A pregnant Chinese woman who miscarried after being denied access to medical treatment due to the COVID-19 lockdown has reignited debate over the limits of China's zero-tolerance approach.

China, where the coronavirus was discovered in 2019, is among the last places still adhering to "Zero Covid", putting millions of people in quarantine even as it prepares to host next month's Winter Olympics.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-zero-covid-policy-will-not-work-says-scientist-who-warned-of-omicron-440021">China's zero-Covid policy will not work, says scientist who warned of Omicron</a>

Let's take a look at the 'Zero Covid' policy and its ramifications.

What is 'Zero Covid'?

The Chinese government reports that through this policy it has managed to contain more than 30 outbreaks of COVID-19, including some that were caused by the more contagious delta variant. There are strict measures in place to keep the infection from spreading, including mass testing, lockdowns, and extensive quarantines.

How is China maintaining 'Zero Covid'?

To curb outbreaks, China uses "dynamic zero" formula: tight lockdowns and immediate mass testing.

In contrast to other places where lockdowns are softer, people in China may be forbidden from leaving their buildings or confined to their rooms if they are deemed high-risk contacts.

The city of Xi'an, home of the famed Terracotta Warriors, was shut down in December after 150 cases were reported, forcing its 13 million residents indoors.

One incident that can be called extreme occurred in the similar-sized city of Zhengzhou where all residents were tested after just 11 cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xian-lockdown-chinese-city-reports-community-transmission-hemorrhagic-fever-439629">&nbsp;Xi'an lockdown: Chinese city reports community transmission, hemorrhagic fever</a>

In a recent incident, the Chinese authorities have locked down several supermarkets after coronavirus traces were found in fruits imported from&nbsp;Vietnam. According to reports, at least nine cities in Zhejiang and Jiangxi provinces have found coronavirus samples in&nbsp;dragon fruit&nbsp;imported from Vietnam.

International flights are a fraction of their pre-pandemic levels, and arrivals are subject to strict quarantine for weeks.

As a result of mandatory track-and-trace applications, close contacts are usually discovered and quarantined quickly.

Does the strategy work?&nbsp;

Just over 100,000 cases have been logged in China since the pandemic began, a fraction of the one million cases logged by the US in one day earlier this month.

Officially, fewer than 5,000 people have died.

While it is widely believed that the initial outbreak in Wuhan in early 2020 was under-reported, life has largely returned to normal since then.

"There is still no ability to stop single local cases from appearing, but we have the ability and confidence to quickly extinguish the outbreak when a local case is found," Liang Wannian an official with the National Health Commission told reporters last month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-shuts-supermarkets-after-virus-traces-found-in-dragon-fruit-from-vietnam-442545">China shuts supermarkets after virus traces found in dragon fruit from Vietnam</a>

What is the cost of 'Zero Covid' and who pays it?&nbsp;

Yes, "Zero Covid" comes at a price. There have been almost constant lockdowns near Myanmar's border, and businesses have been forced to flee from these areas.

Communities that have been locked down have complained of inadequate food supplies, medical care, and supplies.

In the meantime, onerous travel rules and restrictions have left migrants separated from their families for months.

In many cases, enforcement has been heavy-handed. One incident that had sparked outrage, had quarantine staff beat a Corgi to death after its owners were quarantined.

Even though China is the only major economy to grow in 2020, repeated factory and business closures are contributing to the country's slowdown.

Is China ever going to reopen?

Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at Hong Kong University, says that "China certainly has shown it is feasible to continue the zero Covid strategy almost indefinitely."&nbsp;

March 2020 marked the country's effective cut-off from the world. Foreigners have practically been forbidden entry.&nbsp;

Although restrictions on travel have eased slightly since then,&nbsp;international tourism remains non-existent. The government has said it will not renew Chinese passports until a valid reason for travelling has been provided.

The country is unlikely to reopen until after the upcoming Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing, with the government desperately guarding the capital and tightening restrictions ahead of the Games.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Covid-19 in fruit? China shuts supermarkets

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-covid-19-in-fruit-china-shuts-supermarkets-442762/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

What about the Chinese who don't agree with this strategy?

There has been a nationalistic backlash against those who question "zero Covid."

Zhang Wenhong, a noted Chinese medical expert, opined in July that countries must "learn to coexist with the virus", which prompted online attacks from trolls.

In the event that China opens up, what will happen?&nbsp;

There are conflicting opinions.

Researchers at Peking University say China is at risk of suffering a "colossal outbreak" if restrictions are relaxed to the same level as in Europe and the US.

Meanwhile, Ivan Hung, a Hong Kong University infectious diseases expert, said second-generation vaccines targeting the Delta and Omicron variants, combined with high vaccination rates, could prevent a disaster.

Hung predicts that Covid will be similar to influenza in this scenario.

However, allowing the virus in could be risky for Xi Jinping, who is vying for a third term in October after he billed himself as a leader who would keep China safe.

"When it does come, the transition may not be easy because Chinese society has gotten quite used to a low level of transmission," says Thomas Hale of the University of Oxford.&nbsp;

A pregnant Chinese woman who miscarried after being denied access to medical treatment due to the COVID-19 lockdown has reignited debate over the limits of China's zero-tolerance approach.

A pregnant Chinese woman who miscarried after being denied access to medical treatment due to the COVID-19 lockdown has reignited debate over the limits of China's zero-tolerance approach. China, where the coronavirus was discovered in 2019, is among the last places still adhering to "Zero Covid", putting millions of people in quarantine even as it prepares to host next month's Winter Olympics. Also read | China's zero-Covid policy will not work, says scientist who warned of Omicron Let's take a look at the 'Zero Covid' policy and its ramifications. What is 'Zero Covid'? The Chinese government reports that through this policy it has managed to contain more than 30 outbreaks of COVID-19, including some that were caused by the more contagious delta variant. There are strict measures in place to keep the infection from spreading, including mass testing, lockdowns, and extensive quarantines. How is China maintaining 'Zero Covid'? To curb outbreaks, China uses "dynamic zero" formula: tight lockdowns and immediate mass testing. In contrast to other places where lockdowns are softer, people in China may be forbidden from leaving their buildings or confined to their rooms if they are deemed high-risk contacts. The city of Xi'an, home of the famed Terracotta Warriors, was shut down in December after 150 cases were reported, forcing its 13 million residents indoors. One incident that can be called extreme occurred in the similar-sized city of Zhengzhou where all residents were tested after just 11 cases. Also read | Xi'an lockdown: Chinese city reports community transmission, hemorrhagic fever In a recent incident, the Chinese authorities have locked down several supermarkets after coronavirus traces were found in fruits imported from Vietnam. According to reports, at least nine cities in Zhejiang and Jiangxi provinces have found coronavirus samples in dragon fruit imported from Vietnam. International flights are a fraction of their pre-pandemic levels, and arrivals are subject to strict quarantine for weeks. As a result of mandatory track-and-trace applications, close contacts are usually discovered and quarantined quickly. Does the strategy work? Just over 100,000 cases have been logged in China since the pandemic began, a fraction of the one million cases logged by the US in one day earlier this month. Officially, fewer than 5,000 people have died. While it is widely believed that the initial outbreak in Wuhan in early 2020 was under-reported, life has largely returned to normal since then. "There is still no ability to stop single local cases from appearing, but we have the ability and confidence to quickly extinguish the outbreak when a local case is found," Liang Wannian an official with the National Health Commission told reporters last month. Also read | China shuts supermarkets after virus traces found in dragon fruit from Vietnam What is the cost of 'Zero Covid' and who pays it? Yes, "Zero Covid" comes at a price. There have been almost constant lockdowns near Myanmar's border, and businesses have been forced to flee from these areas. Communities that have been locked down have complained of inadequate food supplies, medical care, and supplies. In the meantime, onerous travel rules and restrictions have left migrants separated from their families for months. In many cases, enforcement has been heavy-handed. One incident that had sparked outrage, had quarantine staff beat a Corgi to death after its owners were quarantined. Even though China is the only major economy to grow in 2020, repeated factory and business closures are contributing to the country's slowdown. Is China ever going to reopen? Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at Hong Kong University, says that "China certainly has shown it is feasible to continue the zero Covid strategy almost indefinitely." March 2020 marked the country's effective cut-off from the world. Foreigners have practically been forbidden entry. Although restrictions on travel have eased slightly since then, international tourism remains non-existent. The government has said it will not renew Chinese passports until a valid reason for travelling has been provided. The country is unlikely to reopen until after the upcoming Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing, with the government desperately guarding the capital and tightening restrictions ahead of the Games. Watch | Gravitas: Covid-19 in fruit? China shuts supermarkets What about the Chinese who don't agree with this strategy? There has been a nationalistic backlash against those who question "zero Covid." Zhang Wenhong, a noted Chinese medical expert, opined in July that countries must "learn to coexist with the virus", which prompted online attacks from trolls. In the event that China opens up, what will happen? There are conflicting opinions. Researchers at Peking University say China is at risk of suffering a "colossal outbreak" if restrictions are relaxed to the same level as in Europe and the US. Meanwhile, Ivan Hung, a Hong Kong University infectious diseases expert, said second-generation vaccines targeting the Delta and Omicron variants, combined with high vaccination rates, could prevent a disaster. Hung predicts that Covid will be similar to influenza in this scenario. However, allowing the virus in could be risky for Xi Jinping, who is vying for a third term in October after he billed himself as a leader who would keep China safe. "When it does come, the transition may not be easy because Chinese society has gotten quite used to a low level of transmission," says Thomas Hale of the University of Oxford.

Explainer: China's 'zero covid' strategy; what it is, how it functions and does it work?

Since the discovery of the Omicron variant in the Covid-19 virus, half a million deaths have been reported, according to the World Health Organization calling the toll "beyond tragic".

As of late November, 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths had been reported worldwide since Omicron was declared a variant of concern by the WHO.

Due to its more transmissible nature, it has quickly overtaken Delta as the world's dominant Covid variant, despite less severe symptoms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-canada-new-zealand-truckers-protest-against-covid-vaccine-mandates-block-parliament-451554" hreflang="en">After Canada, New Zealand truckers protest against Covid vaccine mandates, block parliament</a>

"In the age of effective vaccines, half a million people dying, it's really something," Mahamud told a live interaction on the WHO's social media channels.

"While everyone was saying Omicron is milder, (they) missed the point that half a million people have died since this was detected," he said.

The sheer number of Omicron cases known to date is staggering, but the actual number is likely to be much higher, according to&nbsp;WHO representative Maria Van Kerkhove.

"It makes the previous peaks look almost flat," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-outbreak-caused-due-to-covid-transmission-from-hamsters-says-study-451521" hreflang="en">Hong Kong outbreak caused due to Covid transmission from hamsters, says study</a>

"We're still in the middle of this pandemic," she said. "Many countries have not passed their peak of Omicron yet."

Van Kerkhove said she was extremely concerned about the increase in death rate for several weeks in a row.

"This virus continues to be dangerous," she said.

The WHO said in its weekly COVID-19 epidemiological update published later Tuesday that nearly 68,000 new deaths were reported last week, an increase of seven per cent over the previous week.&nbsp;In the meantime, the number of new weekly Covid cases decreased by 17 per cent to nearly 19.3 million.

Watch |&nbsp;DCGI grants emergency use permission to single-dose Sputnik Light Covid-19 vaccine

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dcgi-grants-emergency-use-permission-to-single-dose-sputnik-light-covid-19-vaccine-451172/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The pandemic is currently "characterised by the continued rapid global spread of the Omicron variant," the report said, with the variant now detected "in almost all countries".

Over 96.7 per cent of the samples sequenced and uploaded to GISAID global science initiative came from Omicron in the past 30 days. Delta represents just 3.3 per cent.

Limited information is available regarding the efficacy of vaccines against Omicron, according to the report.

"However, available estimates show reduced protection of the primary series COVID-19 vaccines against the Omicron variant for all outcomes (severe disease, symptomatic disease, and infection) than has been observed previously for other variants of concern," it said.

However, it added that booster shots "substantially" improve efficacy.

Since COVID-19 emerged in China in December 2019, over 5.7 million people have died, while over 392 million cases have been reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

Since the discovery of the Omicron variant in the Covid-19 virus, half a million deaths have been reported, according to the World Health Organization calling the toll "beyond tragic".

Since the discovery of the Omicron variant in the Covid-19 virus, half a million deaths have been reported, according to the World Health Organization calling the toll "beyond tragic". As of late November, 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths had been reported worldwide since Omicron was declared a variant of concern by the WHO. Due to its more transmissible nature, it has quickly overtaken Delta as the world's dominant Covid variant, despite less severe symptoms. Also read | After Canada, New Zealand truckers protest against Covid vaccine mandates, block parliament "In the age of effective vaccines, half a million people dying, it's really something," Mahamud told a live interaction on the WHO's social media channels. "While everyone was saying Omicron is milder, (they) missed the point that half a million people have died since this was detected," he said. The sheer number of Omicron cases known to date is staggering, but the actual number is likely to be much higher, according to WHO representative Maria Van Kerkhove. "It makes the previous peaks look almost flat," she said. Also read | Hong Kong outbreak caused due to Covid transmission from hamsters, says study "We're still in the middle of this pandemic," she said. "Many countries have not passed their peak of Omicron yet." Van Kerkhove said she was extremely concerned about the increase in death rate for several weeks in a row. "This virus continues to be dangerous," she said. The WHO said in its weekly COVID-19 epidemiological update published later Tuesday that nearly 68,000 new deaths were reported last week, an increase of seven per cent over the previous week. In the meantime, the number of new weekly Covid cases decreased by 17 per cent to nearly 19.3 million. Watch | DCGI grants emergency use permission to single-dose Sputnik Light Covid-19 vaccine The pandemic is currently "characterised by the continued rapid global spread of the Omicron variant," the report said, with the variant now detected "in almost all countries". Over 96.7 per cent of the samples sequenced and uploaded to GISAID global science initiative came from Omicron in the past 30 days. Delta represents just 3.3 per cent. Limited information is available regarding the efficacy of vaccines against Omicron, according to the report. "However, available estimates show reduced protection of the primary series COVID-19 vaccines against the Omicron variant for all outcomes (severe disease, symptomatic disease, and infection) than has been observed previously for other variants of concern," it said. However, it added that booster shots "substantially" improve efficacy. Since COVID-19 emerged in China in December 2019, over 5.7 million people have died, while over 392 million cases have been reported. (With inputs from agencies)

'Beyond tragic': WHO reports 130 million cases and 500,000 deaths linked to Omicron

Even as the US faces soaring infections and record hospitalisations associated with COVID-19, Anthony Fauci,&nbsp;the nation's&nbsp;top&nbsp;infectious&nbsp;disease expert&nbsp;says the country is approaching the "threshold" of a transition of living with the virus as a manageable illness.

The top US scientist told the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) that eliminating Covid would be unrealistic and that "Omicron, with its extraordinary, unprecedented degree of efficiency of transmissibility, will ultimately find just about everybody."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-over-50-of-europeans-on-track-to-contract-omicron-variant-of-coronavirus-443861">WHO says over 50% of Europeans on track to contract Omicron variant of coronavirus</a>

"There's no way we're going to eradicate this" virus, he said, due to its contagiousness, its tendency to mutate into new variants, and a large number of unvaccinated individuals.

While vaccination&nbsp;is still effective against severe outcomes, it is losing its effectiveness against the infection.

However "as Omicron goes up and down," the country will hopefully enter a new phase "where there'll be enough protection in (the) community, enough drugs available so that when someone does get infected and is in a high-risk group, it will be very easy to treat that person," said Fauci.

"When we get there, there's that transition, and we may be on the threshold of that right now," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-is-deltacron-a-new-variant-a-uk-virologist-explains-what-it-could-possibly-be-443546" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Is 'Deltacron' a new variant? A UK virologist explains what it could possibly be</a>

However, with the country currently recording almost a million infections each day, nearly 150,000 hospital admissions, and more than 1,200 daily deaths, he points out, "we're not at that point."

Despite the fact that a significant portion of Covid cases are thought to be hospitalized "with" the disease rather than for the disease, official data showed 145,982 hospitalisations for the disease.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Europe looks to ‘live with Covid’

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-europe-looks-to-live-with-covid-444243/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The Omicron variant may cause severe cases, at a lower rate than Delta, but it is affecting more people due to its extreme infectiousness.

According to New York state data, the age-adjusted vaccine efficacy against hospitalization was 92 per cent by December 27.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as the US faces soaring infections and record hospitalisations associated with COVID-19, Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert says the country is approaching the "threshold" of a transition of living with the virus as a manageable illness.

Even as the US faces soaring infections and record hospitalisations associated with COVID-19, Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert says the country is approaching the "threshold" of a transition of living with the virus as a manageable illness. The top US scientist told the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) that eliminating Covid would be unrealistic and that "Omicron, with its extraordinary, unprecedented degree of efficiency of transmissibility, will ultimately find just about everybody." Also read | WHO says over 50% of Europeans on track to contract Omicron variant of coronavirus "There's no way we're going to eradicate this" virus, he said, due to its contagiousness, its tendency to mutate into new variants, and a large number of unvaccinated individuals. While vaccination is still effective against severe outcomes, it is losing its effectiveness against the infection. However "as Omicron goes up and down," the country will hopefully enter a new phase "where there'll be enough protection in (the) community, enough drugs available so that when someone does get infected and is in a high-risk group, it will be very easy to treat that person," said Fauci. "When we get there, there's that transition, and we may be on the threshold of that right now," he said. Also read | COVID-19: Is 'Deltacron' a new variant? A UK virologist explains what it could possibly be However, with the country currently recording almost a million infections each day, nearly 150,000 hospital admissions, and more than 1,200 daily deaths, he points out, "we're not at that point." Despite the fact that a significant portion of Covid cases are thought to be hospitalized "with" the disease rather than for the disease, official data showed 145,982 hospitalisations for the disease. Watch | Gravitas: Europe looks to ‘live with Covid’ The Omicron variant may cause severe cases, at a lower rate than Delta, but it is affecting more people due to its extreme infectiousness. According to New York state data, the age-adjusted vaccine efficacy against hospitalization was 92 per cent by December 27. (With inputs from agencies)

No way to eradicate infection, but US fast approaching 'threshold' of living with COVID-19: Dr Fauci

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

Omicron infections are no less severe

According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-variants-properties-keep-surprising-experts-claim-438696" hreflang="en">Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim</a>

<a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/232698/modelling-suggests-rapid-spread-omicron-england/">The Imperial College London</a> researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection."

After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent.&nbsp;

Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-identify-a-common-symptom-of-highly-transmissible-omicron-variant-437575">Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant</a>

Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%."

After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months

Researchers have discovered that some people's <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028221021567">sperm quality remains impaired for months</a> after recovering from COVID-19.

Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-fourth-booster-dose-for-over-60s-and-medics-as-omicron-rages-438890" hreflang="en">Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages</a>

Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts.&nbsp;

Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron Variant spreads across the world

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-spreads-across-the-world-438894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded.&nbsp;

It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred.

(With inputs from agencies)

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility. Omicron infections are no less severe According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta. Also read | Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim The Imperial College London researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection." After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent. Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta. Also read | Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%." After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months Researchers have discovered that some people's sperm quality remains impaired for months after recovering from COVID-19. Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases. Also read | Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts. Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics. Watch | Omicron Variant spreads across the world "Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded. It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus findings: Omicron no less severe than Delta, Covid impacts sperm count

Australia reported 2,355 new cases of the Delta coronavirus variant on Saturday, as the push to vaccinate the country`s population continues in order to end lockdowns and allow for the reopening of international borders.

An 18-month ban on international travel is set to be gradually lifted from next month for some states when 80 per cent of people aged 16 and over are fully vaccinated.

Fifty-five percent of Australians were fully inoculated as of October 1, but nearly 80 per cent have received at least one shot.

Victoria state, which reported a record 1,488 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, ordered on Friday about a million employees across industries to receive at least one dose of a COVID vaccine by October 15 to keep working.

The state, where about a quarter of Australia`s population of 25 million live, has been in a hard lockdown since August 5.

New South Wales (NSW) state, battling the country`s biggest Delta outbreak, reported 813 cases and 10 deaths on Saturday. Nearly 88% of the state`s eligible population have been partially vaccinated and 65 per cent fully.

Sydney, the NSW state capital, has been under lockdown since June 26, with some restrictions scheduled to be lifted on October&nbsp;11 and more later in the month.

NSW is expected to be the first state to fully open up once the 80 per cent&nbsp;vaccination is reached, but authorities have warned case numbers are expected to soar and hospitals will come under strain as Australia learns to live with COVID-19.

"I`m worried about how we are going to cope with it culturally," Kirsty Keating, an Australia citizen originally from Scotland who lives in Sydney, told Reuters about the country`s reopening.

"Like most of the people I know overseas have lived with COVID and we haven`t and I think it could put a pressure on our health system and make everybody very tense."

Australia slammed the international border shut in March 2020. Since then, only a limited number of people have been granted a permit to leave the country for critical business or humanitarian reasons.

Citizens and permanent residents have been allowed to return from abroad, subject to quota limits and a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in a hotel at their own expense.

"I think it`s great coming up to Christmas that people get to reunite with their families," Peter Hendriks, a priest in Sydney, told Reuters about the decision to reopen borders.

Australia reported 2,355 new cases of the Delta coronavirus variant on Saturday, as the push to vaccinate the country`s population continues in order to end lockdowns and allow for the reopening of international borders.

Australia reported 2,355 new cases of the Delta coronavirus variant on Saturday, as the push to vaccinate the country`s population continues in order to end lockdowns and allow for the reopening of international borders. An 18-month ban on international travel is set to be gradually lifted from next month for some states when 80 per cent of people aged 16 and over are fully vaccinated. Fifty-five percent of Australians were fully inoculated as of October 1, but nearly 80 per cent have received at least one shot. Victoria state, which reported a record 1,488 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, ordered on Friday about a million employees across industries to receive at least one dose of a COVID vaccine by October 15 to keep working. The state, where about a quarter of Australia`s population of 25 million live, has been in a hard lockdown since August 5. New South Wales (NSW) state, battling the country`s biggest Delta outbreak, reported 813 cases and 10 deaths on Saturday. Nearly 88% of the state`s eligible population have been partially vaccinated and 65 per cent fully. Sydney, the NSW state capital, has been under lockdown since June 26, with some restrictions scheduled to be lifted on October 11 and more later in the month. NSW is expected to be the first state to fully open up once the 80 per cent vaccination is reached, but authorities have warned case numbers are expected to soar and hospitals will come under strain as Australia learns to live with COVID-19. "I`m worried about how we are going to cope with it culturally," Kirsty Keating, an Australia citizen originally from Scotland who lives in Sydney, told Reuters about the country`s reopening. "Like most of the people I know overseas have lived with COVID and we haven`t and I think it could put a pressure on our health system and make everybody very tense." Australia slammed the international border shut in March 2020. Since then, only a limited number of people have been granted a permit to leave the country for critical business or humanitarian reasons. Citizens and permanent residents have been allowed to return from abroad, subject to quota limits and a mandatory 14-day quarantine period in a hotel at their own expense. "I think it`s great coming up to Christmas that people get to reunite with their families," Peter Hendriks, a priest in Sydney, told Reuters about the decision to reopen borders.

Australia reports 2,355 new COVID-19 cases as vaccination push continues

As the United States continues to report a rising number of COVID-19 cases and deaths fuelled by the delta variant outbreak, the chief of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Rochelle Walensky, has sounded alarm stating that the nation’s health systems “are in dire straits”, forcing some states to prepare for rationed medical care.

“That means that we are talking about who is going to get a ventilator, who is going to get an ICU bed,” Walensky said on CBS's ‘Face the Nation’ on Sunday.

“Those are not easy discussions to have, and that is not a place we want our health care system to ever be,” she added.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-coronavirus-hospitalisations-hit-eight-month-high-over-100000-408696">&nbsp;United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000</a>

Idaho, among the US’s least-vaccinated states, and Alaska have already announced that they would ration medical care if needed. A major hospital in Montana has also reportedly implemented the so-called “crisis of care standards” to prioritize who is treated. Health officials have warned that such measures could be widened across the state.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-covid-19-cases-reach-6-months-high-404086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Walensky remarks come in the backdrop of&nbsp;average number of deaths climbing to 40 per cent per day over the past two weeks, from 1387 to 1947, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Reported deaths are currently highest in&nbsp;states like Florida, which is seeing an average of 376 daily deaths over the past week, and Texas, which is reporting a daily average of 283. Experts say that the vast majority of the hospitalised and dead have been unvaccinated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-cases-in-us-16-times-too-high-to-end-pandemic-says-fauci-412124">Covid cases in US 16 times too high to end pandemic, says Fauci</a>

Talking about her decision to overrule a CDC panel of advisors and extending the eligibility for third shots of the Pfizer Inc.-BioNTech Covid vaccine, Walensky said, “I felt it was appropriate for those people to also be eligible for boosters," she said, while adding that it was “a scientific close call”.

The panel had last week approved boosters for those ages 65 and older, those in long-term healthcare facilities and those ages 50 to 64 with underlying medical conditions.

The CDC chief then overruled the panel and extended the eligibility to the people who are at high risk of exposure to receive the third dose.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the United States continues to report a rising number of COVID-19 cases and deaths fuelled by the delta variant outbreak, the chief of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Rochelle Walensky, has sounded alarm stating that the nation’s health systems “are in dire straits”, forcing some states to prepare for rationed medical care.

As the United States continues to report a rising number of COVID-19 cases and deaths fuelled by the delta variant outbreak, the chief of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Rochelle Walensky, has sounded alarm stating that the nation’s health systems “are in dire straits”, forcing some states to prepare for rationed medical care. “That means that we are talking about who is going to get a ventilator, who is going to get an ICU bed,” Walensky said on CBS's ‘Face the Nation’ on Sunday. “Those are not easy discussions to have, and that is not a place we want our health care system to ever be,” she added. Also read | United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000 Idaho, among the US’s least-vaccinated states, and Alaska have already announced that they would ration medical care if needed. A major hospital in Montana has also reportedly implemented the so-called “crisis of care standards” to prioritize who is treated. Health officials have warned that such measures could be widened across the state. Watch Walensky remarks come in the backdrop of average number of deaths climbing to 40 per cent per day over the past two weeks, from 1387 to 1947, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Reported deaths are currently highest in states like Florida, which is seeing an average of 376 daily deaths over the past week, and Texas, which is reporting a daily average of 283. Experts say that the vast majority of the hospitalised and dead have been unvaccinated. Also read | Covid cases in US 16 times too high to end pandemic, says Fauci Talking about her decision to overrule a CDC panel of advisors and extending the eligibility for third shots of the Pfizer Inc.-BioNTech Covid vaccine, Walensky said, “I felt it was appropriate for those people to also be eligible for boosters," she said, while adding that it was “a scientific close call”. The panel had last week approved boosters for those ages 65 and older, those in long-term healthcare facilities and those ages 50 to 64 with underlying medical conditions. The CDC chief then overruled the panel and extended the eligibility to the people who are at high risk of exposure to receive the third dose. (With inputs from agencies)

As delta outbreak ravages US, CDC chief says health systems ‘in dire straits'

New local COVID-19 infections more than doubled in China`s southeastern province of Fujian, health authorities said on Tuesday, prompting officials to quickly roll out measures including travel restrictions to halt the spread of the virus.

The National Health Commission said 59 new locally transmitted cases were reported for Sept. 13, up from 22 infections a day earlier. All of them were in Fujian, a province bordered by Zhejiang to the north and Guangdong to the south.

In just four days, a total of 102 community infections have been reported in three Fujian cities, including Xiamen, a tourist and transport hub with a population of 5 million.

The infections come ahead of the week-long National Day holiday starting on Oct. 1, a major tourist season. The last domestic outbreak in late July to August disrupted travel, hitting the tourism, hospitality and transportion sectors.

China`s air passenger traffic plunged 51.5% in August from a year earlier, data released on Tuesday showed, highlighting the vulnerability of Chinese airlines to repeated outbreaks even though

COVID-19 is largely under control in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-faces-worst-covid-19-outbreak-since-wuhan-surge-of-delta-variant-in-15-cities-401972">China faces worst COVID-19 outbreak since Wuhan; surge of Delta variant in 15 cities</a>

Fujian`s outbreak began in Putian, a city of 3.2 million, with the first case reported on Sept. 10. Preliminary tests on samples from some Putian cases showed patients had contracted the highly transmissible Delta variant.

The outbreak has since spread south to Xiamen, which reported 32 new cases of community transmission for Sept. 13 compared with just one infection a day earlier.

"The Putian government is a big client of ours," said a staff at a Xiamen building survey firm, declining to be named.

"About half of our company went to Putian last week. They are now isolated at home, while the rest have gone to do their Covid tests."

<h3>Lockdown</h3>

Like Putian, Xiamen has locked down some areas of higher virus risk, cut offline classes at kindergartens, primary schools and high schools, closed public venues such as cinemas, gyms and bars, and told residents not to leave the city for non-essential reasons.

The first patient in the Xiamen cluster was a close contact of a case in Putian, Xiamen authorities said late on Monday.

Known for its mild weather and a laid-back lifestyle, Xiamen is a popular tourist destination domestically.

The Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is also a key transportation hub linking the Yangtze and Pearl River Delta. About 60% of flights to and from Xiamen were cancelled on Tuesday, according to aviation data provider Variflight.

Both Putian and Xiamen began city-wide testing for the coronavirus on Tuesday. The cities, however, are yet to announce tough city-wide lockdowns as seen in early 2020 in China.

Three new cases of community transmission were also reported in nearby Quanzhou city, versus six infections a day earlier. Variflight data showed 70% of Quanzhou`s flights were cancelled.

"One wave after another," said a bank manager in Xiamen. "It feels like the new normal now."

New local COVID-19 infections more than doubled in China`s southeastern province of Fujian, health authorities said on Tuesday, prompting officials to quickly roll out measures including travel restrictions to halt the spread of the virus.

New local COVID-19 infections more than doubled in China`s southeastern province of Fujian, health authorities said on Tuesday, prompting officials to quickly roll out measures including travel restrictions to halt the spread of the virus. The National Health Commission said 59 new locally transmitted cases were reported for Sept. 13, up from 22 infections a day earlier. All of them were in Fujian, a province bordered by Zhejiang to the north and Guangdong to the south. In just four days, a total of 102 community infections have been reported in three Fujian cities, including Xiamen, a tourist and transport hub with a population of 5 million. The infections come ahead of the week-long National Day holiday starting on Oct. 1, a major tourist season. The last domestic outbreak in late July to August disrupted travel, hitting the tourism, hospitality and transportion sectors. China`s air passenger traffic plunged 51.5% in August from a year earlier, data released on Tuesday showed, highlighting the vulnerability of Chinese airlines to repeated outbreaks even though COVID-19 is largely under control in the country. Also read | China faces worst COVID-19 outbreak since Wuhan; surge of Delta variant in 15 cities Fujian`s outbreak began in Putian, a city of 3.2 million, with the first case reported on Sept. 10. Preliminary tests on samples from some Putian cases showed patients had contracted the highly transmissible Delta variant. The outbreak has since spread south to Xiamen, which reported 32 new cases of community transmission for Sept. 13 compared with just one infection a day earlier. "The Putian government is a big client of ours," said a staff at a Xiamen building survey firm, declining to be named. "About half of our company went to Putian last week. They are now isolated at home, while the rest have gone to do their Covid tests." Lockdown Like Putian, Xiamen has locked down some areas of higher virus risk, cut offline classes at kindergartens, primary schools and high schools, closed public venues such as cinemas, gyms and bars, and told residents not to leave the city for non-essential reasons. The first patient in the Xiamen cluster was a close contact of a case in Putian, Xiamen authorities said late on Monday. Known for its mild weather and a laid-back lifestyle, Xiamen is a popular tourist destination domestically. The Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport is also a key transportation hub linking the Yangtze and Pearl River Delta. About 60% of flights to and from Xiamen were cancelled on Tuesday, according to aviation data provider Variflight. Both Putian and Xiamen began city-wide testing for the coronavirus on Tuesday. The cities, however, are yet to announce tough city-wide lockdowns as seen in early 2020 in China. Three new cases of community transmission were also reported in nearby Quanzhou city, versus six infections a day earlier. Variflight data showed 70% of Quanzhou`s flights were cancelled. "One wave after another," said a bank manager in Xiamen. "It feels like the new normal now."

COVID-19 cases in southeast China more than double as Delta spreads

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move.

“Have at it,” a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers.

The US is in the midst of the Delta variant outbreak with cases surging across various states. As per reports, around 80 million eligible Americans have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left around 650,000 people dead in the United States.

Asserting that he was fed with rising Delta cases, the 78-year-old president said, “We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-recorded-highest-new-covid-19-cases-worldwide-in-past-week-who-401286">US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO</a>

Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive.

Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz said that while he supports the vaccine, people have the right of personal choice.

Watch&nbsp;

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"The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz was quoted by news agency AFP as saying.

"It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate. While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health,” he added.

The Republican National Committee, governors of a number of Republican-ruled states and conservative private legal groups, announced plans to mount legal challenges to the vaccination mandates.

"See you in court," said Kristi Noem, the Republican governor of South Dakota. "South Dakota will stand up to defend freedom."

The Texas Department of State Health Services on Thursday reported 23,700 new confirmed cases of the virus as well as 5,907 new probable cases. The state additionally reported 408 more fatalities attributed to the Delta variant-fuelled disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move.

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move. “Have at it,” a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers. The US is in the midst of the Delta variant outbreak with cases surging across various states. As per reports, around 80 million eligible Americans have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left around 650,000 people dead in the United States. Asserting that he was fed with rising Delta cases, the 78-year-old president said, “We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing.” Also read | US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive. Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz said that while he supports the vaccine, people have the right of personal choice. Watch "The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz was quoted by news agency AFP as saying. "It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate. While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health,” he added. The Republican National Committee, governors of a number of Republican-ruled states and conservative private legal groups, announced plans to mount legal challenges to the vaccination mandates. "See you in court," said Kristi Noem, the Republican governor of South Dakota. "South Dakota will stand up to defend freedom." The Texas Department of State Health Services on Thursday reported 23,700 new confirmed cases of the virus as well as 5,907 new probable cases. The state additionally reported 408 more fatalities attributed to the Delta variant-fuelled disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden’s aggressive vaccine mandate sparks backlash from Republicans

Terming the criticism he has been receiving for travelling between Canberra and Sydney over the Father’s Day weekend despite COVID-19 lockdown&nbsp;as a “cheap shot", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended himself, saying that the health authorities exempted him since he is an “essential worker”.

Morrison said the criticism of his travel arrangements had been misguided, pointing out there were no restrictions stopping his return home to Sydney.&nbsp;

"I can understand people's frustration. But I do think there has been a lot of misinformation," Morrison told Sky News.

"I live in Sydney. I often have to be here (in Canberra) for work. There was no exemption required for me to return home."

However, critics alleged that the Australian PM’s action reeks of “double standards”, as millions of other residents had to live under lockdown due to Delta variant outbreaks in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne., with many state borders closed.

Labor opposition Bill Shorten accused Morrison of showing “appalling judgement”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-morrisons-approval-rating-slumps-on-slow-vaccine-rollout-398956">Australian PM Morrison's approval rating slumps on slow vaccine rollout</a>

“It’s not that he doesn't deserve to see his kids, but so does every other Australian. And I think when your people are doing it tough, you've got to do it tough too,” he said

“You can't have one rule for Morrison and another rule for everyone else,” he added.

The latest row comes as Australia reported 1,485 fresh local cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, increasing the overall infection tally to 63,154, while the death toll stood at 1,044.

Of the new cases, 1,220 were from New South Wales (NSW), the epicentre of the current outbreak, where the state health department also recorded eight deaths on Tuesday morning.

“There have been 139 COVID-19 related deaths in NSW since June 16, 2021," said the statement from the NSW Health. 
 
Victoria, the second-most populous state, reported a further 246 new local cases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Terming the criticism he has been receiving for travelling between Canberra and Sydney over the Father’s Day weekend despite COVID-19 lockdown as a “cheap shot", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended himself, saying that the health authorities exempted him since he is an “essential worker”.

Terming the criticism he has been receiving for travelling between Canberra and Sydney over the Father’s Day weekend despite COVID-19 lockdown as a “cheap shot", Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended himself, saying that the health authorities exempted him since he is an “essential worker”. Morrison said the criticism of his travel arrangements had been misguided, pointing out there were no restrictions stopping his return home to Sydney. "I can understand people's frustration. But I do think there has been a lot of misinformation," Morrison told Sky News. "I live in Sydney. I often have to be here (in Canberra) for work. There was no exemption required for me to return home." However, critics alleged that the Australian PM’s action reeks of “double standards”, as millions of other residents had to live under lockdown due to Delta variant outbreaks in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne., with many state borders closed. Labor opposition Bill Shorten accused Morrison of showing “appalling judgement”. Also read | Australian PM Morrison's approval rating slumps on slow vaccine rollout “It’s not that he doesn't deserve to see his kids, but so does every other Australian. And I think when your people are doing it tough, you've got to do it tough too,” he said “You can't have one rule for Morrison and another rule for everyone else,” he added. The latest row comes as Australia reported 1,485 fresh local cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, increasing the overall infection tally to 63,154, while the death toll stood at 1,044. Of the new cases, 1,220 were from New South Wales (NSW), the epicentre of the current outbreak, where the state health department also recorded eight deaths on Tuesday morning. “There have been 139 COVID-19 related deaths in NSW since June 16, 2021," said the statement from the NSW Health. Victoria, the second-most populous state, reported a further 246 new local cases. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM brushes aside criticism for Father’s Day trip to Sydney amid lockdown

According to a report by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a new sub-lineage AY.12&nbsp;of the Delta variant of COVID-19, that was recently classified in Israel is now being reported in many parts of India.

The weekly bulletin report released by the consortium stated that many cases in India that were earlier classified as Delta, are now being reclassified as AY.12.

“AY.12, a reassigned sub-lineage of Delta is being seen in many states, but the numbers need closer examination. The functional impact of the changes between Delta and AY.12 is not known but the two appear to be very similar at a molecular level,” it said.

“However, since the AY.12 definition is inconsistent, final numbers will take some time. AY.12 analysis will be added to the portal, along with other new PANGO lineages, once there is greater consensus,” it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-might-be-entering-endemic-stage-of-covid-19-who-chief-scientist-swaminathan-408296">India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan</a>

The consortium said that Delta variant continues to remain a variant of concern, fuelling the pandemic across several countries with China and Korea seeing new highs.

It was responsible for a surge in cases during the second wave in India in April-May this year.

Of the 31,124 samples sequenced by the INSACOG, 21,192 turned out to be of carriers of the Delta virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a report by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a new sub-lineage AY.12 of the Delta variant of COVID-19, that was recently classified in Israel is now being reported in many parts of India.

According to a report by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a new sub-lineage AY.12 of the Delta variant of COVID-19, that was recently classified in Israel is now being reported in many parts of India. The weekly bulletin report released by the consortium stated that many cases in India that were earlier classified as Delta, are now being reclassified as AY.12. “AY.12, a reassigned sub-lineage of Delta is being seen in many states, but the numbers need closer examination. The functional impact of the changes between Delta and AY.12 is not known but the two appear to be very similar at a molecular level,” it said. “However, since the AY.12 definition is inconsistent, final numbers will take some time. AY.12 analysis will be added to the portal, along with other new PANGO lineages, once there is greater consensus,” it added. Also read | India might be entering endemic stage of COVID-19: WHO chief scientist Swaminathan The consortium said that Delta variant continues to remain a variant of concern, fuelling the pandemic across several countries with China and Korea seeing new highs. It was responsible for a surge in cases during the second wave in India in April-May this year. Of the 31,124 samples sequenced by the INSACOG, 21,192 turned out to be of carriers of the Delta virus. (With inputs from agencies)

‘New sub-lineage of Delta variant, first reported in Israel, found in several Indian states’

The mayor of Orlando city in Florida has asked the residents to cut back their water consumption so that liquid oxygen, which is used to treat the water supplies, can be diverted to hospitals for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. 

“Nationally, the demand for liquid oxygen is extremely high as the priority for its use is to save lives,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said in a&nbsp;Facebook post on Friday.

The Orlando Utility Commission treats the city’s water with liquid oxygen. With Florida reporting a surge in coronavirus cases, largely due to the outbreak of the Delta variant, the officials from the municipal commission have been urging residents to stop excessive use of water and be prepared to do so for several weeks. 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-announces-picks-for-ambassador-to-china-japan-positions-407363">Also read |&nbsp;US President&nbsp;announces picks for&nbsp;ambassador to China, Japan&nbsp;positions</a>

According to&nbsp;the Florida&nbsp;health department, the state has reported 150,118 fresh Covid cases in the past week. According to reports from the local media, deaths in Orlando area have overwhelmed crematoriums, which are out of rooms to store bodies.

“It’s critical that we continue to work together and each one of us do our part, as we have done throughout this pandemic, to mitigate the impacts the virus continues to have on our community,” Mayor Dyer had said during a news conference. 

“While this is another new challenge, I know that as a community, working together, we can overcome it with the help of our residents and businesses,” he added.

The municipal commission has been using liquid oxygen to remove the slight discolouration and rotten-egg smell that is found naturally in Florida’s water supply.

The mayor of Orlando city in Florida has asked the residents to cut back their water consumption so that liquid oxygen, which is used to treat the water supplies, can be diverted to hospitals for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

The mayor of Orlando city in Florida has asked the residents to cut back their water consumption so that liquid oxygen, which is used to treat the water supplies, can be diverted to hospitals for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. “Nationally, the demand for liquid oxygen is extremely high as the priority for its use is to save lives,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said in a Facebook post on Friday. The Orlando Utility Commission treats the city’s water with liquid oxygen. With Florida reporting a surge in coronavirus cases, largely due to the outbreak of the Delta variant, the officials from the municipal commission have been urging residents to stop excessive use of water and be prepared to do so for several weeks. Also read | US President announces picks for ambassador to China, Japan positions According to the Florida health department, the state has reported 150,118 fresh Covid cases in the past week. According to reports from the local media, deaths in Orlando area have overwhelmed crematoriums, which are out of rooms to store bodies. “It’s critical that we continue to work together and each one of us do our part, as we have done throughout this pandemic, to mitigate the impacts the virus continues to have on our community,” Mayor Dyer had said during a news conference. “While this is another new challenge, I know that as a community, working together, we can overcome it with the help of our residents and businesses,” he added. The municipal commission has been using liquid oxygen to remove the slight discolouration and rotten-egg smell that is found naturally in Florida’s water supply.

Orlando mayor asks residents to limit water use amid Delta fuelled COVID surge

Amid the pandemic, we’ve read harrowing accounts of heroic doctors and frontline workers who toiled to save the lives of COVID-19 patients, but what if your patients aren’t obedient homo&nbsp;sapiens? In this case, the patients are Alpha Predators, the kings of the jungle-Majestic Asiatic Lions.

On the occasion of World Lion Day (August 10th), veterinarians and officials from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, commonly known as Vandalur Zoo (Chennai), recalled their experience of dealing with 15 lions that were affected by the Delta COVID-19 variant.&nbsp;

For the Zoo vets, a team of eight members, it was a case of ‘reverse spillover’ when they noticed a few lions showing COVID-19 symptoms. It meant that the SARS CoV-2 virus (that causes COVID-19), which is said to have originated from bats (in Wuhan, China) and affected humans, had now spread back to members of the animal kingdom. It was not new. Lions at the Bronx Zoo in New York, and at Indian Zoos in Etawah, Jaipur, and Hyderabad too had tested COVID-19 positive, but now trouble had hit home and hit hard.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Asiatic Lions" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a8246ae-a43e-48e2-8fa9-db8994178b95" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVId-19%20treatment%20lions5.png" />

On&nbsp;May 25, five lions in the Safari area of the zoo started showing classic symptoms-coughing, wheezing and a loss of appetite. While their test results were awaited from various labs across India, a female lion (apart from the five that showed symptoms) succumbed to the virus on June 3. The test results that arrived painted a bleak picture-10 of the 15 lions at the Zoo were positive and five were negative. Interestingly, of the 10 positive lions, eight were in the Safari area and two were in the exhibit area, apart by almost 2 kms. Zoo officials suspect that the source of infection was different from each set of lions, as no other big cats or animals nearby had tested positive.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Asiatic Lions" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2710071c-5d23-427d-bcf1-cea41e67bf93" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVId-19%20treatment%20lions4.png" />

However, four lions were in critical condition and faced breathing issues and refused to feed(on meat) for 5-7 days. 
 
"We immediately started providing nebulization and high-flow oxygen, fluid therapy (intravenous fluids) and drugs. But the biggest challenge here is that their cooperation in getting treated is a very dicey affair, "the vet says half-jokingly.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Asiatic Lions" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a902a0d-6d5e-4865-b89b-4de3e32125d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202021-08-11%20at%205.54.40%20PM.png" />

The most common question is - how is all of this intrusive treatment done on a predator that can kill with one strike ?&nbsp;

The oxygen tubes were tied to the tail and the gathered (as used for human babies) was inserted. Sometimes, a caretaker had to sit near the cage to hold the tail in place for the treatment to proceed. Special gun darts were used for administering injections when animals refused to come close.&nbsp;

When the animals refused to eat, the caretakers experimented with a platter diet of chicken, beef, mutton, and rabbit meat and soups. While it took 2-3 weeks for the animals to slowly get back to normal, they still showed signs of sickness, such as recurring fever, cough etc. The lions had also gotten sick of being injected and monitored, which made them aggressive. Eventually, it took about 50 days for the predators to get back to their usual glory and feed as usual.&nbsp;

According to the Deputy Director of Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP), all 13 lions tested negative for COVID-19 on July 23rd. The Zoo near the Southern Indian metropolis of Chennai had housed 15 Asiatic lions, of which ten had tested COVID-19 positive. Two lions (a lion and a lioness) had also succumbed to the virus earlier.&nbsp;

WION had earlier reported that four lion samples from this zoo had tested positive for the ‘Delta variant’ of COVID-19. This was based on the genome sequencing results shared by NIHSAD Bhopal. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), this variant showed higher transmissibility and reduced neutralization (by antibodies). This variant was first said to have been detected in India in late 2020. Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 (infection) have been emerging and circulating around the world throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the mystery over how the captive big cats got infected with the deadly virus remains unsolved, experts and vets advising the Zoo suspect human-animal (man to single lion) transmission followed by animal-animal (lion to multiple lions) transmission. Based on a discussion between experts, the transmission from man-animal seems to have happened, despite animal keepers and feeders having worn PPE suits and following precautions.

Amid the pandemic, we’ve read harrowing accounts of heroic doctors and frontline workers who toiled to save the lives of COVID-19 patients, but what if your patients aren’t obedient homo sapiens?

Amid the pandemic, we’ve read harrowing accounts of heroic doctors and frontline workers who toiled to save the lives of COVID-19 patients, but what if your patients aren’t obedient homo sapiens? In this case, the patients are Alpha Predators, the kings of the jungle-Majestic Asiatic Lions. On the occasion of World Lion Day (August 10th), veterinarians and officials from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, commonly known as Vandalur Zoo (Chennai), recalled their experience of dealing with 15 lions that were affected by the Delta COVID-19 variant. For the Zoo vets, a team of eight members, it was a case of ‘reverse spillover’ when they noticed a few lions showing COVID-19 symptoms. It meant that the SARS CoV-2 virus (that causes COVID-19), which is said to have originated from bats (in Wuhan, China) and affected humans, had now spread back to members of the animal kingdom. It was not new. Lions at the Bronx Zoo in New York, and at Indian Zoos in Etawah, Jaipur, and Hyderabad too had tested COVID-19 positive, but now trouble had hit home and hit hard. On May 25, five lions in the Safari area of the zoo started showing classic symptoms-coughing, wheezing and a loss of appetite. While their test results were awaited from various labs across India, a female lion (apart from the five that showed symptoms) succumbed to the virus on June 3. The test results that arrived painted a bleak picture-10 of the 15 lions at the Zoo were positive and five were negative. Interestingly, of the 10 positive lions, eight were in the Safari area and two were in the exhibit area, apart by almost 2 kms. Zoo officials suspect that the source of infection was different from each set of lions, as no other big cats or animals nearby had tested positive. However, four lions were in critical condition and faced breathing issues and refused to feed(on meat) for 5-7 days. "We immediately started providing nebulization and high-flow oxygen, fluid therapy (intravenous fluids) and drugs. But the biggest challenge here is that their cooperation in getting treated is a very dicey affair, "the vet says half-jokingly. The most common question is - how is all of this intrusive treatment done on a predator that can kill with one strike ? The oxygen tubes were tied to the tail and the gathered (as used for human babies) was inserted. Sometimes, a caretaker had to sit near the cage to hold the tail in place for the treatment to proceed. Special gun darts were used for administering injections when animals refused to come close. When the animals refused to eat, the caretakers experimented with a platter diet of chicken, beef, mutton, and rabbit meat and soups. While it took 2-3 weeks for the animals to slowly get back to normal, they still showed signs of sickness, such as recurring fever, cough etc. The lions had also gotten sick of being injected and monitored, which made them aggressive. Eventually, it took about 50 days for the predators to get back to their usual glory and feed as usual. According to the Deputy Director of Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP), all 13 lions tested negative for COVID-19 on July 23rd. The Zoo near the Southern Indian metropolis of Chennai had housed 15 Asiatic lions, of which ten had tested COVID-19 positive. Two lions (a lion and a lioness) had also succumbed to the virus earlier. WION had earlier reported that four lion samples from this zoo had tested positive for the ‘Delta variant’ of COVID-19. This was based on the genome sequencing results shared by NIHSAD Bhopal. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), this variant showed higher transmissibility and reduced neutralization (by antibodies). This variant was first said to have been detected in India in late 2020. Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 (infection) have been emerging and circulating around the world throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. While the mystery over how the captive big cats got infected with the deadly virus remains unsolved, experts and vets advising the Zoo suspect human-animal (man to single lion) transmission followed by animal-animal (lion to multiple lions) transmission. Based on a discussion between experts, the transmission from man-animal seems to have happened, despite animal keepers and feeders having worn PPE suits and following precautions.

How this Indian Zoo saved its lions from the clutches of Delta COVID-19 variant 