At least six people were killed in a blinding dust storm in Southern Illinois on Monday. The national weather service informed that the winds were gusting at a speed of at least 56 to 74 kilometres per hour and visibility was low due to the blowing dust.

At least 6 dead after dust storm causes crashes in Illinois

The local prosecutor's office reports that the bus fell approximately 50 feet into a ravine while travelling on a highway. The bus was going to a tourist spot in Puerto Varalta when it either crashed on a cliff or plummeted from a cliff and into a ravine in Western Mexico, killing 18 and wounding 33.

Bus crash in Mexico, 18 dead and 33 injured

In the capital city of Tel Aviv, an Italian tourist was killed in a car-ramming incident. Authorities are calling it a terror attack. The attacker rammed his car into a group of people near a popular sea-side park. At least seven others were injured.

1 dead, 5 injured in car-ramming attack in Israel

Every year, approximately 1.5 lakh people dies on India roads, which translate, on an average, into 1130 accidents and 422 deaths every day or 47 accidents and 18 deaths every hour.

India tops world in road deaths with 150,000 annual casualties

Eight people including two children have been found dead in Saint Lawrence River near the Canada-US border. Police say they were trying to illegally cross into the United States. Among those dead include members of an Indian family as well as a family of Romanian descent.

Authorities: 8 dead during illegal river crossing on the US-Canada border

A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis.

It added that half of these deaths might have occurred among children under the age of 5.

To allow proactive intervention and prevent drought-related mortality, a model was also created from the same study for the first time. According to the forecasts, which covers January through June 2023, 135 people might die&nbsp;every day as a result of the crisis, with the total number of fatalities predicted to range between 18,100 and 34,200 over this time in these six months.&nbsp;

These projections imply that, despite the fact that hunger has been temporarily avoided, the crisis is still ongoing and has already surpassed the drought disaster of 2017–2018 in severity.

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These numbers were obtained using a statistical model that predicted that, between January and December 2022, the crude death rate in Somalia went from 0.33 to 0.38 fatalities per 10,000 person-days. It also revealed that&nbsp;the rate among children under the age of five was nearly twice as high. By June 2023, the crude death rate is anticipated to be 0.42 deaths for every 10,000 person-days.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Imperial College London carried out the study, which was commissioned by UNICEF Regional Office and WHO country office of Somalia.&nbsp;

It gives retrospective estimates of mortality across Somalia from January to December 2022. The areas around the Bay, Bakool, and Banadir regions of south-central Somalia, which are currently the epicentre of the drought, were thought to have the greatest fatality rates.

Somalian Minister of Health Dr Ali Hadji Adam Abubakar said, “We continue to be concerned about the level and scale of the public health impact of this deepening and protracted food crisis in Somalia. At the same time, we are optimistic that if we can sustain our ongoing and scaled-up health and nutrition actions and humanitarian response to save lives and protect the health of our vulnerable, we can push back the risk of famine forever."

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"Else, those vulnerable and marginalized will pay the price of this crisis with their lives. We, therefore, urge all our partners and donors to continue to support the health sector in building a resilient health system that works for everyone and not for the few. Building a healthier and happier world for all Somalis remains at the heart of our government," he added.&nbsp;

This is the worst drought in recent history in Somalia. It is continuing for five seasons in a row and has left five million people in severe food insecurity and nearly two million children at danger of malnutrition. In order to provide for 7.6 million people's needs in 2023, the UN will need to raise more than US$2.6 billion.

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WHO Representative to Somalia and Head of Mission, Dr Mamunur Rahman Malik said, “We are racing against time to prevent deaths and save lives that are avoidable. We have seen, deaths and diseases thrive when hunger and food crises prolong. We will see more people dying from the disease than from hunger and malnutrition combined if we do not act now. The cost of our inaction will mean that children, women and other vulnerable people will pay with their lives while we hopelessly, helplessly witness the tragedy unfold.”

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A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis.

A new report by Somalia's health ministry, WHO and UNICEF stated that about 43,000 "excess deaths" might have occurred in Somalia from drought last year in comparison with 2017 and 2018 drought crisis. It added that half of these deaths might have occurred among children under the age of 5. To allow proactive intervention and prevent drought-related mortality, a model was also created from the same study for the first time. According to the forecasts, which covers January through June 2023, 135 people might die every day as a result of the crisis, with the total number of fatalities predicted to range between 18,100 and 34,200 over this time in these six months. These projections imply that, despite the fact that hunger has been temporarily avoided, the crisis is still ongoing and has already surpassed the drought disaster of 2017–2018 in severity. Also Read | Russia, China reach agreement on second Power of Siberia gas pipeline These numbers were obtained using a statistical model that predicted that, between January and December 2022, the crude death rate in Somalia went from 0.33 to 0.38 fatalities per 10,000 person-days. It also revealed that the rate among children under the age of five was nearly twice as high. By June 2023, the crude death rate is anticipated to be 0.42 deaths for every 10,000 person-days. The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Imperial College London carried out the study, which was commissioned by UNICEF Regional Office and WHO country office of Somalia. It gives retrospective estimates of mortality across Somalia from January to December 2022. The areas around the Bay, Bakool, and Banadir regions of south-central Somalia, which are currently the epicentre of the drought, were thought to have the greatest fatality rates. Somalian Minister of Health Dr Ali Hadji Adam Abubakar said, “We continue to be concerned about the level and scale of the public health impact of this deepening and protracted food crisis in Somalia. At the same time, we are optimistic that if we can sustain our ongoing and scaled-up health and nutrition actions and humanitarian response to save lives and protect the health of our vulnerable, we can push back the risk of famine forever." Also Read | China approves its first mRNA vaccine, months after easing Covid restrictions "Else, those vulnerable and marginalized will pay the price of this crisis with their lives. We, therefore, urge all our partners and donors to continue to support the health sector in building a resilient health system that works for everyone and not for the few. Building a healthier and happier world for all Somalis remains at the heart of our government," he added. This is the worst drought in recent history in Somalia. It is continuing for five seasons in a row and has left five million people in severe food insecurity and nearly two million children at danger of malnutrition. In order to provide for 7.6 million people's needs in 2023, the UN will need to raise more than US$2.6 billion. Watch | 'No winners in a nuclear war': Russia-China joint statement WHO Representative to Somalia and Head of Mission, Dr Mamunur Rahman Malik said, “We are racing against time to prevent deaths and save lives that are avoidable. We have seen, deaths and diseases thrive when hunger and food crises prolong. We will see more people dying from the disease than from hunger and malnutrition combined if we do not act now. The cost of our inaction will mean that children, women and other vulnerable people will pay with their lives while we hopelessly, helplessly witness the tragedy unfold.” 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.

43,000 'excess deaths' in Somalia last year from drought, half may be children under five

Drought is battering Somalia. The country is facing five consecutive failed rainfall seasons. Shivan Chanana tells you about a report that states last year 43,000 people died in Somalia due to it.

Somalia drought killed 43,000 last year, study finds | WION Climate Tracker

Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint.&nbsp;

Medical practitioners have observed that the pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said&nbsp;"Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections,"&nbsp;as quoted by news agency&nbsp;ANI.&nbsp;

Dr Gupta further pointed out, it is leading to&nbsp;severe pulmonary infections. "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation," he added.&nbsp;

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The first two H3N2 influenza virus-related deaths in India have occurred in the states of Haryana and Karnataka, as reported by ANI.&nbsp;

According to health department authorities, the victim from Karnataka had symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI), such as a fever, sore throat, and cough. The 82-year-old man from Alur Taluk in the Hassan district was hospitalised at the Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences on February 24, and he passed away on March 1.

Almost 90 cases of the H3N2 virus have reportedly been detected in India so far, according to media reports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-first-two-deaths-from-h3n2-influenza-one-each-in-haryana-karnataka-570605">India reports first two deaths from H3N2 influenza: One each in Haryana, Karnataka</a>

The H3N2v virus sometimes referred to as a "swine influenza virus," is a non-human influenza virus that typically infects pigs and has also infected people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

These viruses are known as "variant" viruses when they infect people. According to the CDC, the particular H3N2 variant virus was found in people in 2011 and contained the M gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus as well as genes from avian, swine, and human viruses.

Presently, the severity of the H3N2 illness is comparable to that of seasonal flu.

Fever, breathing issues including a cough and runny nose, as well as other symptoms like body pains, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, are among the symptoms. Although some people may have these symptoms for more than a week, this is how long they typically last.

According to the CDC, individuals with certain long-term health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, children under the age of five, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with these conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications if they contract the virus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint.

Experts have noted that the influenza H3N2 virus is causing significant medical issues, particularly severe lung infections, and that it "has changed its pattern unexpectedly in just six months" as concern about the virus has risen, as reported by the Mint. Medical practitioners have observed that the pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Dr Dhiren Gupta, a Senior Consultant at Sir Gangaram hospital in Delhi, said "Over the past 6 months pattern of viruses has changed remarkably and unexpectedly. Normally, we expect influenza to be the number 1 virus that can lead to hospitalisation. This time Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 has led to a lot of respiratory tract infections," as quoted by news agency ANI. Dr Gupta further pointed out, it is leading to severe pulmonary infections. "Another observation- type B influenza (past two months 5 leading to PICU admission) has led to more severe pulmonary infections in form of ARDS, severe pneumonia requiring ventilation," he added. ALSO READ | India: Tamil Nadu school girl dies after overdosing on iron supplements The first two H3N2 influenza virus-related deaths in India have occurred in the states of Haryana and Karnataka, as reported by ANI. According to health department authorities, the victim from Karnataka had symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI), such as a fever, sore throat, and cough. The 82-year-old man from Alur Taluk in the Hassan district was hospitalised at the Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences on February 24, and he passed away on March 1. Almost 90 cases of the H3N2 virus have reportedly been detected in India so far, according to media reports. ALSO READ | India reports first two deaths from H3N2 influenza: One each in Haryana, Karnataka The H3N2v virus sometimes referred to as a "swine influenza virus," is a non-human influenza virus that typically infects pigs and has also infected people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These viruses are known as "variant" viruses when they infect people. According to the CDC, the particular H3N2 variant virus was found in people in 2011 and contained the M gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus as well as genes from avian, swine, and human viruses. Presently, the severity of the H3N2 illness is comparable to that of seasonal flu. Fever, breathing issues including a cough and runny nose, as well as other symptoms like body pains, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, are among the symptoms. Although some people may have these symptoms for more than a week, this is how long they typically last. According to the CDC, individuals with certain long-term health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, children under the age of five, people 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with these conditions are at a higher risk of developing complications if they contract the virus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

H3N2 Influenza changing pattern unexpectedly: Experts warn more hospitalisations

At least 15 people were killed and more than dozens injured after a landslide caused by incessant rains struck Serasan Island, Riau Islands Province—one of the outermost islands in Indonesia. &nbsp;

The landslide occurred late Monday morning, following heavy rainfall. Authorities said that the death toll might continue to rise as search and rescue operations progress.

National Disaster Mitigation Agency's spokesperson Abdul Muhari, citing local officials on Riau Islands, said that "11 body bags had been filled" and "50 people are estimated missing". He added that rescue officials are facing difficulty in accessing the far-flung island.

"Normally it takes five hours by fast boat. Tomorrow the National Disaster Mitigation Agency will deploy a helicopter to speed up the logistics delivery process,” he was quoted as saying.

Local media reports showed that the landslide flattened and fully covered the houses that were near the edge of a cliff on Serasan island, between Borneo and mainland Malaysia.

<h2>Sri Lanka mull using Indian rupee for economic transactions</h2>

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According to Riau Islands Disaster Mitigation Agency's spokesperson Junainah, the affected areas have been cut off from the main communication network and hence making it difficult to receive the latest information on the ground.

"The weather is unpredictable. The wind is strong and the waves are currently high," the official was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued early weather warnings for moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning across the region through March 7.

Landslides during the rainy season are pretty common in Indonesia as it has been witnessing&nbsp;deforestation on a mass scale, raising concerns over flooding in different areas of the archipelago nation.

The most recent example of a flood was the one reported in Banjar district, in the Indonesian part of Borneo, that inundated more than 17,000 houses and disrupted lives for a month.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 15 people were killed and more than dozens injured after a landslide caused by incessant rains struck Serasan Island, Riau Islands Province—one of the outermost islands in Indonesia.

At least 15 people were killed and more than dozens injured after a landslide caused by incessant rains struck Serasan Island, Riau Islands Province—one of the outermost islands in Indonesia. The landslide occurred late Monday morning, following heavy rainfall. Authorities said that the death toll might continue to rise as search and rescue operations progress. National Disaster Mitigation Agency's spokesperson Abdul Muhari, citing local officials on Riau Islands, said that "11 body bags had been filled" and "50 people are estimated missing". He added that rescue officials are facing difficulty in accessing the far-flung island. "Normally it takes five hours by fast boat. Tomorrow the National Disaster Mitigation Agency will deploy a helicopter to speed up the logistics delivery process,” he was quoted as saying. Local media reports showed that the landslide flattened and fully covered the houses that were near the edge of a cliff on Serasan island, between Borneo and mainland Malaysia. Sri Lanka mull using Indian rupee for economic transactions According to Riau Islands Disaster Mitigation Agency's spokesperson Junainah, the affected areas have been cut off from the main communication network and hence making it difficult to receive the latest information on the ground. "The weather is unpredictable. The wind is strong and the waves are currently high," the official was quoted as saying by AFP news agency. Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has issued early weather warnings for moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning across the region through March 7. Landslides during the rainy season are pretty common in Indonesia as it has been witnessing deforestation on a mass scale, raising concerns over flooding in different areas of the archipelago nation. The most recent example of a flood was the one reported in Banjar district, in the Indonesian part of Borneo, that inundated more than 17,000 houses and disrupted lives for a month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Landslide strikes Indonesia, at least 15 killed, 50 feared missing  

Weeks after the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 50,000 people, Turkey has now begun to work to rebuild homes. The death toll in Turkey due to the massive earthquake has crossed over 44,000.

Turkey beings work to rebuild homes after several damage | Turkey-Syria Earthquake Aftermath

Syria was grappling with the aftermath of some massive earthquake, but now the Syrians have to deal with floods also. After the earthquake a dam collapsed in a small town in Northwestern Syria which is near the Turkish border.

Syria: Authorities have reported 5,800 deaths

Rescuers continue to pull out more survivors from the rubble in Turkey and Syria as the death toll from last week’s earthquakes topped 36,000.The quakes have killed at least 31,643 people in Turkey , and 3500 people in Syria.

Syria: UN holds emergency meeting

Another powerful earthquake hit Turkiye hours after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake caused wide-spread devastation in the region. The death toll from Monday's earthquakes crossed 1000 across Turkiye and Syria.

Turkiye Earthquake: Over 1500 people dead in Turkiye and Syria

An explosion at a mosque in Pakistan's northern city of Peshawar killed at least 47 people, and injured over 150 others on Monday. Several people have been admitted to the hospital in a critical condition and the death toll from the attack is expected to rise.

Pakistan: Conflicting accounts on who carried out the blast, at least 63 dead, over 150 injured

The sale of a toxic chemical DNP or 2.4 Dinitrophenol, often classified as a 'slimming pill', is under tight scrutiny by the UK Home Office department. The 'fat burner' medicine has been added to a list of poisons by the government after it was linked to the death of at least 33 people, reported the Independent.&nbsp;

While families of people who have lost their lives by consuming the medicine are protesting, the DNP medicine is set to be regulated under the Poisons Act 1972. This infers that anyone without a licence from a registered pharmacist will not be able to get their hands on DNP.&nbsp;

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Though the medicine is already banned for human consumption, many online platforms are being exploited to sell the medicine&nbsp;under the pretext of it being an aid for reducing weight. The renewed crack down on the medicine is appreciated by the father of Bethany Shipsey, then 21-year-old who died in 2017 after consuming pills consisting DNP in them.&nbsp;

Shipsey's parents will meet UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat to find out ways to expedite the complete ban on the controversial medicine.&nbsp;There have been many excruciating stories like that of Shipsey. One such story is of a student Eloise Parry who suffered a tragic death after swallowing eight diet tablets with DNP in them.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barclays-ubs-under-radar-for-alleged-ties-with-russian-oligarchs-offshore-trusts-557401">Barclays, UBS under radar for alleged ties with Russian oligarch’s offshore trusts &nbsp;</a>

In a 2020 trial in the case of her death, Prosecutor Richard Barraclough said, “If you take it, you might live, or you might die."&nbsp; President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, Claire Anderson, said, “Including DNP in the Poisons Act is a positive move as it will restrict its availability, but what’s really needed is an outright ban to reduce the risk to the public."&nbsp;

“We are concerned that DNP is still in circulation and want to see a firm commitment to prosecuting those who make profits from it. We also call on social media companies to remove content promoting or selling DNP to further reduce harm.”

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-zelensky-calls-for-russia-to-be-banned-from-paris-olympics-557417">Zelensky calls for Russia to be banned from Paris Olympics</a>

Meanwhile, UK security minister Tom Tugendhat said, “Around the UK, businesses and individuals use various chemicals for a wide range of legitimate uses. However, we must also minimise the risk posed by the illicit use of bomb-making materials and poisons."

“It is our responsibility to ensure our robust controls of these substances are updated and [there are] controls in place against those who wish to abuse them. These steps will do just that.”

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The sale of a toxic chemical DNP or 2.4 Dinitrophenol, often classified as a 'slimming pill', is under tight scrutiny by the UK Home Office department. The 'fat burner' medicine has been added to a list of poisons by the government after it was linked to the death of at least 33 people, reported the Independent.

The sale of a toxic chemical DNP or 2.4 Dinitrophenol, often classified as a 'slimming pill', is under tight scrutiny by the UK Home Office department. The 'fat burner' medicine has been added to a list of poisons by the government after it was linked to the death of at least 33 people, reported the Independent. While families of people who have lost their lives by consuming the medicine are protesting, the DNP medicine is set to be regulated under the Poisons Act 1972. This infers that anyone without a licence from a registered pharmacist will not be able to get their hands on DNP. Also Read | Thousands of offshore firms owning UK property yet to declare real owners: Report Though the medicine is already banned for human consumption, many online platforms are being exploited to sell the medicine under the pretext of it being an aid for reducing weight. The renewed crack down on the medicine is appreciated by the father of Bethany Shipsey, then 21-year-old who died in 2017 after consuming pills consisting DNP in them. Shipsey's parents will meet UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat to find out ways to expedite the complete ban on the controversial medicine. There have been many excruciating stories like that of Shipsey. One such story is of a student Eloise Parry who suffered a tragic death after swallowing eight diet tablets with DNP in them. Also Read | Barclays, UBS under radar for alleged ties with Russian oligarch’s offshore trusts In a 2020 trial in the case of her death, Prosecutor Richard Barraclough said, “If you take it, you might live, or you might die." President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, Claire Anderson, said, “Including DNP in the Poisons Act is a positive move as it will restrict its availability, but what’s really needed is an outright ban to reduce the risk to the public." “We are concerned that DNP is still in circulation and want to see a firm commitment to prosecuting those who make profits from it. We also call on social media companies to remove content promoting or selling DNP to further reduce harm.” WATCH | Zelensky calls for Russia to be banned from Paris Olympics Meanwhile, UK security minister Tom Tugendhat said, “Around the UK, businesses and individuals use various chemicals for a wide range of legitimate uses. However, we must also minimise the risk posed by the illicit use of bomb-making materials and poisons." “It is our responsibility to ensure our robust controls of these substances are updated and [there are] controls in place against those who wish to abuse them. These steps will do just that.” 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.

UK to crack down on sale of DNP; a 'slimming pill' which claimed at least 33 lives

The health authorities of China said that the peak of the Covid wave has passed and that there has been a rapid decline in deaths and severe cases in hospitals, however, experts are still wary of official data shared by the government.&nbsp;

China’s Centre for Disease Control (CDC) stated that there was a peak in the number of patients suffering from Covid-19 in January's first week, however, the cases declined rapidly by more than 70%. According to the data, the number of deaths also peaked at its highest level that week.&nbsp;

Director of the centre for global health at Oregon University Prof Chi Chun-huei said that the authorities have incentivised via rewards and punishments to under-report figures of patients infected with coronavirus, &nbsp;during the zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/daily-covid-deaths-in-china-down-by-nearly-80-say-authorities-556065">Daily Covid deaths in China down by nearly 80%, say authorities</a>

He added that after the policy was removed, the authorities were incentivised to exaggerate under-report deaths and infection rates.

“Most international experts know this very well – China’s statistics are very unreliable,” he stated.&nbsp;

In recent months, China has been swept by Covid cases which escalated rapidly after the zero-Covid policy was suddenly removed by the government in early December 2022. A senior health official had last week stated that 80% of people were infected by Covid-19 in this wave.

WATCH | Gravitas: Why factories in China are shutting down

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As per the data, on January 5 128,000 critically ill patients of Covid-19 were admitted to Chinese hospitals, which was the highest number reported in this wave.&nbsp;

During the new year, a peak in the number of patients admitted to hospitals was reported with around 10,000 new critically ill cases being reported every day from December 27 &nbsp;to January 3.&nbsp;

According to the report, by January 23, the total number of patients who were critically ill had declined by 72% to about 36,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The health authorities of China said that the peak of the Covid wave has passed and that there has been a rapid decline in deaths and severe cases in hospitals, however, experts are still wary of official data shared by the government.

The health authorities of China said that the peak of the Covid wave has passed and that there has been a rapid decline in deaths and severe cases in hospitals, however, experts are still wary of official data shared by the government. China’s Centre for Disease Control (CDC) stated that there was a peak in the number of patients suffering from Covid-19 in January's first week, however, the cases declined rapidly by more than 70%. According to the data, the number of deaths also peaked at its highest level that week. Director of the centre for global health at Oregon University Prof Chi Chun-huei said that the authorities have incentivised via rewards and punishments to under-report figures of patients infected with coronavirus, during the zero-Covid policy. ALSO READ | Daily Covid deaths in China down by nearly 80%, say authorities He added that after the policy was removed, the authorities were incentivised to exaggerate under-report deaths and infection rates. “Most international experts know this very well – China’s statistics are very unreliable,” he stated. In recent months, China has been swept by Covid cases which escalated rapidly after the zero-Covid policy was suddenly removed by the government in early December 2022. A senior health official had last week stated that 80% of people were infected by Covid-19 in this wave. WATCH | Gravitas: Why factories in China are shutting down As per the data, on January 5 128,000 critically ill patients of Covid-19 were admitted to Chinese hospitals, which was the highest number reported in this wave. During the new year, a peak in the number of patients admitted to hospitals was reported with around 10,000 new critically ill cases being reported every day from December 27 to January 3. According to the report, by January 23, the total number of patients who were critically ill had declined by 72% to about 36,000. (With inputs from agencies) 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

Covid wave past its peak, deaths declining rapidly, claims China

Taking note of the deaths of over 300 children linked to cough syrups in three countries, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has decided to launch a probe to find whether these medicines were contaminated from the manufacturers’ end, Reuters news agency reported citing sources familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

According to reports, the WHO found “unacceptable” level of toxins in these syrups and is seeking more information on the raw materials used by these six manufacturers in India and Indonesia.&nbsp;

More than 300 kids, mainly aged under 5, in Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Gambia died of acute kidney injury after consuming cough syrups, the WHO said in a statement on Monday.&nbsp;

The cough syrups were found to have had high levels of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol.&nbsp;The WHO is probing whether the companies procured them from the same suppliers.&nbsp;No suppliers have been named.&nbsp;

<h2>WHO labels four cough syrups as 'substandard products; Indian pharmaceutical company in the dock?</h2>

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“These contaminants are toxic chemicals used as industrial solvents and antifreeze agents that can be fatal even taken in small amounts, and should never be found in medicines,” the WHO said.&nbsp;

According to Reuters, the WHO has alerted the Philippines, Timor Leste, Senegal, and Cambodia where the same products may have been on sale.&nbsp;It also called for action across its 194 member states to prevent more deaths.&nbsp;

“Since these are not isolated incidents, WHO calls on various key stakeholders engaged in the medical supply chain to take immediate and coordinated action,” the WHO said.&nbsp;

In October and earlier this month, the global health agency had already issued alerts asking for the removal of cough syrups from the shelves which are made by India’s Maiden Pharmaceuticals and Marion Biotech—both of whom are linked with deaths in the Gambia and Uzbekistan respectively.

It also issued a warning last year for cough syrups made by four Indonesian manufacturers, PT Yarindo Farmatama, PT Universal Pharmaceutical, PT Konimex and PT AFI Pharma, that were sold domestically, according to Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Taking note of the deaths of over 300 children linked to cough syrups in three countries, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has decided to launch a probe to find whether these medicines were contaminated from the manufacturers’ end, Reuters news agency reported citing sources familiar with the matter.

Taking note of the deaths of over 300 children linked to cough syrups in three countries, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has decided to launch a probe to find whether these medicines were contaminated from the manufacturers’ end, Reuters news agency reported citing sources familiar with the matter. According to reports, the WHO found “unacceptable” level of toxins in these syrups and is seeking more information on the raw materials used by these six manufacturers in India and Indonesia. More than 300 kids, mainly aged under 5, in Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Gambia died of acute kidney injury after consuming cough syrups, the WHO said in a statement on Monday. The cough syrups were found to have had high levels of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol. The WHO is probing whether the companies procured them from the same suppliers. No suppliers have been named. WHO labels four cough syrups as 'substandard products; Indian pharmaceutical company in the dock? “These contaminants are toxic chemicals used as industrial solvents and antifreeze agents that can be fatal even taken in small amounts, and should never be found in medicines,” the WHO said. According to Reuters, the WHO has alerted the Philippines, Timor Leste, Senegal, and Cambodia where the same products may have been on sale. It also called for action across its 194 member states to prevent more deaths. “Since these are not isolated incidents, WHO calls on various key stakeholders engaged in the medical supply chain to take immediate and coordinated action,” the WHO said. In October and earlier this month, the global health agency had already issued alerts asking for the removal of cough syrups from the shelves which are made by India’s Maiden Pharmaceuticals and Marion Biotech—both of whom are linked with deaths in the Gambia and Uzbekistan respectively. It also issued a warning last year for cough syrups made by four Indonesian manufacturers, PT Yarindo Farmatama, PT Universal Pharmaceutical, PT Konimex and PT AFI Pharma, that were sold domestically, according to Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WHO to probe Indian, Indonesian firms over cough syrup linked deaths: Report 

The death toll in the Mexico prison attack has risen to 26 with seven more killed on Monday. Gunmen attacked a state prison in the Mexican border town of Juarez on Sunday, leaving 19 dead on Monday.

Mexico Prison Attack: Death toll rises to 26, highest in recent years

Japan on Wednesday recorded 415 Covid deaths, the highest-ever count for a single day, health ministry data showed.

Japan records 415 new Covid deaths: Data

In South Africa, eight people have been killed and multiple are feared injured after a gas tanker caught fire in Boksburg city. Emergency Services say that six firefighters have also been injured in the explosion and are being treated at a nearby hospital.

South Africa Tanker Explosion: 8 dead, several killed in explosion; rescue operations underway

In the aftermath of the massive protests that were witnessed has decided to lift the Covid restrictions that were in place as a part of the zero Covid strategy. So China's Covid situation is not ringing any festive bells but rather it's actually bled in emergency siren.

China: Funeral staff tests positive in Beijing as demand increases

China: New Covid model predicts 1 million deaths, cases would peak around April

A landslide during a funeral ceremony in Cameroon's capital has killed at least 14 people while dozens of others are still missing as a rescue crew continues to dig through the rubble with flashlights.

WION Climate Tracker: Dozens injured in Cameroon landslide

Incidents of heart attacks among Indians are on the rise. Even more worrying is a fact that even young people are becoming vulnerable to them.

India: Deaths by heart attacks increased by 22% between years 2017-2022

The effects of climate change are being felt around the world. Nigeria is battling devastating floods. Are they the after effects of climate change? Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker | Nigeria's devastating floods: After effects of climate change

Indonesia was jolted by a 5.6 magnitude earthquake. Early reports say at least 20 people have been killed and about 300 people are injured. Watch this report.

Indonesia Earthquake: Most of the injured suffer from fractures

Floods continue to batter and disrupt the lives of people in Nigeria. More than 600 people have been declared dead with scores of people being displaced.

WION Climate Tracker: Misery of Nigerians displaced by floods; More than 600 dead

There is no respite for the dead in Peru. In official census in the South American country, it has revealed out thousands of Peruvians have been incorrectly listed as dead.

Peru's National Civil Registry data sabotaged, thousands incorrectly listed as dead

COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues,&nbsp;according to a government<a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-105871"> report </a>released Wednesday.

For expectant moms and their newborn children, the research outlines depressing national patterns.

According to the study, there have been an increase in pregnancy-related mortality of almost 80% since 2018, with COVID-19 being a contributing factor in 25% of the 1,178 deaths reported in 2018. In addition, following years of stability, the proportion of preterm and low birthweight infants increased in 2017. Additionally, more pregnant and postpartum women are describing depressive symptoms.

“We were already in the middle of a crisis with maternal mortality in our country,” said Karen Tabb Dina, a maternal health researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “This really shows that COVID-19 has exacerbated that crisis to rates that we, as a country, are not able to handle.”

After Congress requested that it assess maternal health outcomes in the 2020 coronavirus relief bill, the nonpartisan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-deposed-in-e-jean-carroll-defamation-case-526929">US&nbsp;Government</a> Accountability Office, which produced the report, examined pregnancy-related mortality.

In spite of the fact that the United States has a higher maternal mortality rate than many other affluent countries and that it had been rising in the years prior to the pandemic, COVID-19 has merely made things more difficult for expectant mothers in this country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-watchdog-approves-covid-jabs-for-kids-over-six-months-526911">EU watchdog approves Covid jabs for kids over six months</a>

High health hazards are associated with the virus infected pregnant women. In addition to COVID-19 restrictions and staffing shortages, pandemic stress has made depression, a common symptom during pregnancy, worse. Expectant moms now face even more obstacles in their quest for in-person medical care.

According to that report, hospitals in rural, low-income, and predominately Black regions have been cutting back on their obstetric services.

There were more than half of rural counties without a hospital that provided maternity care as of 2018,&nbsp;According to the analysis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues, according to a government report released Wednesday.

COVID-19 was responsible for a sharp rise in the number of women who died in the United States last year due to pregnancy-related or childbirth-related issues, according to a government report released Wednesday. For expectant moms and their newborn children, the research outlines depressing national patterns. According to the study, there have been an increase in pregnancy-related mortality of almost 80% since 2018, with COVID-19 being a contributing factor in 25% of the 1,178 deaths reported in 2018. In addition, following years of stability, the proportion of preterm and low birthweight infants increased in 2017. Additionally, more pregnant and postpartum women are describing depressive symptoms. “We were already in the middle of a crisis with maternal mortality in our country,” said Karen Tabb Dina, a maternal health researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “This really shows that COVID-19 has exacerbated that crisis to rates that we, as a country, are not able to handle.” After Congress requested that it assess maternal health outcomes in the 2020 coronavirus relief bill, the nonpartisan US Government Accountability Office, which produced the report, examined pregnancy-related mortality. In spite of the fact that the United States has a higher maternal mortality rate than many other affluent countries and that it had been rising in the years prior to the pandemic, COVID-19 has merely made things more difficult for expectant mothers in this country. Also read | EU watchdog approves Covid jabs for kids over six months High health hazards are associated with the virus infected pregnant women. In addition to COVID-19 restrictions and staffing shortages, pandemic stress has made depression, a common symptom during pregnancy, worse. Expectant moms now face even more obstacles in their quest for in-person medical care. According to that report, hospitals in rural, low-income, and predominately Black regions have been cutting back on their obstetric services. There were more than half of rural counties without a hospital that provided maternity care as of 2018, According to the analysis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: COVID-19 linked to increase in  pregnancy-related deaths, study reveals

The garage official said that rebel groups killed at least three soldiers and eight civilians in an attack in the Northern part of Burkina Faso. The soldiers were patrolling when they were caught in an ambush.

Burkina Faso: At least three soldiers and eight civilians killed in ambush, death toll set to rise

At least 25 people have died and dozens trapped after a blast in a mine in Turkiye. The explosion occurred at the state owned mine at 6:55 in the evening.

49 workers trapped in high-risk area, rescuers work throughout night as death toll rises in Turkiye

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