China threatened Tuesday to retaliate against new US restrictions on Chinese state media, escalating tensions between the two superpowers as they crack down on each other's news outlets. 
 
The US State Department said Monday it was reclassifying four organisations -- China Central Television, China News Service, the People's Daily and the Global Times -- as foreign missions rather than media outlets in the United States, adding to five others designated in February. 
 
China has already expelled more than a dozen American journalists as part of the row.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-raps-china-for-military-activity-says-it-should-fight-coronavirus-instead-307918" hreflang="en">Taiwan raps China for military activity, says it should fight coronavirus instead</a> 
 
On Tuesday Beijing decried the latest US move as "bare-faced political suppression of Chinese media" that "further exposes the hypocrisy of the so-called freedom of speech and press which the US likes to flaunt". 
 
"We strongly urge the US to reject this Cold War mindset and ideological bias... otherwise China will have no choice but to make an appropriate response," said foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian at a routine briefing. 
 
All nine Chinese state-run news organisations will be required to report details of their US-based staff and real estate transactions to the State Department. Their news reporting will not be restricted, officials said. 
 
"These four entities are not media outlets; they are propaganda outlets," David Stilwell, the top US diplomat for East Asia, told reporters. 
 
He declined to say if the four organisations would be asked to reduce their US-based staff, which was required of the five that were earlier designated. 
 
The announcement was further evidence that a closed-door meeting last week in Hawaii between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and senior Chinese official Yang Jiechi did little to ease bilateral tensions. 
 
The five state news outlets earlier designated as foreign missions were Xinhua news agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and the US distributors of the People's Daily and English-language China Daily. 
 
After these outlets were ordered to slash their numbers of Chinese employees in the United States, Beijing hit back in March by expelling US citizens working for three major newspapers -- The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post.

Further retaliation? 
Some media rights advocates have voiced misgivings about the approach of President Donald Trump's administration, saying it gave China a pretext to kick out journalists who have fearlessly reported on the coronavirus pandemic and the mass incarceration of Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims. 
 
State Department officials say US media are free to report critically on their government while Chinese state-run outlets report to the government.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launches-beidou-satellite-to-track-geolocation-307914" hreflang="en">China launches Beidou satellite to track geolocation</a> 
 
In February, China separately expelled three journalists from The Wall Street Journal after the newspaper ran an opinion piece with a headline that called the country the "sick man of Asia" -- a word choice Beijing called racist. 
 
Stilwell, the assistant secretary of state, played down fears that China would expel more US journalists, saying the US actions were "simply an excuse" for Beijing to crack down on media.&nbsp; 
 
"Trying to tie what we do to defend ourselves to what they choose to do -- to kick out the best investigative reporters, especially the ones who speak Chinese -- this is all their choice," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

China threatened Tuesday to retaliate against new US restrictions on Chinese state media, escalating tensions between the two superpowers as they crack down on each other's news outlets.

China threatened Tuesday to retaliate against new US restrictions on Chinese state media, escalating tensions between the two superpowers as they crack down on each other's news outlets. The US State Department said Monday it was reclassifying four organisations -- China Central Television, China News Service, the People's Daily and the Global Times -- as foreign missions rather than media outlets in the United States, adding to five others designated in February. China has already expelled more than a dozen American journalists as part of the row. Also read: Taiwan raps China for military activity, says it should fight coronavirus instead On Tuesday Beijing decried the latest US move as "bare-faced political suppression of Chinese media" that "further exposes the hypocrisy of the so-called freedom of speech and press which the US likes to flaunt". "We strongly urge the US to reject this Cold War mindset and ideological bias... otherwise China will have no choice but to make an appropriate response," said foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian at a routine briefing. All nine Chinese state-run news organisations will be required to report details of their US-based staff and real estate transactions to the State Department. Their news reporting will not be restricted, officials said. "These four entities are not media outlets; they are propaganda outlets," David Stilwell, the top US diplomat for East Asia, told reporters. He declined to say if the four organisations would be asked to reduce their US-based staff, which was required of the five that were earlier designated. The announcement was further evidence that a closed-door meeting last week in Hawaii between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and senior Chinese official Yang Jiechi did little to ease bilateral tensions. The five state news outlets earlier designated as foreign missions were Xinhua news agency, China Global Television Network, China Radio International and the US distributors of the People's Daily and English-language China Daily. After these outlets were ordered to slash their numbers of Chinese employees in the United States, Beijing hit back in March by expelling US citizens working for three major newspapers -- The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post. Further retaliation? Some media rights advocates have voiced misgivings about the approach of President Donald Trump's administration, saying it gave China a pretext to kick out journalists who have fearlessly reported on the coronavirus pandemic and the mass incarceration of Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims. State Department officials say US media are free to report critically on their government while Chinese state-run outlets report to the government. Also read: China launches Beidou satellite to track geolocation In February, China separately expelled three journalists from The Wall Street Journal after the newspaper ran an opinion piece with a headline that called the country the "sick man of Asia" -- a word choice Beijing called racist. Stilwell, the assistant secretary of state, played down fears that China would expel more US journalists, saying the US actions were "simply an excuse" for Beijing to crack down on media. "Trying to tie what we do to defend ourselves to what they choose to do -- to kick out the best investigative reporters, especially the ones who speak Chinese -- this is all their choice," he said.

China threatens retaliation for US curbs on 'propaganda' outlets

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. 
 
Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full.&nbsp; 
 
French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended.&nbsp; 
 
"The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/protesters-douse-health-ministry-building-in-france-with-red-paint-307275" hreflang="en">Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint</a> 
 
The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates.&nbsp; 
 
Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!"&nbsp;

Mixed response from parents 
Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. 
 
"Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany.&nbsp; 
 
But not all parents are pleased.&nbsp; 
 
A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/macron-says-france-has-scored-its-first-victory-against-virus-as-country-lifts-curbs-305881" hreflang="en">Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs</a> 
 
And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision".&nbsp; 
 
"Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. 
 
In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed.&nbsp; 
 
From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds.&nbsp; 
 
Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full. French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended. "The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents. Also read: Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break. "I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates. Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!" Mixed response from parents Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. "Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany. But not all parents are pleased. A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school. Also read: Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision". "Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed. From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds. Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French pupils return for 'obligatory' school after virus closure

The Indian capital territory of Delhi has come up with a new solution to deal with the ongoing influx of COVID-19 cases.

Delhi, officially a Union Territory, has been one of the hardest regions in the country. Now, to keep up with the increasing number of patients, luxury hotels in the city are being converted into care wards for the infected.

This marks the first&nbsp;government in the country to requisition its hotels. Starting today, June 22 -&nbsp;25 hotels across the capital city will be converted into coronavirus care centres. However, these will be used for people with mild to moderate symptoms. Severe cases will still be stationed in hospitals.

India’s healthcare system has been struggling as the number of cases continue to break records in the country everyday.

<h6><img alt="A health official collects a swab sample from a man to test for the COVID-19 coronavirus at a temporary free testing facility set up in a school after authorities eased restrictions imposed as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, in New Delhi on June 19, 2020. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8adefab0-a2cf-47e2-9300-31118e04fbce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_32.jpg" /> 
A health official collects a swab sample from a man to test for the COVID-19 coronavirus at a temporary free testing facility set up in a school after authorities eased restrictions imposed as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, in New Delhi on June 19, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The Guardian reported that many hotel staff members are undergoing medical training to administer care to COVID-19 patients.

One of the trainers involved in the process of training the staff told the Guardian that they were “frightened for their safety”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-cases-per-lakh-population-one-of-the-lowest-globally-union-health-ministry-307710" hreflang="en">India’s Covid-19 cases per lakh population one of the lowest globally: Union health ministry</a>

However, medical personnel are expected to be present on the premises at all times. As part of regular protocol, they will be expected to wear PPE kits and to ensure hospital grade sanitisation.

To ensure communication between Delhi’s healthcare apparatus and the hotels, each hotel shall be linked with the nearest coronavirus health facility.

Currently, the city has 9,000 beds for the patients. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had recently claimed that they would need 150,000 beds by the end of July.

The city has registered 59,000+cases of coronavirus so far. Out of these 33,013 have recovered, while 2,175 have succumbed to the virus.

The Indian capital territory of Delhi has come up with a new solution to deal with the ongoing influx of COVID-19 cases. Delhi, officially a Union Territory, has been one of the hardest regions in the country.

The Indian capital territory of Delhi has come up with a new solution to deal with the ongoing influx of COVID-19 cases. Delhi, officially a Union Territory, has been one of the hardest regions in the country. Now, to keep up with the increasing number of patients, luxury hotels in the city are being converted into care wards for the infected. This marks the first government in the country to requisition its hotels. Starting today, June 22 - 25 hotels across the capital city will be converted into coronavirus care centres. However, these will be used for people with mild to moderate symptoms. Severe cases will still be stationed in hospitals. India’s healthcare system has been struggling as the number of cases continue to break records in the country everyday. A health official collects a swab sample from a man to test for the COVID-19 coronavirus at a temporary free testing facility set up in a school after authorities eased restrictions imposed as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, in New Delhi on June 19, 2020 | AFP The Guardian reported that many hotel staff members are undergoing medical training to administer care to COVID-19 patients. One of the trainers involved in the process of training the staff told the Guardian that they were “frightened for their safety”. Also read: India’s Covid-19 cases per lakh population one of the lowest globally: Union health ministry However, medical personnel are expected to be present on the premises at all times. As part of regular protocol, they will be expected to wear PPE kits and to ensure hospital grade sanitisation. To ensure communication between Delhi’s healthcare apparatus and the hotels, each hotel shall be linked with the nearest coronavirus health facility. Currently, the city has 9,000 beds for the patients. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had recently claimed that they would need 150,000 beds by the end of July. The city has registered 59,000+cases of coronavirus so far. Out of these 33,013 have recovered, while 2,175 have succumbed to the virus.

Indian capital Delhi to convert luxury hotels into care centres for 'mild' coronavirus patients

Maharashtra has put on hold three initial investment proposals from Chinese companies worth 50 billion rupees ($658 million), a state minister said on Monday, after a deadly border clash between the two nuclear-armed nations last week.&nbsp;

The decision by the state government of Maharashtra, home to India's financial capital of Mumbai, comes days after it signed the investment agreements with the three Chinese companies, including Great Wall Motor Co.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-communication-with-india-says-china-but-refrains-from-revealing-causalities-in-border-clash-307646" hreflang="en">In communication with India, says China but refrains from revealing causalities in border clash</a>

"In the current environment we will wait for the federal government to announce a clear policy regarding these projects," Maharashtra's industries minister, Subhash Desai said in a statement, adding that the agreements, however, are not being cancelled.

India said last Tuesday 20 of its soldiers had been killed in clashes with Chinese troops at a disputed border site, in a major escalation of a weeks-long standoff between the two Asian giants in the western Himalayas.

Maharashtra has put on hold three initial investment proposals from Chinese companies worth 50 billion rupees ($658 million), a state minister said on Monday, after a deadly border clash between the two nuclear-armed nations last week.

Maharashtra has put on hold three initial investment proposals from Chinese companies worth 50 billion rupees ($658 million), a state minister said on Monday, after a deadly border clash between the two nuclear-armed nations last week. The decision by the state government of Maharashtra, home to India's financial capital of Mumbai, comes days after it signed the investment agreements with the three Chinese companies, including Great Wall Motor Co. Also read: In communication with India, says China but refrains from revealing causalities in border clash "In the current environment we will wait for the federal government to announce a clear policy regarding these projects," Maharashtra's industries minister, Subhash Desai said in a statement, adding that the agreements, however, are not being cancelled. India said last Tuesday 20 of its soldiers had been killed in clashes with Chinese troops at a disputed border site, in a major escalation of a weeks-long standoff between the two Asian giants in the western Himalayas.

Maharashtra puts three Chinese investment proposals on hold after deadly border clash

The novel coronavirus pandemic is still accelerating and its effects will be felt for decades, the World Health Organization's director-general told an online conference on Monday. 
 
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual health forum organised by Dubai authorities that the greatest threat facing the world is not the virus itself, but "the lack of global solidarity and global leadership".&nbsp; 
 
"We cannot defeat this pandemic with a divided world," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/who-reports-record-daily-increase-in-global-coronavirus-cases-307555" hreflang="en">WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases</a> 
 
"The politicisation of the pandemic has exacerbated it. None of us is safe until all of us are safe." 
 
The WHO warned last week of a new and dangerous phase of the coronavirus pandemic, with people tiring of lockdowns despite the disease's rapid spread. 
 
The COVID-19 illness, which has now killed more than 465,000 people and infected almost nine million worldwide, is surging in the Americas and parts of Asia, even as Europe starts to ease restrictive measures.&nbsp; 
 
Lockdowns imposed to halt the spread of the virus have caused crippling economic damage, but the WHO says the pandemic still poses a major threat.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/who-warns-of-new-and-dangerous-phase-of-coronavirus-pandemic-307244" hreflang="en">WHO warns of 'new and dangerous phase' of coronavirus pandemic</a> 
 
"The pandemic is still accelerating,"&nbsp;Tedros told the virtual conference. 
 
"We know that the pandemic is much more than a health crisis, it is an economic crisis, a social crisis, and in many countries a political crisis," he said. 
 
"Its effects will be felt for decades to come." 
 
A vaccine remains months off at best despite several trials, while scientists are still discovering more about the virus, its symptoms and the extent to which it may have spread before being identified.

The novel coronavirus pandemic is still accelerating and its effects will be felt for decades, the World Health Organization's director-general told an online conference on Monday.

The novel coronavirus pandemic is still accelerating and its effects will be felt for decades, the World Health Organization's director-general told an online conference on Monday. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual health forum organised by Dubai authorities that the greatest threat facing the world is not the virus itself, but "the lack of global solidarity and global leadership". "We cannot defeat this pandemic with a divided world," he said. Also read: WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases "The politicisation of the pandemic has exacerbated it. None of us is safe until all of us are safe." The WHO warned last week of a new and dangerous phase of the coronavirus pandemic, with people tiring of lockdowns despite the disease's rapid spread. The COVID-19 illness, which has now killed more than 465,000 people and infected almost nine million worldwide, is surging in the Americas and parts of Asia, even as Europe starts to ease restrictive measures. Lockdowns imposed to halt the spread of the virus have caused crippling economic damage, but the WHO says the pandemic still poses a major threat. Also read: WHO warns of 'new and dangerous phase' of coronavirus pandemic "The pandemic is still accelerating," Tedros told the virtual conference. "We know that the pandemic is much more than a health crisis, it is an economic crisis, a social crisis, and in many countries a political crisis," he said. "Its effects will be felt for decades to come." A vaccine remains months off at best despite several trials, while scientists are still discovering more about the virus, its symptoms and the extent to which it may have spread before being identified.

We cannot defeat this pandemic with a divided world: WHO chief

Europeans are enjoying the gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures, but in hospitals they are already preparing for the next wave of infections.

Some intensive care specialists are trying to hire more permanent staff. Others want to create a reservist "army" of medical professionals ready to be deployed wherever needed to work in wards with seriously ill patients.&nbsp;

European countries have been giving medics crash courses in how to deal with COVID-19 patients, and are now looking at ways to retrain staff to avoid shortages of key workers if there is a second wave of the novel coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-second-wave-triggered-by-may-holiday-south-korea-307652" hreflang="en">Coronavirus second wave triggered by May holiday: South Korea</a>

"We need a healthcare army," said Maurizio Cecconi, president-elect of the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM), which brings together medics from around the world who work in wards with extremely ill patients.

Cecconi, who heads the intensive care department at the Humanitas hospital in Milan, says medical staff need to be more flexible in the work they do, and more mobile.

"If there is another big wave, we should be prepared to deploy doctors and nurses from nearby regions within Italy. This did not happen a lot in the first wave," he told Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-reports-record-daily-increase-in-global-coronavirus-cases-307555" hreflang="en">WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases</a>

Many countries were caught unprepared by the COVID-19 pandemic in March and April, and hastily retrained medics to work with patients with severe cases of the disease, to ramp up numbers and replace those who fell sick.

Some sent medical students and retired doctors to help out in intensive care wards as hospital staff were overwhelmed. Those worst-hit by the pandemic had to provide more beds and essential equipment for acute care units, and some built new hospitals.

But problems and shortages persist. Italy, for example, may need to boost by 50% the number of anaesthetists, resuscitation experts and other medics it has working in intensive care, according to the Italian society of intensive care SIAARTI.&nbsp;

CRASH COURSES

Across Europe, hospitals have been re-training surgeons, cardiologists, internal medicine physicians and nurses from other departments, and have moved them to intensive care units when needed.&nbsp;

Many have attended crash courses on how to handle COVID-19 patients, said Jozef Kesecioglu, president of ESICM and head of intensive care at the University Medical Center of Utrecht, in the Netherlands.

"We gave them jobs with less responsibility, such as washing patients, turning patients around, checking the lungs or looking at scans," he told Reuters.

Intensive care specialists had continued to do the most delicate work, such as handling tubes in patients' throats or adjusting mechanical ventilation, Kesecioglu said.

He plans to call back the same people to offer them more training. Under normal circumstances, intensive care workers undergo years of training but he said: "We should not wait until the new wave comes, we should give them regular training."&nbsp;

The Netherlands is trying to recruit more skilled workers and hopes to narrow structural gaps in the intensive care workforce, said Rotterdam's Erasmus Medical Centre, one of the largest university hospitals in Europe.&nbsp;

SIAARTI says medical students who specialise in intensive care medicine should be fully integrated into wards for the last two years of their five-year training, and has recommended financial incentives be offered to attract more students.&nbsp;

The European Commission, the European Union's executive, funded cross-border transfers of medical staff to the most affected countries at the height of the coronavirus crisis.

In April, teams of "flying doctors" were sent from Norway and Romania to Italy.

But the experiment has failed to gather much support, and Cecconi said moving doctors from one country to another "should be an option but not the first option," as language barriers may make them less effective.&nbsp;

Some patients were also moved around to receive treatment. France transferred some to less-affected regions of the country and sent others to Germany, which also took in COVID-19 patients from Italy.

But Cecconi warned of transportation risks and logistical complications.&nbsp;

"Often our patients are very sick," he said. "I'd rather have skilled people who know how to work in my environment."&nbsp;

Europeans are enjoying the gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures, but in hospitals they are already preparing for the next wave of infections. Some intensive care specialists are trying to hire more permanent staff.

Europeans are enjoying the gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures, but in hospitals they are already preparing for the next wave of infections. Some intensive care specialists are trying to hire more permanent staff. Others want to create a reservist "army" of medical professionals ready to be deployed wherever needed to work in wards with seriously ill patients. European countries have been giving medics crash courses in how to deal with COVID-19 patients, and are now looking at ways to retrain staff to avoid shortages of key workers if there is a second wave of the novel coronavirus. Also read: Coronavirus second wave triggered by May holiday: South Korea "We need a healthcare army," said Maurizio Cecconi, president-elect of the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM), which brings together medics from around the world who work in wards with extremely ill patients. Cecconi, who heads the intensive care department at the Humanitas hospital in Milan, says medical staff need to be more flexible in the work they do, and more mobile. "If there is another big wave, we should be prepared to deploy doctors and nurses from nearby regions within Italy. This did not happen a lot in the first wave," he told Reuters. Also read: WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases Many countries were caught unprepared by the COVID-19 pandemic in March and April, and hastily retrained medics to work with patients with severe cases of the disease, to ramp up numbers and replace those who fell sick. Some sent medical students and retired doctors to help out in intensive care wards as hospital staff were overwhelmed. Those worst-hit by the pandemic had to provide more beds and essential equipment for acute care units, and some built new hospitals. But problems and shortages persist. Italy, for example, may need to boost by 50% the number of anaesthetists, resuscitation experts and other medics it has working in intensive care, according to the Italian society of intensive care SIAARTI. CRASH COURSES Across Europe, hospitals have been re-training surgeons, cardiologists, internal medicine physicians and nurses from other departments, and have moved them to intensive care units when needed. Many have attended crash courses on how to handle COVID-19 patients, said Jozef Kesecioglu, president of ESICM and head of intensive care at the University Medical Center of Utrecht, in the Netherlands. "We gave them jobs with less responsibility, such as washing patients, turning patients around, checking the lungs or looking at scans," he told Reuters. Intensive care specialists had continued to do the most delicate work, such as handling tubes in patients' throats or adjusting mechanical ventilation, Kesecioglu said. He plans to call back the same people to offer them more training. Under normal circumstances, intensive care workers undergo years of training but he said: "We should not wait until the new wave comes, we should give them regular training." The Netherlands is trying to recruit more skilled workers and hopes to narrow structural gaps in the intensive care workforce, said Rotterdam's Erasmus Medical Centre, one of the largest university hospitals in Europe. SIAARTI says medical students who specialise in intensive care medicine should be fully integrated into wards for the last two years of their five-year training, and has recommended financial incentives be offered to attract more students. The European Commission, the European Union's executive, funded cross-border transfers of medical staff to the most affected countries at the height of the coronavirus crisis. In April, teams of "flying doctors" were sent from Norway and Romania to Italy. But the experiment has failed to gather much support, and Cecconi said moving doctors from one country to another "should be an option but not the first option," as language barriers may make them less effective. Some patients were also moved around to receive treatment. France transferred some to less-affected regions of the country and sent others to Germany, which also took in COVID-19 patients from Italy. But Cecconi warned of transportation risks and logistical complications. "Often our patients are very sick," he said. "I'd rather have skilled people who know how to work in my environment."

Fearing second COVID-19 wave, Europe aims to train 'army' of medics

An Israeli company expects a fabric it has developed will be able to neutralise close to 99% of the coronavirus, even after being washed multiple times, following a successful lab test.

Sonovia's reusable anti-viral masks are coated in zinc oxide nano-particles that destroy bacteria, fungi and viruses, which it says can help stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Tests in the Microspectrum (Weipu Jishu) lab in Shanghai had demonstrated that the washable fabric used in its masks neutralised more than 90% of the coronavirus to which it was exposed, Sonovia said on Monday.

Liat Goldhammer, Sonovia's chief technology officer, said that in the coming weeks the fabric, which can also be used in textiles for hospitals, protective equipment and clothing, will be able to neutralise almost 99% of the coronavirus.

<h6><img alt="Employees of Israel's Sonovia Ltd, makers of washable and reusable antiviral masks, which the company says can help stop the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), work at their laboratory in Ramat Gan, Israel May 17, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1c4fc71-30a5-4cbe-82fb-e845df1ea248" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_22.jpg" /> 
Employees of Israel's Sonovia Ltd, makers of washable and reusable antiviral masks, which the company says can help stop the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), work at their laboratory in Ramat Gan, Israel May 17, 2020 | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Sonovia says its clients include German manufacturers Bruckner and Weber Ultrasonics, and hospitals in Germany and the United States.&nbsp;

It is conducting a pilot at Adler Plastic in Italy to use its fabric in vehicles and public transport and is selling its masks online to retail consumers.

The tests in China were performed in accordance with the international standard for determining anti-viral activity of textile products, Sonovia said in a statement.

They follow a test last month on the material at Austria's HygCen medical lab using the Vaccinia virus, which has similar properties to the SARS-COVID family, and showed "a good virucidal effect", according to the lab report.

Sonovia, which is planning to go public on Nasdaq this year, is also awaiting a "significant series of tests in a German government-certified laboratory," Goldhammer said.

Asaf Levy, Sonovia's vice president for sales and operations, said Ernst &amp; Young is preparing a valuation and the company is talking with U.S. and Asian investors regarding participation in the planned stock market offering.

An Israeli company expects a fabric it has developed will be able to neutralise close to 99% of the coronavirus, even after being washed multiple times, following a successful lab test.

An Israeli company expects a fabric it has developed will be able to neutralise close to 99% of the coronavirus, even after being washed multiple times, following a successful lab test. Sonovia's reusable anti-viral masks are coated in zinc oxide nano-particles that destroy bacteria, fungi and viruses, which it says can help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Tests in the Microspectrum (Weipu Jishu) lab in Shanghai had demonstrated that the washable fabric used in its masks neutralised more than 90% of the coronavirus to which it was exposed, Sonovia said on Monday. Liat Goldhammer, Sonovia's chief technology officer, said that in the coming weeks the fabric, which can also be used in textiles for hospitals, protective equipment and clothing, will be able to neutralise almost 99% of the coronavirus. Employees of Israel's Sonovia Ltd, makers of washable and reusable antiviral masks, which the company says can help stop the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), work at their laboratory in Ramat Gan, Israel May 17, 2020 | Reuters Sonovia says its clients include German manufacturers Bruckner and Weber Ultrasonics, and hospitals in Germany and the United States. It is conducting a pilot at Adler Plastic in Italy to use its fabric in vehicles and public transport and is selling its masks online to retail consumers. The tests in China were performed in accordance with the international standard for determining anti-viral activity of textile products, Sonovia said in a statement. They follow a test last month on the material at Austria's HygCen medical lab using the Vaccinia virus, which has similar properties to the SARS-COVID family, and showed "a good virucidal effect", according to the lab report. Sonovia, which is planning to go public on Nasdaq this year, is also awaiting a "significant series of tests in a German government-certified laboratory," Goldhammer said. Asaf Levy, Sonovia's vice president for sales and operations, said Ernst & Young is preparing a valuation and the company is talking with U.S. and Asian investors regarding participation in the planned stock market offering.

Israel's miracle mask: Sonovia expects 99% coronavirus success after lab test

Coronavirus generally spreads from person-to-person, when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs and releases infected droplets into the open, which may then be unknowingly inhaled by others nearby.

Even though primary transmission occurs among&nbsp;people, many people can contract the virus through contact with infected surfaces as well.

These include any hard surfaces such as walls, tabletops, plates, even masks!&nbsp;A new study, however claims that flushing incorrectly may be able to able spread coronavirus through faeces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-could-be-on-market-in-mid-2021-says-unlisted-german-company-306522">Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company</a>

If you’re flushing the toilet with the seat up, you may be allowing little particles of faecal matter to be released into the air of your bathroom, allowing the virus to creep in. Early researches have shown how faeces contains and sustains the virus even after recovery, and that people in direct contact with infected faeces may be at risk of developing the virus.&nbsp;The virus can also live and multiply in the digestive system.

Not a major concern of worry, it may be one of the ways of latent transmission. However, it’s imperative to keep in mind that there’s still a lot that scientists do not know about the virus, for which vaccine development is underway around the world.

A team of researchers at the Yangzhou University in China have found that the water from a flushed toilet could spray particles upward into the air, as high as three-feet, which could be enough for the user to inhale those particles. And if they carry the virus, the person would then become infected.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-like-pandemics-are-a-direct-consequence-of-natural-exploitation-306526" hreflang="en">Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation</a>

"One can foresee that the velocity will be even higher when a toilet is used frequently, such as in the case of a family toilet during a busy time or a public toilet serving a densely populated area," Ji-Xiang Wang of Yangzhou University said in a public statement.

Norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea is known to spread through toilets.

People who develop the virus and remain asymptomatic may be transmitting it through faecal matter. Recently, Paris had found traces of COVID-19 in its sewer systems, while Japan has announced plans to monitor and test its drainage and sewer systems to limit the spread of this virus.

Coronavirus generally spreads from person-to-person, when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs and releases infected droplets into the open, which may then be unknowingly inhaled by others nearby.

Coronavirus generally spreads from person-to-person, when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs and releases infected droplets into the open, which may then be unknowingly inhaled by others nearby. Even though primary transmission occurs among people, many people can contract the virus through contact with infected surfaces as well. These include any hard surfaces such as walls, tabletops, plates, even masks! A new study, however claims that flushing incorrectly may be able to able spread coronavirus through faeces. Also read: Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company If you’re flushing the toilet with the seat up, you may be allowing little particles of faecal matter to be released into the air of your bathroom, allowing the virus to creep in. Early researches have shown how faeces contains and sustains the virus even after recovery, and that people in direct contact with infected faeces may be at risk of developing the virus. The virus can also live and multiply in the digestive system. Not a major concern of worry, it may be one of the ways of latent transmission. However, it’s imperative to keep in mind that there’s still a lot that scientists do not know about the virus, for which vaccine development is underway around the world. A team of researchers at the Yangzhou University in China have found that the water from a flushed toilet could spray particles upward into the air, as high as three-feet, which could be enough for the user to inhale those particles. And if they carry the virus, the person would then become infected. Also read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation "One can foresee that the velocity will be even higher when a toilet is used frequently, such as in the case of a family toilet during a busy time or a public toilet serving a densely populated area," Ji-Xiang Wang of Yangzhou University said in a public statement. Norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea is known to spread through toilets. People who develop the virus and remain asymptomatic may be transmitting it through faecal matter. Recently, Paris had found traces of COVID-19 in its sewer systems, while Japan has announced plans to monitor and test its drainage and sewer systems to limit the spread of this virus.

Flushing the toilet incorrectly may enable the transmission of COVID-19

Since the beginning of the pandemic, coronavirus has been referred to as the “silent killer”, for it affected large number of people without many developing apparent symptoms. Recently, as United States was said to have crossed its virus peak, the number of cases in six US states shot up in the aftermath of economies reopening.

Florida is one of the major US states attempting to resuscitate back to life after the coronavirus-induced lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-wave-of-coronavirus-in-the-us-six-states-record-most-cases-ever-306544" hreflang="en">Second-wave of coronavirus in the US? Six states record most cases ever!</a>

Recently, a group of 16 friends in the state of Florida who went to a bar came back home with coronavirus.

After testing positive, three of the 16 people told CNN that they wanted to “raise awareness” about the risks still associated with venturing outside, especially to bars.

Alcohol impairs the brain’s motor functioning, one may forget to sanitise, to wash hands, and general hygiene rules of living during a pandemic may be forgotten.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-ventilator-makers-prepare-for-coronavirus-second-wave-306355/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The partygoers also told CNN that the pandemic is not over, and “it’s too soon”.

Reportedly, they had gathered to celebrate a friend’s birthday at a bar where nobody was wearing masks and there was a visible crowd.

After a few days, many developed symptoms, after which they all got tested, which revealed that most of them had in fact contracted the virus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-like-pandemics-are-a-direct-consequence-of-natural-exploitation-306526" hreflang="en">Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation</a>

However, even though all 16 of them tested positive, nobody developed serious symptoms.

A few of them claimed that many others who went to the bar over the weekend also got sick.

Even as the state of Florida reopens, it inducted record-high cases on Monday. State governor Ron DeSantis said they will continue to reopen despite this surge.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, coronavirus has been referred to as the “silent killer”, for it affected large number of people without many developing apparent symptoms.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, coronavirus has been referred to as the “silent killer”, for it affected large number of people without many developing apparent symptoms. Recently, as United States was said to have crossed its virus peak, the number of cases in six US states shot up in the aftermath of economies reopening. Florida is one of the major US states attempting to resuscitate back to life after the coronavirus-induced lockdown. Also read: Second-wave of coronavirus in the US? Six states record most cases ever! Recently, a group of 16 friends in the state of Florida who went to a bar came back home with coronavirus. After testing positive, three of the 16 people told CNN that they wanted to “raise awareness” about the risks still associated with venturing outside, especially to bars. Alcohol impairs the brain’s motor functioning, one may forget to sanitise, to wash hands, and general hygiene rules of living during a pandemic may be forgotten. The partygoers also told CNN that the pandemic is not over, and “it’s too soon”. Reportedly, they had gathered to celebrate a friend’s birthday at a bar where nobody was wearing masks and there was a visible crowd. After a few days, many developed symptoms, after which they all got tested, which revealed that most of them had in fact contracted the virus. Also read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation However, even though all 16 of them tested positive, nobody developed serious symptoms. A few of them claimed that many others who went to the bar over the weekend also got sick. Even as the state of Florida reopens, it inducted record-high cases on Monday. State governor Ron DeSantis said they will continue to reopen despite this surge.

16 Americans who went to a bar in Florida return home with COVID-19

Scientists in the United Kingdom say they have found a major breakthrough in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Moving beyond remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine, UK has moved on to using dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory steroid.

The University of Oxford released a study today which said that dexamethasone has saved the life of patients critically afflicted by coronavirus.

Being hailed as the next life-saving drug, it has cut deaths among the seriously affected patients surviving on ventilators.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-dexamethasone-a-breakthrough-in-coronavirus-fight-306367/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

By a fifth!

For those on oxygen supply, the death rate was cut by a fifth. This drug has proven to cut the number of coronavirus deaths. Half of the patients who usually need a ventilator after contracting coronavirus, do not survive.

Additionally, dexamethasone is cheap, priced at 5 Euros in the UK, and it globally available.

The steroid prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, a nasty symptom of coronavirus infection that makes breathing difficult.&nbsp;

According to the reports, Daily doses of dexamethasone could prevent one in eight ventilated patient deaths and save one out of every 25 patients requiring oxygen alone, the team said.

It was first discovered in 1957 and is commonly prescribed to patients with allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis and some types of cancer.

“This is a result that shows that if patients who have COVID-19 and are on ventilators or are on oxygen are given dexamethasone, it will save lives, and it will do so at a remarkably low cost,” said Martin Landray, an Oxford University professor who is co-leading the trial.

Scientists in the United Kingdom say they have found a major breakthrough in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Moving beyond remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine, UK has moved on to using dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory steroid.

Scientists in the United Kingdom say they have found a major breakthrough in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Moving beyond remdesivir and hydroxychloroquine, UK has moved on to using dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory steroid. The University of Oxford released a study today which said that dexamethasone has saved the life of patients critically afflicted by coronavirus. Being hailed as the next life-saving drug, it has cut deaths among the seriously affected patients surviving on ventilators. By a fifth! For those on oxygen supply, the death rate was cut by a fifth. This drug has proven to cut the number of coronavirus deaths. Half of the patients who usually need a ventilator after contracting coronavirus, do not survive. Additionally, dexamethasone is cheap, priced at 5 Euros in the UK, and it globally available. The steroid prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, a nasty symptom of coronavirus infection that makes breathing difficult. According to the reports, Daily doses of dexamethasone could prevent one in eight ventilated patient deaths and save one out of every 25 patients requiring oxygen alone, the team said. It was first discovered in 1957 and is commonly prescribed to patients with allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis and some types of cancer. “This is a result that shows that if patients who have COVID-19 and are on ventilators or are on oxygen are given dexamethasone, it will save lives, and it will do so at a remarkably low cost,” said Martin Landray, an Oxford University professor who is co-leading the trial.

UK makes a major breakthrough in treating COVID-19, and it's not hydroxychloroquine!

The Chinese capital reported 106 domestically transmitted COVID-19 cases since June 11 and a senior city official warned that the situation is "extremely severe" in Beijing where authorities have mounted massive containment measures including mass testing of about 90,000 people.

After Beijing's COVID-19 infections increased, it seems that the capital has now become a "no-go zone" for other parts of China, as many places have raised an alert on travels to Beijing and strengthened health check on arrivals from Beijing, state-run Global Times reported.

The WHO’s emergency director--- Mike Ryan has said that the WHO is expecting the Chinese authorities to publish genetic sequencing of the virus in Beijing. They will but with the same sincerity -- with which China destroyed initial samples of Wuhan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-wuhan-like-situation-in-beijing-306368/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Every pandemic has over 2 to 3 waves, what's happening in Beijing is in all probability the signs of the second wave. 
The world health organization did nothing the first time and the second time appears no different.

This time, the WHO does not even feel the need to mask its tilt towards China. Because amidst all of this Dr Tedros is planning to address university students in Beijing.&nbsp;

It is not like we are living through a pandemic but this pattern will keep repeating, China covering-up outbreaks and WHO covering up for China. China's financial hubs were spared during the first outbreak. This time, the cluster is in Beijing.

China's political stability depends entirely on its economic situation. If financial hubs are hit, the govt will face political consequences.

Xi Jinping should now take a break from crafty diplomacy-- and address the problem at home.

The Chinese capital reported 106 domestically transmitted COVID-19 cases since June 11 and a senior city official warned that the situation is "extremely severe" in Beijing where authorities have mounted massive containment measures including mass testing of about 90,000 people.

The Chinese capital reported 106 domestically transmitted COVID-19 cases since June 11 and a senior city official warned that the situation is "extremely severe" in Beijing where authorities have mounted massive containment measures including mass testing of about 90,000 people. After Beijing's COVID-19 infections increased, it seems that the capital has now become a "no-go zone" for other parts of China, as many places have raised an alert on travels to Beijing and strengthened health check on arrivals from Beijing, state-run Global Times reported. The WHO’s emergency director--- Mike Ryan has said that the WHO is expecting the Chinese authorities to publish genetic sequencing of the virus in Beijing. They will but with the same sincerity -- with which China destroyed initial samples of Wuhan. Every pandemic has over 2 to 3 waves, what's happening in Beijing is in all probability the signs of the second wave. The world health organization did nothing the first time and the second time appears no different. This time, the WHO does not even feel the need to mask its tilt towards China. Because amidst all of this Dr Tedros is planning to address university students in Beijing. It is not like we are living through a pandemic but this pattern will keep repeating, China covering-up outbreaks and WHO covering up for China. China's financial hubs were spared during the first outbreak. This time, the cluster is in Beijing. China's political stability depends entirely on its economic situation. If financial hubs are hit, the govt will face political consequences. Xi Jinping should now take a break from crafty diplomacy-- and address the problem at home.

China's war on Wuhan virus has a new foe: Second wave of COVID-19

Coronavirus infections across the United States have soared recently, amid the ongoing protests against racial discrimination and police brutality.

The six American states to report record-high cases are Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Nevada.

This comes in the aftermath of what many researchers claimed was the end of the country’s coronavirus peak. Many states have been forced to reopen in the middle of an economic crisis, with the country recording record unemployment rates after the lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-could-be-on-market-in-mid-2021-says-unlisted-german-company-306522">Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company</a>

Most of these states were previously recording such high rates of daily infections in May, when US was peaking in the first wave.

Oklahoma, one of the states with the highest surge is also where US President Donald Trump is planning to hold an indoor campaign rally this weekend.

The state witnessed an increase of almost eight per cent, which is the highest in the country.&nbsp;News agency Reuters reported that the state witnessed a 68 per cent spike in cases last week.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-ventilator-makers-prepare-for-coronavirus-second-wave-306355/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump has been vocal about reopening the economy even as the country broke all global infection numbers, and witnessed the highest number of deaths across the world.

The president is expected to hold the rally in Tulsa, marking his first in anticipation of the upcoming presidential elections.

Health officials in the state have advised people planning to attend the rally to get tested before they do, and to further test after the rally, after quarantining themselves for 15 days. Additionally, people over the age of 65 or with co-morbidities have been advised to stay at home.&nbsp;The health commissioner urged those over 65 or at higher risk of coronavirus-related complications to stay home.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-popularity-drops-to-seven-month-low-biden-opens-13-point-advantage-306506">Trump popularity drops to seven-month low; Biden opens 13-point advantage</a>

American Vice President Mike Pence recently referred to the rise in infections as “overblown”. However, hospitalisations across the country continue to increase.&nbsp;Texas also inducted record-high numbers in terms of hospitalisations.

Meanwhile, the initial epicentre of the virus, China has witnessed a resurge in the number of cases in its capital city Beijing all tracing back to one local food market.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Coronavirus infections across the United States have soared recently, amid the ongoing protests against racial discrimination and police brutality. The six American states to report record-high cases are Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Nevada.

Coronavirus infections across the United States have soared recently, amid the ongoing protests against racial discrimination and police brutality. The six American states to report record-high cases are Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Nevada. This comes in the aftermath of what many researchers claimed was the end of the country’s coronavirus peak. Many states have been forced to reopen in the middle of an economic crisis, with the country recording record unemployment rates after the lockdown. Also read: Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company Most of these states were previously recording such high rates of daily infections in May, when US was peaking in the first wave. Oklahoma, one of the states with the highest surge is also where US President Donald Trump is planning to hold an indoor campaign rally this weekend. The state witnessed an increase of almost eight per cent, which is the highest in the country. News agency Reuters reported that the state witnessed a 68 per cent spike in cases last week. Trump has been vocal about reopening the economy even as the country broke all global infection numbers, and witnessed the highest number of deaths across the world. The president is expected to hold the rally in Tulsa, marking his first in anticipation of the upcoming presidential elections. Health officials in the state have advised people planning to attend the rally to get tested before they do, and to further test after the rally, after quarantining themselves for 15 days. Additionally, people over the age of 65 or with co-morbidities have been advised to stay at home. The health commissioner urged those over 65 or at higher risk of coronavirus-related complications to stay home. Also read: Trump popularity drops to seven-month low; Biden opens 13-point advantage American Vice President Mike Pence recently referred to the rise in infections as “overblown”. However, hospitalisations across the country continue to increase. Texas also inducted record-high numbers in terms of hospitalisations. Meanwhile, the initial epicentre of the virus, China has witnessed a resurge in the number of cases in its capital city Beijing all tracing back to one local food market. (With inputs from Reuters)

Second-wave of coronavirus in the US? Six states record most cases ever!

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people.&nbsp;Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature.

Leaders of prominent global organisations that serve as a platform for driving dialogue such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and WWF International claim that how we treat nature sets the groundwork for how it treats us.

In essence, they are calling for an end to the exploitation of nature and natural resources in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, which could indeed be nature’s defence mechanism against exploitation.

More on COVID-19:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-could-be-on-market-in-mid-2021-says-unlisted-german-company-306522" hreflang="en">Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company</a>

Governments across the world have allowed devastation of forests in the pursuit of economic growth. At the same time, illegal wildlife trade has been a major factor in the transference of diseases from animals to humans, many such environmental leaders told The Guardian.

<h6><img alt="This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95858122-5541-4147-b4e8-1de8f38643f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_8.jpg" /> 
This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

“Exotic” animals that are found in isolated areas, and then siphoned off to illegal markets may carry disease unknown to humans, like the deadly coronavirus which has left the scientists baffled for the last six month.

To avoid another pandemic in the future, a green preservation driven approach for the world is necessary, they additionally told the Guardian.

More on COVID-19:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-beijing-on-its-way-to-become-a-second-wuhan-306443" hreflang="en">Is Beijing on its way to become a second Wuhan?</a>

A report was recently published by the WWF, according to which, the risk of animal to human transmission of diseases is higher now than ever. “The risk of a new [wildlife-to-human] disease emerging in the future is higher than ever, with the potential to wreak havoc on health, economies and global security”, it said.

The organisations have called on the world leaders to rethink growth by making conservation of natural resources not only one of its policy tenets, but the defining one.

Ever since the virus slowed down countries across the world, especially in the West, researchers have warned about the possibility of more such pandemics if “nature” is not preserved.

In June, a UN environment chief had referred to the pandemic as an “SOS signal” for humans and the way we function.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people. Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people. Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature. Leaders of prominent global organisations that serve as a platform for driving dialogue such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and WWF International claim that how we treat nature sets the groundwork for how it treats us. In essence, they are calling for an end to the exploitation of nature and natural resources in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, which could indeed be nature’s defence mechanism against exploitation. More on COVID-19: Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company Governments across the world have allowed devastation of forests in the pursuit of economic growth. At the same time, illegal wildlife trade has been a major factor in the transference of diseases from animals to humans, many such environmental leaders told The Guardian. This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin | AFP “Exotic” animals that are found in isolated areas, and then siphoned off to illegal markets may carry disease unknown to humans, like the deadly coronavirus which has left the scientists baffled for the last six month. To avoid another pandemic in the future, a green preservation driven approach for the world is necessary, they additionally told the Guardian. More on COVID-19: Is Beijing on its way to become a second Wuhan? A report was recently published by the WWF, according to which, the risk of animal to human transmission of diseases is higher now than ever. “The risk of a new [wildlife-to-human] disease emerging in the future is higher than ever, with the potential to wreak havoc on health, economies and global security”, it said. The organisations have called on the world leaders to rethink growth by making conservation of natural resources not only one of its policy tenets, but the defining one. Ever since the virus slowed down countries across the world, especially in the West, researchers have warned about the possibility of more such pandemics if “nature” is not preserved. In June, a UN environment chief had referred to the pandemic as an “SOS signal” for humans and the way we function.

Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation

Norway said Wednesday that salmon from the country was not the cause of the recently discovered outbreak of the new coronavirus in Beijing, after many Chinese restaurants and retailers stopped selling imported salmon. 
 
Norwegian salmon came under scrutiny in China after a recently discovered cluster of new coronavirus cases was reportedly traced to the Xinfadi meat market in Beijing and a chopping board used for cutting up imported salmon. 
 
"The issue is being resolved," said fisheries minister Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen, quoted by TDN Finans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-moves-to-update-covid-19-guidance-after-great-news-in-drug-study-306494" hreflang="en">WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study</a> 
 
"We're working out the details today and I can confirm that the issue seems to be resolved," Ingebrigtsen added. 
 
Ingebrigtsen said Chinese and Norwegian officials had met on Tuesday and concluded that Norwegian salmon was unlikely to be the source of the virus detected last week at the Beijing market. 
 
At least 137 people have been infected since last week in China's capital, a resurgence of infections that has led to the lockdown of several neighbourhoods and the cancellation of more than a thousand flights. 
 
Major supermarket chains including Wumart and Carrefour removed all stocks of salmon in the capital, but said supplies of other products would not be affected, Beijing Daily reported Saturday. 
 
Some Beijing restaurants were not serving any salmon last weekend, according to AFP reporters. 
 
Contacted by AFP, the Chinese embassy in Oslo did not provide any immediate comment.&nbsp; 
 
China, considered a very promising market by the industry, last year imported around 23,500 tonnes of Norwegian salmon.

Norway said Wednesday that salmon from the country was not the cause of the recently discovered outbreak of the new coronavirus in Beijing, after many Chinese restaurants and retailers stopped selling imported salmon.

Norway said Wednesday that salmon from the country was not the cause of the recently discovered outbreak of the new coronavirus in Beijing, after many Chinese restaurants and retailers stopped selling imported salmon. Norwegian salmon came under scrutiny in China after a recently discovered cluster of new coronavirus cases was reportedly traced to the Xinfadi meat market in Beijing and a chopping board used for cutting up imported salmon. "The issue is being resolved," said fisheries minister Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen, quoted by TDN Finans. Also read: WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study "We're working out the details today and I can confirm that the issue seems to be resolved," Ingebrigtsen added. Ingebrigtsen said Chinese and Norwegian officials had met on Tuesday and concluded that Norwegian salmon was unlikely to be the source of the virus detected last week at the Beijing market. At least 137 people have been infected since last week in China's capital, a resurgence of infections that has led to the lockdown of several neighbourhoods and the cancellation of more than a thousand flights. Major supermarket chains including Wumart and Carrefour removed all stocks of salmon in the capital, but said supplies of other products would not be affected, Beijing Daily reported Saturday. Some Beijing restaurants were not serving any salmon last weekend, according to AFP reporters. Contacted by AFP, the Chinese embassy in Oslo did not provide any immediate comment. China, considered a very promising market by the industry, last year imported around 23,500 tonnes of Norwegian salmon.

Beijing virus outbreak not connected to Norwegian salmon: Oslo

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is weighing a limited initial annexation in the occupied West Bank, hoping to quell international opposition to his pledge of wide territorial moves, an Israeli newspaper said on Wednesday.

Netanyahu has said a U.S. peace plan, which envisages Israel retaining its settlements in the West Bank, provides an "historic opportunity" to extend Israeli sovereignty to them and to the Jordan Valley area.

Israel captured the West Bank, along with East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, in a 1967 war. Palestinians hope to establish a state in those areas and say the peace blueprint announced by President Donald Trump in January kills that prospect.&nbsp;

Israel Hayom, a pro-Netanyahu daily widely seen as reflecting his views, said the right-wing leader was now looking at the possibility of annexation in two phases.

It said Netanyahu, who has set July 1 for the start of a cabinet debate on the issue, was considering annexing only small settlements in phase one and, after renewing calls to Palestinians for peace talks, then annexing the remaining ones.

Netanyahu's annexation pledges have raised stiff opposition from the Palestinians, Arab countries and European nations, and Israeli officials say Washington has yet to agree to the move.

Wasel Abu Youssef, a member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, said potential phasing of annexation made no difference. "Netanyahu is trying to confuse the international position which rejects annexation and the world will not be fooled by such a proposition," he said.&nbsp;

The newspaper said Netanyahu does not anticipate a strong punitive response from Europe for annexation, despite vocal opposition, nor does he see it as substantially damaging Israel's ties with the Arab world.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, by limiting annexation initially, he hopes to signal that Israel is attentive to international criticism, Israel Hayom said.

It attributed its report to sources that have held discussions with Netanyahu in the last few days, but did not identify them. Netanyahu's office declined to comment.

Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is weighing a limited initial annexation in the occupied West Bank, hoping to quell international opposition to his pledge of wide territorial moves, an Israeli newspaper said on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is weighing a limited initial annexation in the occupied West Bank, hoping to quell international opposition to his pledge of wide territorial moves, an Israeli newspaper said on Wednesday. Netanyahu has said a U.S. peace plan, which envisages Israel retaining its settlements in the West Bank, provides an "historic opportunity" to extend Israeli sovereignty to them and to the Jordan Valley area. Israel captured the West Bank, along with East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, in a 1967 war. Palestinians hope to establish a state in those areas and say the peace blueprint announced by President Donald Trump in January kills that prospect. Israel Hayom, a pro-Netanyahu daily widely seen as reflecting his views, said the right-wing leader was now looking at the possibility of annexation in two phases. It said Netanyahu, who has set July 1 for the start of a cabinet debate on the issue, was considering annexing only small settlements in phase one and, after renewing calls to Palestinians for peace talks, then annexing the remaining ones. Netanyahu's annexation pledges have raised stiff opposition from the Palestinians, Arab countries and European nations, and Israeli officials say Washington has yet to agree to the move. Wasel Abu Youssef, a member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, said potential phasing of annexation made no difference. "Netanyahu is trying to confuse the international position which rejects annexation and the world will not be fooled by such a proposition," he said. The newspaper said Netanyahu does not anticipate a strong punitive response from Europe for annexation, despite vocal opposition, nor does he see it as substantially damaging Israel's ties with the Arab world. Nonetheless, by limiting annexation initially, he hopes to signal that Israel is attentive to international criticism, Israel Hayom said. It attributed its report to sources that have held discussions with Netanyahu in the last few days, but did not identify them. Netanyahu's office declined to comment. Most countries view Israeli settlements in occupied territory as illegal. Israel rejects this.

Israel's Netanyahu mulls two-phase West Bank annexation

Iran on Wednesday reported more than 100 deaths from the novel coronavirus for a fourth straight day, saying that gatherings in high-risk provinces have led to a spike in infections. 
 
"Holding gatherings such as weddings and funerals is one of the main causes of increased coronavirus infections in red provinces," the highest level on Iran's colour-coded risk scale, said deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi. 
 
"In one province, 120 people were infected at a single wedding," the ISNA news agency quoted him as saying. 
 
Health ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said 120 new deaths in the past 24 hours took Iran's overall toll to 9,158.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-moves-to-update-covid-19-guidance-after-great-news-in-drug-study-306494" hreflang="en">WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study</a>

 
This is Iran's highest single-day death toll since April 11. 
 
Lari added that another 2,612 tested positive for COVID-19, bringing total confirmed cases to 195,051. 
 
Iran reported its first coronavirus cases on February 19, and it has since struggled to contain the outbreak. 
 
Official figures have shown a rising trajectory in new confirmed cases since early May, when Iran hit a near two-month low in daily recorded infections. 
 
There has been scepticism at home and abroad about Iran's official figures, with concerns the real toll could be much higher.

Iran on Wednesday reported more than 100 deaths from the novel coronavirus for a fourth straight day, saying that gatherings in high-risk provinces have led to a spike in infections.

Iran on Wednesday reported more than 100 deaths from the novel coronavirus for a fourth straight day, saying that gatherings in high-risk provinces have led to a spike in infections. "Holding gatherings such as weddings and funerals is one of the main causes of increased coronavirus infections in red provinces," the highest level on Iran's colour-coded risk scale, said deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi. "In one province, 120 people were infected at a single wedding," the ISNA news agency quoted him as saying. Health ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said 120 new deaths in the past 24 hours took Iran's overall toll to 9,158. Also read: WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study This is Iran's highest single-day death toll since April 11. Lari added that another 2,612 tested positive for COVID-19, bringing total confirmed cases to 195,051. Iran reported its first coronavirus cases on February 19, and it has since struggled to contain the outbreak. Official figures have shown a rising trajectory in new confirmed cases since early May, when Iran hit a near two-month low in daily recorded infections. There has been scepticism at home and abroad about Iran's official figures, with concerns the real toll could be much higher.

Iran reports over 100 virus deaths for fourth day

Australia&nbsp;is unlikely to reopen its border to international travellers until next year but will look to relax entry rules for students and other long-term visitors, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said on Wednesday.

Australia&nbsp;has been largely successful in containing the spread of the novel coronavirus, which it attributes to curbs on international travel and tough social-distancing rules.

Birmingham said a quarantine rule for returning citizens could be applied to international students and other visitors who plan to stay for a long period of time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-moves-to-update-covid-19-guidance-after-great-news-in-drug-study-306494" hreflang="en">WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study</a>

"We can simply work through the 14-day quarantine periods that have worked so well in terms of returning&nbsp;Australians to this country safely," Birmingham said in a speech to the National Press Club.

The return of international students will be a boost for universities facing big financial losses with the border closed as international education is&nbsp;Australia's fourth-largest foreign exchange earner, worth A$38 billion ($26.14 billion) a year.

Australia&nbsp;has had more than 7,300 cases of the coronavirus and 102 people have died from COVID-19, the disease it causes.

It recorded its biggest daily rise in new infections in more than a month on Wednesday, with the most of them in Victoria, the second most populous state.

Victoria reported 21 new cases overnight, of which 15 are returned travellers in quarantine, taking the total tally for the day to 22 cases, with some states yet to report their data.

Australia is unlikely to reopen its border to international travellers until next year but will look to relax entry rules for students and other long-term visitors, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said on Wednesday.

Australia is unlikely to reopen its border to international travellers until next year but will look to relax entry rules for students and other long-term visitors, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said on Wednesday. Australia has been largely successful in containing the spread of the novel coronavirus, which it attributes to curbs on international travel and tough social-distancing rules. Birmingham said a quarantine rule for returning citizens could be applied to international students and other visitors who plan to stay for a long period of time. Also read: WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study "We can simply work through the 14-day quarantine periods that have worked so well in terms of returning Australians to this country safely," Birmingham said in a speech to the National Press Club. The return of international students will be a boost for universities facing big financial losses with the border closed as international education is Australia's fourth-largest foreign exchange earner, worth A$38 billion ($26.14 billion) a year. Australia has had more than 7,300 cases of the coronavirus and 102 people have died from COVID-19, the disease it causes. It recorded its biggest daily rise in new infections in more than a month on Wednesday, with the most of them in Victoria, the second most populous state. Victoria reported 21 new cases overnight, of which 15 are returned travellers in quarantine, taking the total tally for the day to 22 cases, with some states yet to report their data.

Australia says borders likely to stay closed until 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it was moving to update its guidelines on treating people stricken with COVID-19 to reflect results of a clinical trial that showed a cheap, common steroid can help save critically ill patients.&nbsp;

Trial results announced on Tuesday showed dexamethasone, used since the 1960s to reduce inflammation in diseases such as arthritis, cut death rates by around a third among the most severely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to hospital.

The WHO's clinical guidance for treating patients infected with the new coronavirus is aimed at doctors and other medical professionals and seeks to use the latest data to inform clinicians on how best to tackle all phases of the disease, from screening to discharge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/12-per-cent-of-americans-may-not-need-coronavirus-vaccine-us-officials-306411" hreflang="en">12 per cent of Americans may not need coronavirus vaccine: US officials</a>

Although the dexamethasone study's results are preliminary, the researchers behind the project said it suggests the drug should immediately become standard care in severely stricken patients.

For patients on ventilators, the treatment was shown to reduce mortality by about one third, and for patients requiring only oxygen, mortality was cut by about one fifth, according to preliminary findings shared with WHO.

The benefit was only seen in patients seriously ill with COVID-19 and was not observed in patients with milder disease.

The positive news comes as coronavirus infections accelerated in some places including the United States and as Beijing cancelled scores of flights to help contain a fresh outbreak in China's capital.

"This is the first treatment to be shown to reduce mortality in patients with COVID-19 requiring oxygen or ventilator support," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement late on Tuesday. The agency said it was looking forward to the full data analysis of the study in coming days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-breakthrough-uk-to-begin-administering-steroid-dexamethasone-to-covid-19-patients-306389" hreflang="en">After breakthrough, UK to begin administering steroid dexamethasone to COVID-19 patients</a>

"WHO will coordinate a meta-analysis to increase our overall understanding of this intervention. WHO clinical guidance will be updated to reflect how and when the drug should be used in COVID-19," the agency added.

But South Korea's top health official cautioned about the use of the drug for COVID-19 patients.

"(It) has already long been used in South Korean hospitals to treat patients with different inflammation," Jeong Eun-kyeong, head of Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).

"But some experts have warned of the drug not only reducing the inflammatory response in patients, but also the immune system and may trigger side effects. KCDC is discussing the use of it for COVID-19 patients."

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it was moving to update its guidelines on treating people stricken with COVID-19 to reflect results of a clinical trial that showed a cheap, common steroid can help save critically ill patients.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said it was moving to update its guidelines on treating people stricken with COVID-19 to reflect results of a clinical trial that showed a cheap, common steroid can help save critically ill patients. Trial results announced on Tuesday showed dexamethasone, used since the 1960s to reduce inflammation in diseases such as arthritis, cut death rates by around a third among the most severely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to hospital. The WHO's clinical guidance for treating patients infected with the new coronavirus is aimed at doctors and other medical professionals and seeks to use the latest data to inform clinicians on how best to tackle all phases of the disease, from screening to discharge. Also read: 12 per cent of Americans may not need coronavirus vaccine: US officials Although the dexamethasone study's results are preliminary, the researchers behind the project said it suggests the drug should immediately become standard care in severely stricken patients. For patients on ventilators, the treatment was shown to reduce mortality by about one third, and for patients requiring only oxygen, mortality was cut by about one fifth, according to preliminary findings shared with WHO. The benefit was only seen in patients seriously ill with COVID-19 and was not observed in patients with milder disease. The positive news comes as coronavirus infections accelerated in some places including the United States and as Beijing cancelled scores of flights to help contain a fresh outbreak in China's capital. "This is the first treatment to be shown to reduce mortality in patients with COVID-19 requiring oxygen or ventilator support," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement late on Tuesday. The agency said it was looking forward to the full data analysis of the study in coming days. Also read: After breakthrough, UK to begin administering steroid dexamethasone to COVID-19 patients "WHO will coordinate a meta-analysis to increase our overall understanding of this intervention. WHO clinical guidance will be updated to reflect how and when the drug should be used in COVID-19," the agency added. But South Korea's top health official cautioned about the use of the drug for COVID-19 patients. "(It) has already long been used in South Korean hospitals to treat patients with different inflammation," Jeong Eun-kyeong, head of Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). "But some experts have warned of the drug not only reducing the inflammatory response in patients, but also the immune system and may trigger side effects. KCDC is discussing the use of it for COVID-19 patients."

WHO moves to update COVID-19 guidance after 'great news' in drug study

China is currently experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. The second-wave began in a local food market in the country’s capital Beijing.&nbsp;The capital city with a population of 20 million has at least 106 active cases in the city.

"War mode"

In Beijing, 27 cases new cases were reported in the last 24 hours all linked to a wholesale market which was visited by more than 45,000 people in the last few days.

All sports and entertainment centres have been closed, and travel has been curtailed. Additionally, residential areas have been sealed-off, and schools forced to close.&nbsp;The spokesperson for Beijing has called the situation quote-unquote “extremely severe”

The Chinese media says Beijing is in “war mode”. Provinces as far away as Yunnan have asked people coming in from Beijing to quarantine. Shanghai is also isolating those coming in from the capital.

This time, the virus was detected at a Beijing market on a chopping board used by a seller of imported salmon.

What did China do?

Chinese researchers say the virus may have come from overseas.&nbsp;“It could be possibly from any one of European countries or maybe from the United States or from Russia”, said Wu Zunyou, Chief Epidemiologist, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

China is denying the possibility of cross-contamination to probably preserve the idea of elimination of COVID-19 from its territories.

The World Health Organization (WHO), like the last time, is claiming to have followed up on the new cluster on June 13. On June 15, WHO’s chief Dr Tedros claimed to have been investigating the origin of the virus.

“Last week, China reported a new cluster of cases in Beijing after more than fifty days without a case in that city. More than 100 cases have now been confirmed. The origin and extent of the outbreak are being investigated”, WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

WHO’s Emergency Director, Mike Ryan&nbsp; was also present at this press conference. He said that the WHO is expecting the Chinese authorities to publish genetic sequencing of the virus in Beijing.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Dr Tedros is planning to address university students in Beijing.

China's financial hubs were spared during the first outbreak.&nbsp;This time, the cluster is in one of China’s major hubs, Beijing, which could wreak havoc for its economic activity

China is currently experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. The second-wave began in a local food market in the country’s capital Beijing. The capital city with a population of 20 million has at least 106 active cases in the city.

China is currently experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. The second-wave began in a local food market in the country’s capital Beijing. The capital city with a population of 20 million has at least 106 active cases in the city. "War mode" In Beijing, 27 cases new cases were reported in the last 24 hours all linked to a wholesale market which was visited by more than 45,000 people in the last few days. All sports and entertainment centres have been closed, and travel has been curtailed. Additionally, residential areas have been sealed-off, and schools forced to close. The spokesperson for Beijing has called the situation quote-unquote “extremely severe” The Chinese media says Beijing is in “war mode”. Provinces as far away as Yunnan have asked people coming in from Beijing to quarantine. Shanghai is also isolating those coming in from the capital. This time, the virus was detected at a Beijing market on a chopping board used by a seller of imported salmon. What did China do? Chinese researchers say the virus may have come from overseas. “It could be possibly from any one of European countries or maybe from the United States or from Russia”, said Wu Zunyou, Chief Epidemiologist, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. China is denying the possibility of cross-contamination to probably preserve the idea of elimination of COVID-19 from its territories. The World Health Organization (WHO), like the last time, is claiming to have followed up on the new cluster on June 13. On June 15, WHO’s chief Dr Tedros claimed to have been investigating the origin of the virus. “Last week, China reported a new cluster of cases in Beijing after more than fifty days without a case in that city. More than 100 cases have now been confirmed. The origin and extent of the outbreak are being investigated”, WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. WHO’s Emergency Director, Mike Ryan was also present at this press conference. He said that the WHO is expecting the Chinese authorities to publish genetic sequencing of the virus in Beijing. Meanwhile, Dr Tedros is planning to address university students in Beijing. China's financial hubs were spared during the first outbreak. This time, the cluster is in one of China’s major hubs, Beijing, which could wreak havoc for its economic activity

While China blames its second-wave of coronavirus on the west, WHO looks the other way again

The United States is currently in the process of filtering out potential vaccine candidates for COVID-19.

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, out of the previous 14 vaccines, the country has zeroed in on seven potential vaccines for the killer COVID-19 pandemic, which has now infected over 8 million people worldwide.

Part of the government’s “Operation Warp Speed”, the vaccines are receiving government support as the race to find a vaccine amps up globally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-lungs-of-people-who-succumb-to-the-virus-become-unrecognisable-306308" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Lungs of people who succumb to the virus become unrecognisable</a>

According to a report by the New York Times, five companies including Moderna Inc, AstraZeneca Plc and Pfizer Inc may be few of the companies to receive government approval to come up with a vaccine.

The United States wants to focus on locking manufacturing the vaccine as early as it is approved, so that mass immunisations may take place across the country.

“Operation Warp Speed” will witness massive trials of the vaccine, with 100,000 to 150,000 volunteers in the pipeline. The goal to put out a vaccine is set at the end of this year.

Starting July, pilot testing of the vaccine will begin.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-vs-china-the-race-to-make-a-coronavirus-vaccine-first-gravitas-299532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China not far behind

China is also amping up its pace to come up with a vaccine. Chinese researchers are developing a vaccine for COVID-19 which has exhibited powerful results in monkeys.&nbsp;According to the researchers, the vaccine in question triggered antibodies in the animals, and did not lead to any complications or safety concerns.

Human trials for the vaccine have begun on 1,000 participants.

The potential vaccine is called BBIBP-CorV and works by activating high-level antibodies that are capable of neutralising the virus, and prevent further infection. Published online in the medical journal Cell, the vaccine candidate was tested on monkeys, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-breakthrough-british-scientists-find-a-drug-that-cuts-covid-19-death-rate-306304" hreflang="en">Big breakthrough: British scientists find a drug that cuts Covid-19 death rate</a>

"These results support the further evaluation of BBIBP-CorV in a clinical trial," researchers mentioned in their study.

Developed by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products, in tandem with state-run China National Pharmaceutical Group, BBIBP-CorV is one of the five vaccines being tested on humans in China.

Globally, the race to find a vaccine has amped up, as countries are now fearing a surge in reinfection as people start resuming normal life. India, and Brazil continue to induct record cases daily, with the curve not expected to flatten soon.

The United States is currently in the process of filtering out potential vaccine candidates for COVID-19. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, out of the previous 14 vaccines, the country has zeroed in on seven potential vaccines for the killer COVID-19 pandemic, which has now infected over 8 million people worldwide.

The United States is currently in the process of filtering out potential vaccine candidates for COVID-19. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, out of the previous 14 vaccines, the country has zeroed in on seven potential vaccines for the killer COVID-19 pandemic, which has now infected over 8 million people worldwide. Part of the government’s “Operation Warp Speed”, the vaccines are receiving government support as the race to find a vaccine amps up globally. Also read: Coronavirus: Lungs of people who succumb to the virus become unrecognisable According to a report by the New York Times, five companies including Moderna Inc, AstraZeneca Plc and Pfizer Inc may be few of the companies to receive government approval to come up with a vaccine. The United States wants to focus on locking manufacturing the vaccine as early as it is approved, so that mass immunisations may take place across the country. “Operation Warp Speed” will witness massive trials of the vaccine, with 100,000 to 150,000 volunteers in the pipeline. The goal to put out a vaccine is set at the end of this year. Starting July, pilot testing of the vaccine will begin. China not far behind China is also amping up its pace to come up with a vaccine. Chinese researchers are developing a vaccine for COVID-19 which has exhibited powerful results in monkeys. According to the researchers, the vaccine in question triggered antibodies in the animals, and did not lead to any complications or safety concerns. Human trials for the vaccine have begun on 1,000 participants. The potential vaccine is called BBIBP-CorV and works by activating high-level antibodies that are capable of neutralising the virus, and prevent further infection. Published online in the medical journal Cell, the vaccine candidate was tested on monkeys, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Also read: Big breakthrough: British scientists find a drug that cuts Covid-19 death rate "These results support the further evaluation of BBIBP-CorV in a clinical trial," researchers mentioned in their study. Developed by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products, in tandem with state-run China National Pharmaceutical Group, BBIBP-CorV is one of the five vaccines being tested on humans in China. Globally, the race to find a vaccine has amped up, as countries are now fearing a surge in reinfection as people start resuming normal life. India, and Brazil continue to induct record cases daily, with the curve not expected to flatten soon.

US narrows down potential coronavirus vaccine candidates to 7

While the world reels from the COVID-19 pandemic, amid increasing fears of a second-wave, the headlines around the world have been tiptoeing around fear and action to contain the crisis.

On the other hand, one country is preaching the message of the perception of normalcy.

While other countries report the surge in cases, death toll, an economic collapse, all laden with the suffering of humanity, China has worked hard to come off as “in control”.

The message of how Beijing had won its battle against this pandemic was rampantly spread across the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-about-the-optics-chinese-media-goes-full-throttle-to-make-jinping-look-like-a-messiah-306090" hreflang="en">All about the optics: Chinese media goes full-throttle to make Jinping look like a 'messiah'</a>

Now, the virus has resurfaced in China. A fresh outbreak was reported in Beijing with 79 new cases over the last four days, all linked to a local food market. This marks the biggest concentration of infections since February.&nbsp;The city has also reported its highest daily infection count since March.

Xinfadi, a sprawling wholesale food market located in south-western Beijing. The rise in infections is said to be linked to a cluster of cases traced back to this market.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-second-wave-of-wuhan-virus-in-china-306134/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 46,000 people are said to have visited the Xinfadi market in recent days. Beijing is testing everybody who came in contact with these people.&nbsp;Beijing is testing everybody who came in contact with these people.

The Global Times, a Chinese government backed publication has carried a story to establish this claim. “The novel coronavirus was detected on a chopping board used by a seller of imported salmon at Xinfadi market”, it said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-did-a-better-job-at-containing-covid-19-than-the-us-most-countries-believe-306071" hreflang="en">China did a better job at containing COVID-19 than the US, most countries believe</a>

“China imports 80,000 tons of chilled and frozen salmon each year from Chile, Norway, Australia and Canada”, the publication added.

In a nutshell, China is saying that it’s not to be blamed for the contaminated environment of its markets or for the reemergence of the virus.

Meanwhile, global stocks are tanking, investors are becoming anxious. Professionals fear a situation similar to March is replaying in the country.

Even though the virus emerged from a wet market, China has refused to shut those. China and the WHO said the markets were just an affordable source of food.

Additionally, China has been accused of misreporting cases, botching recovery rates, and presenting a rosy picture.&nbsp;

While the world reels from the COVID-19 pandemic, amid increasing fears of a second-wave, the headlines around the world have been tiptoeing around fear and action to contain the crisis.

While the world reels from the COVID-19 pandemic, amid increasing fears of a second-wave, the headlines around the world have been tiptoeing around fear and action to contain the crisis. On the other hand, one country is preaching the message of the perception of normalcy. While other countries report the surge in cases, death toll, an economic collapse, all laden with the suffering of humanity, China has worked hard to come off as “in control”. The message of how Beijing had won its battle against this pandemic was rampantly spread across the country. Also read: All about the optics: Chinese media goes full-throttle to make Jinping look like a 'messiah' Now, the virus has resurfaced in China. A fresh outbreak was reported in Beijing with 79 new cases over the last four days, all linked to a local food market. This marks the biggest concentration of infections since February. The city has also reported its highest daily infection count since March. Xinfadi, a sprawling wholesale food market located in south-western Beijing. The rise in infections is said to be linked to a cluster of cases traced back to this market. At least 46,000 people are said to have visited the Xinfadi market in recent days. Beijing is testing everybody who came in contact with these people. Beijing is testing everybody who came in contact with these people. The Global Times, a Chinese government backed publication has carried a story to establish this claim. “The novel coronavirus was detected on a chopping board used by a seller of imported salmon at Xinfadi market”, it said. Also read: China did a better job at containing COVID-19 than the US, most countries believe “China imports 80,000 tons of chilled and frozen salmon each year from Chile, Norway, Australia and Canada”, the publication added. In a nutshell, China is saying that it’s not to be blamed for the contaminated environment of its markets or for the reemergence of the virus. Meanwhile, global stocks are tanking, investors are becoming anxious. Professionals fear a situation similar to March is replaying in the country. Even though the virus emerged from a wet market, China has refused to shut those. China and the WHO said the markets were just an affordable source of food. Additionally, China has been accused of misreporting cases, botching recovery rates, and presenting a rosy picture.

China braces for second-wave of coronavirus, absolves itself of blame for negligence

A US state will now pay its citizens $1,500 to bring back the workforce.&nbsp;

The state of Idaho is luring citizens back to work, in an additional bid to get people off the federal unemployment benefits.

The Republican led federal government is currently deciding on whether continuing support to millions of Americans, who are now unemployed because of the pandemic-induced shutdowns.

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A $2 trillion coronavirus relief package was passed by US Congress in March, with additional $600 weekly boost to the people. However, these $600 payments will expire in July, as was envisioned. According to CNN, the government is now eyeing relief measures in line with promoting people to get back to work.

Americans are now receiving more money as part of the unemployment benefits than many did when they were unemployed before the coronavirus pandemic. The government fears if the benefits are not withdrawn, the economy will take even longer to recover.

In essence, people who don’t return to work will lose their unemployment benefits, including the $600 boost.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-exceed-8-million-worldwide-jump-by-a-million-in-1-week-306312" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases exceed 8 million worldwide, jump by a million in 1 week</a>

A new mechanism for eligibility will scrutinise who shall remain on the government boost and who simply won’t receive benefits from it.&nbsp;Keeping in mind the pandemic still hasn’t let up, people who were asked to quarantine will continue to receive the federal benefits.

As part of its reopening measures, Idaho is offering a one-time $1,500 cash payment to people, while $750 to those undertaking part-time jobs.&nbsp;Anybody who lost their jobs after March 1 and resume working between May 1 and July 1 will be eligible to receive the state benefits.

The state had received $1.25 billion from the federal government as coronavirus relief. $100 million from this fund will be used to lure people back to working.&nbsp;Being rolled out on a first-come, first-serve basis, over 70,000 people will be able to avail the benefits of this scheme. The state’s unemployment rate jumped to 11.5 per cent from 2.5 per cent in March.

A US state will now pay its citizens $1,500 to bring back the workforce. The state of Idaho is luring citizens back to work, in an additional bid to get people off the federal unemployment benefits.

A US state will now pay its citizens $1,500 to bring back the workforce. The state of Idaho is luring citizens back to work, in an additional bid to get people off the federal unemployment benefits. The Republican led federal government is currently deciding on whether continuing support to millions of Americans, who are now unemployed because of the pandemic-induced shutdowns. In pics: Top 10 competitive places to work and do business in 2020 A $2 trillion coronavirus relief package was passed by US Congress in March, with additional $600 weekly boost to the people. However, these $600 payments will expire in July, as was envisioned. According to CNN, the government is now eyeing relief measures in line with promoting people to get back to work. Americans are now receiving more money as part of the unemployment benefits than many did when they were unemployed before the coronavirus pandemic. The government fears if the benefits are not withdrawn, the economy will take even longer to recover. In essence, people who don’t return to work will lose their unemployment benefits, including the $600 boost. Also read: Coronavirus cases exceed 8 million worldwide, jump by a million in 1 week A new mechanism for eligibility will scrutinise who shall remain on the government boost and who simply won’t receive benefits from it. Keeping in mind the pandemic still hasn’t let up, people who were asked to quarantine will continue to receive the federal benefits. As part of its reopening measures, Idaho is offering a one-time $1,500 cash payment to people, while $750 to those undertaking part-time jobs. Anybody who lost their jobs after March 1 and resume working between May 1 and July 1 will be eligible to receive the state benefits. The state had received $1.25 billion from the federal government as coronavirus relief. $100 million from this fund will be used to lure people back to working. Being rolled out on a first-come, first-serve basis, over 70,000 people will be able to avail the benefits of this scheme. The state’s unemployment rate jumped to 11.5 per cent from 2.5 per cent in March.

This US state is offering $1,500 to its citizens in a bid to restart the economy

The origins of a new cluster of coronavirus infections in Beijing are not certain, World Health Organization officials said on Monday, describing as a "hypothesis" the claim that it might have been caused by imports or packaging of salmon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-near-79-million-mark-brazil-emerging-as-new-covid-19-epicentre-306055" hreflang="en">Global coronavirus cases near 7.9 million-mark; Brazil emerging as new COVID-19 epicentre</a>

Several districts of the Chinese capital put up security checkpoints, closed schools and ordered people to be tested for the coronavirus on Monday after an unexpected spike in cases linked to the biggest wholesale food market in Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-whos-study-on-relaxing-social-distancing-norms-306011" hreflang="en">Scientists question WHO's study on relaxing social distancing norms</a>

State-run newspapers reported that the virus was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon at Beijing's Xinfadi market amid worries about a second wave of the pandemic in China.

Mike Ryan, head of the WHO's emergencies programme, said in a briefing that he would be "reticent" to say that packaging needs to be tested for the virus as a result of the new infections.

The origins of a new cluster of coronavirus infections in Beijing are not certain, World Health Organization officials said on Monday, describing as a "hypothesis" the claim that it might have been caused by imports or packaging of salmon.

The origins of a new cluster of coronavirus infections in Beijing are not certain, World Health Organization officials said on Monday, describing as a "hypothesis" the claim that it might have been caused by imports or packaging of salmon. Also read: Global coronavirus cases near 7.9 million-mark; Brazil emerging as new COVID-19 epicentre Several districts of the Chinese capital put up security checkpoints, closed schools and ordered people to be tested for the coronavirus on Monday after an unexpected spike in cases linked to the biggest wholesale food market in Asia. Also read: Scientists question WHO's study on relaxing social distancing norms State-run newspapers reported that the virus was discovered on chopping boards used for imported salmon at Beijing's Xinfadi market amid worries about a second wave of the pandemic in China. Mike Ryan, head of the WHO's emergencies programme, said in a briefing that he would be "reticent" to say that packaging needs to be tested for the virus as a result of the new infections.

WHO says 'hypothesis' about cause of China's latest virus outbreak needs further testing

Amazon.com Inc on Tuesday launched an artificial intelligence-based tracking system to enforce social distancing at its offices and warehouses to help reduce any risk of contracting the new coronavirus among its workers.

The unveiling comes as the world's largest online retailer faces intensifying scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and unions over whether it is doing enough to protect staff from the pandemic.

Monitors set up in the company's warehouses will highlight workers keeping a safe distance in green circles, while workers who are closer will be highlighted in red circles, Amazon said.

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The system, called Distance Assistant, uses camera footage in Amazon's buildings to also help identify high-traffic areas.

Amazon, which will open source the technology behind the system, is not the first company to turn to AI to track compliance with social distancing.&nbsp;

Several firms have told Reuters that AI camera-based software will be crucial to staying open, as it will allow them to show not only workers and customers, but also insurers and regulators, that they are monitoring and enforcing safe practices.

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However, privacy activists have raised concerns about increasingly detailed tracking of people and have urged businesses to limit use of AI to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The system is live at a handful of buildings, Amazon said on Tuesday, adding that it planned to deploy hundreds of such units over the next few weeks.

Amazon.com Inc on Tuesday launched an artificial intelligence-based tracking system to enforce social distancing at its offices and warehouses to help reduce any risk of contracting the new coronavirus among its workers.

Amazon.com Inc on Tuesday launched an artificial intelligence-based tracking system to enforce social distancing at its offices and warehouses to help reduce any risk of contracting the new coronavirus among its workers. The unveiling comes as the world's largest online retailer faces intensifying scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and unions over whether it is doing enough to protect staff from the pandemic. Monitors set up in the company's warehouses will highlight workers keeping a safe distance in green circles, while workers who are closer will be highlighted in red circles, Amazon said. Also read: Big breakthrough: British scientists find a drug that cuts Covid-19 death rate The system, called Distance Assistant, uses camera footage in Amazon's buildings to also help identify high-traffic areas. Amazon, which will open source the technology behind the system, is not the first company to turn to AI to track compliance with social distancing. Several firms have told Reuters that AI camera-based software will be crucial to staying open, as it will allow them to show not only workers and customers, but also insurers and regulators, that they are monitoring and enforcing safe practices. Also read: People aged below 20 almost half less likely to contract COVID-19, new study finds However, privacy activists have raised concerns about increasingly detailed tracking of people and have urged businesses to limit use of AI to the pandemic. The system is live at a handful of buildings, Amazon said on Tuesday, adding that it planned to deploy hundreds of such units over the next few weeks.

Amazon to use AI tech in its warehouses to enforce social distancing

People who contract the killer coronavirus and die witness a lot of heavy organ damage, especially in the lungs.

Researchers today pointed out how the virus makes lungs of people almost unrecognisable.

Professor Mauro Giacca of King’s College London explained how coronavirus actually kills the patients. Earlier research pointed out how people who recover from COVID-19 may suffer lung-related ailments later on in their lives.

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According to Giacca, patients who spent more than a month in the hospital suffered a “complete disruption of the lung architecture”.

This points out to post-recovery issues that scientists are still learning about, with many countries still far from the virus peaks, and fears of another fear causing panic across the world.

<h6><img alt="A doctor shows on screen the scan of the lungs of a patient infected by the COVID-19, at the &quot;middle care&quot; unit for COVID-19 infected patients at the Erasme Hospital in Brussels, on April 30, 2020 during a lockdown in the country to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7dcf4d29-f50b-4037-a243-2054ecd12769" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_7.jpg" /> 
A doctor shows on screen the scan of the lungs of a patient infected by the COVID-19, at the "middle care" unit for COVID-19 infected patients at the Erasme Hospital in Brussels, on April 30, 2020 during a lockdown in the country to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus | AFP</h6>

“Real problems” may linger after beating the virus. The professor studied the autopsies of patients in Italy who died after spending more than 30 days in the hospital.&nbsp;He found that a large amount of the virus continued to exist in lungs as well as fused cells.

“What you find in the lungs of people who have stayed with the disease for more than a month before dying is something completely different from normal pneumonia, influenza or the Sars virus,” he said.

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“You see massive thrombosis. There is a complete disruption of the lung architecture – in some lights you can’t even distinguish that it used to be a lung”, he added.

“There are large numbers of very big fused cells which are virus positive with as many as 10, 15 nuclei,” he said.

“I am convinced this explains the unique pathology of Covid-19. This is not a disease caused by a virus which kills cells, which had profound implications for therapy”, the professor further said.

The Lords committee heard what scientists had to say about COVID-19 and its progression. The UK is currently in the process of reopening and easing restrictions.

People who contract the killer coronavirus and die witness a lot of heavy organ damage, especially in the lungs. Researchers today pointed out how the virus makes lungs of people almost unrecognisable.

People who contract the killer coronavirus and die witness a lot of heavy organ damage, especially in the lungs. Researchers today pointed out how the virus makes lungs of people almost unrecognisable. Professor Mauro Giacca of King’s College London explained how coronavirus actually kills the patients. Earlier research pointed out how people who recover from COVID-19 may suffer lung-related ailments later on in their lives. Also read: Big breakthrough: British scientists find a drug that cuts Covid-19 death rate According to Giacca, patients who spent more than a month in the hospital suffered a “complete disruption of the lung architecture”. This points out to post-recovery issues that scientists are still learning about, with many countries still far from the virus peaks, and fears of another fear causing panic across the world. A doctor shows on screen the scan of the lungs of a patient infected by the COVID-19, at the "middle care" unit for COVID-19 infected patients at the Erasme Hospital in Brussels, on April 30, 2020 during a lockdown in the country to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus | AFP “Real problems” may linger after beating the virus. The professor studied the autopsies of patients in Italy who died after spending more than 30 days in the hospital. He found that a large amount of the virus continued to exist in lungs as well as fused cells. “What you find in the lungs of people who have stayed with the disease for more than a month before dying is something completely different from normal pneumonia, influenza or the Sars virus,” he said. Also read: People aged below 20 almost half less likely to contract COVID-19, new study finds “You see massive thrombosis. There is a complete disruption of the lung architecture – in some lights you can’t even distinguish that it used to be a lung”, he added. “There are large numbers of very big fused cells which are virus positive with as many as 10, 15 nuclei,” he said. “I am convinced this explains the unique pathology of Covid-19. This is not a disease caused by a virus which kills cells, which had profound implications for therapy”, the professor further said. The Lords committee heard what scientists had to say about COVID-19 and its progression. The UK is currently in the process of reopening and easing restrictions.

Coronavirus: Lungs of people who succumb to the virus become unrecognisable

Giving low doses of the generic steroid drug dexamethasone to patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 reduced death rates by around a third among those with the most severe cases of infection, trial data showed on Tuesday.

The results, described as a "major breakthrough" by scientists leading the UK-led clinical trial known as RECOVERY, suggest the drug should immediately become standard care in patients treated in hospital with the pandemic disease, the researchers said.

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"This is a result that shows that if patients who have COVID-19 and are on ventilators or are on oxygen are given dexamethasone, it will save lives, and it will do so at a remarkably low cost," said Martin Landray, an Oxford University professor who is co-leading the trial.

His co-lead investigator, Peter Horby, said dexamethasone - a generic steroid widely used in other diseases to reduce inflammation - is "the only drug that's so far shown to reduce mortality - and it reduces it significantly."

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"It is a major breakthrough," he said.

There are currently no approved treatments or vaccines for COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus which has killed more than 431,000 globally.

Giving low doses of the generic steroid drug dexamethasone to patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 reduced death rates by around a third among those with the most severe cases of infection, trial data showed on Tuesday.

Giving low doses of the generic steroid drug dexamethasone to patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 reduced death rates by around a third among those with the most severe cases of infection, trial data showed on Tuesday. The results, described as a "major breakthrough" by scientists leading the UK-led clinical trial known as RECOVERY, suggest the drug should immediately become standard care in patients treated in hospital with the pandemic disease, the researchers said. Also read: People aged below 20 almost half less likely to contract COVID-19, new study finds "This is a result that shows that if patients who have COVID-19 and are on ventilators or are on oxygen are given dexamethasone, it will save lives, and it will do so at a remarkably low cost," said Martin Landray, an Oxford University professor who is co-leading the trial. His co-lead investigator, Peter Horby, said dexamethasone - a generic steroid widely used in other diseases to reduce inflammation - is "the only drug that's so far shown to reduce mortality - and it reduces it significantly." Also read: Initial COVID-19 vaccines may not prevent people from getting coronavirus "It is a major breakthrough," he said. There are currently no approved treatments or vaccines for COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus which has killed more than 431,000 globally.

Steroid dexamethasone reduces deaths among patients with severe COVID-19 - trial shows

People aged below 20 are less likely to contract coronavirus and developing complications in case they do.&nbsp;A new research published on Tuesday claims that people below 20 are less prone to getting the killer virus.

The study also added that clinical symptoms of the virus show up in only a fifth of the adolescents and children who develop the virus.

Compiling data from 32 countries including Italy, Japan, China, Canada, South Korea, and Singapore revealed how symptoms of the virus appeared in people over the age of 70.

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Owing to this contrast based on age, researchers believe that the global shutdown of schools will not have a major impact on the infection rates given the age of pupils, who are less likely to show symptoms.

The journal Nature Medicine recently published the study. The virus spreads rampantly among kids, and a lot faster than it does in adults, but has lesser impact given the reduced severity. Based on this position, the study compared the transmission of flu vs COVID-19 among school-going children.

"For COVID-19, there was much less of an effect of school closures," Rosalind Eggo, an infectious disease modeller told Reuters at The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

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She topped it off with a warning and said these findings not be reworked in the real-world to understand if the results are different.

Based primary on data from six countries mentioned above, the study showed how the severity of the virus was different among different age-groups, and that people below the age of 20 were less likely, almost by 50 per cent.

Additionally, children aged between 10-19, those who contracted the virus, only 21 per cent showed symptoms of the virus.

"Countries with more young people may experience a lower burden of COVID-19”, the co-leader of the study told Reuters.

People aged below 20 are less likely to contract coronavirus and developing complications in case they do. A new research published on Tuesday claims that people below 20 are less prone to getting the killer virus.

People aged below 20 are less likely to contract coronavirus and developing complications in case they do. A new research published on Tuesday claims that people below 20 are less prone to getting the killer virus. The study also added that clinical symptoms of the virus show up in only a fifth of the adolescents and children who develop the virus. Compiling data from 32 countries including Italy, Japan, China, Canada, South Korea, and Singapore revealed how symptoms of the virus appeared in people over the age of 70. Also read: Initial COVID-19 vaccines may not prevent people from getting coronavirus Owing to this contrast based on age, researchers believe that the global shutdown of schools will not have a major impact on the infection rates given the age of pupils, who are less likely to show symptoms. The journal Nature Medicine recently published the study. The virus spreads rampantly among kids, and a lot faster than it does in adults, but has lesser impact given the reduced severity. Based on this position, the study compared the transmission of flu vs COVID-19 among school-going children. "For COVID-19, there was much less of an effect of school closures," Rosalind Eggo, an infectious disease modeller told Reuters at The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Also read: Vaccine developed by AstraZeneca most likely to protect for a year: CEO She topped it off with a warning and said these findings not be reworked in the real-world to understand if the results are different. Based primary on data from six countries mentioned above, the study showed how the severity of the virus was different among different age-groups, and that people below the age of 20 were less likely, almost by 50 per cent. Additionally, children aged between 10-19, those who contracted the virus, only 21 per cent showed symptoms of the virus. "Countries with more young people may experience a lower burden of COVID-19”, the co-leader of the study told Reuters.

People aged below 20 almost half less likely to contract COVID-19, new study finds

The United Kingdom lost over 600,000 jobs in the period between March and May this year.

According to official figures, the number of people seeking work-related benefits shot up by 126 per cent, with over 2.8 million people now requesting assistance from the government.

Most major countries around the world shut down borders and enforced a lockdown to counter the spread of COVID-19. The UK had enforced a six-week-long lockdown in the country during the peak to contain the virus from growing.

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However, researchers and economists feel that the full after effects of the lockdown on employment and wages in the country will only be felt after October, when support programmes for people will end.

"The slowdown in the economy is now visibly hitting the labour market, especially in terms of hours worked," Jonathan Athow, deputy national statistician for economic statistics at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) told BBC.

The secretary-general of the Trades Union Congress, Frances O’Grady said that the market was on “red alert”, and called for “strong action” to undo the damage to the economy.

Almost over a quarter of the national UK workforce is currently being paid through the government’s furlough support programmes. This ratio accounts for 9.1 million people.

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The official unemployment rate in the country steadily stood at 3.9 per cent in April, taking in into account the three months before it.

Vacancies in terms of job availability also dropped across the country, going to 476,000, down from 342,000 in the previous quarter.

UK’s PM Boris Johnson has called for a phased reopening of the economy, as the risk for a second-wave looms large over the world. He additionally ordered a review of the country’s two-metre distancing rule, easing which would mean more workforce in action.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The United Kingdom lost over 600,000 jobs in the period between March and May this year. According to official figures, the number of people seeking work-related benefits shot up by 126 per cent, with over 2.

The United Kingdom lost over 600,000 jobs in the period between March and May this year. According to official figures, the number of people seeking work-related benefits shot up by 126 per cent, with over 2.8 million people now requesting assistance from the government. Most major countries around the world shut down borders and enforced a lockdown to counter the spread of COVID-19. The UK had enforced a six-week-long lockdown in the country during the peak to contain the virus from growing. Also read: Non essential shops reopen in UK after 3 months However, researchers and economists feel that the full after effects of the lockdown on employment and wages in the country will only be felt after October, when support programmes for people will end. "The slowdown in the economy is now visibly hitting the labour market, especially in terms of hours worked," Jonathan Athow, deputy national statistician for economic statistics at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) told BBC. The secretary-general of the Trades Union Congress, Frances O’Grady said that the market was on “red alert”, and called for “strong action” to undo the damage to the economy. Almost over a quarter of the national UK workforce is currently being paid through the government’s furlough support programmes. This ratio accounts for 9.1 million people. Also read: Anti-racism and Black Lives Matter protests intensify in UK The official unemployment rate in the country steadily stood at 3.9 per cent in April, taking in into account the three months before it. Vacancies in terms of job availability also dropped across the country, going to 476,000, down from 342,000 in the previous quarter. UK’s PM Boris Johnson has called for a phased reopening of the economy, as the risk for a second-wave looms large over the world. He additionally ordered a review of the country’s two-metre distancing rule, easing which would mean more workforce in action. (With inputs from Reuters)

UK market loses 600,000 jobs owing to coronavirus-induced slowdown; Worst yet to come

The number of people seeking emergency shelter to escape human trafficking surged in the month following U.S. lockdown orders implemented to slow the spread of coronavirus, a leading anti-trafficking group said on Monday.

The economic and social turmoil of the pandemic created conditions conducive to people falling victim to trafficking, the group, Polaris, said.

The outbreak of COVID-19, starting about mid-March in the United States, forced the closing of businesses across the country and threw millions of people out of work.

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Polaris said the number of cases in which people contacted its emergency hotline seeking shelter nearly doubled to 54 in April from 29 in March.

It cautioned that its findings correlated with the outbreak and did not mean the rise was caused by the pandemic.

"Sex and labor trafficking don't happen in a vacuum but are the end results of a range of other problems - poverty and systemic inequity, to name just a few," said Nancy McGuire Choi, Polaris' interim chief executive.

"The economic upheaval, the fact that people are essentially trapped with their abusers, the desperate straits so many find themselves in, are conditions where trafficking thrives."

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Due to global shutdowns, the world economy is forecast to shrink 3.2% this year, according to a Reuters poll of more than 250 economists.

An estimated 400,000 people are believed trapped in modern slavery in the United States, from sex work to forced labor, according to the Walk Free Foundation, a human rights group.

Globally, the International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates 16 million people are caught in forced labor and human trafficking.

The number of people seeking emergency shelter to escape human trafficking surged in the month following U.S. lockdown orders implemented to slow the spread of coronavirus, a leading anti-trafficking group said on Monday.

The number of people seeking emergency shelter to escape human trafficking surged in the month following U.S. lockdown orders implemented to slow the spread of coronavirus, a leading anti-trafficking group said on Monday. The economic and social turmoil of the pandemic created conditions conducive to people falling victim to trafficking, the group, Polaris, said. The outbreak of COVID-19, starting about mid-March in the United States, forced the closing of businesses across the country and threw millions of people out of work. Also read: Trump rejects Tulsa rally coronavirus concerns, saying will triple crowd Polaris said the number of cases in which people contacted its emergency hotline seeking shelter nearly doubled to 54 in April from 29 in March. It cautioned that its findings correlated with the outbreak and did not mean the rise was caused by the pandemic. "Sex and labor trafficking don't happen in a vacuum but are the end results of a range of other problems - poverty and systemic inequity, to name just a few," said Nancy McGuire Choi, Polaris' interim chief executive. "The economic upheaval, the fact that people are essentially trapped with their abusers, the desperate straits so many find themselves in, are conditions where trafficking thrives." Also read: Vaccine developed by AstraZeneca most likely to protect for a year: CEO Due to global shutdowns, the world economy is forecast to shrink 3.2% this year, according to a Reuters poll of more than 250 economists. An estimated 400,000 people are believed trapped in modern slavery in the United States, from sex work to forced labor, according to the Walk Free Foundation, a human rights group. Globally, the International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates 16 million people are caught in forced labor and human trafficking.

US emergency trafficking hotline says calls spiked under lockdown

In 1918, a pandemic ravaged the world like wildfire and claimed the lives of over 50 million people around the world. This was called the Spanish Flu.&nbsp;Contemporarily, COVID-19 is spreading at an astonishing speed.

What lessons could we learn from the Flu?

Considered the deadliest pandemic in the history of human civilisation, the Flu infected 500 million people, and lasted for 15 months, stretching upto two years in terms of its effects.

Yet the first wave of the virus didn't appear to be particularly deadly. There were regular symptoms like high fever and malaise. And the mortality rates were similar to seasonal flu.

It was only when a mutated strain of the virus re-emerged, that it made a kill within 24 hours of showing the first signs of infection.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/lessons-from-spanish-flu-to-combat-covid-19-305876/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lessons to learn

The lessons to prevent the second peak of infections that can be equally catastrophic include abiding by social distancing strictly, while also not throwing unproven drugs at the virus.

The first wave of COVID-19 has already claimed over 400,000 lives.

Most parts of the world haven’t even crossed the first wave’s peak.

So what can you do about the second wave?

Rules such as ensuring precautions and hand-washing, and wearing masks cannot be relaxed.

Staying at one is still one’s best bet to avoid catching the virus.

Recklessness exercised in terms of the restrictions and easing them will intensify chances of a second-wave.

In 1918, a pandemic ravaged the world like wildfire and claimed the lives of over 50 million people around the world. This was called the Spanish Flu. Contemporarily, COVID-19 is spreading at an astonishing speed.

In 1918, a pandemic ravaged the world like wildfire and claimed the lives of over 50 million people around the world. This was called the Spanish Flu. Contemporarily, COVID-19 is spreading at an astonishing speed. What lessons could we learn from the Flu? Considered the deadliest pandemic in the history of human civilisation, the Flu infected 500 million people, and lasted for 15 months, stretching upto two years in terms of its effects. Yet the first wave of the virus didn't appear to be particularly deadly. There were regular symptoms like high fever and malaise. And the mortality rates were similar to seasonal flu. It was only when a mutated strain of the virus re-emerged, that it made a kill within 24 hours of showing the first signs of infection. Lessons to learn The lessons to prevent the second peak of infections that can be equally catastrophic include abiding by social distancing strictly, while also not throwing unproven drugs at the virus. The first wave of COVID-19 has already claimed over 400,000 lives. Most parts of the world haven’t even crossed the first wave’s peak. So what can you do about the second wave? Rules such as ensuring precautions and hand-washing, and wearing masks cannot be relaxed. Staying at one is still one’s best bet to avoid catching the virus. Recklessness exercised in terms of the restrictions and easing them will intensify chances of a second-wave.

Second-wave of Spanish Flu killed more people than the first, here's what we can learn!

A new poll has revealed that most countries believe China did a better job at containing and dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic than the United States.

Only three out of the participant 53 countries believed that the US had done a better job than its Chinese counterpart.

The poll was conducted by the German firm Dalia Research and the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, which is headed by NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen. 120,000 people from 53 countries took part in the poll.

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In terms of the satisfaction to COVID-19 response, countries with the highest rating were Greece (89 per cent), Ireland (87 per cent), South Korea, Australia, and Denmarks with 86 per cent each. At the bottom rung in terms of satisfaction were Brazil, France, Italy, the US, and the UK, which are also the hardest-hit countries around the world.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/chinas-sinovac-says-coronavirus-vaccine-has-shown-positive-results-in-trials-306069/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

One-third of the responders claimed that the US response to the virus was satisfactory, while over 60 per cent believed China’s response was adequate.

Only three countries - Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States ranked the US over China in terms of its response.

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US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is about to hold a major conference pertaining to democracy and its future alongside major Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong and former Secretary of State John Kerry. This comes in the backdrop of China’s national security laws in the city of Hong Kong, which is being largely perceived as an attack on democracy in the city.

In another survey, only a third of Europeans believed US President Donald Trump was a positive force for global democracy, while half claimed it had created a negative imprint. This witnessed a decline of four per cent since last year’s survey.

Out of the all 15 European countries part of the survey, Germany put US’ negative score on global democracy at -40 per cent, while others echoed the same sentiment.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A new poll has revealed that most countries believe China did a better job at containing and dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic than the United States. Only three out of the participant 53 countries believed that the US had done a better job than its Chinese counterpart.

A new poll has revealed that most countries believe China did a better job at containing and dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic than the United States. Only three out of the participant 53 countries believed that the US had done a better job than its Chinese counterpart. The poll was conducted by the German firm Dalia Research and the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, which is headed by NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen. 120,000 people from 53 countries took part in the poll. Also read: Global coronavirus cases near 7.9 million-mark; Brazil emerging as new COVID-19 epicentre In terms of the satisfaction to COVID-19 response, countries with the highest rating were Greece (89 per cent), Ireland (87 per cent), South Korea, Australia, and Denmarks with 86 per cent each. At the bottom rung in terms of satisfaction were Brazil, France, Italy, the US, and the UK, which are also the hardest-hit countries around the world. One-third of the responders claimed that the US response to the virus was satisfactory, while over 60 per cent believed China’s response was adequate. Only three countries - Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States ranked the US over China in terms of its response. Also read: Scientists question WHO's study on relaxing social distancing norms US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is about to hold a major conference pertaining to democracy and its future alongside major Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong and former Secretary of State John Kerry. This comes in the backdrop of China’s national security laws in the city of Hong Kong, which is being largely perceived as an attack on democracy in the city. In another survey, only a third of Europeans believed US President Donald Trump was a positive force for global democracy, while half claimed it had created a negative imprint. This witnessed a decline of four per cent since last year’s survey. Out of the all 15 European countries part of the survey, Germany put US’ negative score on global democracy at -40 per cent, while others echoed the same sentiment. (With inputs from Reuters)

China did a better job at containing COVID-19 than the US, most countries believe

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