, mainly works through the creation of mutations in the virus and has the goal of weakening and killing the virus.</p>

<h2><strong>No evidence that proves pills created dangerous Covid variants</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to AFP, a postdoctoral researcher at the Francis Crick Institute in London and lead author on the study Dr Theo Sanderson said that a new UK-led study shows that molnupiravir "can give rise to significantly mutated viruses which remain viable”.<br />
<br />
There has been no evidence which proves that molnupiravir has led to the production of more dangerous variants of coronavirus.</p>

<p>But the scientists stated that the mutations led to an increase in the genetic diversity of the virus in the wild and gave more options for future evolution.<br />
<br />
Sanderson, who is a geneticist at Francis Crick Institute, London, stressed that there is no evidence that "molnupiravir has to date created more transmissible or more virulent viruses."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;China: World must be prepared for a disease like Covid-19, warns study</strong></p>

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<p><br />
“None of the variants that have swept the world were due to the drug. But it is very difficult to predict whether molnupiravir treatment could potentially lead to a new widely circulating variant which people don't have prior immunity to," he added.<br />
<br />
Sanderson, while speaking to the Guardian said, “People have some concerns about molnupiravir and to some sense, this makes those more concrete. We know these viruses can still be alive following a significant number of mutations and they can still be transmissible in some cases.”<br />
<br />
The findings of the study are important for scientists to continue assessments of the benefits and risks of molnupiravir as well as other drugs which are in the developing phase and work in a similar pattern, said the researchers.</p>

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In a new study, scientists have suggested that an antiviral drug which has been used for treating patients with COVID-19 may have led to mutations in the virus and created its new variants.

In a new study, scientists have suggested that an antiviral drug which has been used for treating patients with COVID-19 may have led to mutations in the virus and created its new variants. Molnupiravir, which is also sold in pharmacies under the brand name Lagevrio, has been designed to destroy coronavirus. However, researchers have discovered evidence that the virus can survive the treatment, sometimes leading to its mutated versions which occasionally spreads to other people. This antiviral pill of pharmaceutical giant Merck was one of the earliest treatments rolled out amid the pandemic to control the severity of the coronavirus in vulnerable people. ALSO READ | 'Disease X' likely to prove 20 times deadlier compared to COVID-19, hints expert The pill, which is consumed orally over a five-day course, mainly works through the creation of mutations in the virus and has the goal of weakening and killing the virus. No evidence that proves pills created dangerous Covid variants Speaking to AFP, a postdoctoral researcher at the Francis Crick Institute in London and lead author on the study Dr Theo Sanderson said that a new UK-led study shows that molnupiravir "can give rise to significantly mutated viruses which remain viable”. There has been no evidence which proves that molnupiravir has led to the production of more dangerous variants of coronavirus. But the scientists stated that the mutations led to an increase in the genetic diversity of the virus in the wild and gave more options for future evolution. Sanderson, who is a geneticist at Francis Crick Institute, London, stressed that there is no evidence that "molnupiravir has to date created more transmissible or more virulent viruses." WATCH | China: World must be prepared for a disease like Covid-19, warns study “None of the variants that have swept the world were due to the drug. But it is very difficult to predict whether molnupiravir treatment could potentially lead to a new widely circulating variant which people don't have prior immunity to," he added. Sanderson, while speaking to the Guardian said, “People have some concerns about molnupiravir and to some sense, this makes those more concrete. We know these viruses can still be alive following a significant number of mutations and they can still be transmissible in some cases.” The findings of the study are important for scientists to continue assessments of the benefits and risks of molnupiravir as well as other drugs which are in the developing phase and work in a similar pattern, said the researchers. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Consumption of anti-Covid drugs may have led to dangerous mutations: study

The coronavirus epidemic was deemed a pandemic about three years ago. Worse, a Royal Society of Medicine study has shown that over 60% of long-term COVID patients still have organ damage.

No vaccine for new Covid variant 'Pirola'

<p>In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a refined portable laboratory that could detect coronavirus infections from tiny genetic elements that the deadly virus leaves behind, as per the latest report by the Washington Post.</p>

<p>The Serbians then soon found out that this was one of the capabilities of the Fire-Eye.</p>

<p>The Washington Post, citing the Chinese inventors of the portable lab, said that not only did it crack the genetic code for viruses but also for humans, with machines that can interpret genetic instructions retained within the cells of every person on this planet.</p>

<p>In late 2021, with the COVID pandemic still seething, Serbian officials made an announcement saying that they would work together with a Chinese firm to transform the lab into a permanent facility with strategies to gather and curate the entire genomes, or genetics blueprints, of Serbian citizens.</p>

<p>Serbia’s Prime Minister&nbsp;Ana Brnabic&nbsp;had appreciated China, saying that the country had given Belgrade the “most advanced institute for precision medicine and genetics in the region.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, China’s Fire-Eye labs is now attracting the attention of Western intelligence agencies in the midst of rising concern about China’s intentions.</p>

<p>As per the report, some analysts say that behind China’s act of philanthropy, was its hidden agenda to tap into new origins of highly valuable human DNA data in countries around the globe.</p>

<p>According to the US and Western intelligence officials, China's collection effort, which has been underway for more than a decade now had included the acquisition of US genetics companies and also refined hacking operations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-origin-girl-receives-first-rejection-free-kidney-from-mother-in-uk-638649">Indian-origin girl receives first rejection-free kidney from mother in UK</a></p>

<p>However, the COVID pandemic gave it the required boost and created opportunities for Chinese companies and institutes to disseminate gene-sequencing machines and create partnerships for genetic research in places where Beijing formerly had very little to no access, said the officials.</p>

<p>Amid the COVID pandemic, Fire-Eye labs would grow rapidly, spreading to four continents and more than 20 countries, from Canada and Latvia to Saudi Arabia, and from Ethiopia and South Africa to Australia. Several, like the one in Belgrade, now function as permanent genetic testing centres.</p>

<p>“Covid-19,” said one senior U.S. intelligence analyst who closely tracks China’s biotechnology sector, “was the door.”</p>

<p>A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rebuffed suggestions that the Chinese companies had inappropriately gained access to genetic data.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The spokesman, Liu Pengyu, said the Fire-Eye labs helped many countries combat a hazardous pandemic and persist in playing a crucial role in screening for cancer and other diseases.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital.

In the year 2020, when most of the European countries were in lockdown due to the COVID pandemic, an aircraft containing a Chinese creation called the Fire-Eye arrived in the Serbian capital. It was a refined portable laboratory that could detect coronavirus infections from tiny genetic elements that the deadly virus leaves behind, as per the latest report by the Washington Post. The Serbians then soon found out that this was one of the capabilities of the Fire-Eye. The Washington Post, citing the Chinese inventors of the portable lab, said that not only did it crack the genetic code for viruses but also for humans, with machines that can interpret genetic instructions retained within the cells of every person on this planet. In late 2021, with the COVID pandemic still seething, Serbian officials made an announcement saying that they would work together with a Chinese firm to transform the lab into a permanent facility with strategies to gather and curate the entire genomes, or genetics blueprints, of Serbian citizens. Serbia’s Prime Minister Ana Brnabic had appreciated China, saying that the country had given Belgrade the “most advanced institute for precision medicine and genetics in the region.” However, China’s Fire-Eye labs is now attracting the attention of Western intelligence agencies in the midst of rising concern about China’s intentions. As per the report, some analysts say that behind China’s act of philanthropy, was its hidden agenda to tap into new origins of highly valuable human DNA data in countries around the globe. According to the US and Western intelligence officials, China's collection effort, which has been underway for more than a decade now had included the acquisition of US genetics companies and also refined hacking operations. Also read: Indian-origin girl receives first rejection-free kidney from mother in UK However, the COVID pandemic gave it the required boost and created opportunities for Chinese companies and institutes to disseminate gene-sequencing machines and create partnerships for genetic research in places where Beijing formerly had very little to no access, said the officials. Amid the COVID pandemic, Fire-Eye labs would grow rapidly, spreading to four continents and more than 20 countries, from Canada and Latvia to Saudi Arabia, and from Ethiopia and South Africa to Australia. Several, like the one in Belgrade, now function as permanent genetic testing centres. “Covid-19,” said one senior U.S. intelligence analyst who closely tracks China’s biotechnology sector, “was the door.” A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rebuffed suggestions that the Chinese companies had inappropriately gained access to genetic data. The spokesman, Liu Pengyu, said the Fire-Eye labs helped many countries combat a hazardous pandemic and persist in playing a crucial role in screening for cancer and other diseases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China scooped up human DNA from nations around the world, spurring fears of a genetic arms race

<p>As people globally&nbsp;started coming to terms with their locked-down reality during the beginning of the Covid pandemic,&nbsp;visuals of military trucks in Italy keeping the deceased struck the world, alerting it about the havoc the contagion virus was set to create in the months to follow all over the world.</p>

<p><img alt="Military trucks in Bergamo, Italy in March 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7dce2df-2ddb-4443-ba7e-250c3db24028" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-18T110605.278.png" /></p>

<p><em>An Italian Army truck is parked on March 26, 2020 inside the Monumental Cemetery of Bergamo, Lombardy, to load coffins of victims of the coronavirus | AFP</em></p>

<p>Now through a&nbsp;study from Italy's Bergamo, from where these visuals were reported, it has emerged that&nbsp;Neanderthal genes inherited by some individuals are the reason&nbsp;why some individuals developed life-threatening forms of COVID-19.</p>

<p>Early in the pandemic, it was evident that several risk factors, including advanced age, played a role.</p>

<p>Scientists also suspected genetic predisposition, as younger family members&nbsp;often exhibited similar disease severity.</p>

<h2><strong>Genes and Covid: What's the link?</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers at Milan's Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research spent the last few years analysing DNA variations and COVID-19.</p>

<p>Their study, which had a base of nearly 10,000 Bergamo residents, identified genes linked to severe respiratory illness, including three inherited from Neanderthals.</p>

<p>The Italian study discovered that those carrying the Neanderthal haplotype were twice as likely to develop severe pneumonia from Covid&nbsp;and three times more likely to be hospitalised in intensive care with ventilator support.</p>

<p>A haplotype refers&nbsp;to a set of DNA variants along a single chromosome that tend&nbsp;to be inherited together.</p>

<p>However, it remains unknown whether this haplotype is more prevalent in Bergamo than in other Italian or European regions or other parts of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;What causes asymptomatic COVID-19 infection?</strong></p>

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<p>Epidemiologists are still uncertain about the factors contributing to northern Italy's high death toll, including age, air pollution, and the virus's early and undetected presence.</p>

<p>Giuseppe Remuzzi, director of the Mario Negri Institute said that this study highlights a significant section of the human genome associated with the risk of contracting and developing severe Covid, <em>Wall Street Journal</em> reported.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the study find out?</strong></h2>

<p>The study found that in Bergamo, 33 per cent of those with severe Covid had the Neanderthal haplotype, while it was less common in mild or asymptomatic cases. Approximately 2 per cent&nbsp;of European and Asian genomes inherit Neanderthal genes, which have been linked to susceptibility to various diseases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/genes-from-extinct-human-cousins-increase-risk-for-severe-covid-19-study-331670">Genes from extinct human cousins increase risk for severe COVID-19: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>This Italian research adds to the growing evidence that a cluster of Neanderthal genes increases the risk of severe Covid.</p>

<p>A study in the journal Nature in September 2020 initially proposed a genomic segment from Neanderthals linked to severe Covid, carried by around 16 per cent of Europeans and 50 per cent&nbsp;of South Asian people. In South Asia, particularly in India, the second wave of Covid in April-May 2021 wreaked havoc, with more than 100,000 cases being reported daily for consecutive days.</p>

<p>The Neanderthal haplotype is virtually absent in Africa, possibly contributing, along with factors like a younger population, to the lower incidence of severe cases in Africa compared to regions with better healthcare systems.</p>

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As people globally started coming to terms with their locked-down reality during the beginning of the Covid pandemic, visuals of military trucks in Italy keeping the deceased struck the world, alerting it about the havoc the contagion virus was set to create in the months to follow all over the world.

As people globally started coming to terms with their locked-down reality during the beginning of the Covid pandemic, visuals of military trucks in Italy keeping the deceased struck the world, alerting it about the havoc the contagion virus was set to create in the months to follow all over the world. An Italian Army truck is parked on March 26, 2020 inside the Monumental Cemetery of Bergamo, Lombardy, to load coffins of victims of the coronavirus | AFP Now through a study from Italy's Bergamo, from where these visuals were reported, it has emerged that Neanderthal genes inherited by some individuals are the reason why some individuals developed life-threatening forms of COVID-19. Early in the pandemic, it was evident that several risk factors, including advanced age, played a role. Scientists also suspected genetic predisposition, as younger family members often exhibited similar disease severity. Genes and Covid: What's the link? Researchers at Milan's Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research spent the last few years analysing DNA variations and COVID-19. Their study, which had a base of nearly 10,000 Bergamo residents, identified genes linked to severe respiratory illness, including three inherited from Neanderthals. The Italian study discovered that those carrying the Neanderthal haplotype were twice as likely to develop severe pneumonia from Covid and three times more likely to be hospitalised in intensive care with ventilator support. A haplotype refers to a set of DNA variants along a single chromosome that tend to be inherited together. However, it remains unknown whether this haplotype is more prevalent in Bergamo than in other Italian or European regions or other parts of the world. Also watch | What causes asymptomatic COVID-19 infection? × Epidemiologists are still uncertain about the factors contributing to northern Italy's high death toll, including age, air pollution, and the virus's early and undetected presence. Giuseppe Remuzzi, director of the Mario Negri Institute said that this study highlights a significant section of the human genome associated with the risk of contracting and developing severe Covid, Wall Street Journal reported. What did the study find out? The study found that in Bergamo, 33 per cent of those with severe Covid had the Neanderthal haplotype, while it was less common in mild or asymptomatic cases. Approximately 2 per cent of European and Asian genomes inherit Neanderthal genes, which have been linked to susceptibility to various diseases. Also read | Genes from extinct human cousins increase risk for severe COVID-19: Study This Italian research adds to the growing evidence that a cluster of Neanderthal genes increases the risk of severe Covid. A study in the journal Nature in September 2020 initially proposed a genomic segment from Neanderthals linked to severe Covid, carried by around 16 per cent of Europeans and 50 per cent of South Asian people. In South Asia, particularly in India, the second wave of Covid in April-May 2021 wreaked havoc, with more than 100,000 cases being reported daily for consecutive days. The Neanderthal haplotype is virtually absent in Africa, possibly contributing, along with factors like a younger population, to the lower incidence of severe cases in Africa compared to regions with better healthcare systems. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

People with one particular line of gene  more susceptible to severe Covid: Study

Let's delve into the experiences of Indian students studying abroad in the post-pandemic world - there have obviously been a lot of challenges. While the number of Indian students pursuing international has been on rise, it appears their journey is far from the glamourous image often portrayed on social media.

Studying abroad: The unfiltered truth | The myth vs reality of life as an international student

<p>Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Covid origins</strong></h2>

<p>Four years ago, the first cases of coronavirus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan. There are multiple theories on the origins of the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One theory suggests that the virus has zoonotic origins and that it jumped from animals to humans. Another theory proposes that it was accidentally leaked from the city's virology laboratory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-infection-linked-to-genes-inherited-from-neanderthal-ancestors-637046">People with one particular line of gene more susceptible to severe Covid: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>However, there is no scientific consensus about COVID-19's origins and, as per WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, all options remained “on the table",&nbsp;reports Financial Times.</p>

<p>“Unless we get evidence beyond reasonable doubt, we cannot just say this or that,” he said, adding that “we will get the answer. It's a matter of time.”</p>

<h2><strong>China urged to share information</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to the Financial Times, Tedros revealed that they are “pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — [and urge Beijing] to co-operate.”</p>

<p>“We have already asked in writing to give us information. . . And [are] also willing to send a team if they allow us to do so.”</p>

<p>Previously, the WHO has been accused of being too lenient with China and its initial slow response to the global pandemic. Critics say China's initial response enabled the global transmission rates to soar beyond the nation's borders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-decoupling-speeds-up-as-it-loses-about-200-billion-from-its-markets-637015">China’s decoupling speeds up as it loses about $200 billion from its markets</a></strong></p>

<p>Subsequently, in early 2021, a team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese experts investigated COVID-19's origins. Their joint report favoured the zoonotic origins hypothesis.</p>

<p>This comes as health authorities have updated Covid vaccines after a rise in coronavirus cases. The global health body also cautioned nations about the highly mutated BA.2.86 and other Omicron sub-variants and has asked them to increase surveillance.</p>

<p>Next week, world leaders for the first time will discuss pandemic preparedness at high-level meetings during the UN&nbsp;General Assembly gathering in New York.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus.

Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus. Covid origins Four years ago, the first cases of coronavirus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan. There are multiple theories on the origins of the virus. One theory suggests that the virus has zoonotic origins and that it jumped from animals to humans. Another theory proposes that it was accidentally leaked from the city's virology laboratory. Also read | People with one particular line of gene more susceptible to severe Covid: Study However, there is no scientific consensus about COVID-19's origins and, as per WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, all options remained “on the table", reports Financial Times. “Unless we get evidence beyond reasonable doubt, we cannot just say this or that,” he said, adding that “we will get the answer. It's a matter of time.” China urged to share information Talking to the Financial Times, Tedros revealed that they are “pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — [and urge Beijing] to co-operate.” “We have already asked in writing to give us information. . . And [are] also willing to send a team if they allow us to do so.” Previously, the WHO has been accused of being too lenient with China and its initial slow response to the global pandemic. Critics say China's initial response enabled the global transmission rates to soar beyond the nation's borders. Also read | China’s decoupling speeds up as it loses about $200 billion from its markets Subsequently, in early 2021, a team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese experts investigated COVID-19's origins. Their joint report favoured the zoonotic origins hypothesis. This comes as health authorities have updated Covid vaccines after a rise in coronavirus cases. The global health body also cautioned nations about the highly mutated BA.2.86 and other Omicron sub-variants and has asked them to increase surveillance. Next week, world leaders for the first time will discuss pandemic preparedness at high-level meetings during the UN General Assembly gathering in New York. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO urges China to reveal information about COVID-19 origins

If you thought that the Covid-19 pandemic is over then think again. In the month of May, the WHO said that Covid is no longer a 'global emergency', now there is a spike in the infections around the world in just four months and UK is facing the brunt of it with a new Covid variant spreading - Pirola.

UK: New Covid variant 'Pirola' cases jump to at least 37 | Pirola to become next dominant variant

In this explosive video, we dive deep into the shocking revelations brought to light by a whistleblower who has alleged a cover-up involving the CIA and the origins of the Wuhan Virus. The whistleblower claims that CIA analysts were allegedly bribed to reject the Covid lab leak theory, a narrative that inadvertently helped China.

Gravitas: CIA helped China cover up Covid lab leak finding? Whistleblower unearths bribery scandal

Another case of Nipah virus has been reported in Kerala, taking the tally to six. How deadly is the Nipah virus? What are its symptoms? Whether you live in Kerala or not, should you be scared? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas | Another deadly bat virus is here: Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, should you be scared?

Alarms are ringing in India over yet another deadly virus. The southern state of Kerala has reported four cases of the Nipah virus out of which two succumb to the infection. Now Nipah is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted to people from animals. It mainly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs and horses. Though the infection does not spread as quickly as COVID-19 the case fatality rate or the proportion of deaths among those who test positive is very high as per the World Health Organization.

Alarm over Nipah Virus outbreak in India: Kerala reports five cases and two deaths

Threads, Meta's text based social media platform is now blocking terms related to covid-19 on its search engines including others like nudity and hate speech.

Meta blocks 'potentially sensitive' topics from threads

For three years, the U.S. government has been tied in knots over the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, frustrated that China’s hindrance of investigations and unwillingness to look critically at its own research have obscured what intelligence agencies can learn about whether the virus escaped from a lab.

US: CIA covered up Covid lab leak finding? Bribe to change view of Covid origins

Nipah virus, which is a deadlier bat virus than Covid-19, has killed two people in the Indian state of Kerala. At least four others have been infected. In 2018, 18 people were infected with Nipah in Kerala, 17 died. Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Nipah: Bat virus deadlier than Covid kills two in Indian state of Kerala | Gravitas

<p>A whistleblower from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has alleged that the CIA offered six analysts significant monetary incentives to change their position on Covid&nbsp;origins. According <strong><a href="https://oversight.house.gov/release/testimony-from-cia-whistleblower-alleges-new-information-on-covid-19-origins/">to a statement</a></strong> from the Committee on Oversight and Accountability on Tuesday (September 12), the Staff on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic and Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence heard testimony from the whistleblower, who presents as a highly credible senior-level CIA officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>"Staff on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic and Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence have heard testimony from a whistleblower alleging that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) offered six analysts significant monetary incentives to change their position on COVID-19’s origin," the statement said.</em></p>

<p>As per the statement, the whistleblower alleged that of the seven members assigned to the CIA team tasked with analysing the virus' origins, six officers concluded that the virus likely originated from a lab in Wuhan, China. "The CIA, then however, allegedly offered financial incentives to six of the experts involved in the investigation to change their conclusion in favour of a zoonotic origin," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter addressed to CIA's Director William Burns on Tuesday, the <strong><a href="https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023.09.12-SSCP-HPSCI-Letter-to-CIA-Re.-Origins-of-COVID.pdf">Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence's chairperson Mike Turner </a></strong>said these allegations were concerning.</p>

<p>Turner said that the allegations required the Coronavirus Pandemic (Select Subcommittee) and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) to conduct further oversight of how the CIA handled its internal investigation into the origins of Covid.</p>

<p>To assist the committees with the investigation, Turner requested Burns to provide the above committees with documents that include details about the establishment of all iterations of the Covid Discovery Team, the communications between or among the members of all iterations of the team regarding Covid's origin, and all documents and communications between or among members of all iterations of the team and other employees or contractors of the agency regarding the origin&nbsp;of the virus.</p>

<p>"Should the required information not be produced in an expeditious and satisfactory manner, you should expect the Committee, or Committees, to use its additional tools and authorities to satisfy our legislative and oversight requirements," the letter added.&nbsp;</p>

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A whistleblower from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has alleged that the CIA offered six analysts significant monetary incentives to change their position on Covid origins.

A whistleblower from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has alleged that the CIA offered six analysts significant monetary incentives to change their position on Covid origins. According to a statement from the Committee on Oversight and Accountability on Tuesday (September 12), the Staff on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic and Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence heard testimony from the whistleblower, who presents as a highly credible senior-level CIA officer. "Staff on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic and Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence have heard testimony from a whistleblower alleging that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) offered six analysts significant monetary incentives to change their position on COVID-19’s origin," the statement said. As per the statement, the whistleblower alleged that of the seven members assigned to the CIA team tasked with analysing the virus' origins, six officers concluded that the virus likely originated from a lab in Wuhan, China. "The CIA, then however, allegedly offered financial incentives to six of the experts involved in the investigation to change their conclusion in favour of a zoonotic origin," the statement added. In a letter addressed to CIA's Director William Burns on Tuesday, the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence's chairperson Mike Turner said these allegations were concerning. Turner said that the allegations required the Coronavirus Pandemic (Select Subcommittee) and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) to conduct further oversight of how the CIA handled its internal investigation into the origins of Covid. To assist the committees with the investigation, Turner requested Burns to provide the above committees with documents that include details about the establishment of all iterations of the Covid Discovery Team, the communications between or among the members of all iterations of the team regarding Covid's origin, and all documents and communications between or among members of all iterations of the team and other employees or contractors of the agency regarding the origin of the virus. "Should the required information not be produced in an expeditious and satisfactory manner, you should expect the Committee, or Committees, to use its additional tools and authorities to satisfy our legislative and oversight requirements," the letter added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CIA offered analysts monetary incentives to change their position on Covid origins: Whistleblower

Just when the entire world was heaving a sigh of relief, and quite literally, over the reports of COVID-19 waning away, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday, September 6 said that COVID-19 deaths and hospitalisations are increasing in several parts of the world and urged countries to better share information and data.

Covid-19 hospitalisation witness global surge, WHO urges countries to share data

Just days ahead of US President Joe Biden's India trip for the G20 Summit, first lady Jill Biden has tested positive for Covid-19. After this, Joe Biden has now tested negative for the Coronavirus for a second time in a span 24 hours.

US: Bident tests negative for Covid, to travel to India for G20 Summit

Just days ahead of US President Joe Biden's India trip for the G20 Summit, first lady Jill Biden has tested positive for Covid-19.

US: Jill Biden tests covid-19 positive ahead of Joe Biden's India visit for G20 summit

If you thought that the Covid-19 pandemic is over then think again. In the month of May, the WHO said that Covid is no longer a 'global emergency', now there is a spike in the infections around the world in just four months.

Spike in Covid cases around the world; New Pirola variant behind the rise?

An article published in the Yale Medicine Review on August 31 has noted the rise of Covid-19 infections in multiple countries, driven by a new Coronavirus variant called BA.2.86, which is informally being termed ‘Pirola’.

New Covid variant 'Pirola' sparks alarm in many countries

<p>A committee within the United Nations (UN) has called on wealthy nations, including Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, to waive the patents on coronavirus vaccines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The antiracism committee argues that these patents violate a guarantee against racial discrimination.</p>

<h2><strong>Covid vaccines and patents</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, in June 2022, member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed to allow developing nations to lift COVID-19 vaccine patents for a period of five years.&nbsp; However, subsequent talks on this matter have got nowhere.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modernas-updated-covid-19-vaccine-effective-against-emerging-subvariants-eris-and-fornax-626552">Moderna's updated COVID-19 vaccine effective against emerging subvariants Eris and Fornax</a></strong></p>

<p>The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which is a group of 18 independent human rights experts, has expressed dissatisfaction with the dated agreement.</p>

<p>The group of experts whose view are not binding said that the agreement has not done enough to address the disparities in vaccine access.</p>

<h2><strong>Vaccine disparity</strong></h2>

<p>According to the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO), only 32 per cent of people around the globe have received at least one booster or additional vaccine dose.</p>

<p>It also states that in some developing countries such as Gabon, Papua New Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar, this figure remains at less than one per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-is-the-covid-19-scare-coming-back-heres-what-you-should-know-627516">Explained: Is the COVID-19 scare coming back? Here's what you should know</a></strong></p>

<p>The UN committee remarked that the rich nations' "persistent refusal" to waive intellectual property rights "raises concerns" about their obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.</p>

<p>AFP reports that the committee further emphasised that&nbsp;"COVID-19 remains a serious public health issue with devastating negative impacts", which has a disproportionate "devastating" impact on people of African or Asian descent, ethnic minorities, Roma communities, and Indigenous peoples.</p>

<h2><strong>Remedies the committee suggested</strong></h2>

<p>The committee suggests that these inequalities could be "significantly mitigated" by sharing access to intellectual property rights for life-saving vaccines, treatments, and technologies, which are "currently reserved by a few countries in the global North".</p>

<p>It further urged State parties to prioritise human rights concerns and to include robust human rights safeguards, including establishing a mechanism that makes it obligatory for governments to temporarily suspend intellectual property rights during health crises.</p>

<p>It called upon "States parties in the global North to provide resources to enable poorer States to satisfy the core medical capacities that they are now expected to have in place under the International Health Regulations and to enable vaccines, relevant medicines and other necessary equipment and supplies to be available to all."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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A committee within the United Nations (UN) has called on wealthy nations, including Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, to waive the patents on coronavirus vaccines.

A committee within the United Nations (UN) has called on wealthy nations, including Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, to waive the patents on coronavirus vaccines. The antiracism committee argues that these patents violate a guarantee against racial discrimination. Covid vaccines and patents Previously, in June 2022, member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreed to allow developing nations to lift COVID-19 vaccine patents for a period of five years. However, subsequent talks on this matter have got nowhere. Also read | Moderna's updated COVID-19 vaccine effective against emerging subvariants Eris and Fornax The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which is a group of 18 independent human rights experts, has expressed dissatisfaction with the dated agreement. The group of experts whose view are not binding said that the agreement has not done enough to address the disparities in vaccine access. Vaccine disparity According to the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO), only 32 per cent of people around the globe have received at least one booster or additional vaccine dose. It also states that in some developing countries such as Gabon, Papua New Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar, this figure remains at less than one per cent. Also read | Explained: Is the COVID-19 scare coming back? Here's what you should know The UN committee remarked that the rich nations' "persistent refusal" to waive intellectual property rights "raises concerns" about their obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. AFP reports that the committee further emphasised that "COVID-19 remains a serious public health issue with devastating negative impacts", which has a disproportionate "devastating" impact on people of African or Asian descent, ethnic minorities, Roma communities, and Indigenous peoples. Remedies the committee suggested The committee suggests that these inequalities could be "significantly mitigated" by sharing access to intellectual property rights for life-saving vaccines, treatments, and technologies, which are "currently reserved by a few countries in the global North". It further urged State parties to prioritise human rights concerns and to include robust human rights safeguards, including establishing a mechanism that makes it obligatory for governments to temporarily suspend intellectual property rights during health crises. It called upon "States parties in the global North to provide resources to enable poorer States to satisfy the core medical capacities that they are now expected to have in place under the International Health Regulations and to enable vaccines, relevant medicines and other necessary equipment and supplies to be available to all." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN committee calls on rich nations to waive Covid vaccine patents, cites racial discrimination concerns

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