The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus suggested&nbsp;that a lot of medicines that were used traditionally to treat bacterial infections are no longer working.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wionews.com/world/coronavirus-epidemic-hasnt-become-less-pathogenic-warns-who-302475" hreflang="en">Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO</a>

The organisation fears that this trend will increase. “The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of antibiotics, which ultimately will lead to higher bacterial resistance rates that will impact the burden of disease and deaths during the pandemic and beyond,” Tedros said in a press conference, while adding that not all coronavirus patients require antibiotics to fight the infection.

The health body also released a new set of guidelines in dealing with antibiotics. According to the release, the organisations suggests against using “antibiotic therapy or prophylaxis” on COVID-19 patients.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-wuhan-finds-no-new-covid-19-cases-in-city-wide-testing-302610" hreflang="en">China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing</a>

Ghebreyesus also referred to antimicrobial resistance as “one of the most urgent challenges of our time”. He additionally said, “It’s clear that the world is losing its ability to use critically important antimicrobial medicines”.

He also addressed the disproportionate access to such medicines, while saying that some continues were overusing antibiotics while many had very limited access to the drugs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-reveals-collective-negligence-by-china-and-who-in-dealing-with-the-coronavirus-pandemic-302695" hreflang="en">Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic</a>

A new&nbsp;report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6&nbsp;million infections.

The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China.

The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public.

However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries.

The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against increasing usage of antibiotics against coronavirus. The organisation further added that its usage will lead to more deaths during and after the pandemic the ends. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus suggested that a lot of medicines that were used traditionally to treat bacterial infections are no longer working. Also read: Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO The organisation fears that this trend will increase. “The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of antibiotics, which ultimately will lead to higher bacterial resistance rates that will impact the burden of disease and deaths during the pandemic and beyond,” Tedros said in a press conference, while adding that not all coronavirus patients require antibiotics to fight the infection. The health body also released a new set of guidelines in dealing with antibiotics. According to the release, the organisations suggests against using “antibiotic therapy or prophylaxis” on COVID-19 patients. Also read: China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing Ghebreyesus also referred to antimicrobial resistance as “one of the most urgent challenges of our time”. He additionally said, “It’s clear that the world is losing its ability to use critically important antimicrobial medicines”. He also addressed the disproportionate access to such medicines, while saying that some continues were overusing antibiotics while many had very limited access to the drugs. Also read: Report reveals collective negligence by China and WHO in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic A new report has exposed China’s criminal negligence in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic which has killed 3,77,404 people globally with over 6 million infections. The Associated Press obtained internal recordings of the World Health Organization (WHO) featuring officials who led the organisation’s immediate response to COVID-19. The recordings are from the early days of the outbreak in China. The AP Report says that the WHO was trying to coax more information from China, by lauding them in public. However, this negligence led to infection spreading across the world over 180 countries. The WHO has shrugged off any charges of lapses, and claimed they don’t want to get involved in politics.

WHO warns against overusing antibiotics amid pandemic, says it will lead to more deaths

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks.

According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently.

In Serbia alone, the prevalence of ticks has multiplied 428 times, the Daily Mail first reported.

The details were divulged by the Russian Defence Ministry’s own newspaper, Zvezda. “Mutant ticks are attacking - this is not a tabloid headline but a fact”, the newspaper stated.

Dangerous to humans

These mutants of “arachnid” are very dangerous and can go further than just spread Lyme disease, and is one of the two usual kinds of ticks found in the region. Lyme disease attacks the joints, heart, and the nervous system.

<h6><img alt="A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a &quot;tiquothèque&quot; to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5343c19-1d4c-4f5d-ac0a-0c763121aafc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_15.jpg" /> 
A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a "tiquothèque" to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France | AFP</h6>

 
In the sparsely populated Siberian regions where the ticks have shown up, hospitals are already running low on vaccines and supplies like medicines to treat tick bites in humans.

Besides that, more supplies needed to treat the diseases caused by ticks are also running low. The ticks can also cause encephalitis which causes the brain to inflame, and was responsible for 150,000 deaths in 2015 alone.&nbsp;

Short on supplies

Given the constraints in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals are already on edge. With mutant ticks in the picture, the healthcare system could go for a toss.

In Central Russia’s Krasnoyarsk region, over 8,215 tick bites have been reported, with over 2,125 in children alone. The suburban areas have 214 ticks per square kilometre, way above the safe figure of 0.5.

<h6><img alt="Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a8d5d2-2899-4804-95aa-bd938c8f4fe0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_11.jpg" /> 
Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Once ticks find their way onto humans, they bite and suck on human blood, which then infects the body. Many attribute this surge in ticks to the mild winter.

A mutant tick, combining the capabilities of both parent species, can launch more fatal attacks on the human body.

The area of Novosibirsk has witnessed a 150 per cent&nbsp;increase in tick-related cases. Due to this, 22 people have been diagnosed with encephalitis.

With the whole focus set on containing coronavirus, many cities claim there are no stocks of immunoglobulin and the encephalitis vaccine to treat the victims.

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks. According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently.

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks. According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently. In Serbia alone, the prevalence of ticks has multiplied 428 times, the Daily Mail first reported. The details were divulged by the Russian Defence Ministry’s own newspaper, Zvezda. “Mutant ticks are attacking - this is not a tabloid headline but a fact”, the newspaper stated. Dangerous to humans These mutants of “arachnid” are very dangerous and can go further than just spread Lyme disease, and is one of the two usual kinds of ticks found in the region. Lyme disease attacks the joints, heart, and the nervous system. A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a "tiquothèque" to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France | AFP In the sparsely populated Siberian regions where the ticks have shown up, hospitals are already running low on vaccines and supplies like medicines to treat tick bites in humans. Besides that, more supplies needed to treat the diseases caused by ticks are also running low. The ticks can also cause encephalitis which causes the brain to inflame, and was responsible for 150,000 deaths in 2015 alone. Short on supplies Given the constraints in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals are already on edge. With mutant ticks in the picture, the healthcare system could go for a toss. In Central Russia’s Krasnoyarsk region, over 8,215 tick bites have been reported, with over 2,125 in children alone. The suburban areas have 214 ticks per square kilometre, way above the safe figure of 0.5. Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009 | AFP Once ticks find their way onto humans, they bite and suck on human blood, which then infects the body. Many attribute this surge in ticks to the mild winter. A mutant tick, combining the capabilities of both parent species, can launch more fatal attacks on the human body. The area of Novosibirsk has witnessed a 150 per cent increase in tick-related cases. Due to this, 22 people have been diagnosed with encephalitis. With the whole focus set on containing coronavirus, many cities claim there are no stocks of immunoglobulin and the encephalitis vaccine to treat the victims.

'Blood-sucking' mutant ticks storm Russia: Hospitals already overburdened by coronavirus feel the sting

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. 
 
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-wuhan-finds-no-new-covid-19-cases-in-city-wide-testing-302610" hreflang="en">China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing</a> 
 
Its figure is significantly higher than the government's latest daily figure of 39,045, which only includes deaths after confirmation of a positive test. 
 
By either measure, the toll is Europe's worst and puts Britain behind only the United States in officially announced deaths, although each country has different reporting lags and methods.&nbsp; 
 
The data also showed there had been 56,308 more deaths in England and Wales than the five-year average since the outbreak took hold in March. 
 
But in the week ending May 22, there were 2,589 mentions of "novel coronavirus" on death certificates in England and Wales -- the lowest since the seven days to March 27. 
 
Britain is one of the last European countries to start easing its stay-at-home restrictions, which were imposed on March 23.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-cases-worldwide-cross-63-million-mark-death-toll-at-377404-302595" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404</a> 
 
Some younger children returned to school in England on Monday while some shops were allowed to reopen. 
 
But most stores are closed and restaurants and cafes can only provide take out and delivery service. 
 
Non-essential retail will resume on June 15 if the virus remains contained, according to the government's plan. 
 
The government maintains it is in a position to lift restrictions as infection rates are falling but critics fear it is still too soon, and could trigger a second wave of cases. 
 
The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are easing restrictions more slowly, and schools remain shut.

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22.

Suspected and confirmed cases of deaths from the coronavirus outbreak in Britain have risen to 48,000, according to official data published Tuesday. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures tallied all fatalities in which COVID-19 was suspected or mentioned on death certificates up to May 22. Also read: China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing Its figure is significantly higher than the government's latest daily figure of 39,045, which only includes deaths after confirmation of a positive test. By either measure, the toll is Europe's worst and puts Britain behind only the United States in officially announced deaths, although each country has different reporting lags and methods. The data also showed there had been 56,308 more deaths in England and Wales than the five-year average since the outbreak took hold in March. But in the week ending May 22, there were 2,589 mentions of "novel coronavirus" on death certificates in England and Wales -- the lowest since the seven days to March 27. Britain is one of the last European countries to start easing its stay-at-home restrictions, which were imposed on March 23. Also read: Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404 Some younger children returned to school in England on Monday while some shops were allowed to reopen. But most stores are closed and restaurants and cafes can only provide take out and delivery service. Non-essential retail will resume on June 15 if the virus remains contained, according to the government's plan. The government maintains it is in a position to lift restrictions as infection rates are falling but critics fear it is still too soon, and could trigger a second wave of cases. The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are easing restrictions more slowly, and schools remain shut.

UK says virus-related deaths rise to 48,000

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The city launched its ambitious campaign on May 14, testing 9.9 million people, after a cluster of new cases in the city raised fears of a second wave of infections.&nbsp;

But authorities found no new cases of the disease in the May 14 to June 1 testing, officials told reporters in a briefing, adding that the asymptomatic cases were found to be not infectious.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-cases-worldwide-cross-63-million-mark-death-toll-at-377404-302595" hreflang="en">Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404</a>

China does not count asymptomatic cases, meaning people who are infected with the virus but do not exhibit symptoms of the disease, as confirmed cases.&nbsp;

The coronavirus is believed to have jumped from an animal to people in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan late last year.

The central Chinese city, capital of Hubei province, was placed under a lockdown on Jan. 23. It was lifted on April 8.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/divorce-that-creates-a-billionaire-chinese-couple-parting-ways-with-a-settlement-of-32-billion-302587" hreflang="en">Divorce that creates a billionaire: Chinese couple parting ways with a settlement of $3.2 billion</a>

It was the hardest hit of any Chinese city and accounts for the majority of the 4,634 deaths and total of 83,022 infections reported in mainland China.&nbsp;

The cost of the city-wide testing effort was about 900 million yuan ($126 million).

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday.

The Chinese city of Wuhan, where the novel coronavirus outbreak first emerged, found no new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and 300 asymptomatic cases in city-wide testing that began in mid-May, officials said on Tuesday. The city launched its ambitious campaign on May 14, testing 9.9 million people, after a cluster of new cases in the city raised fears of a second wave of infections. But authorities found no new cases of the disease in the May 14 to June 1 testing, officials told reporters in a briefing, adding that the asymptomatic cases were found to be not infectious. Also read: Covid-19 cases worldwide cross 6.3 million mark; death toll at 3,77,404 China does not count asymptomatic cases, meaning people who are infected with the virus but do not exhibit symptoms of the disease, as confirmed cases. The coronavirus is believed to have jumped from an animal to people in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan late last year. The central Chinese city, capital of Hubei province, was placed under a lockdown on Jan. 23. It was lifted on April 8. Also read: Divorce that creates a billionaire: Chinese couple parting ways with a settlement of $3.2 billion It was the hardest hit of any Chinese city and accounts for the majority of the 4,634 deaths and total of 83,022 infections reported in mainland China. The cost of the city-wide testing effort was about 900 million yuan ($126 million).

China's Wuhan finds no new COVID-19 cases in city-wide testing

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday.

Her comments come a week after the UN body paused its large study of the anti-malarial drug to treat COVID-19 due to concerns it increased death rates and irregular heartbeats in patients.

The move prompted several European governments to ban the use of the drug, also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump to help combat the disease.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-epidemic-hasnt-become-less-pathogenic-warns-who-302475" hreflang="en">Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO</a>

Sanofi on Friday temporarily stopped recruiting new COVID-19 patients for its two clinical trials of the drug and said it would no longer supply it to treat COVID-19 until safety concerns are cleared up.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization said today that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-pm-nikol-pashinyan-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-as-cases-rise-302365">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;has "not become less pathogenic, it is not the case at all".

"We need to be exceptionally careful not to create a sense that, all of a sudden, the virus, by its own volition, has now decided to be less pathogenic," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a virtual briefing.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday.

The World Health Organization (WHO) should have enough information in 24 hours to decide whether to continue suspending its trial of hydroxychloroquine for use against coronavirus, its chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said on Monday. Her comments come a week after the UN body paused its large study of the anti-malarial drug to treat COVID-19 due to concerns it increased death rates and irregular heartbeats in patients. The move prompted several European governments to ban the use of the drug, also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus and promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump to help combat the disease. Also read: Coronavirus epidemic hasn't become less pathogenic, warns WHO Sanofi on Friday temporarily stopped recruiting new COVID-19 patients for its two clinical trials of the drug and said it would no longer supply it to treat COVID-19 until safety concerns are cleared up. The World Health Organization said today that the coronavirus has "not become less pathogenic, it is not the case at all". "We need to be exceptionally careful not to create a sense that, all of a sudden, the virus, by its own volition, has now decided to be less pathogenic," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a virtual briefing.

WHO will decide on its hydroxychloroquine trial suspension in 24 hours

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note.

As protests become fiercer and spread across the country, many officials in the government fear a rising wave of infections owing to the protests.

After Floyd, 46, was killed during an arrest by four police officers last Monday, which stirred protests focused on police brutality against African Americans in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-really-played-out-between-the-police-and-george-floyd-in-his-final-moments-302473" hreflang="en">What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments</a>

As of now, the US has over 1.8 million coronavirus infections and has recorded 104,000 deaths. The country does not have universal healthcare, and reports have indicated that the rate of infections and fatality is much higher among minorities.

During the protests, people were seen close to each other, many without masks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/curfew-imposed-in-several-us-states-more-than-2500-protestors-arrested-302477/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, this has stirred paranoia among leaders, who are asking the protesters to “protest the right way”, by keeping in mind the social distancing guidelines in place against the coronavirus pandemic.

“I’m concerned that we had mass gatherings on our streets when we just lifted a stay-at-home order and what that could mean for spikes in coronavirus cases later,” Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington DC, claimed in a press conference on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/racism-haunts-america-as-african-americans-struggle-for-equality-302462" hreflang="en">Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality</a>

“I’m so concerned about it that I’m urging everybody to consider their exposure, if they need to isolate from their family members when they go home and if they need to be tested … because we have worked very hard to blunt the curve”, he added.

Protests outside the White House forced President Trump into his protective bunker, while people clashed with his security services. Washington DC has witnessed violent protests for several days now.

“While I saw some people with masks last night, others didn’t… I saw some people social distancing, other people were right on top of each other. So we don’t want to compound this deadly virus and the impact it’s had on our community”, Bowser&nbsp;added.

Many leaders have echoed the sentiment. Larry Hogan, the governor of Maryland, and Keisha Lance-Bottoms, the mayor of Atlanta agreed with Bowser.

Lance-Bottoms said she was “extremely concerned” about a resurgence of coronavirus cases.

The mayor of New York Bill de Blasio extended his support to the people’s right to demonstrate, but added that the protests signify an uncertain future.

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note.

The United States is currently witnessing nationwide protests against the murder of George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis on suspected usage on a counterfeit currency note. As protests become fiercer and spread across the country, many officials in the government fear a rising wave of infections owing to the protests. After Floyd, 46, was killed during an arrest by four police officers last Monday, which stirred protests focused on police brutality against African Americans in the country. Also read: What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments As of now, the US has over 1.8 million coronavirus infections and has recorded 104,000 deaths. The country does not have universal healthcare, and reports have indicated that the rate of infections and fatality is much higher among minorities. During the protests, people were seen close to each other, many without masks. However, this has stirred paranoia among leaders, who are asking the protesters to “protest the right way”, by keeping in mind the social distancing guidelines in place against the coronavirus pandemic. “I’m concerned that we had mass gatherings on our streets when we just lifted a stay-at-home order and what that could mean for spikes in coronavirus cases later,” Muriel Bowser, the mayor of Washington DC, claimed in a press conference on Sunday. Also read: Racism haunts America as African-Americans struggle for equality “I’m so concerned about it that I’m urging everybody to consider their exposure, if they need to isolate from their family members when they go home and if they need to be tested … because we have worked very hard to blunt the curve”, he added. Protests outside the White House forced President Trump into his protective bunker, while people clashed with his security services. Washington DC has witnessed violent protests for several days now. “While I saw some people with masks last night, others didn’t… I saw some people social distancing, other people were right on top of each other. So we don’t want to compound this deadly virus and the impact it’s had on our community”, Bowser added. Many leaders have echoed the sentiment. Larry Hogan, the governor of Maryland, and Keisha Lance-Bottoms, the mayor of Atlanta agreed with Bowser. Lance-Bottoms said she was “extremely concerned” about a resurgence of coronavirus cases. The mayor of New York Bill de Blasio extended his support to the people’s right to demonstrate, but added that the protests signify an uncertain future.

Leaders in US fear new coronavirus infections as people defy social distancing norms to protest

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo.

A new outbreak of Ebola was reported in the country’s northwestern areas, news agency AFP reported. The country is currently dealing with the coronavirus outbreak in the eastern parts. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/in-the-shadow-of-ebola-and-covid-19-measles-rips-through-congo-288051" hreflang="en">In the shadow of Ebola and Covid-19, measles rips through Congo</a>

This resurgence has taken the lives of four people in the city of Mbandaka, the Health Minister Eteni Longondo said in a press conference.

"The National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) has confirmed to me that samples from Mbandaka tested positive for Ebola... We will send them the vaccine and medicine very quickly" Longondo said.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e75563b2-561a-4a9f-a53d-6d8fe188a0d0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-4_4.jpg" /> 
A girl is getting inoculated with an Ebola vaccine on November 22, 2019 in Goma | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Mbandaka is the capital of Congo’s Equateur province, which serves as a transport hub alongside the Congo river and houses over a million people.&nbsp;Ebola had hit the same province in the summer months of May and July in 2018, which claimed the lives of 33 people.

Since surfacing, the Ebola epidemic has killed 2,280 people in the country’s eastern region. The government was planning to announce the country Ebola free on June 25, but with new cases resurfacing, the country has to continue fighting it.&nbsp;A similar situation had&nbsp;come up in April this year when the country was three days away from declaring itself free of Ebola.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/coronavirus-much-much-worse-says-peter-piot-ebola-discoverer-286205" hreflang="en">Coronavirus much, much worse, says Peter Piot, Ebola discoverer</a>

"This is a province that has already experienced the disease. They know how to respond. They started the response at the local level yesterday (Sunday)," Longondo said.

If no cases are reported for 42 days in a row, the country would be able to declare itself free of ebola.

This marks the eleventh outbreak in the country since 1976.

Alongside ebola, the country is battling the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 72 and infected over 3,000 so far.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo.

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which continues to decimate economies and kill scores of population across the globe, a new kind of medical storm is brewing in a Central African country - Democratic Republic of Congo. A new outbreak of Ebola was reported in the country’s northwestern areas, news agency AFP reported. The country is currently dealing with the coronavirus outbreak in the eastern parts. Also read: In the shadow of Ebola and Covid-19, measles rips through Congo This resurgence has taken the lives of four people in the city of Mbandaka, the Health Minister Eteni Longondo said in a press conference. "The National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) has confirmed to me that samples from Mbandaka tested positive for Ebola... We will send them the vaccine and medicine very quickly" Longondo said. A girl is getting inoculated with an Ebola vaccine on November 22, 2019 in Goma | AFP Mbandaka is the capital of Congo’s Equateur province, which serves as a transport hub alongside the Congo river and houses over a million people. Ebola had hit the same province in the summer months of May and July in 2018, which claimed the lives of 33 people. Since surfacing, the Ebola epidemic has killed 2,280 people in the country’s eastern region. The government was planning to announce the country Ebola free on June 25, but with new cases resurfacing, the country has to continue fighting it. A similar situation had come up in April this year when the country was three days away from declaring itself free of Ebola. Also read: Coronavirus much, much worse, says Peter Piot, Ebola discoverer "This is a province that has already experienced the disease. They know how to respond. They started the response at the local level yesterday (Sunday)," Longondo said. If no cases are reported for 42 days in a row, the country would be able to declare itself free of ebola. This marks the eleventh outbreak in the country since 1976. Alongside ebola, the country is battling the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed over 72 and infected over 3,000 so far. (With inputs from AFP)

Congo reports fresh Ebola outbreak three weeks before plans to proclaim the country disease-free

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism.

Thai trials of an experimental vaccine using monkeys started last month, one of at least 100 potential vaccines being developed globally. The government is hopeful it will have a cost-effective vaccine ready for next year.

Bionet-Asia, a local firm working with the government and a top Bangkok university, has put all other activities on hold and dedicated 250 personnel and all of its labs, technology and production facilities to developing a COVID-19 vaccine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-start-administering-game-changer-drug-to-treat-coronavirus-patients-302366" hreflang="en">Russia to start administering 'game changer' drug to treat coronavirus patients</a>

"In the case of COVID, there is a global effort to speed up experiment, trials, to share information, share diagnostics and that's why we are in a position too, to move very fast," chief executive officer, Pham Hong Thai, told Reuters.

He said tests on animals had so far shown encouraging results and the next step would be seeking government approval for clinical trials involving humans.

With just over 3,082 cases and 57 deaths, Thailand has had some success in containing the coronavirus and eased many of its restrictions in response to low infection numbers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

It has been seven days without a case of local transmission, with all infections this past week found among quarantined nationals returning from overseas.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said it was important to channel all efforts towards the development of a vaccine and put Thailand on the medical map.

"Thailand has a good healthcare system, good medical practices. It will garner a lot of interest from tourists and investors and boost us as a medical hub," he said.

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism.

Momentum is building behind Thailand's push to create its own coronavirus vaccine, with more manpower and resources dedicated to the effort amid hopes it could boost medical tourism. Thai trials of an experimental vaccine using monkeys started last month, one of at least 100 potential vaccines being developed globally. The government is hopeful it will have a cost-effective vaccine ready for next year. Bionet-Asia, a local firm working with the government and a top Bangkok university, has put all other activities on hold and dedicated 250 personnel and all of its labs, technology and production facilities to developing a COVID-19 vaccine. Also read: Russia to start administering 'game changer' drug to treat coronavirus patients "In the case of COVID, there is a global effort to speed up experiment, trials, to share information, share diagnostics and that's why we are in a position too, to move very fast," chief executive officer, Pham Hong Thai, told Reuters. He said tests on animals had so far shown encouraging results and the next step would be seeking government approval for clinical trials involving humans. With just over 3,082 cases and 57 deaths, Thailand has had some success in containing the coronavirus and eased many of its restrictions in response to low infection numbers. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs It has been seven days without a case of local transmission, with all infections this past week found among quarantined nationals returning from overseas. Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said it was important to channel all efforts towards the development of a vaccine and put Thailand on the medical map. "Thailand has a good healthcare system, good medical practices. It will garner a lot of interest from tourists and investors and boost us as a medical hub," he said.

Thailand races to create COVID vaccine, eyes possible medical tourism boost

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus.

In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported.

The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-has-lost-over-1-lakh-lives-40-million-jobs-due-to-covid-19-302254/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-supremacists-or-antifa-or-multiple-theories-float-on-who-caused-violence-in-us-302348" hreflang="en">White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US</a>

Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact.

As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently.

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported. The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish. As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact. As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India. (With inputs from Reuters)

American seafood company's vessel spawns a coronavirus cluster with 86 new cases

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month.

Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/turkey-unveils-plan-to-revive-tourism-300679/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/poor-relations-between-uae-and-turkey-have-further-complicated-conflicts-in-the-middle-east-300864" hreflang="en">Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East</a>

President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down.

Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months.

"We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/greece-fears-border-standoff-with-turkey-over-migrants-return-301172" hreflang="en">Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return</a>

International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose.

Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak.&nbsp;

Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend.

A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month. Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months. Also read: Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down. Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months. "We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards. Also read: Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose. Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak. Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend. A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Grand Bazaar, cafes open and flights resume as Turkey eases up

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported.

The country has enough stock of the drug in question, “Avifavir” to treat 60,000 coronavirus patients in one month, and the hospitals across the country will begin administering it from June 11, 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India.

Russia saw a major increase in the number of cases two weeks ago, with fears of it becoming a hotspot. 
 
Related video: Russian economy contracts by 12% in April as a result of Coronavirus lockdown

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/russian-economy-contracts-by-12-in-april-as-a-result-of-coronavirus-lockdown-301843/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The modified antiviral drug “Avifavir” was approved by Russian health ministry very recently. After conducting clinical trials, the drug was officially approved for use on Saturday. According to Reuters, over 330 people were part of this trial, and they found that the drug was able to successfully treat patients within four days of beginning treatment.

More trials are expected to continue in the country to ascertain the usefulness of the drug. The country has begun manufacturing the drug in March itself, which will soon be used for mass treatments.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trampoline-is-working-hysteria-is-not-russian-space-agency-taunts-donald-trump-302248" hreflang="en">Trampoline is working, hysteria is not; Russian space agency taunts Donald Trump</a>

Touted by Russia as a “game changer”, the health ministry believes the “drug is key to resuming full activity in Russia”. The new drug, however has some side effects and is not suggested for treating pregnant women.

The third most hard-hit country in the world, Russia has witnessed 4,693 deaths due to the pandemic, but has recorded a low fatality rate.

The drug was initially developed in the 1990s by a Japanese health company, which is now owned by Fujifilm. The generic name of the drug is “favipiravir”.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported.

Russia is set to using the first approved drug in the country meant to treat COVID-19 patients. Starting next week, “a game changer” drug will be administered on people, Reuters reported. The country has enough stock of the drug in question, “Avifavir” to treat 60,000 coronavirus patients in one month, and the hospitals across the country will begin administering it from June 11, 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India. Russia saw a major increase in the number of cases two weeks ago, with fears of it becoming a hotspot. Related video: Russian economy contracts by 12% in April as a result of Coronavirus lockdown The modified antiviral drug “Avifavir” was approved by Russian health ministry very recently. After conducting clinical trials, the drug was officially approved for use on Saturday. According to Reuters, over 330 people were part of this trial, and they found that the drug was able to successfully treat patients within four days of beginning treatment. More trials are expected to continue in the country to ascertain the usefulness of the drug. The country has begun manufacturing the drug in March itself, which will soon be used for mass treatments. Also read: Trampoline is working, hysteria is not; Russian space agency taunts Donald Trump Touted by Russia as a “game changer”, the health ministry believes the “drug is key to resuming full activity in Russia”. The new drug, however has some side effects and is not suggested for treating pregnant women. The third most hard-hit country in the world, Russia has witnessed 4,693 deaths due to the pandemic, but has recorded a low fatality rate. The drug was initially developed in the 1990s by a Japanese health company, which is now owned by Fujifilm. The generic name of the drug is “favipiravir”. (With inputs from Reuters)

Russia to start administering 'game changer' drug to treat coronavirus patients

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes.

This survey also found that 44 per cent Republicans believe the conspiracy, while 19 per cent Democrats agreed that it was possible. A majority of Democrats (52 per cent) identified the theory as false.

Conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, over 1,640 Americans were questioned about this possibility in the last week of May.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-magic-drug-hydroxychloroquine-may-be-killing-coronavirus-patients-across-the-globe-study-300863" hreflang="en">Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study</a>

The conspiracy theory has made rounds across social media since the race to develop a vaccine amped-up. Many believe this microchip will be used to track people, and to eradicate 15 per cent of the global population.

However, The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation has not undertaken or supported any vaccine driven coronavirus research, especially not involving microchips.

The foundation did fund a study in the beginning of the pandemic, but that was to develop an identifier of sorts only detectable by a smartphone. Gates is also working on the concept of a “digital identity” which would store people’s medical records and personal documents on the cloud with access only to the owner. Conspiracy theories combined these two unrelated projects to suggest that mass human microchipping may be inevitable.

Anti-vaccination groups add to woes

Anti-vaccination groups also increasingly gaining traction across the Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americans-spend-memorial-day-weekend-at-beaches-and-parks-amid-pandemic-rage-300896" hreflang="en">Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage</a>

The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark today, while the deaths increased to 345,064.

The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.&nbsp;

Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes.

A recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. This survey also found that 44 per cent Republicans believe the conspiracy, while 19 per cent Democrats agreed that it was possible. A majority of Democrats (52 per cent) identified the theory as false. Conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, over 1,640 Americans were questioned about this possibility in the last week of May. Also read: Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study The conspiracy theory has made rounds across social media since the race to develop a vaccine amped-up. Many believe this microchip will be used to track people, and to eradicate 15 per cent of the global population. However, The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation has not undertaken or supported any vaccine driven coronavirus research, especially not involving microchips. The foundation did fund a study in the beginning of the pandemic, but that was to develop an identifier of sorts only detectable by a smartphone. Gates is also working on the concept of a “digital identity” which would store people’s medical records and personal documents on the cloud with access only to the owner. Conspiracy theories combined these two unrelated projects to suggest that mass human microchipping may be inevitable. Anti-vaccination groups add to woes Anti-vaccination groups also increasingly gaining traction across the Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues. In pictures: Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage The overall number of global coronavirus cases has surpassed the 5.4 million mark today, while the deaths increased to 345,064. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine

The 13 edition of&nbsp;National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting.

This&nbsp;session&nbsp;of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics.

All countries are reeling from the effects of coronavirus, which is why all major economies are toying with different ideas to fix the crisis.

Additionally, China wants to project the facade of normalcy to the world, that the country is now back in business.

<h6><img alt="o" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bff56682-4e4c-4ce4-907c-650af1e79bae" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_3.jpg" /> 
A security staff looks on after the second plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC)at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 25, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The day began with Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the NPC standing committee delivering a work report. Li summed up what the standing committee had done in face of the pandemic.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, the npc standing committee has acted promptly and performed its lawful duty. We made the decision to completely ban illegal trade and consumption of wildlife”, Zhanshu said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-whats-happening-at-chinas-national-peoples-congress-301037/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping met leaders from the Hubei province, which is now witnessing a resurgence of cases after the initial epicentre was able to flatten the curve.

Xi told the Hubei deputies that the pandemic is a test of China's grassroot governance.

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/post-pandemic-nightclub-experience-in-china-gives-a-glimpse-of-the-future-300883" hreflang="en">Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future</a>

“This epidemic is a test of our grassroots governance system and the level of its capacity. It further highlights the role of our grassroots units such as neighbourhood office, community centre, town-level and village-level committees”, Jinping said.

Xi also commended the efforts of a Hubei doctor. “I saw you on TV, it was about you treating an 87-year-old man. I am so impressed”, he said.

There will be two broad messages coming out of these chambers over the next couple of days. One may be about China not being the perpetrator but the victim of the coronavirus. Secondly, that the dragon has defeated the virus under Xi's leadership.

The 13 edition of National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting. This session of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics.

The 13 edition of National People's Congress is underway in Beijing. Today marks the second plenary meeting. This session of China’s top legislative body will have a two-fold focus: economy and optics. All countries are reeling from the effects of coronavirus, which is why all major economies are toying with different ideas to fix the crisis. Additionally, China wants to project the facade of normalcy to the world, that the country is now back in business. A security staff looks on after the second plenary session of the National People’s Congress (NPC)at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 25, 2020 | AFP The day began with Li Zhanshu, the chairman of the NPC standing committee delivering a work report. Li summed up what the standing committee had done in face of the pandemic. “Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, the npc standing committee has acted promptly and performed its lawful duty. We made the decision to completely ban illegal trade and consumption of wildlife”, Zhanshu said. × On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping met leaders from the Hubei province, which is now witnessing a resurgence of cases after the initial epicentre was able to flatten the curve. Xi told the Hubei deputies that the pandemic is a test of China's grassroot governance. In pictures: Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future “This epidemic is a test of our grassroots governance system and the level of its capacity. It further highlights the role of our grassroots units such as neighbourhood office, community centre, town-level and village-level committees”, Jinping said. Xi also commended the efforts of a Hubei doctor. “I saw you on TV, it was about you treating an 87-year-old man. I am so impressed”, he said. There will be two broad messages coming out of these chambers over the next couple of days. One may be about China not being the perpetrator but the victim of the coronavirus. Secondly, that the dragon has defeated the virus under Xi's leadership.

NPC's second plenary session in China: What can we expect?

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people.

Ever since global leaders, especially Donald Trump endorsed the drug, the public confidence in it to prevent coronavirus has increased. In fact, the US president recently claimed to be taking the medicine to avoid contracting COVID-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/britain-begins-hydroxychloroquine-trial-to-test-coronavirus-prevention-300216" hreflang="en">Britain begins hydroxychloroquine trial to test coronavirus prevention</a>

Published in the Lancet online medical journal, the paper claims that the rush to quickly use the drug on patients may not be a great idea. A lot of doctors have been prescribing it without evidence of its potency against the virus. Earlier researches have made it abundantly clear that the drug could cause heart irregularities, and has been used to treat malaria.

The researchers in the paper believe that the drug should no longer be administered on patients, unless in a research setting.

A french doctor started treating his patients with the drug first.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="49fafbe6-6ce4-474a-bf4b-3db403166746" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_6.jpg" /> 
A pharmacy tech holds pills of Hydroxychloroquine at Rock Canyon Pharmacy in Provo, Utah, on May 20, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Even though the drug is otherwise safe for malaria patients, it may be fatal for people carrying COVID-19, for we’re still learning new details of the virus everyday.

The researchers took into account 96,000 patients across 671 hospitals between the time period of December 2019 - April 2020.

They found that the fatality rate was much higher among people who were given the drug as opposed to those who weren’t. One out of six patients on hydroxychloroquine died. While only one out of 11 patients not taking the drug dead.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/amid-rising-cases-brazils-health-ministry-recommends-hydroxychloroquine-to-treat-coronavirus-cases-299967" hreflang="en">Amid rising cases, Brazil's health ministry recommends hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus cases</a>

Many patients who were given hydroxychloroquine also recorded cardiac arrhythmias, which makes the lower chamber of the heart to beat irregularly. Almost 8 per cent of the patients who were being treated with hydroxychloroquine alongside an antibiotic developed irregular heartbeats, as opposed to 0.3 per cent patients who were not given the drug.

“This is the first large-scale study to find statistically robust evidence that treatment with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine does not benefit patients with Covid-19,” said Prof Mandeep R Mehra, lead author of the study in conversation with The Guardian.

“Instead, our findings suggest it may be associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and increased risk of death. Randomised clinical trials are essential to confirm any harms or benefits associated with these agents. In the meantime, we suggest these drugs should not be used as treatments for Covid-19 outside of clinical trials”, he added.

Many scientists have suggested ending the use of hydroxychloroquine in treating coronavirus patients.

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people.

The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine has been touted as a potential cure to COVID-19 by many experts. However, a new study shows that the drug may be killing people. Ever since global leaders, especially Donald Trump endorsed the drug, the public confidence in it to prevent coronavirus has increased. In fact, the US president recently claimed to be taking the medicine to avoid contracting COVID-19. Also read: Britain begins hydroxychloroquine trial to test coronavirus prevention Published in the Lancet online medical journal, the paper claims that the rush to quickly use the drug on patients may not be a great idea. A lot of doctors have been prescribing it without evidence of its potency against the virus. Earlier researches have made it abundantly clear that the drug could cause heart irregularities, and has been used to treat malaria. The researchers in the paper believe that the drug should no longer be administered on patients, unless in a research setting. A french doctor started treating his patients with the drug first. A pharmacy tech holds pills of Hydroxychloroquine at Rock Canyon Pharmacy in Provo, Utah, on May 20, 2020 | AFP Even though the drug is otherwise safe for malaria patients, it may be fatal for people carrying COVID-19, for we’re still learning new details of the virus everyday. The researchers took into account 96,000 patients across 671 hospitals between the time period of December 2019 - April 2020. They found that the fatality rate was much higher among people who were given the drug as opposed to those who weren’t. One out of six patients on hydroxychloroquine died. While only one out of 11 patients not taking the drug dead. Also read: Amid rising cases, Brazil's health ministry recommends hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus cases Many patients who were given hydroxychloroquine also recorded cardiac arrhythmias, which makes the lower chamber of the heart to beat irregularly. Almost 8 per cent of the patients who were being treated with hydroxychloroquine alongside an antibiotic developed irregular heartbeats, as opposed to 0.3 per cent patients who were not given the drug. “This is the first large-scale study to find statistically robust evidence that treatment with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine does not benefit patients with Covid-19,” said Prof Mandeep R Mehra, lead author of the study in conversation with The Guardian. “Instead, our findings suggest it may be associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and increased risk of death. Randomised clinical trials are essential to confirm any harms or benefits associated with these agents. In the meantime, we suggest these drugs should not be used as treatments for Covid-19 outside of clinical trials”, he added. Many scientists have suggested ending the use of hydroxychloroquine in treating coronavirus patients.

Trump's magic drug hydroxychloroquine may be killing coronavirus patients across the globe: Study

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities.

The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.&nbsp;

Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively.

This pandemic coincides with the revival of the anti-vaccination movement which is increasingly gaining traction across Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology.

Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4677c6b3-f03d-4c4e-b760-48243e130a12" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_9.jpg" /> 
A man holds a sign against vaccination at an anti-coronavirus lockdown demonstration in Hyde Park in London on May 16, 2020, following an easing of lockdown rules in England during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Fliers advertising 'mass gatherings' organised by the UK Freedom Movement to oppose the government lockdown measures and guidelines put in place to halt the spread of coronavirus in parks around the UK calling for attendees to bring a picnic and music have been circulating on social media. People are being asked to "think carefully" before visiting national parks and beaches on the first weekend since coronavirus lockdown measures were partially eased in England | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

Recently, Bill Gates has been at the centre of COVID-19 discourse. The founder of Microsoft earlier warned the world against a pandemic and called for greater&nbsp;preparedness.

In a bizarre turn of events, a recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. Gates has pledged $300 million for COVID-19 vaccine research.

Many anti-vaxxers believe that that a vaccine developed at express-speed could be unsafe. The protesters say that vaccines are nothing but chemicals that the government injects into its citizens without their consent.

Today, anti-vaxxers are filling town squares of major European cities such as Berlin, Zurich, and Vienna.&nbsp;The resistance is beginning to trouble governments as they ease lockdowns to re-boot their economies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/28-americans-believe-bill-gates-intends-to-microchip-people-using-coronavirus-vaccine-300988" hreflang="en">28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine</a>

Such protests have been taking place in prominent US cities for at least five years.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has just reported a steep decline in the number of American children receiving their routine immunisations.&nbsp;In 2019, the anti-vax movement caused the return of measles to the US.

Many people in Europe are refusing vaccinations now. For instance, in Switzerland - 20 per cent of the people say they will not get vaccinated. 18 per cent Austrians feel the same way. In Germany - 9 per cent of the population is opposed to vaccines. Over 10 per cent Britons reject vaccinations.

According to a YouGuv survey - only half of surveyed Americans are willing to get vaccinated.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

Coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the globe with over 5.4 million cases and 345,064 fatalities. The total number of cases stood at 5,408,301, the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. Currently, the US has the world's highest number of cases and deaths at 1,643,098 and 97,711, respectively. This pandemic coincides with the revival of the anti-vaccination movement which is increasingly gaining traction across Europe and the US, many of whom believe that vaccinations cause autism and other lifelong ailments, and believe it is surveillance technology. Commonly called “anti-vaxxers”, they refuse to vaccinate or to get kids vaccinated, putting large scores of populations vulnerable to health issues. A man holds a sign against vaccination at an anti-coronavirus lockdown demonstration in Hyde Park in London on May 16, 2020, following an easing of lockdown rules in England during the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Fliers advertising 'mass gatherings' organised by the UK Freedom Movement to oppose the government lockdown measures and guidelines put in place to halt the spread of coronavirus in parks around the UK calling for attendees to bring a picnic and music have been circulating on social media. People are being asked to "think carefully" before visiting national parks and beaches on the first weekend since coronavirus lockdown measures were partially eased in England | AFP Recently, Bill Gates has been at the centre of COVID-19 discourse. The founder of Microsoft earlier warned the world against a pandemic and called for greater preparedness. In a bizarre turn of events, a recently conducted survey has found that over 28 per cent Americans believe that Bill Gates intends to use the coronavirus vaccine to plant microchips in people for surveillance purposes. Gates has pledged $300 million for COVID-19 vaccine research. Many anti-vaxxers believe that that a vaccine developed at express-speed could be unsafe. The protesters say that vaccines are nothing but chemicals that the government injects into its citizens without their consent. Today, anti-vaxxers are filling town squares of major European cities such as Berlin, Zurich, and Vienna. The resistance is beginning to trouble governments as they ease lockdowns to re-boot their economies. Also read: 28% Americans believe Bill Gates intends to microchip people using coronavirus vaccine Such protests have been taking place in prominent US cities for at least five years. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has just reported a steep decline in the number of American children receiving their routine immunisations. In 2019, the anti-vax movement caused the return of measles to the US. Many people in Europe are refusing vaccinations now. For instance, in Switzerland - 20 per cent of the people say they will not get vaccinated. 18 per cent Austrians feel the same way. In Germany - 9 per cent of the population is opposed to vaccines. Over 10 per cent Britons reject vaccinations. According to a YouGuv survey - only half of surveyed Americans are willing to get vaccinated.

Anti-vaccination movement surges across Europe and US as pandemic soars

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country.

The mayor of Manaus, Arthur Virgilio Neto recently asked Brazilian President to “resign… shut up, and stay at home”. He further told CNN that Bolsonaro was seeking dictatorship”. Neto claimed that the president dreams to be dictator, “but is too stupid”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-records-second-highest-covid-19-cases-as-bolsonaro-downplays-it-as-little-flu-300970" hreflang="en">Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu'</a>

The mayor of a city that houses 2 million people accused the president of being “co-responsible” for the increasing death count.

Neto claimed that in the early stages of the pandemic, he asked messaged Bolsonaro - "Please Mr. President, shut up and stay at home”.

Now, he only wants his resignation. "Resign, resign, resign, because he doesn't govern Brazil”, he told CNN.

Bolsonaro had earlier called Neto a "piece of s**t”.

<img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2fa9827-e623-427c-89c7-a5e97e014db2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_102.jpg" />

Second-most global cases

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indigenous-tribals-in-brazil-are-dying-twice-as-much-as-the-national-average-due-to-covid-19-300952" hreflang="en">Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19</a>

According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far.

Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge.

Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country.

The city of Manaus in Brazil currently has 39,155 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and had witnessed 1,182 deaths. It is considered one of the hardest hit cities in the country. The mayor of Manaus, Arthur Virgilio Neto recently asked Brazilian President to “resign… shut up, and stay at home”. He further told CNN that Bolsonaro was seeking dictatorship”. Neto claimed that the president dreams to be dictator, “but is too stupid”. Also read: Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu' The mayor of a city that houses 2 million people accused the president of being “co-responsible” for the increasing death count. Neto claimed that in the early stages of the pandemic, he asked messaged Bolsonaro - "Please Mr. President, shut up and stay at home”. Now, he only wants his resignation. "Resign, resign, resign, because he doesn't govern Brazil”, he told CNN. Bolsonaro had earlier called Neto a "piece of s**t”. Second-most global cases Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus. Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down. Also read: Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19 According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far. Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge. Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

Brazilian mayor asks Bolsonaro to 'resign, shut up, and stay at home' as death toll mounts

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down.

According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far.

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indigenous-tribals-in-brazil-are-dying-twice-as-much-as-the-national-average-due-to-covid-19-300952" hreflang="en">Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19</a>

Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge.

Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters.

The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-restricts-travel-from-brazil-brazil-is-worlds-second-worst-hit-covid-19-country-300826/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected.

According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population.

Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent.

Recently, US President Donald Trump suspended travel from Brazil. As part of this move, non-Americans planning to come to the US shouldn’t have spent any of their last 14 days in Brazil, and if found so, they shall not be allowed to enter the country.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus.

Brazil now has the second-most reported cases of coronavirus in the world, surpassing Russia. With 363,211 cases, Brazil has become the latest epicentre of the virus. Even though the US still has the most number of confirmed cases (over 1,600,000), the rate of infection across the United States is now seeing signs of slowing down. According to Johns Hopkins University tracker, over 22,666 people have died in Brazil due to COVID-19 so far. 149,911 people have recovered so far. Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “little flu”. Also read: Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19 Just on Sunday, Bolsonaro took out a rally with his supporters. He was not wearing any protective gear and was neither practicing social distancing norms, even as numbers continue to surge. Even though he emerged outside the presidential palace donning a mask, he soon removed it to shake hands with supporters. The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down. With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected. According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population. Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent. Recently, US President Donald Trump suspended travel from Brazil. As part of this move, non-Americans planning to come to the US shouldn’t have spent any of their last 14 days in Brazil, and if found so, they shall not be allowed to enter the country. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Brazil records second highest COVID-19 cases as Bolsonaro downplays it as 'little flu'

Syria reported 20 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Monday, the largest single-day increase to date, the health ministry,

The war-torn country has recorded 106 infections and four deaths so far, and new cases have increased in recent days with the return of Syrians from abroad, the ministry said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/artholes-artist-covers-mundane-potholes-with-pandemic-themed-mosaics-300942" hreflang="en">Artholes: Artist covers mundane potholes with pandemic-themed mosaics</a>

Syria has kept an overnight curfew in place but has begun to open some of its economy after a lockdown. Doctors and relief groups worry that medical infrastructure ravaged by nine years of conflict would make a more serious outbreak deadly and difficult to fend off.

Health Minister Nizar Yazigi said last week that "coercive and unfair" Western sanctions were hitting medical services needed to cope with coronavirus and he called for their removal.

Syria reported 20 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Monday, the largest single-day increase to date, the health ministry, The war-torn country has recorded 106 infections and four deaths so far, and new cases have increased in recent days with the return of Syrians from abroad, the ministry said.

Syria reported 20 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Monday, the largest single-day increase to date, the health ministry, The war-torn country has recorded 106 infections and four deaths so far, and new cases have increased in recent days with the return of Syrians from abroad, the ministry said. Also see: Artholes: Artist covers mundane potholes with pandemic-themed mosaics Syria has kept an overnight curfew in place but has begun to open some of its economy after a lockdown. Doctors and relief groups worry that medical infrastructure ravaged by nine years of conflict would make a more serious outbreak deadly and difficult to fend off. Health Minister Nizar Yazigi said last week that "coercive and unfair" Western sanctions were hitting medical services needed to cope with coronavirus and he called for their removal.

Syria records 20 new coronavirus cases in largest single-day increase

Mosques, churches and businesses in the occupied West Bank will reopen on Tuesday in an easing of coronavirus restrictions, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said on Monday.

The Palestinian Authority declared a health emergency in March and imposed lockdowns after the first cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed in the West Bank town of Bethlehem.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/artholes-artist-covers-mundane-potholes-with-pandemic-themed-mosaics-300942" hreflang="en">Artholes: Artist covers mundane potholes with pandemic-themed mosaics</a>

Shtayyeh said it was time to "cautiously return life to normal" now that infection rates had slowed.

The reopening of houses of worship, shops and factories on Tuesday will coincide with the last day of the Eid El-Fitr holiday marking the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Shtayyeh said that government ministries and offices would reopen on Wednesday and that checkpoints set up to limit traffic between West Bank cities would be removed.

The Palestinian Health Ministry has confirmed 423 cases of the new coronavirus in the West Bank and two deaths.

The health crisis has led to a 50% fall in commercial revenues in the West Bank, in a blow to an already ailing economy in which unemployment is at 17.6%, local officials said.

In the Gaza Strip, which is run by the Palestinian Authority's rival, the Islamist group Hamas, 54 coronavirus cases and one death have been recorded.

Mosques, churches and businesses in the occupied West Bank will reopen on Tuesday in an easing of coronavirus restrictions, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said on Monday.

Mosques, churches and businesses in the occupied West Bank will reopen on Tuesday in an easing of coronavirus restrictions, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said on Monday. The Palestinian Authority declared a health emergency in March and imposed lockdowns after the first cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed in the West Bank town of Bethlehem. Also see: Artholes: Artist covers mundane potholes with pandemic-themed mosaics Shtayyeh said it was time to "cautiously return life to normal" now that infection rates had slowed. The reopening of houses of worship, shops and factories on Tuesday will coincide with the last day of the Eid El-Fitr holiday marking the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Shtayyeh said that government ministries and offices would reopen on Wednesday and that checkpoints set up to limit traffic between West Bank cities would be removed. The Palestinian Health Ministry has confirmed 423 cases of the new coronavirus in the West Bank and two deaths. The health crisis has led to a 50% fall in commercial revenues in the West Bank, in a blow to an already ailing economy in which unemployment is at 17.6%, local officials said. In the Gaza Strip, which is run by the Palestinian Authority's rival, the Islamist group Hamas, 54 coronavirus cases and one death have been recorded.

Palestinians easing coronavirus restrictions in West Bank

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “flu”.

The country currently has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases. Brazil has now 3,30,890 infections and has recorded 21,048 deaths.

The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down.

However, the most susceptible among Brazil’s diverse population are the indigenous people, who are now dying at an alarming rate, CNN reported.

<h6><img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="107ea1cf-c532-4b66-8ed5-af59f4978666" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_8.jpg" /> 
Indigenous women from the Parque das Tribos community mourn at the funeral of Chief Messias, 53, of the Kokama tribe who died victim of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, in Manaus, Brazil, on May 14, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected.

According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population.

Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent.

APIB’s numbers contrast the Health Ministry of Indigenous Health’s reports, which claim 695 cases of COVID-19 and 34 deaths among the indigenous communities.

Remote villages remain the most susceptible owing to lack of healthcare. The first native death was registered in a remote Amazonian village where a 15-year-old boy died in April.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d729899f-2550-4009-a35a-c0266af89c02" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_7.jpg" /> 
Satere-mawe indigenous people are seen using a smartphone to contact a doctor in Sao Paulo state to receive medical guidance amid the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic at the Sahu-Ape community, 80 km of Manaus, Amazonas State, Brazil, on May 5, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Over 60 native groups have reported cases of coronavirus so far, with the number expected to keep increasing, especially in regions with no immediate access to hospitals.

InfoAmazonia conducted a study after which they concluded that the average distance between villages and the nearest intensive care unit (ICU) is&nbsp;315 kilometres, which could hamper immediate care for critical cases.

Deforestation in the Brazilian rainforest has increased by over 64 per cent in 2020 alone, opening up new ways for the virus to reach the isolated tribes.

Last week, the country’s congress passed a plan to protect indigenous communities by providing not only healthcare but also access to clean food and water.

(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “flu”. The country currently has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases.

Brazil is now increasingly becoming the primary hotspot of coronavirus, as President Jair Bolsonaro continues to downplay it as a “flu”. The country currently has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases. Brazil has now 3,30,890 infections and has recorded 21,048 deaths. The World Health Organization had recently announced South America as the epicentre of COVID-19, which started off in Wuhan, then battered European countries especially Italy and France. After which, it caused major fatalities in the US, where the infection rate is currently slowing down. However, the most susceptible among Brazil’s diverse population are the indigenous people, who are now dying at an alarming rate, CNN reported. Indigenous women from the Parque das Tribos community mourn at the funeral of Chief Messias, 53, of the Kokama tribe who died victim of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, in Manaus, Brazil, on May 14, 2020 | AFP With healthcare infrastructure crumbling across the country, especially in the indigenous regions, scores of natives are now infected. According to Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), the mortality rate among the native population is twice as much as the the rest of the country’s population. Brazil currently has over 900,000 indigenous people, out of whom 980 have now tested positive for coronavirus, which is capable of spreading very quickly. 125 natives have died so far, putting the indigenous community’s mortality rate at 12.6 per cent, as opposed to the national average of 6.4 per cent. APIB’s numbers contrast the Health Ministry of Indigenous Health’s reports, which claim 695 cases of COVID-19 and 34 deaths among the indigenous communities. Remote villages remain the most susceptible owing to lack of healthcare. The first native death was registered in a remote Amazonian village where a 15-year-old boy died in April. Satere-mawe indigenous people are seen using a smartphone to contact a doctor in Sao Paulo state to receive medical guidance amid the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic at the Sahu-Ape community, 80 km of Manaus, Amazonas State, Brazil, on May 5, 2020 | AFP Over 60 native groups have reported cases of coronavirus so far, with the number expected to keep increasing, especially in regions with no immediate access to hospitals. InfoAmazonia conducted a study after which they concluded that the average distance between villages and the nearest intensive care unit (ICU) is 315 kilometres, which could hamper immediate care for critical cases. Deforestation in the Brazilian rainforest has increased by over 64 per cent in 2020 alone, opening up new ways for the virus to reach the isolated tribes. Last week, the country’s congress passed a plan to protect indigenous communities by providing not only healthcare but also access to clean food and water. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Indigenous tribals in Brazil are dying twice as much as the national average due to COVID-19

Japan's economy slipped into recession for the first time in 4-1/2 years in the last quarter, putting the nation on course for its deepest postwar slump as the coronavirus crisis ravages businesses and consumers.

Monday's first-quarter GDP data underlined the broadening impact of the outbreak, with exports plunging the most since the devastating March 2011 earthquake as global lockdowns and supply chain disruptions hit shipments of&nbsp;Japanese goods.

Analysts warn of an even bleaker picture for the current quarter as consumption crumbled after the government in April requested citizens to stay home and businesses to close, intensifying the challenge for policymakers battling a once-in-a-century pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-lifts-state-of-emergency-except-in-some-virus-hit-regions-298682" hreflang="en">Japan PM Abe lifts state of emergency except in some virus-hit regions</a>

"It's near certainty the economy suffered an even deeper decline in the current quarter," said Yuichi Kodama, chief economist at Meiji Yasuda Research Institute. "Japan&nbsp;has entered a full-blown recession."

The world's third-largest economy contracted an annualised 3.4% in the first quarter, preliminary official gross domestic product (GDP) data showed, less than a median market forecast for a 4.6% drop.

The slump came on top of an even steeper 7.3% fall in the October-December period, with the consecutive quarters of contraction meeting the technical definition of a recession.&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;last suffered recession in the second half of 2015.

The coronavirus, which first emerged in China late last year, has ravaged the global economy as many nations went into strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak that has so far killed over 310,000 people worldwide. The pandemic has been massively disruptive on supply chains and businesses, particularly in trade-reliant nations such as&nbsp;Japan.&nbsp;

Indeed, the fallout of the virus on corporate&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;was telling with exports diving 6.0% in the first quarter, the biggest decline since April-June 2011.

"Exports to China began to fall in February, followed by a wave of slumping shipments to Europe and the United States," said Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute.

"Exports were also hurt by slumping inbound tourism," which counts as a drop in non-residents' purchases of&nbsp;Japanese services, he said.

Deeper slump, slower recovery

The shakeout in global trade was underlined in recent March data, with exports shrinking the most in nearly four years due to plunging US-bound shipments.

Even the nation's major globe-trotting manufacturers weren't spared the pandemic's sweeping impact.

Toyota Motor Corp has said it will cut domestic vehicle production by 122,000 units in June and expects an 80% drop in full-year operating profit.

The gloom in&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;is expected to deepen over coming months.

Analysts polled by Reuters estimate&nbsp;Japan's economy will shrink an annualised 22.0% in the current quarter, which would be a record decline, with pressure on output intensifying after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in April declared a nationwide state of emergency amid the widening pandemic.

The emergency was lifted for most regions on Thursday, but remained in effect for some big cities including Tokyo.&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;has so far reported 16,337 coronavirus cases and 756 deaths.

Private consumption, which accounts for more than half of&nbsp;Japan's $5 trillion economy, slipped 0.7% in January-March, less than a market forecast for a 1.6% drop, as robust demand for daily necessities partially offset the impact on services spending.

All the same, it marked the second straight quarter of decline, as households endured the double-whammy of the coronavirus and a sales tax hike to 10% from 8% in October last year.

Capital expenditure fell 0.5% in the first quarter after plummeting 4.8% in October-December last year, the GDP data showed, suggesting that uncertainty over the outlook is discouraging companies from boosting spending.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/japanese-experiment-shows-how-quickly-one-person-can-spread-coronavirus-298584" hreflang="en">Japanese experiment shows how quickly one person can spread coronavirus</a>

Taken together, domestic demand knocked 0.7 percentage point off GDP growth, while external demand shed 0.2 point.

All of this has put a strain on the labour market. The jobless rate in March rose to its highest in a year, while job availability slipped to a more than three-year low.

The government has already announced a record $1.1 trillion stimulus package, and the Bank of&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;expanded stimulus for the second straight month in April. Abe has pledged a second supplementary budget later this month to fund fresh spending measures to cushion the economic blow from the outbreak.

Still, many analysts warn that government support will come too little, too late.

"As always in&nbsp;Japan, the implementation is very slow. It will take the later half of the second quarter (and) the third quarter" for government stimulus to kick in, said Martin Schulz, chief economist at Fujitsu.

"The recovery will be slower than many are hoping for ... To recover from this crisis, it will take about two years at least."

Japan's economy slipped into recession for the first time in 4-1/2 years in the last quarter, putting the nation on course for its deepest postwar slump as the coronavirus crisis ravages businesses and consumers.

Japan's economy slipped into recession for the first time in 4-1/2 years in the last quarter, putting the nation on course for its deepest postwar slump as the coronavirus crisis ravages businesses and consumers. Monday's first-quarter GDP data underlined the broadening impact of the outbreak, with exports plunging the most since the devastating March 2011 earthquake as global lockdowns and supply chain disruptions hit shipments of Japanese goods. Analysts warn of an even bleaker picture for the current quarter as consumption crumbled after the government in April requested citizens to stay home and businesses to close, intensifying the challenge for policymakers battling a once-in-a-century pandemic. Also read: Japan PM Abe lifts state of emergency except in some virus-hit regions "It's near certainty the economy suffered an even deeper decline in the current quarter," said Yuichi Kodama, chief economist at Meiji Yasuda Research Institute. "Japan has entered a full-blown recession." The world's third-largest economy contracted an annualised 3.4% in the first quarter, preliminary official gross domestic product (GDP) data showed, less than a median market forecast for a 4.6% drop. The slump came on top of an even steeper 7.3% fall in the October-December period, with the consecutive quarters of contraction meeting the technical definition of a recession. Japan last suffered recession in the second half of 2015. The coronavirus, which first emerged in China late last year, has ravaged the global economy as many nations went into strict lockdowns to curb the outbreak that has so far killed over 310,000 people worldwide. The pandemic has been massively disruptive on supply chains and businesses, particularly in trade-reliant nations such as Japan. Indeed, the fallout of the virus on corporate Japan was telling with exports diving 6.0% in the first quarter, the biggest decline since April-June 2011. "Exports to China began to fall in February, followed by a wave of slumping shipments to Europe and the United States," said Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute. "Exports were also hurt by slumping inbound tourism," which counts as a drop in non-residents' purchases of Japanese services, he said. Deeper slump, slower recovery The shakeout in global trade was underlined in recent March data, with exports shrinking the most in nearly four years due to plunging US-bound shipments. Even the nation's major globe-trotting manufacturers weren't spared the pandemic's sweeping impact. Toyota Motor Corp has said it will cut domestic vehicle production by 122,000 units in June and expects an 80% drop in full-year operating profit. The gloom in Japan is expected to deepen over coming months. Analysts polled by Reuters estimate Japan's economy will shrink an annualised 22.0% in the current quarter, which would be a record decline, with pressure on output intensifying after Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in April declared a nationwide state of emergency amid the widening pandemic. The emergency was lifted for most regions on Thursday, but remained in effect for some big cities including Tokyo. Japan has so far reported 16,337 coronavirus cases and 756 deaths. Private consumption, which accounts for more than half of Japan's $5 trillion economy, slipped 0.7% in January-March, less than a market forecast for a 1.6% drop, as robust demand for daily necessities partially offset the impact on services spending. All the same, it marked the second straight quarter of decline, as households endured the double-whammy of the coronavirus and a sales tax hike to 10% from 8% in October last year. Capital expenditure fell 0.5% in the first quarter after plummeting 4.8% in October-December last year, the GDP data showed, suggesting that uncertainty over the outlook is discouraging companies from boosting spending. Also read: Japanese experiment shows how quickly one person can spread coronavirus Taken together, domestic demand knocked 0.7 percentage point off GDP growth, while external demand shed 0.2 point. All of this has put a strain on the labour market. The jobless rate in March rose to its highest in a year, while job availability slipped to a more than three-year low. The government has already announced a record $1.1 trillion stimulus package, and the Bank of Japan expanded stimulus for the second straight month in April. Abe has pledged a second supplementary budget later this month to fund fresh spending measures to cushion the economic blow from the outbreak. Still, many analysts warn that government support will come too little, too late. "As always in Japan, the implementation is very slow. It will take the later half of the second quarter (and) the third quarter" for government stimulus to kick in, said Martin Schulz, chief economist at Fujitsu. "The recovery will be slower than many are hoping for ... To recover from this crisis, it will take about two years at least."

Japan braces for worst postwar slump as pandemic tips economy into recession

Garment factories across Bangladesh have reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has locked down most of the country.

A new fear has seeped in among garment workers, as they are forced to restart working in conditions not suitable to ensure social distancing. Additionally, wearing masks cannot be enforced in garment factories.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/fineprint-restaurants-reopen-amid-covid-19-outbreak-for-ramzan-in-dhaka-bangladesh-296164/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bangladesh’s garment factories make clothes for some of the world’s biggest brands, and amounts for over 84 per cent of the country’s total exports, The Guardian reported.

The factories have been permitted to reopen, but only if social distancing measures are followed.

A few workers, while speaking to The Guardian asserted how social distancing measures remain unenforced across factories. Reportedly, the workers are transported in overcrowded buses. Even though the risks associated with such social contact are high, workers fear that they would lose their jobs by not complying.

Another worker told The Guardian that workers had to embark on a strike to ensure a supply of protective gear like masks.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ac64bbd-0d56-403a-9855-a25b359bef49" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_4.jpg" /> 
Labourers wearing facemasks work in a garment factory during a government-imposed lockdown as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Dhaka on May 2, 2020 | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

Even though Bangladesh has only 10,000 cases of coronavirus, the country has been criticised for not testing enough.

Bangladesh’s garment industry employs over 4 million people across 4,500 factories and generates revenue worth $34 billion.

This season, the industry has suffered a loss of $3.5 billion as orders remain cancelled or suspended. Brands that procure their clothes from Bangladesh include Asda, Sports Direct, Peacocks, and Topshop, among many.

Recently, Debenhams, a fashion retailer stalled all its orders and was unable to pay for the ordered garments due to the loss incurred by COVID-19. As of now, the garments are stationed across ports, and the company is expecting discounts from&nbsp;Bangladesh.

A sudden disruption has made the lives of workers especially hard. Just in March, over 150,000 workers did not receive their wages. After this, protests happened across the country, demanding help.

As of now, over 1,000 factories are reproducing garments. This was partly done due to the fear of factories moving to Vietnam and Cambodia, which are also important players in the garment industry.

Garment factories across Bangladesh have reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has locked down most of the country. A new fear has seeped in among garment workers, as they are forced to restart working in conditions not suitable to ensure social distancing.

Garment factories across Bangladesh have reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has locked down most of the country. A new fear has seeped in among garment workers, as they are forced to restart working in conditions not suitable to ensure social distancing. Additionally, wearing masks cannot be enforced in garment factories. Bangladesh’s garment factories make clothes for some of the world’s biggest brands, and amounts for over 84 per cent of the country’s total exports, The Guardian reported. The factories have been permitted to reopen, but only if social distancing measures are followed. A few workers, while speaking to The Guardian asserted how social distancing measures remain unenforced across factories. Reportedly, the workers are transported in overcrowded buses. Even though the risks associated with such social contact are high, workers fear that they would lose their jobs by not complying. Another worker told The Guardian that workers had to embark on a strike to ensure a supply of protective gear like masks. Labourers wearing facemasks work in a garment factory during a government-imposed lockdown as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Dhaka on May 2, 2020 | AFP Even though Bangladesh has only 10,000 cases of coronavirus, the country has been criticised for not testing enough. Bangladesh’s garment industry employs over 4 million people across 4,500 factories and generates revenue worth $34 billion. This season, the industry has suffered a loss of $3.5 billion as orders remain cancelled or suspended. Brands that procure their clothes from Bangladesh include Asda, Sports Direct, Peacocks, and Topshop, among many. Recently, Debenhams, a fashion retailer stalled all its orders and was unable to pay for the ordered garments due to the loss incurred by COVID-19. As of now, the garments are stationed across ports, and the company is expecting discounts from Bangladesh. A sudden disruption has made the lives of workers especially hard. Just in March, over 150,000 workers did not receive their wages. After this, protests happened across the country, demanding help. As of now, over 1,000 factories are reproducing garments. This was partly done due to the fear of factories moving to Vietnam and Cambodia, which are also important players in the garment industry.

Workers fear for their lives as Bangladesh reopens garment factories

As coronavirus cases across major hotspots in Europe and North America continue to drop, the fear of new hotspots still remains.

Many believe that the next killer wave could start anywhere in Africa or South Asia.

Recently, sex workers in Zambia garnered attention for assisting authorities in contact tracing of coronavirus carriers.

The border town of Nakonde recently witnessed a spike in the number of infections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-chinese-city-imposes-martial-law-after-11-new-cases-of-coronavirus-297903" hreflang="en">Border Chinese city imposes martial law after 11 new cases of coronavirus</a>

The BBC reported that over 76 out of the 85 newly reported cases can be traced to sex workers or lorry drivers.

An official told BBC that sex workers have displayed cooperation and providing the government all the information.

"Sex workers have been very co-operative”.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/covid-19-exposes-gaping-holes-in-africas-health-care-system-297565/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cooperative effort

A month-long lockdown ended last week as restaurants and gyms reopened. The shutdown lasted for over a month to ensure social distancing.

Currently, Zambia has over 267 confirmed cases of coronavirus, which has also led to seven deaths.

The President, Edgar Lungu has expressed concerns over the potential spread and has ordered the border to be “temporarily closed”.

Usually, Nakonde is flooded with people and lorries coming in and out of Tanzania. It is very common for lorry drivers to have several sex partners, which makes them more susceptible to catching coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-media-post-on-mt-everest-sparks-debate-with-nepal-on-twitter-297850" hreflang="en">Chinese media post on Mt Everest sparks debate with Nepal on Twitter</a>

The official further claimed that "we don't want to stigmatise or discriminate against them [sex workers]. They are being very useful in contact tracing”.

Turns out, the authorities were able to trace a cluster of infections with the help of a sex worker. The worker showed symptoms and then linked up the government with the potential infector, who was then found to have been carrying COVID-19.

Many authorities across Africa have warned of lorry drivers transporting the virus from place to place.

As coronavirus cases across major hotspots in Europe and North America continue to drop, the fear of new hotspots still remains. Many believe that the next killer wave could start anywhere in Africa or South Asia.

As coronavirus cases across major hotspots in Europe and North America continue to drop, the fear of new hotspots still remains. Many believe that the next killer wave could start anywhere in Africa or South Asia. Recently, sex workers in Zambia garnered attention for assisting authorities in contact tracing of coronavirus carriers. The border town of Nakonde recently witnessed a spike in the number of infections. Also read: Border Chinese city imposes martial law after 11 new cases of coronavirus The BBC reported that over 76 out of the 85 newly reported cases can be traced to sex workers or lorry drivers. An official told BBC that sex workers have displayed cooperation and providing the government all the information. "Sex workers have been very co-operative”. Cooperative effort A month-long lockdown ended last week as restaurants and gyms reopened. The shutdown lasted for over a month to ensure social distancing. Currently, Zambia has over 267 confirmed cases of coronavirus, which has also led to seven deaths. The President, Edgar Lungu has expressed concerns over the potential spread and has ordered the border to be “temporarily closed”. Usually, Nakonde is flooded with people and lorries coming in and out of Tanzania. It is very common for lorry drivers to have several sex partners, which makes them more susceptible to catching coronavirus. Also read: Chinese media post on Mt Everest sparks debate with Nepal on Twitter The official further claimed that "we don't want to stigmatise or discriminate against them [sex workers]. They are being very useful in contact tracing”. Turns out, the authorities were able to trace a cluster of infections with the help of a sex worker. The worker showed symptoms and then linked up the government with the potential infector, who was then found to have been carrying COVID-19. Many authorities across Africa have warned of lorry drivers transporting the virus from place to place.

How sex workers in Zambia helped contact-trace coronavirus carriers

The Chinese city of Shulan has imposed martial law after 11 fresh cases of coronavirus. The city borders North Korea and fears a second wave of the killer virus.

According to state media like Global Times, all new cases were transmitted by a laundrywoman.

The secretary of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, Bayin Chaolu called for the imposition of martial law while stressing on the need to ensure “highest-risk level prevention and control”.

Chaolu further claimed that the fresh cluster poses a grave danger to public health, and displays the shortcomings in dealing with the virus. Local media claims that action will be taken against those who did not take appropriate measures.

As China resumes to normalcy, Shulan is now the only Chinese city to have such a high pandemic response rating.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/china-to-revamp-public-health-care-system-297882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lockdown intensified

Over the weekend, Shulan intensified its lockdown efforts by imposing it across villages, and by blocking the entry and exit points. All visitors are being monitored, and only one door has been put in place for local residents.

Additionally, only one person per family is permitted to buy essentials everyday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-media-post-on-mt-everest-sparks-debate-with-nepal-on-twitter-297850" hreflang="en">Chinese media post on Mt Everest sparks debate with Nepal on Twitter</a>

As of now, no trains are plying to and from Shulan. Furthermore, public transport services have been halted. No taxis are allowed to leave the city, which is home to over 630,000 people.

This raises the questions about the resurgence of COVID-19, as countries around the world start to relax their versions of lockdowns. China too, had recently lifted restrictions with the declining number of cases.

Virus in Hubei again

The province of Hubei reported a fresh coronavirus case yesterday, with the country’s tally of fresh cases now at 14. As of now, over 82,901 have been infected in the country so far, with over 4,630 deaths.

China’s National Health Commission (NHC) data claims that out of these 14, 12 cases were transmitted domestically. 11 alone were reported from Jilin province which houses Shulan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-cases-surge-past-4-million-mark-death-toll-at-282700-297872" hreflang="en">Global Covid-19 cases surge past 4 million mark, death toll at 282,700</a>

For 35 days, the initial epicentre of the outbreak, Hubei had remained free of the virus but reported a new case yesterday.

Jilin is situated across the China-North Korea border.

China is now tracing asymptomatic cases. Just on Saturday, over 20 cases without symptoms were identified. So far over 794 people have been placed under observation.

The data suggests that Hubei alone has over 600 asymptomatic cases, the highest number in the country.

The Chinese city of Shulan has imposed martial law after 11 fresh cases of coronavirus. The city borders North Korea and fears a second wave of the killer virus.

The Chinese city of Shulan has imposed martial law after 11 fresh cases of coronavirus. The city borders North Korea and fears a second wave of the killer virus. According to state media like Global Times, all new cases were transmitted by a laundrywoman. The secretary of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, Bayin Chaolu called for the imposition of martial law while stressing on the need to ensure “highest-risk level prevention and control”. Chaolu further claimed that the fresh cluster poses a grave danger to public health, and displays the shortcomings in dealing with the virus. Local media claims that action will be taken against those who did not take appropriate measures. As China resumes to normalcy, Shulan is now the only Chinese city to have such a high pandemic response rating. Lockdown intensified Over the weekend, Shulan intensified its lockdown efforts by imposing it across villages, and by blocking the entry and exit points. All visitors are being monitored, and only one door has been put in place for local residents. Additionally, only one person per family is permitted to buy essentials everyday. Also read: Chinese media post on Mt Everest sparks debate with Nepal on Twitter As of now, no trains are plying to and from Shulan. Furthermore, public transport services have been halted. No taxis are allowed to leave the city, which is home to over 630,000 people. This raises the questions about the resurgence of COVID-19, as countries around the world start to relax their versions of lockdowns. China too, had recently lifted restrictions with the declining number of cases. Virus in Hubei again The province of Hubei reported a fresh coronavirus case yesterday, with the country’s tally of fresh cases now at 14. As of now, over 82,901 have been infected in the country so far, with over 4,630 deaths. China’s National Health Commission (NHC) data claims that out of these 14, 12 cases were transmitted domestically. 11 alone were reported from Jilin province which houses Shulan. Also read: Global Covid-19 cases surge past 4 million mark, death toll at 282,700 For 35 days, the initial epicentre of the outbreak, Hubei had remained free of the virus but reported a new case yesterday. Jilin is situated across the China-North Korea border. China is now tracing asymptomatic cases. Just on Saturday, over 20 cases without symptoms were identified. So far over 794 people have been placed under observation. The data suggests that Hubei alone has over 600 asymptomatic cases, the highest number in the country.

Border Chinese city imposes martial law after 11 new cases of coronavirus

Russia recorded the highest number of daily coronavirus infections today with 11,656 additions.

As of now, Russia has 221,344 cases of COVID-19 and is the third most infected country. In terms of the growing rate of infections, Russia is right behind the United States.

In the last 24 hours, ninety-four deaths have been recorded in the country, with a total tally of 2,009.

End of non-working period

On Monday, President Vladimir Putin announced the end of Russia’s non-working period from Tuesday.

The period was put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

"Starting from tomorrow, May 12, the national period of non-working days will be over for all sectors of the economy," the president said.

According to him, during the period of non-activity, Russia invested in improving and expanding its healthcare services.

This had allowed the country to save “many thousands of lives”, as Putin said. He further asserted plans to gradually reopen the economy over the course of the upcoming weeks.

Starting Sunday, the rate of infection has been jumping phenomenally in Russia. Now, over 10,000 infections are reported daily. On the other hand, west Europe is now in the process of easing lockdown restrictions.

Moscow officials claim that the increase is owing to the increased rate of testing, and also by taking into account patients that are asymptomatic.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de6af5c3-e8fe-4910-82ce-b2d7a3f83bc6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_5.jpg" /> 
Russian President Vladimir Putin looks at military aircrafts flying over the Kremlin and Red Square to mark the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, Moscow, May 9, 2020 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Russia uses different classification methods to count the infected, and has a mortality rate lower than other countries.

Moscow has remained the hotspot of the virus, and will now remain under restrictions upto May 31.

Starting Tuesday, people in Moscow will be fined for not wearing masks and gloves while using public transport services or in shops.

In Moscow, people may only leave their homes for quick grocery runs, to work, if necessary, and to walk their dogs.

Russia was under a non-working period until May 11.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/russia-reports-more-than-10000-covid-19-cases-for-the-6th-straight-day-297564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Dampened Victory Day celebration

Saturday marked the occasion of Soviet victory in World War II, but was not met with large-scale parades.

The Soviet Union lost an estimated 26 million people including 8.5 million soldiers in the war.

Putin on Saturday laid flowers at the tomb of the unknown soldier just outside the Kremlin walls and gave a short address honouring the valour and suffering of the Soviet army during the war.

While speaking on the day, President Vladimir Putin did not mention coronavirus at all.

Victory Day is Russia's most important secular holiday. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the remarkable day. The celebrations, however, were shorn of the usual Red Square military parade and a mass procession called The Immortal Regiment as part of measures to stifle the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Some 75 warplanes and helicopters, however, flew over central Moscow to display the country's&nbsp;military might.

(With inputs from AFP)

Russia recorded the highest number of daily coronavirus infections today with 11,656 additions. As of now, Russia has 221,344 cases of COVID-19 and is the third most infected country.

Russia recorded the highest number of daily coronavirus infections today with 11,656 additions. As of now, Russia has 221,344 cases of COVID-19 and is the third most infected country. In terms of the growing rate of infections, Russia is right behind the United States. In the last 24 hours, ninety-four deaths have been recorded in the country, with a total tally of 2,009. End of non-working period On Monday, President Vladimir Putin announced the end of Russia’s non-working period from Tuesday. The period was put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country. "Starting from tomorrow, May 12, the national period of non-working days will be over for all sectors of the economy," the president said. According to him, during the period of non-activity, Russia invested in improving and expanding its healthcare services. This had allowed the country to save “many thousands of lives”, as Putin said. He further asserted plans to gradually reopen the economy over the course of the upcoming weeks. Starting Sunday, the rate of infection has been jumping phenomenally in Russia. Now, over 10,000 infections are reported daily. On the other hand, west Europe is now in the process of easing lockdown restrictions. Moscow officials claim that the increase is owing to the increased rate of testing, and also by taking into account patients that are asymptomatic. Russian President Vladimir Putin looks at military aircrafts flying over the Kremlin and Red Square to mark the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, Moscow, May 9, 2020 | AFP Russia uses different classification methods to count the infected, and has a mortality rate lower than other countries. Moscow has remained the hotspot of the virus, and will now remain under restrictions upto May 31. Starting Tuesday, people in Moscow will be fined for not wearing masks and gloves while using public transport services or in shops. In Moscow, people may only leave their homes for quick grocery runs, to work, if necessary, and to walk their dogs. Russia was under a non-working period until May 11. Dampened Victory Day celebration Saturday marked the occasion of Soviet victory in World War II, but was not met with large-scale parades. The Soviet Union lost an estimated 26 million people including 8.5 million soldiers in the war. Putin on Saturday laid flowers at the tomb of the unknown soldier just outside the Kremlin walls and gave a short address honouring the valour and suffering of the Soviet army during the war. While speaking on the day, President Vladimir Putin did not mention coronavirus at all. Victory Day is Russia's most important secular holiday. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the remarkable day. The celebrations, however, were shorn of the usual Red Square military parade and a mass procession called The Immortal Regiment as part of measures to stifle the spread of the novel coronavirus. Some 75 warplanes and helicopters, however, flew over central Moscow to display the country's military might. (With inputs from AFP)

Putin lifts non-working period, daily infections in Russia cross 11,000

India, like many other countries, has been put under a strict lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19. Dubbed as the world’s “strictest lockdown” owing to the nature of restrictions alongside the large swathe of population being under lockdown, India will suffer unprecedented economic losses.

According to Crisil Research, India might permanently lose four per cent of its gross domestic product value owing to the lockdown, which has now been extended upto May 17.

Even though the economy will eventually recover in many ways, this four per cent loss could be permanent, the research suggests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indias-home-ministry-extends-lockdown-by-two-weeks-till-may-17-296127" hreflang="en">COVID-19: India's home ministry extends lockdown by two weeks till May 17</a>

Earlier, a zero growth rate was&nbsp;projected for the Indian economy if the lockdown was extended.

Regardless of the permanent loss, the economy is not expected to recover for the next three years.

This is way more than the impact of the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, which was, until now, seen as the benchmark of economic fallout.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-battle-drdo-develops-pu-coated-nylon-polyester-to-be-manufactured-in-india-296098" hreflang="en">COVID-19 battle: DRDO develops PU coated nylon &amp; polyester to be manufactured in India</a>

However, if the GDP grows at an average rate of 8.5 per cent every year upto 2023, India can recover completely. The chances of such an exceptional performance are very low, based on India’s performance.

According to Crisil Research, the fiscal measures required by the country amount up to over Rs 3.5 lakh crores, as opposed to the current Rs 1.7 lakh crores.

The GDP forecast for the country has been halved to 1.8 per cent for 2020-21, the lowest in over two decades. In March, the projected rate of growth was estimated to be 3.5 per cent.

India, like many other countries, has been put under a strict lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19. Dubbed as the world’s “strictest lockdown” owing to the nature of restrictions alongside the large swathe of population being under lockdown, India will suffer unprecedented economic losses.

India, like many other countries, has been put under a strict lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19. Dubbed as the world’s “strictest lockdown” owing to the nature of restrictions alongside the large swathe of population being under lockdown, India will suffer unprecedented economic losses. According to Crisil Research, India might permanently lose four per cent of its gross domestic product value owing to the lockdown, which has now been extended upto May 17. Even though the economy will eventually recover in many ways, this four per cent loss could be permanent, the research suggests. Also read: COVID-19: India's home ministry extends lockdown by two weeks till May 17 Earlier, a zero growth rate was projected for the Indian economy if the lockdown was extended. Regardless of the permanent loss, the economy is not expected to recover for the next three years. This is way more than the impact of the Global Financial Crisis of 2008, which was, until now, seen as the benchmark of economic fallout. Also read: COVID-19 battle: DRDO develops PU coated nylon & polyester to be manufactured in India However, if the GDP grows at an average rate of 8.5 per cent every year upto 2023, India can recover completely. The chances of such an exceptional performance are very low, based on India’s performance. According to Crisil Research, the fiscal measures required by the country amount up to over Rs 3.5 lakh crores, as opposed to the current Rs 1.7 lakh crores. The GDP forecast for the country has been halved to 1.8 per cent for 2020-21, the lowest in over two decades. In March, the projected rate of growth was estimated to be 3.5 per cent.

India could lose 4% of its GDP permanently due to coronavirus-induced lockdowns

India's ministry of home affairs today extended the lockdown period by another two weeks from May 4.

"After a comprehensive review and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country, MHA has issued an order under the Disaster Management&nbsp; Act, 2005 today to further extend the lockdown period of two weeks beyond May 4,"&nbsp;the notice said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-surge-in-chennai-most-asymptomatic-with-only-one-of-tamil-nadus-37-districts-in-green-zone-296120" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases surge in Chennai, most asymptomatic with only one of Tamil Nadu’s 37 districts in Green Zone</a>

The lockdown in India which had come into effect on March 24 was extended till May 3 during an address to the nation by PM Modi. The current extension is now due to last till May 17.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-india-extends-lockdown-for-two-more-weeks-beyond-may-3-now-extended-till-may-17-296151/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-could-lose-4-of-its-gdp-permanently-due-to-coronavirus-induced-lockdowns-296156" hreflang="en">India could lose 4% of its GDP permanently due to coronavirus-induced lockdowns</a>

"MHA also issued new guidelines to regulate different activities in this period based on the risk profiling of the districts of the country into Red(hotspot), Green and Orange Zones," the MHA said in a statement.

"The guidelines have permitted considerable relaxations in the districts falling in the Green and Orange Zones," it said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-battle-drdo-develops-pu-coated-nylon-polyester-to-be-manufactured-in-india-296098" hreflang="en">COVID-19 battle: DRDO develops PU coated nylon &amp; polyester to be manufactured in India</a>

The MHA said classification of districts as Red Zones will take into account the total number of active cases, doubling rate of confirmed cases, the extent&nbsp;of testing, and surveillance feedback from the districts.

"Those districts which are neither defined as Red or Green shall be classified as Orange Zones."

"The classification of districts into Red, Green, and Orange will be shared by the ministry," it said, adding,"it would be shared on a weekly basis&nbsp;with States and Union Territories."

India's ministry of home affairs today extended the lockdown period by another two weeks from May 4. "After a comprehensive review and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country, MHA has issued an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 today to further extend the lockdown period of two weeks beyond May 4," the notice said.

India's ministry of home affairs today extended the lockdown period by another two weeks from May 4. "After a comprehensive review and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the COVID-19 situation in the country, MHA has issued an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 today to further extend the lockdown period of two weeks beyond May 4," the notice said. Also read: COVID-19 cases surge in Chennai, most asymptomatic with only one of Tamil Nadu’s 37 districts in Green Zone The lockdown in India which had come into effect on March 24 was extended till May 3 during an address to the nation by PM Modi. The current extension is now due to last till May 17. Also read: India could lose 4% of its GDP permanently due to coronavirus-induced lockdowns "MHA also issued new guidelines to regulate different activities in this period based on the risk profiling of the districts of the country into Red(hotspot), Green and Orange Zones," the MHA said in a statement. "The guidelines have permitted considerable relaxations in the districts falling in the Green and Orange Zones," it said. Also read: COVID-19 battle: DRDO develops PU coated nylon & polyester to be manufactured in India The MHA said classification of districts as Red Zones will take into account the total number of active cases, doubling rate of confirmed cases, the extent of testing, and surveillance feedback from the districts. "Those districts which are neither defined as Red or Green shall be classified as Orange Zones." "The classification of districts into Red, Green, and Orange will be shared by the ministry," it said, adding,"it would be shared on a weekly basis with States and Union Territories."

COVID-19: India's home ministry extends lockdown by two weeks till May 17

Spy agencies across the world are targeting the American research organisations to find out about potential coronavirus vaccines.

In conversation with the BBC, Bill Evaning, the director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center claimed that the US government had warned medical research organisations of security risks and potential breaches.

Even though no data has been reportedly stolen yet, the UK has also reported similar activity.

The race is on

As COVID-19 continues to push societies into lockdowns, the race to develop and distribute the vaccine has amped up.

From private medical companies to government agencies, everyone is currently focused on eliminating the pandemic.

While domestic spy agencies are entrusted with the job of protecting local data, foreign actors may be interested in obtaining the information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/journalist-jailed-for-15-years-as-chinese-government-intensifies-free-speech-clampdown-296111" hreflang="en">Journalist jailed for 15-years as Chinese government intensifies free-speech clampdown</a>

"We have been working with our industry and government folk here very closely to ensure they are protecting all the research and data as best they can," he told BBC.

He further added that foreign intelligence services, especially the Chinese Communist Party will try to get their hands on the information regarding a vaccine.

But he would not say whether there had been confirmed cases of stolen data.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/why-the-oxford-group-is-ahead-in-developing-the-covid-19-vaccine-295436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Operation Warp Speed

“Operation Warp Speed” is the codename for the US government’s coronavirus vaccine programme.

Once the vaccine is out, the country that came up with it will benefit its citizens first, and will then move on to global distribution.

"We've been in contact with every medical research organisation that is doing the research to be very, very vigilant," Mr Evanina added, while speaking to BBC.

Earlier, in mid-April, an FBI official had warned of “intrusions” into databases of institutions that are currently working on a coronavirus vaccine.

Given the current climate whereby thousands have died across countries, it would make sense why any country would want access to the vaccine programme.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delivery-services-are-being-used-to-transport-drugs-and-arms-claims-interpol-296093" hreflang="en">Delivery services are being used to transport drugs and arms, claims INTERPOL</a>

Just last month, the US assistant attorney general for national security John Demers expressed worries over Chinese intentions. It would be “beyond absurd” to believe that China would not be interested in such details, he had asserted.

In March, Canada’s Centre for Cyber Security had warned of similar attacks. “Sophisticated threat actors may attempt to steal the intellectual property of organisations engaged in research and development related to Covid-19”, it had asserted.

However, it is also amply possible for US and Western countries to be interested in Chinese data, especially pertaining to their “fudged numbers”.

Spy agencies across the world are targeting the American research organisations to find out about potential coronavirus vaccines. In conversation with the BBC, Bill Evaning, the director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center claimed that the US government had warned medical research organisations of security risks and potential breaches.

Spy agencies across the world are targeting the American research organisations to find out about potential coronavirus vaccines. In conversation with the BBC, Bill Evaning, the director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center claimed that the US government had warned medical research organisations of security risks and potential breaches. Even though no data has been reportedly stolen yet, the UK has also reported similar activity. The race is on As COVID-19 continues to push societies into lockdowns, the race to develop and distribute the vaccine has amped up. From private medical companies to government agencies, everyone is currently focused on eliminating the pandemic. While domestic spy agencies are entrusted with the job of protecting local data, foreign actors may be interested in obtaining the information. Also read: Journalist jailed for 15-years as Chinese government intensifies free-speech clampdown "We have been working with our industry and government folk here very closely to ensure they are protecting all the research and data as best they can," he told BBC. He further added that foreign intelligence services, especially the Chinese Communist Party will try to get their hands on the information regarding a vaccine. But he would not say whether there had been confirmed cases of stolen data. Operation Warp Speed “Operation Warp Speed” is the codename for the US government’s coronavirus vaccine programme. Once the vaccine is out, the country that came up with it will benefit its citizens first, and will then move on to global distribution. "We've been in contact with every medical research organisation that is doing the research to be very, very vigilant," Mr Evanina added, while speaking to BBC. Earlier, in mid-April, an FBI official had warned of “intrusions” into databases of institutions that are currently working on a coronavirus vaccine. Given the current climate whereby thousands have died across countries, it would make sense why any country would want access to the vaccine programme. Also read: Delivery services are being used to transport drugs and arms, claims INTERPOL Just last month, the US assistant attorney general for national security John Demers expressed worries over Chinese intentions. It would be “beyond absurd” to believe that China would not be interested in such details, he had asserted. In March, Canada’s Centre for Cyber Security had warned of similar attacks. “Sophisticated threat actors may attempt to steal the intellectual property of organisations engaged in research and development related to Covid-19”, it had asserted. However, it is also amply possible for US and Western countries to be interested in Chinese data, especially pertaining to their “fudged numbers”.

Cyber spies are targetting ongoing COVID-19 vaccination research programmes across the world

The International Criminal Police Organisation, more commonly known as INTERPOL has recently reported information claiming that food delivery services across the world are being used to transport drugs across the world.

As almost all of the world is still currently under lockdown, delivery services have witnessed a surge in terms of demand, as people have been advised against venturing outside unless absolutely necessary.

INTERPOL data claims to have received reports from police forces in Ireland, Malaysia, Spain, and Britain whereby many delivery agents tried to transport drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, ketamine, and ecstasy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/from-drugs-to-life-saving-paraphernalia-how-the-dark-web-is-capitalising-on-pandemic-panic-291049" hreflang="en">From drugs to life-saving paraphernalia: How the dark web is capitalising on pandemic panic!</a>

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, as movement of people and goods remains largely suspended, there has been a surge in demand for home delivery of essential items.

Just last month, the Spanish National Police arrested seven people who were masquerading as food delivery drivers in Alicante and Valencia.

As part of their delivery set up to deliver cocaine and marijuana, they were using motorcycles and cars. Many of these drugs were hidden in delivery backpacks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/novel-coronavirus-may-spread-for-at-least-another-18-months-says-study-296079" hreflang="en">Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study</a>

Ireland recently recovered over 8 kgs of cocaine alongside two handguns in pizza boxes, the INTERPOL statement added.

The agency further said that it’s possible that delivery partners may be unaware of the consignments being shipped, or they may be complicit. However, in cases whereby suspects were disguised as delivery drivers, complicity wasn’t a question.

According to Reuters, Latin American drug cartels have dispatched shipments of cocaine to Europe in the last few weeks.

The International Criminal Police Organisation, more commonly known as INTERPOL has recently reported information claiming that food delivery services across the world are being used to transport drugs across the world.

The International Criminal Police Organisation, more commonly known as INTERPOL has recently reported information claiming that food delivery services across the world are being used to transport drugs across the world. As almost all of the world is still currently under lockdown, delivery services have witnessed a surge in terms of demand, as people have been advised against venturing outside unless absolutely necessary. INTERPOL data claims to have received reports from police forces in Ireland, Malaysia, Spain, and Britain whereby many delivery agents tried to transport drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, ketamine, and ecstasy. Also read: From drugs to life-saving paraphernalia: How the dark web is capitalising on pandemic panic! Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, as movement of people and goods remains largely suspended, there has been a surge in demand for home delivery of essential items. Just last month, the Spanish National Police arrested seven people who were masquerading as food delivery drivers in Alicante and Valencia. As part of their delivery set up to deliver cocaine and marijuana, they were using motorcycles and cars. Many of these drugs were hidden in delivery backpacks. Also read: Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study Ireland recently recovered over 8 kgs of cocaine alongside two handguns in pizza boxes, the INTERPOL statement added. The agency further said that it’s possible that delivery partners may be unaware of the consignments being shipped, or they may be complicit. However, in cases whereby suspects were disguised as delivery drivers, complicity wasn’t a question. According to Reuters, Latin American drug cartels have dispatched shipments of cocaine to Europe in the last few weeks.

Delivery services are being used to transport drugs and arms, claims INTERPOL

Wuhan, once the epicentre of the deadly coronavirus and home to over 11 million people is now teeming with life. As shops start to reopen, people are out and about again. The first case of coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, which was then sealed off from the rest of the country.

One thing the Chinese love is their street food! And Wuhan is famous for one such delicacy which is not found elsewhere - noodles.

But these are not&nbsp;simple noodles. The alkaline noodles are made with sesame sauce, spring onions, turnips, and a variety of spices. The South China Morning Post reported that over half of the city’s population consumes these noodles everyday.

The noodles, though mostly found in Wuhan, are also accessible across Hubei province.&nbsp;The noodles are soft and chewy, and rich in carbohydrates.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/china-claims-zero-covid-19-cases-in-wuhan-all-patients-discharged-in-wuhan-294910/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

These hot dry noodles are one of the most highly revelled food dishes in China. Others include Beijing zhajiangmian (soybean paste noodles), Shanxi sliced noodles, Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles and Sichuan dan dan noodles.

Cailinji is the the most famous hot dry noodle brand in Wuhan. After being cooked, the noodles are swivelled around in cold water, and then the delicacy is greeted with a coating of oil. This particular style was introduced by the Cai family of Wuhan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018" hreflang="en">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

The unique ingredient in these noodles is the sesame paste.

As the South China Morning reported,&nbsp;these noodles were sold by Cai Mingwei in 1928, who saw that most shops were discarding sesame paste after pressing the oil.

Until 1950, the noodles were called “sesame sauce noodles”. Cai registered the name “hot dry noodles” in that year.

Owing to the noodles’ popularity, the Hubei government came up with a set of rules that must be followed while making such noodles. According to the decree, sesame must make up 50 per cent of the sauce, which also mandatorily must include peanut sauce, soybean flour, and vegetable oil.

The alkaline value of the noodles is set by the government between pH value of 7.2 to 9.2.

Wuhan, once the epicentre of the deadly coronavirus and home to over 11 million people is now teeming with life. As shops start to reopen, people are out and about again.

Wuhan, once the epicentre of the deadly coronavirus and home to over 11 million people is now teeming with life. As shops start to reopen, people are out and about again. The first case of coronavirus was reported in Wuhan, which was then sealed off from the rest of the country. One thing the Chinese love is their street food! And Wuhan is famous for one such delicacy which is not found elsewhere - noodles. But these are not simple noodles. The alkaline noodles are made with sesame sauce, spring onions, turnips, and a variety of spices. The South China Morning Post reported that over half of the city’s population consumes these noodles everyday. The noodles, though mostly found in Wuhan, are also accessible across Hubei province. The noodles are soft and chewy, and rich in carbohydrates. These hot dry noodles are one of the most highly revelled food dishes in China. Others include Beijing zhajiangmian (soybean paste noodles), Shanxi sliced noodles, Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles and Sichuan dan dan noodles. Cailinji is the the most famous hot dry noodle brand in Wuhan. After being cooked, the noodles are swivelled around in cold water, and then the delicacy is greeted with a coating of oil. This particular style was introduced by the Cai family of Wuhan. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast The unique ingredient in these noodles is the sesame paste. As the South China Morning reported, these noodles were sold by Cai Mingwei in 1928, who saw that most shops were discarding sesame paste after pressing the oil. Until 1950, the noodles were called “sesame sauce noodles”. Cai registered the name “hot dry noodles” in that year. Owing to the noodles’ popularity, the Hubei government came up with a set of rules that must be followed while making such noodles. According to the decree, sesame must make up 50 per cent of the sauce, which also mandatorily must include peanut sauce, soybean flour, and vegetable oil. The alkaline value of the noodles is set by the government between pH value of 7.2 to 9.2.

Hot and dry: The noodles that kick-started the economy of Wuhan!

A new study&nbsp;claims that at least five skin conditions may be triggered by coronavirus.

The Spanish Academy of Dermatology carried out research on 375 patients of the virus to better understand the dermatological effects of COVID-19. They found that most patients who had inexplicable skin ailments due to coronavirus were somewhat similar.

Based on a questionnaire, the researchers found that most patients reported five skin conditions.

Here are the five conditions that one can develop while battling COVID-19.

Vesicular eruptions

Small itchy blisters appeared in over 9 per cent of the cases. A vesicular or morbilliform eruption may be present on the buttocks, or genitalia - mostly in the lower part of the body.

The study claimed that such blisters are filled with blood and have the ability to become bigger.

Such symptoms were visible mostly in middle-aged patients and lasted for an average 10.4 days.

Livedo 

Livedo reticularis refers to conditions which cause mottled discolouration of the skin. It is usually described as being reticular in appearance.

Over 6 per cent cases reported this condition. This usually happens when the blood circulation in parts of skin is impaired, which causes discolouration of the skin.

In essence, it’s the premature death of skin tissues. Most patients who reported this condition were old and were severely affected by the virus.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="416171e3-ab31-4833-b141-eba17c53ddff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_3.jpg" /> 
Doctor Henri Metzger (L) examins a resident at a specialised accommodation centre managed by social aid association Aleos for COVID-19 patients who are homeless or coming from emergency or transitional housing, on April 17, 2020, in Mulhouse, eastern France, on the 32nd day of a lockdown in France aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

Chiblain

If one has this ailment, they develop small lesions due to the inflammation of blood vessels, mostly after being exposed to cold air. Considered very painful, the lesions affect the skin on the hands and the feet. This condition is also known as pernio, perniosis, and cold-induced vascular disorder.

The researchers found that 19 per cent cases reported symptoms similar to chilblain. The patients developed red or purple spots, developed by bleeding under the skin.

Mostly seen among young patients, such symptoms lasted for an average of 12.7 days, and appeared in less severe cases.

Maculopapular rashes

These small, red bumps were found in over 47 per cent cases, the highest among all skin related ailments. Mostly found around hair follicles (roots), the condition lasted for an average of 8.6 days in patients.

This can also lead to blood spots under the skin and appeared alongside the common COVID-19 symptoms.

Only severe cases reported this condition.

Wheals

A raised, itchy area of skin that is sometimes an overt sign of allergy is called a “wheal”. Sometimes this condition is also referred to as hives and welts.

This condition was found in over 19 per cent cases. In this condition, pink or white areas of the skin become protruded.

These can spread to different parts of the body and lasted an average of 6.8 days.

The authors warned against trusting it in face value as a byproduct of coronavirus, for such conditions may have been triggered by complications in the aftermath of contracting the virus.&nbsp;An additional warning against self-diagnosis was given out by the doctors.

A new study claims that at least five skin conditions may be triggered by coronavirus. The Spanish Academy of Dermatology carried out research on 375 patients of the virus to better understand the dermatological effects of COVID-19.

A new study claims that at least five skin conditions may be triggered by coronavirus. The Spanish Academy of Dermatology carried out research on 375 patients of the virus to better understand the dermatological effects of COVID-19. They found that most patients who had inexplicable skin ailments due to coronavirus were somewhat similar. Based on a questionnaire, the researchers found that most patients reported five skin conditions. Here are the five conditions that one can develop while battling COVID-19. Vesicular eruptions Small itchy blisters appeared in over 9 per cent of the cases. A vesicular or morbilliform eruption may be present on the buttocks, or genitalia - mostly in the lower part of the body. The study claimed that such blisters are filled with blood and have the ability to become bigger. Such symptoms were visible mostly in middle-aged patients and lasted for an average 10.4 days. Livedo Livedo reticularis refers to conditions which cause mottled discolouration of the skin. It is usually described as being reticular in appearance. Over 6 per cent cases reported this condition. This usually happens when the blood circulation in parts of skin is impaired, which causes discolouration of the skin. In essence, it’s the premature death of skin tissues. Most patients who reported this condition were old and were severely affected by the virus. Doctor Henri Metzger (L) examins a resident at a specialised accommodation centre managed by social aid association Aleos for COVID-19 patients who are homeless or coming from emergency or transitional housing, on April 17, 2020, in Mulhouse, eastern France, on the 32nd day of a lockdown in France aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus | AFP Chiblain If one has this ailment, they develop small lesions due to the inflammation of blood vessels, mostly after being exposed to cold air. Considered very painful, the lesions affect the skin on the hands and the feet. This condition is also known as pernio, perniosis, and cold-induced vascular disorder. The researchers found that 19 per cent cases reported symptoms similar to chilblain. The patients developed red or purple spots, developed by bleeding under the skin. Mostly seen among young patients, such symptoms lasted for an average of 12.7 days, and appeared in less severe cases. Maculopapular rashes These small, red bumps were found in over 47 per cent cases, the highest among all skin related ailments. Mostly found around hair follicles (roots), the condition lasted for an average of 8.6 days in patients. This can also lead to blood spots under the skin and appeared alongside the common COVID-19 symptoms. Only severe cases reported this condition. Wheals A raised, itchy area of skin that is sometimes an overt sign of allergy is called a “wheal”. Sometimes this condition is also referred to as hives and welts. This condition was found in over 19 per cent cases. In this condition, pink or white areas of the skin become protruded. These can spread to different parts of the body and lasted an average of 6.8 days. The authors warned against trusting it in face value as a byproduct of coronavirus, for such conditions may have been triggered by complications in the aftermath of contracting the virus. An additional warning against self-diagnosis was given out by the doctors.

Coronavirus could cause these five skin conditions: Study

disease

Disease, News on Disease, stories on Disease, articles on Disease, Disease stories at Wion, Disease news, Disease latest news